In 1875, after the Civil War, Elizabeth Westbrook comes to Timber Ridge in the Colorado Territory with a strong ambition. She is determined to become the first woman staff photographer and journalist for the Washington Daily Chronicle. After stiff competition, she is one of three final candidates for this position. She hires Josiah Birch, a black man, to assist her with equipment on the trail, and also to protect her when she has her mysterious attacks of breathlessness and fainting.

When she meets Daniel Ranslett, a former Confederate sharpshooter, she is unimpressed by his rough appearance and condescending attitude. But when one of her photographs puts her in danger from a murderer, Daniel reluctantly agrees to be her guide.

Alexander’s characters are believable and interesting. Daniel is a fascinating hero in spite of his apparent flaws. A hidden secret forms a barrier between him and Elizabeth and when it is revealed, it seems there will be no chance for romance. The author’s descriptions of the country, the small town, and the people place the reader in the center of the story. I didn’t want the book to end and I’m looking forward to reading Book 2 in this series, Beyond This Moment.

June 1, 2009