Waterbrook Fiction: Beneath the Prairie Moon by Kim Vogel Sawyer

Here is the book 'teaser' from the publisher.

Readers rabid for the sweet historical romances of Tracie Peterson and Tamara Alexander will flock to best-selling author Kim Vogel Sawyer's prairie-set heartwarmer of high society cast-off and the western town that welcomes her.

Abigail Brantley grew up in affluence and knows exactly how to behave in high society. But when she is cast from the social registers due to her father's illegal dealings, she finds herself forced into a role she never imagined: tutoring rough Kansas ranchers in the subjects of manners and morals so they can "marry up" with their mail-order brides. Mack Cleveland, whose father was swindled by a mail-order bride, wants no part of the scheme to bring Eastern women to Spiveyville, Kansas, and he's put off by the snooty airs and fastidious behavior of the "little city gal" in their midst. But as time goes by, his heart goes out to the teacher who tries so diligently to smooth the rough edges from the down-to-earth men. How can he teach her that perfection won't bring happiness?

Here is my review: 

This book was written through the lens of four main characters thoughts. This style brought more depth to the book.  But the characters are strong people that you love and want to get to hear the voices out loud and in their head, as it reveals so much more of how people live bravely in community and the courage it takes to be real with others around you.  

I found the book had a slow start, I just wasn’t sure where it was going. But as I kept reading, those details came alive, bringing reality and vulnerability to the characters and their lives. I adored the etiquette perspective brought to light throughout the book. I loved that some of the characters clearly had a growth mindset while others started with a fixed mindset. I also appreciated the non traditional roles of men and women that likely were the norm even in prairie life. My favorite aspect of the book was the authentic faith and prayers that were manifested by all the main characters. Life is messy and people can be ugly and judge, but this book-shares that there is always a flip side to review. Thanks for the chance to review an arc. 

The book also ends with discussion questions if you are looking for a book club book or a book discussion in an educational setting.  I think it would be a great book discussion with a lot of higher level thinking among the readers!