Almost Home

Lissa Whitaker’s life is a shambles. Her father has wrecked her life, her engagement with her beloved Jeffery is over, and her hopes for a civilized life have been dashed - all due to her father’s crazy plan to travel and settle out West. The fire that destroyed his reputation and furniture store has cost their family more than money, and they set out to chase dreams, traveling to Dakota Territory.

Lars Oleson is starting over as well, traveling west to build a new life with his brother on the plains, taking advantage of the Homestead Act guaranteeing land to anyone who will work it. Along the way, he meets the uppity Lissa and her family. The paths of the Whitakers and Lars intermingle along the way, and Lars comes to see that Lissa has some growing up to do. Is Lars the man that can make a woman out of this snooty and pampered girl?

Almost Home takes readers on a journey filled with danger, drama, and even death. Lois Carroll accurately and lovingly captures the plight of a family trying for a fresh start in a whole different culture and in a brand new place. This book had a very endearing old-world quality to it, and I enjoyed it immensely.

Reviewed by: Michelle