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Andrea Smutz
Some authors work through organized outlines, notes, rather involved research. For me, I sat at the computer and suddenly the story just flowed out. Now, I'm more prone to do the research and I do the notes but not outlines. Perhaps that is just my method, perhaps I'm just that way.
As you read my books, you'll find letters that give insight into my motivation but also my thinking. For example, I started "And The Mist Was on The Mountain" first, then just had an itch to write about the old west.
Mark Kane
I have read the complete Hopefield series and enjoyed each of the books. I read them in chronological order which I would highly recommend. The author carefully builds up each of the key characters so you can understand how and why they handle themselves the way they do in each situation.
This was missing from our olden days TV westerns. For example, we never learned how Matt Dillon on ‘Gunsmoke’ became such a brave and honest character. Why was Paladin on ‘Have Gun Will Travel’ capable of handling so many unique situations without a moment of hesitation.
In this series, the author develops the key characters so well, that you fully understand their capabilities.
The author has a great understanding of how the west developed ,which is accurately portrayed in her books. Also, her knowledge of horses and horse types makes some interesting reading!
Overall, I highly recommend this series. Read it in order! It will keep your attention from beginning to end.
July 2025
On April 9, 1865, General Robert E. Lee of the Confederate States of America, surrendered to General Ulysses S. Grant of the Union Army, At Appomattox Courthouse, Virginia. The Confederate States of America ceased to exist. Peace, at least in name, returned to America.
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Two cousins, Frank and Randall Kellerman enlisted, fought, and were injured together during the battles of Gettysburg. They were stationed in the Northern states to recover, still serving in the army. In late 1865, they were released from duty, paid for their service and headed to the developing western territories to make their way and find a new life. Neither had any reason to return to Ohio where they had enlisted and grown into men.
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Fortune smiled on the men, as they met and joined a cattleman, driving his herd to St. Louis. Over the next few years they learned about ranching until a mysterious letter came to Randall opening a new and different life path. He and Frank set a new course and learned life held more than cattle and ranching.
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This is the story of their achieving a fulfilling life and learning to love and trust again.
