Though my wife and I read all of these books years ago and lent them out to encourage young believers in our church to read wholesome material, I am repeatedly drawn back to the writing of Phillips/Pela in this and other series. Their teamwork covers their books as their talents complement each other. Historically accurate and very good at giving a picture of early California, the interactions with townspeople and natives alike are rife with challenges. Watching Corrie Belle mature in her faith and in her writing made for some good Sunday School lessons along the way too. ( )