The first 3 stories in this book were about the three Carson sisters, as they struggle with the loss of their parents. The last story takes place 30 years later and is centered on a descendant of one of these 3 sisters. It was an enjoyable time spent in Ohio during the first decade of the nineteenth century.

In "Proper Intentions" you have Kate, the oldest sister, trying to maintain the faith she was taught before her parents were killed by Indians. She is overjoyed to have a preacher come to Beaver Creek and one of his two handsome sons will steal her heart.

In "Lofty Ambitions" you get to know Annabelle, the sister who has big-city dreams and who will flippantly refuse Thaddeas Larson's proposal of marriage (which he has waited 4 long years to do until Annabelle grew up). When Thaddeas takes his broken heart and leaves town, Annabelle will realize how much she misses him. She will also learn some important lessons helping out an orphanage; but will her change of heart be too late?

In "Ample Portions" you will follow the last sister, Claire, as she helps Reverend Luke Wheeler flee town with his baby boy. Luke is accused of murder and is to be hung. Folks will help him escape and Claire will ride with him and help take care of his boy. Claire has always loved Luke, but he has only seen her as a 'sister' or 'friend'. As they run from the law, Luke's eyes will slowly be opened to the love Claire has for him. But can he forget about his deceased wife and give Claire the love she deserves?

In "Castor Oil and Lavender" you will enjoy the strange blend of personalities when Dr. David Wheeler and Josephine Cline meet. They clash over almost everything at first, but they also both have a heart for the German immigrants flocking to Cincinnati who need care and help. Watching these two interact with each other was enjoyable. ( )