Custodian of the Spirits

The Valley of Heart's Delight Series

By: Bronwyn Long Borne

Narrated by: Lilian Wouters

Left penniless after her husband's death, Fiona Lenihan and her two children set out for California in search of a fresh start. Ten years ago Fiona fled the Irish Potato Famine. She has crossed an ocean, so why not a continent? Kier Moran is a loner with a reputation for being the best tracker, best shot, and best guide. As a favor to his aging parents, he is leading their wagon train West, to the Santa Clara Valley, known as the Valley of Heart's Delight. Kier intends to deliver his parents safely to California then resume life under the sun and stars. But meeting Fiona Lenihan threatens his simple plan.

©2020 Mary Bronwyn Long (P)2021 Mary Bronwyn Long

Engaging characters

The story and character development were excellent and I'm left wanting to know what will happen next to the characters I've come to know. Some of the scenes were so suspenseful that I had to pause the story so I could prepare myself for what might happen next. The narration was fine overall but there were instances where the narration caused a "jag" in the story due to a change in volume/tone.

very good

Loved it !! this story. the narrator is so fantastic it's like your really there!! good overall

A Widow with kids on the trail to California

This engaging story felt realistic. It really draws you in to all the good and bad associated with being in a wagon train on the trail. This wagon train is headed to California instead of Oregon but still faces all the familiar issues of Indians, weather, river crossings, and mountain crossings. Not to mention anytime you get a group of people together you have conflict with different goals and perceptions.
I should also mention that although this book appears to be complete after they reach California, there are some noticeable issues still to be resolved that are likely to continue later in another volume.
Very well written and read. Highly recommend.
I received this free review copy audio book and have voluntarily left this unbiased review.

Horrific narration.

I had trouble focusing on the story, as I couldn't help but correct the narrator's mispronunciation and and weird word emphasis my mind.