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    A View Most Glorious (American Wonders Collection Book #3)
    A View Most Glorious (American Wonders Collection Book #3)
    A View Most Glorious (American Wonders Collection Book #3)
    Ebook373 pages7 hoursAmerican Wonders Collection

    A View Most Glorious (American Wonders Collection Book #3)

    By Regina Scott

    4.5/5

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    About this ebook

    "Scott's historical inspirational romance captures the magnificence of the mountain and the thrilling triumph of climbers in the 1890s . . . This is a truly remarkable conclusion to Scott's exceptional American Wonders trilogy."--Booklist starred review

    ***

    Reluctant socialite Coraline Baxter longs to live a life of significance and leave her mark on the world. When her local suffragette group asks her to climb Mount Rainier to raise awareness of their cause, she jumps at the chance, even though she has absolutely no climbing experience. If she can do it, any woman can do it. And after her mother issues an ultimatum--that Cora marry the man of her mother's choosing if she is not successful--Cora must do it. But she can't do it alone.

    Noted mountain guide Nathan Hardee initially refuses to help Cora, but has a change of heart when he sees what is at stake. He knows enough about the man Cora's mother has chosen to know that the headstrong young woman should have nothing to do with him, much less marry him.

    Climbing Rainier will require all of Cora's fortitude and will lead her and Nathan to rediscover their faith in God and humanity. These two loners make unlikely partners in righting a wrong and may just discover that only together is the view most glorious.
    LanguageEnglish
    PublisherBaker Publishing Group
    Release dateOct 5, 2021
    ISBN9781493431793
    A View Most Glorious (American Wonders Collection Book #3)
    Author

    Regina Scott

    Regina Scott started writing novels in the third grade. Thankfully for literature as we know it, she didn’t actually sell her first novel until she had learned a bit more about writing. Since her first book was published in 1998, her stories have traveled the globe, with translations in many languages including Dutch, German, Italian, and Portuguese. She and her husband of over 25 years reside in southeast Washington State.

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    Reviews for A View Most Glorious (American Wonders Collection Book #3)

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    • 4/5

      Jun 18, 2023

      3.5 stars (rating shown may vary depending on site).

      I have read other books in the American Wonders series. I like learning about the history of areas we consider National Treasures today. This book centers around Mt. Rainier (aka Mt. Tacoma at that time).

      I'm not entirely sure why the suffragettes felt climbing Mr. Rainier was a good symbol nor why they felt Coraline Baxter would be the one to do so and bring acclaim to their group. I mean, I get the "if a woman can do this, a woman can do anything" idea...just not sure on the specifics they chose.

      Some questions the novel contemplates:
      *What is God calling you to do?
      *Does a woman need to be married to be happy/fulfilled?
      *Is what Society decrees the only way or the way things should be?
      *Fair treatment for workers and business associates
    • 4/5

      Jun 8, 2022

      I really enjoyed this book. It's a fairly formulaic historical romance, but it's a cut above most of the ones I've read. The protagonist wants to climb a mountain to bring publicity to the suffrage movement and hires a guide to help her. Thus ensues the typical back and forth of a romance novel, but the characters are unique and interesting, and the descriptions of how difficult it was to climb a high elevation mountain during a time when little existed in the way of mountain climbing equipment. It was truly dangerous and highly difficult. These scenes made the book exciting and suspenseful. I also enjoyed the suffrage history in this story. Overall, this was a fun read.
    • 5/5

      Nov 11, 2021

      Coraline makes a deal, a climb to the top of Mt Rainier in exchange for her step father’s bank getting bailed out. She knows it will take all she has,but she has the motivation for it. She realizes she needs help and turns to Nathan for help. Nathan knows his way around and has extra motivation as well. He agrees to help Coraline out in the climb to the top. Along the way they will encounter more than expected.
      I really enjoyed this look in to the past and felt like I was there at times along the way.

      I received a copy to read, the review is mine.
    • 5/5

      Nov 6, 2021

      Fighting for women’s suffrage, climbing Mt. Rainier, and fighting society’s unnecessary restrictions, are all themes Regina Scott deals with in A View Most Glorious. Coraline Baxter decides to climb Mt. Rainier (or is it Tacoma?) with social outcast and mountain guide, Nathan Hardee. Doing so will draw attention to her cause and free her of her mother’s matrimonial expectations.
      I don’t know if I was delighted or dismayed by the big loop Scott throws the reader for as a character makes a totally unexpected decision. It certainly upped the ante for the outcome of the perilous journey!
      Faith is a quiet, steadying influence in both Hardee’s life and the book. Several times, Nathan can be found with his Bible in hand, worshipping outdoors by himself before the day begins. Scott doesn't preach in this story, but the power of the Scripture and its Creator are very evident.
      I felt for pitiful Cora, who can stand up for and take care of herself- almost. She is so strong and determined, and she can handle herself at a job in a man’s world. She can be the voice for the suffragettes in Tacoma. Yet, she cannot stand against her mother’s iron will.
      I loved Cora’s stepfather. He cares for her in a most loving, diligent way. He sacrifices much for Cora and manages to be a go-between for Cora and her mother, without ruffling feathers. Now, if he can just develop a spine!
      Nathan is rough around the edges, but a gem on the interior. The question is, whether he and Cora can find a common calling, or whether Cora will follow society’s designs.
      I received a copy of this book from RevellReads via NetGalley. All opinions are my own, and no positive review was required.
    • 5/5

      Nov 4, 2021

      “A View Most Glorious” by Regina Scott is the third book in the “American Wonders Collection” series. It is absolutely fine as a stand-alone. This installment tells the story of Cora, a young suffragette who decides to prove her independence, make a statement about the abilities of women, and avoid a marriage she doesn't want by climbing Mt. Rainier.

