Book Review: Courting Carrie in Wonderland

Carla Kelly's new book, Courting Carrie in Wonderland, is a sweet love story set against the backdrop of Yellowstone National Park in the early 1900s.

We first meet Sergeant Major Ramsay Stiles who is a Spanish American War Veteran and now stationed in Yellowstone. He is trying to deal with how the war affected him, and the park with all its beauty helps him do that. The book also has a wildlife conservation theme throughout which will also endear readers who love animals.  Ramsay is looking for a wife, but hasn't had any luck so far, when he meets Carrie McKay outside of a privy, She's been stuck with a bear preventing her from leaving and that in itself is such a funny meet-cute. Carrie is so relatable. She's suffered in her childhood and wants a better life than the one she grew up with. In order to do that, she's working in Yellowstone to save money for college tuition. Both her and Ramsay are learning to deal with their past and working toward finding peace.

I thought this story was a beautiful love letter to Yellowstone National Park. Ms. Kelly knows this park intimately and from her descriptions, it's easy to imagine yourself right there. There were so many incredible details, the setting became nearly as important as the characters. Our hero, Ramsay, is so likable, a man who easily blushes, who wants to find a wife, but more than anything just wants to have peace in his life. His choices have consequences, though, and I wanted things to work out for him so badly. He deserved it! Carrie is a strong woman, yet she also has a tender and vulnerable side which is surprising when you consider the circumstances she's already overcome. Her romance with Ramsay has a unique twist to it and readers will be captivated by their gentle love for one another. This book is like a deep stream that sweeps you along and takes you on a beautiful journey. Historical fans will really enjoy this one!

You can download your Kindle copy here

Here's the back copy:

Struggling through college and balancing her summer job in Yellowstone Park with the Wylie Camping Company, Carrie McKay simply doesn't have time to consider romance. Spanish American War Veteran Sergeant Major Ramsay Stiles also isn't looking for love, busy with his own complicated affairs. But as the magic of Yellowstone starts making its way into their hearts, both begin to see love move up their priority list.