THE SWEET BLUE DISTANCE

Gutsy, quick-witted, and strong-minded: These are the characteristics that narrator Kate Reading expertly portrays in this novel about a young woman who travels to the New Mexico Territory in 1857. Midwife Carrie Ballentyne treks west via train, steamer, stagecoach and horseback for her new post in Santa Fe, surviving dangers and forging friendships. Reading's crisp narration carries the story through eloquent descriptions of the changing landscape. Her portrayals of Mexicans, Europeans, Indigenous peoples, and coarse cowhands are suitably colorful without exaggeration, but the listener may wish for more distinction between some of the primary male characters. Upon arrival in Santa Fe, Carrie must overcome new challenges in her work, and discover new ways to open her heart. An entertaining production of a classic-style historical novel. N.M.C. © AudioFile 2024, Portland, Maine [Published: MAY 2024]