Customer Reviews

Before Our Journey's Through

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This book, which deals with the old west and the immigration of the Mormons to Utah, is a spiritual combination of Mormonism and Native American beliefs.

It centers around two young women, who are rather alone in the world; Emily Lamb who is Caucasian, and Sariah Porter who is of mixed race, Caucasian and Native American.

While the book ended in a way that somewhat pleased me, I was extremely disappointed that although the two women kiss and embrace throughout the book, the author makes it quite clear the relationship is never consummated.

The author seems to be of the opinion that "romantic friendships" also known as "Boston Marriages", which were acceptable in the Mid-Nineteeth Century were always "sexless unions" between persons of the same gender. I tend to disagree. While some of them may have been, I think what went on behind closed doors was not generally admitted, but that it definitely occurred.

It is difficult to write an effective story that offers the reader entertainment as well as an opportunity to learn something. Linde Knighton has accomplished this with style in her historical short-novel of Emily and Sariah on their quest across a brave new land. Ms.Knighton has skillfully woven action, romance and mystery into highly satisfying pieces of Native American and Mormon cultures.
If this is a sign of what is yet to come from this author, we are in for a rare treat indeed.

Lindė Knighton brings alive the Old American West during the Mormon Diaspora. Her historical framework is detailed and vivid. Her characters are three-dimensional and she makes the reader care about what happens to them, heroes and villains alike. Plotting is brisk. Emily and Sariah are a dynamic pair who keep the reader's sympathy and attention. This reviewer hopes for at least a sequel.