Helpful Score: 2
This was one of the better entries written by Schurfranz, and the story had a hint of vintage dime novel flavor to it. Julie is a likable heroine who rides and shoots but is aware that that's not what all boys like. One half of the romance rivalry would rather she be more ladylike while the other (a rather stereotypical pluck o' the Irish boy) likes her just as she is.
The supporting cast is well-drawn, considering they usually get short-shrift in these shorter Sunfires. The villain is quite different from other baddies in that he has a solid motivation for his nasty deeds.
Schurfranz' tendency to emphasize the historical period is put to good use here in an era that doesn't really get addressed often in YA fiction. Some details seem to imply that some familiarity with the events of the time is expected (Andrew Johnson's impeachment, Grant's preference for business interests, etc), but it's a great springboard for further reading if it strikes you as interesting.
All in all, a good, solid action-romance.
The supporting cast is well-drawn, considering they usually get short-shrift in these shorter Sunfires. The villain is quite different from other baddies in that he has a solid motivation for his nasty deeds.
Schurfranz' tendency to emphasize the historical period is put to good use here in an era that doesn't really get addressed often in YA fiction. Some details seem to imply that some familiarity with the events of the time is expected (Andrew Johnson's impeachment, Grant's preference for business interests, etc), but it's a great springboard for further reading if it strikes you as interesting.
All in all, a good, solid action-romance.
