TOUCHING THE CLOUDS by Bonnie Leon - Book Review

Touching The Clouds is the first book in the Alaskan Skies series. The story is set in Alaska in 1935, and is filled with much historical detail of Alaska before it became a state. Kate Evans leaves her home in Washington State to follow her dream of becoming an Alaskan bush pilot. Kate is "an adventurous and independent young woman with a pioneering spirit. Not only does she have to battle the challenges of the Alaskan wilderness, but she has to stand up to male pilots." She is "a lone woman in a man's world." Kate holds a secret in her heart, and is carrying a very heavy load of guilt, which proves to be an ever-present challenge. Can she overcome that? She faces a new challenge when she meets a man living in the wilderness. He, too, carries a burden which he is unwilling to share. "Can Kate break through the walls he has put up around his heart? And will fear keep her from realizing her dreams?"

I am so glad that this is just the first of a series. Touching The Clouds definitely left me wanting to hear more of the story. Prior to reading this book, I knew little of Alaskan history. But Bonnie brings both the time period and the characters to life. I felt as though I was walking the streets with Kate, or flying with her over the dangerous terrain, sharing in her adventures and challenges, and feeling with her as she came to grips with her emotions. Bonnie writes as one who knows her subject well, through research and experience. This book caused my heart to pound, and I found myself holding my breath and making sure my seat belt was tightly fastened. It was a wild ride! Thanks, Bonnie, for a job well done. I look forward to hearing more from you in the coming days.

About Bonnie: I live a quiet life in the country. My children are grown and have moved away. Two live close (within three hours drive) so I see them often. My oldest daughter lives in Washington. I love playing with my grandchildren. One of the great surprises about being a grandmother is how intensely I love my grandbabies. Just can't get enough of them. :-)

Bonnie is the bestselling of several books of historical fiction, including the Sydney Cove series, Queensland Chronicles, the Matanuska series, the Sowers Trilogy, and the Northern Lights series. She also stays busy teaching women's Bible studies, speaking, and teaching at writing seminars and women's gatherings.

Visit Bonnie's website. http://www.bonnieleon.com/ Read her blog. http://www.bonnieleon.blogspot.com/

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available now at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group."