TO THE EDGE OF THE STARS - Joyce Henderson
Leisure
ISBN-10: 0-8439-5996-7
ISBN-13: 978-0-8439-5996-3
December 2007
Historical Romance

Central, Texas, 1870

Kalen Barrett and her Uncle Jed arrive at the Savage Ranch looking for work. Taylor Savage, his brother, Cameron, and sister, Blair, are half Comanche Indian, and although Jed is good with horses, he hates Indians, so he is not happy working for a half-breed. He also has a drinking problem, but Kalen tries her best to care for her only relative, despite his prejudices and drinking. When she inquires about work, she is dismissed by Taylor who greets Jed, obviously thinking the travel weary Kalen is a child. Taylor’s white mother is blind and loves her family dearly. She had been disowned by her family when she married a Comanche warrior.

Taylor finds himself attracted to Kalen, even though she seems distant and uncomfortable around him. She is feisty, a hard worker, and knows as much about horses as her uncle. Kalen and Jed go with the Savage family to the Comanche encampment for three days of games and fun. Kalen is amazed to see small children running around nude, warriors with more than one wife, and horses that are faster and better trained than any she has ever seen before. Jed cannot forget that Indians killed Kalen’s family, but Kalen realizes that all Indians are not the same, and sees the Comanche people without prejudice.

There is something intriguing about Westerns which are unique in American history. So many romantic stories in both books and film take place in the wide open spaces in what was really only a brief era. The American Indians are also romantic figures that are enticing and mysterious with their way of life and beliefs. Taylor spans both worlds, taking the best from both cultures. Kalen is loyal, strong, and spirited. Although she is attracted to the handsome Taylor, she doesn’t realize what she is feeling, she only knows that she is uncomfortable around him and gets irritated when he teases her. They have a sweet tension between them.

TO THE EDGE OF THE STARS is a character-driven story. It moves along at an easy pace with just enough romantic tension to make it interesting. Secondary characters enhance the tale: Taylor’s loving family, whom Kalen comes to care about; Kalen’s uncle; and a few fascinating Comanche. But, of course, the stars of the tale are Kalen and Taylor with their growing fascination for each other. TO THE EDGE OF THE STARS is a thoroughly enjoyable romance, and this reviewer will be looking for more books written by the talented Ms. Henderson.

Marilyn Heyman