Harmony on the Horizon
Review of Harmony on the Horizon, Book 3 of the Chaparral Hearts Series
Often, in discussing the aftermath of the Civil War, most focus has gone to the North and South. In Kathleen Denly’s novel Harmony on the Horizon, the focus is on the West, particularly San Francisco and San Diego. I found this very refreshing. I was born in San Diego and raised in the Central Valley, so I was intrigued to find out how San Diego faired after the Civil War.
The novel revolves around four couples—Margaret Foster and Everett Thompson; Fletcher Johnson and Katie Mizedale. Margaret comes to San Diego to become the teacher for the town. She encounters difficulties, though, because of her unfamiliar teaching methods and the view that African Americans should be treated equally to any other American. When she dines with a mixed-race woman (African American and white), half the community demands her resignation. Everett, a prominent businessman, is attracted to Margaret, but finds her too bold. While he agrees with her views on African Americans, he feels that she needs to understand better why some of the townspeople do not share her views. He wants change as well, but he believes it should be done in a gradual manner.
Fletcher works as a card dealer in San Francisco who is keeping an eye on Katie, as a favor to his cousin. Katie is struggling keeping a steady job. On the side, Fletcher writes articles about San Francisco corruption. Not only does he become angry over political and police corruption, he also despises business executives who are corrupt. Through all of this, he starts developing feelings for Katie. As they grow closer, he questions what he wants from his life.
I really liked the dynamic between these two couples. One is two people in the professional/middle class and the other couple is in the working class. It provides different viewpoints into matters of management versus workers and the balance of those two interests. The reader can view the issues that grapple both groups. It also presents a comparison between San Diego and San Francisco.
Another theme I really enjoyed in this novel was harmony. In the novel, Margaret compares the harmony in nature on a beach to the harmony God intends for all humans. I thought it was an interesting metaphor. Towards the end of the novel, the characters must grapple with what God intends for them. This was rather mature. It is easy to be selfish and decide to do what you want. To reflect on what God wants you to do or what His plan is for you is a lot more difficult.
About the Author
Kathleen Denly lives in California with her husband, four children, and two cats. The issue of adoption and foster families is an important issue for her, and she writes about this often. When she is not writing, researching, or taking care of children, she spends her time reading, visiting historical landmarks, hiking, and crafting.
Giveaway
Kathleen is giving away the following:
- Kindle Fire HD8 Plus
- Harmony on the Horizon Kindle case
- Harmony on the Horizon altered notebook
- Chaparral Hearts pen
- Pair of earrings
- Pin
- Scripture keychain
Click on the below link to enter the contest:
https://promosimple.com/ps/17190/harmony-on-the-horizon-celebration-tour-giveaway