Veins of Gold

by Charlie N. Holmberg

[sstaley]

This novel has such a wonderful combination of magic, romance, and Utah history. Gentry and her younger siblings Rooster and Pearl,are left on their own after their mother's death and their father leaves for the hills of California to join the Gold Rush. Poverty and hunger overcomes the family when a magical man, Winn, comes to their rescue. Not only does Winn become a romantic prospect for Gentry, but he also teaches Gentry about the magic he does which is a combination of earth magic, using gold, and things learned from a Native American tribe.

This western setting combined with the fantasy element is one I loved. Even though things were hard for Gentry and her siblings, there were many people there to lend a helping hand. I loved the Mormon family that were friends with Gentry (no religion in this book), the neighbor that gave her brother a job, and of course Winn. If you have never read anything by Charlie Holmberg, (Why haven't you??) this is a good one to start with. She is an amazing writer that creates a great plot, always interesting and unique magic systems, and characters that you love. I don't want to tell you more because you need to read this on your own to experience this magical novel. The romance is sweet and I liked the relationship between Gentry and Winn. In the long run Gentry ends up helping Winn just as much as Winn helps her.

This story touches on the subject of why this magic was surfacing because the of all of the gold that was being taken out of the Earth leaving things unbalanced in nature. I like the idea of things being balanced in nature among the soil, minerals, animals, and humans. You will be left thinking of many topics: pride, friendship, endurance etc. as you finish this novel. I truly enjoyed this and can't wait until I read the next book by Charlie.