That Certain Spark

I have a spunky four-year-old daughter. Although this personality trait can cause problems, I think it will serve her well (with a little training and guidance, of course).

Taylor Bestman, the heroine in Cathy Marie Hake’s new novel That Certain Spark, is feisty as well, and that’s a good thing, especially considering she is a female doctor in 1892. When she and her brother Enoch arrive in Gooding, Texas, the cowboys don’t take too kindly to a female doctor. Taylor has to summon all her courage to prove she is capable and worthy of their trust.

Against his wishes, Karl Van der Vort becomes one of Dr. Bestman’s success stories, and he sets out to help her win the confidence of the town. Unfortunately, several in the town conspire to see that Taylor leaves Gooding, and they will stop at nothing to force her out.

That Certain Spark is a novel that will make you chuckle and warm your heart. There is a measure of suspense added to keep the pages turning, and the story has a surprise twist at the end. My only complaint was that I had trouble keeping some of the townspeople straight in my head; this was particularly confusing to me during the final pages.

Dr. Taylor Bestman has spunk—it’s what gets her in trouble, but also what leads to success. If you enjoy historical fiction, and you enjoy characters with a little gumption, be sure to check out That Certain Spark.

Lauren is a wife, a mother of two, and an avid reader. She blogs at Baseballs and Bows.