The Icecutter's Daughter

Merrill Krause is responsible for her house full of brothers and her father since her mother had died ten years ago.  Between that and working for the family horse business, little time is left for Merrill or developing a feminine side, something not quite so acceptable to ignore in the late 1800's, even through she does long for someone in her life besides her brothers and father.  But her brothers have scared off any potential suitors through the years.

When Ruruk Jorgenson is called by his Uncle Carl to leave Kansas and come to Minnesota to help with the furniture making business, he leaves behind a "fiance" he's not certain is the woman for him since he loves her like a sister, not the way he hopes to love a wife.   When he meets Merrill, he is drawn to her strength and isn't bothered by her brothers or lack of trivial femininity.  But Ruruk's past isn't going to be easy to leave behind when his former fiance and brother show up, bringing questions about Rurk's integrity.  Merrill thinks she truly knows Ruruk's heart but it may prove to be a challenge to trust.

As always, Tracie Peterson authors a book hard to put down and a delight to read.  You will love the characters and, if a historical fiction fan, the time period and setting--not your typical one.  I also thoroughly enjoyed Merrill, a pretty tough, nonconforming girl in a time where sitting around visiting and drinking tea was more the norm. There was enough action and suspense to keep you turning the pages and not so many characters that leave you scratching your head wondering where that person came from.  While some might say "The Icecutter's Daugher", the first in the Land of Shining Water series,  is one of Ms. Peterson's best, that might be difficult for me to say as I haven't read anything by her I didn't thoroughly enjoy and she writes enough differing types of books that you are certain to find one that pleases. 

I did receive this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  I was in no way obligated to write a positive review.