A Review: "Touching the Sky" by Tracie Peterson

"Touching the Sky" by Tracie Peterson is the second book in the "Land of the Lone Star" series. This book features the story of Laura Marquardt, a strong and independent Southern woman, and Brandon Reid, a captain in the Union army. The Civil War is over and the nation is slowly being reunified. However, there are plenty of Confederate supporters for whom the war is not yet over.

Despite the Marquardt family's support of the Union, Laura's younger sister, Carissa, makes a hasty decision to marry a Confederate soldier, Malcolm Lowe, which results is disastrous consequences for all involved. Malcolm is being investigated by the army for murder and conspiracy, spearheaded by Brandon Reid. A chance meeting leads to courtship with Laura, who assists him with his investigation.

A side storyline is Laura's desire to help freed blacks learn to read. She longs to help them gain an education to help better themselves in their newfound freedom. Laura begins by teaching an employee in their home and then progresses to several adult women and a couple of children. She is supported in her endeavor by both her father and Brandon.

This was a very enjoyable novel. Peterson really delivered with this second book. The characters are well flushed out and the plot flows smoothly. There are even a couple cameo appearances from two characters from the first book in the series, which made for a nice tie-in. Overall, this book was well done. I'm very much looking forward to the final book in the series!

(I’ve received this complimentary book from Bethany House Publishers through the Book Blogger program in exchange for a review. A positive review was not required and the views expressed in my review are strictly my own.)