At Morning’s Light by Lauraine Snelling with Kiersti Giron is the second book in the Home to Green Creek series. Although it can be read as a standalone book, reading the previous installment will enhance the experience. This historical fiction piece takes place in Iowa in the 1890s. The authors really try to present things with an accurate historical context.

There are many interesting characters that carry over from the first book.  Their stories become more developed and there are quite a few new and interesting characters. The main character Maya really brings to life the true depth of loss experienced by many who lived in that time period. It is commendable the way the writers are able to really delve into the lives of their characters and keep the reader invested emotionally.

Although the topics in the book are sometimes heavy and serious, the story flows nicely and is easy to read. Moments of joy, sadness, romance, frustration and more abound in these pages. At its conclusion, readers are not left on a serious cliff hanger, but there are many characters whose stories still need to be told.

Review of an Advance Reader’s Copy Provided by the Publisher

Content Analysis:

Profanity/Language: None

Violence/Gore: Character mentions child was most likely physically abused by adults; report of characters getting into a fight and punching one another; report of a person being murdered; scene of childbirth and blood is mentioned.

Sex/Nudity: Characters strip down to bathe; non-married characters kiss and embrace.

Mature Subject Matter:

Death of spouse, children, racial prejudice.

Drug/Alcohol Use:

None