Wow! I have no words. This was my first time reading this author’s work and reading a book like this, which I think it can fall under historical fiction, but it will not be my last.

This story is set during the Mexican America War as Ximena’s gets word that her husband, who joined forces to help defend his homeland in Rio Grande, has been killed and she and her Nana has no other choice but to flee their home in search for shelter. Once Ximena learns she’s a healer like her grandma’s, she becomes a nurse to help injured soldiers in the Mexican Army. As the war went on, Ximena meet an American soldier who is discussed with how the American Army is treating their soliders so he decides to leave and join the Mexican Army. Once they meet their love story is one of love, heartbreak, passion, and service.

This book will have you engaged from the start! From the beautiful depiction of the area and Mexican culture to how much rich history and research the author put into this project will leave you in awe and a little sad that this isn’t being taught in school. Ximena and Riley’s love story is told alongside a very ugly story of war and how much it takes from everyone in its wake and how lives will forever be changed by evil leaders and their greed.