A Review of "Before the Dawn" by Carol Warburton

by Miriam Caldwell | More from this Blogger

29 Jun 2006 09:09 PM

"Before the Dawn" by Carol Warburton is an enjoyable historical novel. The novel has bookends with the story of Jessica Taylor who is trying to complete family history research. The story is about Clarissa who married hastily to escape the advances of a next door neighbor. Clarissa soon realizes the mistake she made in marrying someone she could not entirely trust. As the story opens she and her husband have moved away from her family to Oregon and just set up a new homestead. Her husband Jacob leaves her to go to California and search for gold.

Clarissa realizes that Jacob is truly abandoning her as she struggles to care for the farm by herself. The nearest town is some distance away, and she is struggling to get everything done. Not only does she struggle with the chores, but also Clarissa struggles with the complications of pregnancy. She struggles to maintain the farm and her safety by herself in the wilderness. The townspeople help her when they can, but they have problems of their own.

Clarissa soon learns of a nearby neighbor Lieutenant Reynolds, and the O'Connors who work for him. She befriends the family as a way to combat her loneliness. She soon realizes how much she needs them as she nearly loses her baby. Clarissa begins to run into trouble as news of Jacob filters back to her. When she learns of his death, she begins to acknowledge her feelings towards Lieutenant Reynolds. She then learns that he is still alive.

Carol Warburton does an excellent job weaving the tale of a young independent woman in pioneer days. The story is interesting to read the entire time, with exciting plot twists. The characters are well developed. I feel that is a very enjoyable read. I recommend reading this novel.

Learn more about Miriam Caldwell

Miriam is a SAHM mom of three children. She has a daughter who is seven, and two sons, four and two. She loves being a parent and spending time with her children.

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