“Come one, come all to the Brookstone Wild West Extravaganza!”  Who could turn down an invitation like that?  I certainly could not, and I’m glad to have accepted.  “When You are Near” by acclaimed author Tracie Peterson is the first book I have read by this author, but certainly will not be the last.  With a unique storyline centering around the star trick rider of the Brookstone Wild West Extravaganza, this novel is the first in a series to follow the stories of three ladies in this all-female performance.

The main story is centered on Lizzy Brookstone, but there are various other character’s stories intertwined in the tight-knit community of the extravaganza performers and employees.  One of these characters is Ella Fleming, who is running from dire circumstances of cruelty, extortion, and murder in her Kentucky home.  The various aspects of this storyline, and a couple of others, are not pleasant to read about, but are treated as the evils that they are.

One of my favorite parts of this book was the emotional and spiritual journey of Lizzy.  So many important lessons of loss, love, and opening your heart again were portrayed in her character.  I believe Lizzy’s story will touch many readers who have experienced any kind of loss in their life, whether it be loss of a person, or something else.

Honestly, I was impressed by so many aspects of this book.  The story was unique and intriguing, the characters were realistic and relatable, the messages were inspiring and timeless, and the romantic content clean and uplifting.  I couldn’t ask for much more, except maybe sequels which I understand are on the way, and will certainly not be missed by me!

“Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.”