Book Review: The Journey of Josephine Cain

When a socialite from the nation’s capital embarks on a journey to the Wild West, her life is changed forever.

A setting populated by hundreds of laborers, outlaws, and Indians is hardly the place for a wealthy general’s daughter. But Josephine Cain is determined to visit her father, who supervises the day-to-day work involved in the grandest ambition of post-Civil War America: the building of the Transcontinental Railroad. Life with the railroad is far from the proper life Josephine is used to, and she faces deadly gunfights, harsh weather, and vigilante uprisings. She is torn between the West and the East; between her privileged upbringing and the challenges of a new frontier; between the pull of the suitable beau her parents approve of and an attraction to a rough but charming Irish railroad worker. But if Josephine is willing, she just might find a new life, a unique purpose . . . and true love.

NANCY MOSER is the best-selling author of more than twenty novels. She is a winner and two-time nominee of the Christy Award, and her latest novel was named to Booklist’s “Top 10 Romance Novels of 2011.” Nancy and her husband have three grown children and three grandchildren, and they live in the Midwest.

My Impressions:

Nancy Moser is a favorite author of mine. She always delivers a well-written novel with characters a reader easily relates to. The Journey of Josephine Cain is another such book. Set amidst the backdrop of the building of the great Transcontinental Railroad, this tale has it all — great historical detail, great characters and a story that rings true. If you like historical romance, The Journey of Josephine Cain is for you.

Josephine Cain is the sheltered and pampered daughter of a Union general. Her coming out years have been spent knitting and rolling bandages for the troops, rather than attending balls and garden parties. Now with the Civil War over and her brother and cousin lost to the cause, Josephine’s home is in deep mourning. Restless for change and action, Josephine claims adventure by traveling the rails to the West. Out on the prairie, Josephine glimpses what life and love can really be.

As the story begins, Josephine is spoiled and self-centered. She doesn’t mean to be, but used to getting her way with an indulgent papa, she has a hard time breaking old habits. Moser does a great job of maturing her. Her experiences open her eyes to others and their needs. Her sense of right and wrong is established early, but she learns to temper that with compassion.

The setting of the Wild West is sure to please history fans. Josephine encounters Indians, saloons, railroad men, homesteaders and even brothels in her travels. The scenes on the train bring early travel to life for the reader. No detail is left out. There is also a great romance to enjoy!

So, grab this book and settle in for an adventure ride along with Josephine.

Recommended.

For other reviews, click HERE.

(Thanks to Summerside Press and LitFuse for my review copy. All opinions are mine alone.)

To purchase this book, click on the image below.