I really enjoyed this book by Tracie Peterson! I liked that the book was set in New Mexico, a place on my bucket list! I didn't care for the main character Isabella, at first but then as I learned more about her past her character flaws made sense. "Isabella had spent a good portion of her life putting up walls of protection- barriers that created strongholds so that she could never be hurt again." Themes of family and faith round out this terrific book! ( )

Isabella has never forgiven her parents for forcing her to move from California to New Mexico when she was 10. This story is the result of years of bitterness and misunderstandings. Tracie Peterson is very good at writing an engaging story and I enjoyed her writing style. I did not like the main character, which made it hard to root for her. Her bitterness seemed overblown. Her change of heart happened quickly, and was hard to believe. The story was interesting and I enjoyed the setting. I wish that the main character could have been more three dimensional. I would give this book 3/5 stars. ( )

My library patron loved this book! She's asked for the rest of the series. Good sign!

Beyond the Desert Sands is the story of Isabella Garcia and the small silver-mining town her father and mother founded in the desert. As she faces challenges and struggles, she grows as a character. I voluntarily read this complimentary copy of this well-written book. I love Tracie Peterson's books! ( )

I enjoyed Isabella’s story. It’s a story of redemption, forgiveness, and love.
I think we can all find a piece of ourselves in Isabella’s story. In her insecurities and her past hurts. Aaron is a dream... a man of God and commitment. Aaron and Isabella’s love story is not one of immediate attraction, but a love that grows over time as each one moves out of their own way.
The story was a bit slow in parts, but overall, I enjoyed the characters and the plot. ( )