      This book is definitely character driven. Both main characters (Cora and her mountain guide Nathan) are incredibly well-written. The reader will feel like he/she is gradually getting to know real people as the story moves along and more and more about the characters’ pasts, families, and personalities are revealed. This is a historical romance, so it’s not surprising that feelings grow between the two. I found it interesting that two people from high society backgrounds, both looking for more out of life, managed to find each other. It was fascinating to watch their relationship develop.

      Although the romance is lovely, it is only one part of what this book has to offer. The relationship unfolds as the couple undertakes a climb of Mt. Ranier together. The reader will learn a lot about the geography of that area, and what it was like to be undertake such a challenge without the benefit of modern equipment and safety gear. There is also plenty of information about daily life, religion, clothing, food, and the role of women during that time. Despite learning quite a bit, you will never be bored or feel like you’re sitting in a history lecture. All of this information is presented as part of the story, and is truly fascinating!

      Since this is a Christian novel, I’ll address the role of Christianity in the story. Nathan is a devout Christian, and lives as he believes. His daily morning devotions provide an excellent example for Cora, as well as for the reader. It is always nice to read about a Christian person (Nathan) who lets his faith guide his actions without constantly announcing it and trying to force it onto others. I thought the religious aspect of this novel was handled perfectly.

      5 out of 5 slices of thinly sliced, ultra-sharp Cheddar!
    • 5/5

      Nov 3, 2021

      Author Regina Scott brings her remarkable "American Wonders Collection" to a close with Book Three, "A View Most Glorious". In Tacoma, Washington of 1893, Miss Coraline Baxter is very much a young woman of the times--caught between the suffragette movement and the lingering views of "a woman's place" still held by older society women like her own mother. Cora's father had deserted them when Cora was only six, and a year later, they received word of his death. Her mother's second husband had been a drinker, and after his death, she and Cora were evicted from their home. Fortunately, Cora's second stepfather, Winston, was both kind and wealthy, and he and Cora had a close relationship. A request from her fellow suffragettes for her to climb Mt. Rainier as a way to bring attention to their cause has Cora searching for a knowledgeable guide. Her mother's opposition to the idea is accompanied by her demand that Cora agree to marry the rich and eligible Cash Kincaid if she can't complete the climb. Winston arranges a meeting with a most reputable and reliable guide, Nathan Hardee. Skeptical of Cora's ability to physically meet the demands of the climb, he at first refuses the offer. However, he changes his mind when he learns that Cora's mother is pressuring her to marry Kincaid, a man whom Nathan despises. Nathan was once the son of a wealthy society family, and like many others his family had endured great losses in the financial panic of the era. His own father had amassed a great debt and then taken his own life. Nathan had turned his back on society then, and turned toward a new life as an outdoorsman. If helping Cora was a way to keep Kincaid from gaining what he desired, then Nathan would do his best to safely guide her up and down the mountain and back to her home and family. When Cora and Nathan begin their grand adventure, they have no idea that it will turn out to be a journey of a lifetime for them both. As they make their way along the trail, they get to know each other as they also learn more about themselves. The misconceptions they first had of each other begin to fade away, and in their place comes awareness and appreciation. Surrounded by the majestic beauty of the mountains, they also feel an affirmation of their faith. Can it be that their "view most glorious" will open their eyes to the truth around them and lead to a loving and happy future with each other? I highly recommend the "American Wonders Collection"--three stand alone works with the common theme of national parks--for those who love American history and inspirational romance.

      Book Copy Gratis Revell Books
    • 3/5

      Nov 2, 2021

      I won this book from librarything.com early member giveaway for a honest review. This is my own opinion. This is the third book in the series. You can read it as a stand alone book. The book was good, I loved some of the characters and some I didn't. It is a clean book, which is nice. It is a Christian historical fiction book. The plot and scenery was very nice. The adventure was great too.
    • 5/5

