THE SWEET BLUE DISTANCE by Sara
Donati is a work of historical fiction set in 1857 which describes the many
adventures and resourcefulness of Carrie Ballentyne, a young nurse and midwife.
First, there is the sometimes harrowing travel – via train, riverboat, stage,
and horseback – from New York State to Sante Fe where she has accepted a
position with a Dr. Markham. Both along the way and once in Sante Fe, this
young woman finds her beliefs tested as she faces hypocrisy and bigotry
(against women and people of different races or classes). The book is quite
long and Donati stresses this cultural bias to the point where her modern
perspective almost overrides the historical one. However, the story’s action
(many births and medical emergencies), elements of mystery, and a romantic
subplot will likely keep readers engaged. With so much involved, the author
provides a detailed list of the cast of characters and their families, a Spanish-English
glossary, and a robust bibliography. Carrie proves herself to be very
resilient, mirroring her own mother’s advice: “You are the daughter of strong
women and equal to whatever challenges you meet. Missteps are inevitable, but
you will find your way.”
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