Lesley Poling-Kempes

Fascinating! The history of the Sante Fe railroad and how a visionary by the name of Fred Harvey created a unique arrangement for feeding and lodging passengers travelling on the railroad. This is the story of the girls, coming from a multitude of backgrounds, who worked for the Fred Harvey Company, their special status, and the familial bonds that were formed. It is also the story of changing times, as modes of travel advanced, and the passenger train lost appeal to the masses, being replaced by the automobile and airplanes.

Somewhere in my subconscious I had stored the name of Fred Harvey and when I saw this book in a National Park bookstore, bells rang and I knew I must buy and read this book.… (més)

This complex, multi-layered mystery is set in modern day New Mexico. However, we learn much about the past and legends in this novel.

Charlotte is a very stable and reliable teacher who comes to Agua Dulce, New Mexico from New York. She learns the legends of the wild horses haunting the area, and the ravens that embody ancestors. Charlotte also learns shocking things about her own mother’s past. When she becomes the target of a crazed killer, she finds love with a cowboy.

Nothing is simple here, however. There are many twists and turns in this story. The characters are colourful and very real. They live by legend, tradition, and family history. They struggle with issues of today, such as poverty, education, substance abuse, religious beliefs, and environmental issues.

Lesley Poling-Kempes writes with emotion, respect and knowledge of the Southwest and New Mexico. She shares the raw beauty of the landscape and its wildlife. She also brings to life the people and their traditions. This is a very unique and special novel.… (més)