Reviews with content warning for Rape - These Is My Words

I was recounting some of this book to my husband, and his response was, "Oh, like the Oregon Trail" because a lot of people die, especially in the beginning. But in such a realistic way. Brutal realism. Obvs, I wasn't alive in the 1880s, but the hardships and tribulations feel right. Not unbelievable or exaggerated or contrived.

It's been a while since I've read a love story, and this one had me blushing and giggling because it's adorable while also being frustrating in a bit of an eyerolling way. But I also cried multiple times and especially hard at the end. I think the final line of the book is phenomenal.

There were definitely bits, especially in the latter half, that felt kinda boring. Just, normal life going on. But where this is written as a diary, that's how it should be tbh. Also, though, I found it nice.

It would've been nice, albeit dissatisfying, to have Sarah and Jack just live happily ever after in domestic bliss.

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adventurous informative tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

4.75

This is an excellent way to better understand the pioneers of the USA and all the hardships they endured. Our heroine, Sarah, starts as a young woman of 17 and develops into a wife and mother who must defend her family and self. She shows amazing courage yet stays naive and endearingly uncertain. It is easy to see your own doubts in her, while admiring her amazing talents. Great story about the settling of Arizona.

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