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"Stunning Yosemite National Park sets the stage for this late 1920s historical romance with mystery, adventure, heart, and a sense of the place John Muir described as "pervaded with divine light." Watercolorist Olivia Rutherford has shet her humble beginnings to fashion her image as an avant-garde artist to appeal to the region's wealthy art-collectors. When she lands a lucrative contract painting illustrations of Yosemite National Park for a travel magazine, including its nightly one-of-a-kind Firefall event, she hopes the money will lift Olivia and her sisters out of poverty. After false accusations cost him everything, former minister Clark Johnson has found purpose as a backcountry guide in this natural cathedral of granite and trees. Now he's faced with the opportunity to become a National Parks Ranger, but is it his true calling? As Clark opens Olivia's eyes to the wonders of Yosemite, she discovers the people are as vital to the park's story as its vistas--a revelation that may bring her charade to an end"--… (more)
User reviews
Artist Olivia Rutherford has remade herself. The packaging matches what she thinks art collectors want — a sophisticated flapper. But Olivia has a past that she tries to run from all the while being held captive by devastating secrets. When offered a prestigious job painting scenes of Yosemite, she wavers, but how can she give up the lure of fame and fortune?
As I stated above, I loved the setting of Where The Fire Falls. It was such a treat to visit the hotels, camps, and join in on the entertainments that have long passed away. Of course, the beauty of the national park remains today, but barring a bucket list trip, I will have to be content to enjoy it through the author’s detailed descriptions. The characters of Olivia and Clark are wonderfully written. The two main characters have complex spiritual journeys that readers can identify with — both feel a weight of judgment from their past experiences. Supporting characters add depth to the story. Mystery, peril, and romance in store for Olivia and Clark keep the pages turning. There is really something for everyone in this story!
Although part of a series, Where The Fire Falls can be read as a standalone. But when you are finished with this one, you’ll want to head over to Mt. Ranier and The Road to Paradise for more adventure and romance! I can’t wait for more from Barnett!
Recommended.
Audience: adults.
(Thanks to Waterbrook Multnomah for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
Author: Karen Barnett
Pages: 344
Year: 2018
Publisher: Waterbrook
My rating is 4 out of 5 stars.
Clark Johnson had been a minister at a church until three years ago when he was accused of inappropriate behavior by one of his female
Olivia Rutherford puts on her makeup and fancy dress to impress future patrons. Her agent has told her she must obtain the financial support of Marcus Vanderbilt or she will never be rich and famous. She molds herself into what the rich crowd expects. She takes the tour and begins to let the real Olivia break through occasionally as Clark observes. He likes that Olivia very much, and she seems to like him. But she needs money to support her twin sisters who are currently living with an aunt. Olivia’s mother died a few years ago and her father is dead according to her aunt, so Olivia is left to support her younger sisters. Once she has made a name for herself, she can relax as her financial worries will be over. However, Marcus has more in mind than a financial arrangement. When Olivia rejects him, she knows he has the power to ruin her career and reputation. Now, what will she do?
The main character in this story is an artist who tells stories with paintings, and the author of this story is an artist who paints pictures with words. The descriptions used by the author will have readers in Yosemite, seeing El Capitan or Half Dome. We are treated to breathtaking accounts of God’s creative hand at work in nature. While the descriptions of the scenery are captivating, the story moves at a slow pace. I liked Clark’s dedication to doing the Lord’s will for his life in his job and in his relationships. He knew what he wanted, but he wanted what God wanted for him more. Olivia tried to change who she was to achieve financial success, but she had to learn who she was in God’s sight…His child, created by Him to glorify Him. She had God-given talent as an artist He would use for His purpose. I enjoyed the Author’s Note where historical facts and information are included about people, places or things used in the story. It wrapped things up nicely!