Timber Ridge Reflections 1 & 2 by Tamera Alexander

I had the privilege of reading the first two books in the Timber Ridge Reflections series by Tamera Alexander and published by Bethany House.

I was able to fully immerse myself in the historical aspects of the story lines as well as the characters, and seeming to walk in their boots. I felt like I really got to know the characters, their personalities and their families. It was a story that I fully enjoyed reading.

In the first book, "From A Distance", we meet Elizabeth Westbrook who comes to the Colorado Territory to photograph the wilderness and the mountains for a paper back East. She comes up against some competition but then realizes that maybe life isn't all about competing or all about working. She also helps break down some societal barriers that are put up from those of other ethnicities.

In the second book, "Beyond This Moment", we are introducted to Dr. Molly Whitcomb. She learns the hard way that even though she has a Dr. in front of her name, she still lives in a man's world, and travels out to Timber Ridge to escape after being given an ultimatum. As she lives her Faith begins to grow and she begins to rely on God to give her strength - strength to face the town, her friends and the man she loves - after her secrets come out.

These books seek to give God the glory, which I think the author accomplished - and isn't easy to do in this day and age with all the feel good junk that is passed around - Tamera Alexander succeeded. The weaving of the story with historical facts, Faith in God, love for our fellow humans - makes for an enjoyable and fast read. I read both books in a matter of days - no mere feat when you add in homeschooling, housekeeping, and three children!

I look forward to reading more books by Tamera Alexander and am eagerly awaiting the next book due out soon!