Heidi M. Thomas’ Seeking the American Dream, is a heart-felt novel based on her mother, a German war bride.
The story begins in war-ravaged Germany, 1944. Anna Schmidt, a nurse, deals with the horrors of war as she tends the wounded, and as she sees her homeland destroyed by incessant bombing raids. When she meets American G.I. Neil Moser, there is an immediate attraction. Although Anna speaks no English, Neil speaks German so they are able to communicate. She admires his calm demeanor, and she loves listening to his stories of Montana ranch life. When Neil is suddenly shipped out, Anna is left with little hope and a yearning for what might have been.
When Anna receives a letter from Neil declaring his love and a proposal of marriage, she is overjoyed. But the two-year ordeal of emigration procedures make the dream seem almost impossible. Finally, she arrives in Montana and into Neil’s arms.
But the truth is, her problems are only beginning. She meets hostility and prejudice among some of their neighbors. Eastern Montana is a hard land, so vast that their closest neighbor is miles away. Long, harsh winters, spring floods, and sweltering summers make daily living a chore. The lack of household conveniences available in Germany, such as indoor plumbing and electricity, add to their hardship. At first they live with Neil’s parents and Anna feels unaccepted. But through it all, Neil is gentle and patient.
The couple eventually moves to their own ranch and start a family. But the hardships continue—running a ranch is brutally hard work. When sickness strikes, their existence is threatened and Anna fears her American dream is crumbling.
Master storyteller Heidi M. Thomas grew up on a remote Montana cattle ranch, which adds authenticity to her stories. Thomas’ descriptions of Montana’s landscape, weather, and the mindset of neighboring ranchers bring scenes to life. I very much enjoyed Seeking the American Dream which is the first book of Thomas’ new “American Dream Series.”
For more information about the author and her work, visit http://www.heidimthomas.com/
I’ve read all of Heidi Thomas’s books, and all of them are very, very enjoyable!! I do have to say, that “SEEKING THE AMERICAN DREAM” is by far my FAVORITE book of all of them… each one is an incredible experience to read and enjoy… I treasure the work from this author, for sure she is a fabulous writer and makes you “feel” as if you are there… check all of the books out on Amazon or through her personal website… truly enjoyable!!!!
I agree, Jane. Heidi is an excellent writer.
Thank you, Mary, for a great review! You’ve captured the essence of my book wonderfully!
You are so welcome, Heidi. Thank you for the hours of reading pleasure.
Heidi, I’m glad I captured what you intended.
Thank you so much, Mary, for this wonderful review. You’ve captured the essence of my book wonderfully!
I’ve read Seeking the American Dream and thoroughly enjoyed it. I look forward to the next in the series.
I look forward to the next one, too, Irene. It’s even more interesting knowing it’s based on fact.