When Emily Darling intentionally reads a letter left on her doorstep, but addressed to Ethel Darton, it becomes more than a mistake in postal service. It becomes a chance of escape from her over-bearing brother. The letter, starting with the greeting “Dearest Darling” captivates her heart and hopes. What kind of man would write such an endearing and tender letter? He is obviously in need of companionship, living in the wilds of Wyoming, and is making travel arrangements for his mail-order bride. But wait, there’s more: a train ticket to Cheyenne with instructions to take a stagecoach to Jackson Hole where he will meet her.
From the letter she learns these two have never met, but that Ethel Darton has sent a picture of herself in an earlier letter.
When Daniel Saunders meets the stagecoach on the appointed day, he meets an imposter, someone who has taken advantage of a free train ticket. He’s outraged. But what is he going to do? He can’t leave her in town, alone, with no means of supporting herself. He needs time to sort this out.
A novella, Dearest Darling is a delightful read, cleverly paced with seemingly insurmountable complications, and realistic, convincing dialog. Details of Wyoming ranch land enhance the story, giving the reader an exciting view of yesteryear’s west.
To learn more about the author, visit http://andreadowning.com/
I read this book of Andrea’s some time ago. This is part of my review on Amazon: I turned on the light, picked up my Kindle and began Emily and Daniel’s story. A chapter, two, three, four, five. The words flow like a gentle stream, the characters, especially Emily, becomes real to me, and I read on. Reluctantly, I stop at Chapter eleven, knowing tomorrow (now in these early morning hours, today) is full to the brim and I need some sleep. Many times what I’ve read the night before, the characters, sometimes even the title, does not stick with me by morning, but Emily was there this morning and Daniel too. They wait by my bedside, wait for me to get today’s work done, so I can join them again
That’s beautiful, Eunice. Thank you for sharing.
Mary,
This is a lovely review of Andi’s work; I also like the unusual storyline of an imposter mail-order bride! Her writing is strong and great to read.
Arletta,
I agree. The book is really quite intricate. A fun read!
What a wonderful premise for a book and a great review! Congratulations, Andrea!
Yes, I agree. Wonderful, original idea for a book.
This is a great review, Mary! I’ve just purchased a Nook, so now I’ll be able to read Dearest Darling in its entirety…
Alice, I know you’ll enjoy this book. I sometimes use a Kindle, but I still prefer to hold a book in my hands.
I like this review, Mary. I still need to read it!
You’ll love this book, Carmen. I was sorry to see it end!
Mary, thank you so much for this unexpected gem of a review–I certainly wasn’t expecting it. It’s great to know you have enjoyed my book.
You are so welcome, Andrea. It IS a lovely book.