THE CORNSTALK

Author: Heather Garside ISBN: 1597058556 8/2007 HISTORICAL Publisher: WINGS ePRESS
Time Period: Victorian, 1873

Rather than join her wealthy parents in England, Louise Ashford sets off to work as a governess in the frontier settlements of the Australian Outback. She finds herself in the company of a young cattleman of convict descent, a man she knows will never be accepted by her family. Their passionate love affair is brought to a sudden end when Louise's brother intervenes, carrying her off to England. The pain of separation is compounded by a cruel deception, and there is more suffering and shame in store for Louise. She finally returns to Australia, but can the issues dividing the lovers be resolved?

RRAH's THOUGHTS AND PONDERINGS:

Not wanting to move to England with her family, Louise runs away. To survive on her own she seeks employment as a governess. Her problem is, as a female, it will be dangerous riding alone through the Outback. Louise is able to find a young cattleman who is willing to take her to the home of her employer, but she has to ride with him on a cattle drive. Along the way the two become much closer.

Lloyd's parents came to Australia as convicts. He knows that the woman he has agreed to help is too good for him, but that does not stop him from being interested. It is not until Louise's brother shows up that he realizes how far out of his class she really is. When Louise leaves to return to England with her brother, Lloyd is left heartbroken and angry.

THE CORNSTALK by Heather Garside, is an emotionally stirring historical romance that takes place in the exciting Australian Outback. Two wonderful and compelling characters meet and fall in love, but because they come from different backgrounds they find themselves forced apart. Theirs is a story of class discrimination and prejudice. Their story is not always happy, but it demonstrates how true love can overcome all obstacles.

Louise is the daughter of a wealthy family. Her family expects certain things from their daughter that includes marrying well. When she decided not to go with her family, it made me think that Louise was both inconsiderate and foolish. That was until I learned more about her family, and then I did not blame her for running away. She never truly belongs with her cruel family and I found myself hoping that she could escape their control and find happiness.

Lloyd is a young cattleman that is working hard to improve his lot in life. He knows that he would not be accepted by Louise's family, but cannot help falling in love with her. He is not without his faults. The fact he makes Louise happy has me hoping the two will find a way to be together.

THE CORNSTALK is a story that stirs deep emotions such as sadness and anger. I felt rage at the way Louise's family treated her, and the way Louise was separated from Lloyd broke my heart. Their separation only leads to greater despair, wherein Louise's life is changed forever.

THE CORNSTALK is a fascinating, fast paced story filled with exciting action and wonderful characters who interact brilliantly to stir powerful emotions. An imaginative storyline and original plot captivates from the very beginning. For all these reasons, THE CORNSTALK by Heather Garside, is a definite keeper.

Anita Hartsell