The first thought that came to my mind after reading the first few chapters of Mistaken, Karen Barnett’s debut novel, was “refreshing.” Her story takes place in Port Angeles, Washington during Prohibition and launches into Laurie Burke’s fierce yearning to protect the men in her life and hold her family together. She is also holding on to hope that she will one day find an honorable man, someone unlike the Burke men.
Laurie’s father abuses alcohol and her brother is a rumrunner. Sadly, when the new young pharmacist comes to town, it appears he is cut from the same questionable cloth. The lawman who is searching for rumrunners is a good guy, right? His growing interest in Laurie excites her, but for some reason her ability to discern character has evaporated.
I met Karen Barnett at an Oregon Christian Writers conference in 2011 and couldn’t wait to get my hands on her book when it released. I didn’t find anything “same ole, same ole” about Mistaken. I’m looking forward to reading it again – after my daughter-in-law gives it back.
by Kathy Sheldon Davis
kathysheldondavis.com 
Thanks, Kathy–this made my day! 🙂