Clara Field travels on the Oregon Trail with her aunt Doreen, in their own wagon without a man to help them, to begin a new life after the death of her uncle Uriah. When the surly wagon boss kicks them off the train, they are welcomed to the little town of Buttonwood by the general store owner, Josiah Reed. He makes a deal with the women that they can live in his empty house in exchange for help around the house and store. Clara is a shrewd businesswoman and helps him make arrangements with other town businesses to his benefit. 

Newly arrived back in Baltimore from medical training in Edinburgh , Dr Saul Reed is intent upon setting up his practice among the poor working class of Baltimore . He reluctantly agrees to travel to Buttonwood to run his father's store while Josiah returns east for a visit with his daughter. While Saul is in Buttonwood, mayhem ensues when Clara tries to set him up with every marriageable woman in Buttonwood. Saul has no idea of the bargain Josiah and Clara have struck: Clara can have Josiah's house as her own, and provide for her aunt, in exchange for Saul getting hitched to a local girl and staying in Buttonwood.  

A huge family feud that includes many of the townspeople, an ornery ox, a sweet young lady, and multiple storylines combine to make this a book that I couldn't put down. The historical details are accurate, down to names of hoax "medicines” available at the time, harvest activities, and social gatherings. The story was hilariously funny and serious by turns, and is a hit by Kelly Eileen Hake. I'm recommending this book to everyone who loves historical fiction.

September 4, 2008