loribonesscaswell

Dollycas’s Thoughts

Most people that live in Grace Gulch, Oklahoma, are either a Grace or a Gaynor, or are related to one of the families, or side with only one of the families. The Grace/Gaylord Feud dates back to the late 1800’s as two men fought over the same piece of land. There are 2 churches and 2 newspapers in town still today.

During the Land Rush Days celebration one of the newspaper editors is killed during a reenactment of the Grace/Gaylord gunfight. Vintage clothing store owner, Cici Wilde, along with everyone else watched it happen but no one saw who fired the shot. She find herself in the middle of the investigation when the police start questioning people close to her as suspects.

What I truly liked about this story was that we were treated to letters from Robert Grace to his fiancee, Mary, while trying secure land west to homestead. We hear his words as the town of Grace Gulch today reenacts his story today. History passed down from generation to generation is not always that accurate and each side tends to have their own version of the story.

We meet like Cici Wilde and Audie Howe, theater director at Magda Grace Mallory Theater, as they find themselves quite drawn to each other, much to Cord Grace’s dismay. He and Cici have been friends for a long time but he wishes they were closer. Cici thinks she wants to keep him as her friend and treads lightly to not ruin the relationship they do have. Truthfully either man seems to be a great catch. I don’t envy having to decide between the two.

As far as the shooting, there are quite a few people that could have pulled the trigger. Everyone is hoping it is tourist and not someone they know.

Darlene Franklin takes us to a quaint small town and introduces us to some wonderful characters that are very strong in their faith. She mixes romance and mystery together in a most enjoyable way. Cici’s family dynamic was very interesting. I would love to shop at her store. As someone that loves to sew and create Cici’s talents were delightful. The Christian tone is very balanced and natural. The mystery was so well written. The pace was pleasant and I was surprised at fast I read this book.

I hope we get to visit Grace Gulch again soon.