      Nov 1, 2021

      Coraline Baxter was not your average woman for the late 1800’s. She was a mixture of that era’s women’s libber and a proper lady that followed all the social customs of time. A suffragette, college graduate, intelligent, creative but she had definite ideas about what she wanted in life. On the other hand she totally under the thumb of her overbearing, social snob of a mother. She couldn’t’ seem to truly stand up to her.
      To escape her mother’s choice for her marriage to Cash Kincaid, a creepy (in my opinion) socially successful business man, she came up with a plan. Her suffrage group had a publicity idea to draw attention to women’s votes: climb Mount Rainier. Somehow she persuades her mother to agree to call off the wedding if she is successful. I am sure her mother agreed because this was considered close to impossible for a woman, especially one of the “elite” like Coraline.
      She sets her sights on hiring the best climbing guide there is, Nathan Hardee. He was once big among the wealthy social circles until he left it all behind for a reclusive life in the woods. Not a woman to be told no, other than by her mother, she pursues him until he agrees. The clincher is Coraline has zero climbing experience not in the best of shape. To add to the difficulty her not so healthy stepfather was the only man available to chaperone her. The odds were stacked against her. The story that ensues is filled with adventure, excitement, the unexpected and beautiful scenic descriptions that will ae your breath away! I found it incredible how inadequate their clothing and climbing gear was compared to what is available today! BRRRRR. This made the climb an even greater accomplishment.
      Coraline’s courage, spunk and sweet spirit won me over! I was impressed that with her snobbish upbringing she was still so loving and accepting of everyone, even those that then would have been considered lower class.
      Nathan Hardee’s showed such character and integrity, despite his disappointments and bitterness from his past. His strong desire to protect Coraline and her stepfather truly touched me.
      Throughout the book I just wanted to shake her mother. Her arrogance and attitude of superiority were extremely frustrating. I realized later that all of her misguided attempts to steer her daughter’s future were out of love. She wanted her to have the best and didn’t want Coraline to go through the hard times she had.
      I wanted to hug Waldo her stepfather. Such a sweet, sweet man that managed to balance his love and support for Coraline and his love and understanding of his wife and her abrasive personality. A story you will enjoy and be inspired by!
      I received this book from Revell Publishers in exchange for an honest review. The opinions stated are my own.
    • 4/5

      Oct 31, 2021

      This is such a good story. It’s the story of Coraline Baxter and the challenges she faces as she climbs Mt Rainer in hopes of helping women gain the right to vote in the late 1800s. The story also deals with the challenges Coraline faces in her relationship with her mother who is an overbearing person. And the story deals with Coraline's relationship with Nathan and finding true love. It’s just good reading and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Thank you LibraryThing for allowing me to read this book.
    • 5/5

      Oct 29, 2021

      A View Most Glorious is the third book in the American Wonders Collection by Regina Scott. While being part of a great series, this is a wonderful stand alone story. This story takes place in Washington in 1893. When most people are financially struggling and many out of work, Coraline has attended college and works at her step-father’s bank. To avoid a marriage she does not want, she makes a deal with her mother that if she can climb Mount Rainer, she will not be forced to marry.

      This is a fun book to read that has several messages within it. Cora’s mother has married three times and uses her status to get what she wants. Cora longs for living a different life, one of value and helping others. Her step-father loves her as his own and will do anything to help her. Nathan left the life he was use to after his father’s death and now lives away from the city while helping others. His mother married after his father’s death to maintain her position in society and had nothing to do with him.

      This is an easy to read story with wonderful main characters. It is well written and easy to imagine the breathtaking view of the mountain and it’s surroundings. I really enjoyed how Nathan and Cora were able to make it through the climb as well as dealt with their mother’s attitudes and make allowances in their lives for the good of not just themselves but their families as well.

      I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley, this is my honest review.
    • 5/5

      Oct 28, 2021

      This series has included the most beautiful scenery descriptions! I have a strong desire to climb Mount Rainier after reading this story. I love books with strong female leads and this novel has just such a character. Coraline is tenacious and determined, fighting social norms and working towards causes in which she believes. I enjoyed reading about the interactions of her and Nathan and their adventures. I liked the give and take of their relationship and felt that they respected each other, which I appreciated. The secondary characters were also interesting and time passed easily as I read this novel. I have really enjoyed this series and look forward to more by this author!

      I received a complimentary copy of this book from the LibraryThing Early Reviewers Program. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
    • 4/5

      Oct 24, 2021

      Headstrong Coraline Baxter is on a mission. She must reach the top of Mt. Ranier to bring attention to women's suffrage...and avoid marriage to the wealthy man her mother keeps pushing at her. Nathan Hardee was once part of high society, but left it all behind for a simpler, more fulfilling life. Escorting a socialite up a mountain is the last thing he wants to do, but if it will get back at the man who ruined his family, Nathan is willing to offer his aid. Climbing Mt. Ranier will take all the strength this unlikely pair can muster, and they just might find love along the way.

      This has been an interesting series. I didn't know much about Victorian era hikers, but it was interesting to see a little of the history behind climbing Mt. Ranier. The author did an excellent job of bringing the time period and the scenery to life.

      Of the two main characters, I found Nathan to be the most interesting. He left behind everything he knew for a simpler life. I liked his personality and his motivation was believable. It was harder to warm up to Cora. She was volunteered by the suffrage group as the most likely to make the climb.

      I also didn't quite buy the romance. It happened too fast for me to believe. The rest of the plot was well-paced and full of details.

      Readers of historical fiction who have an interested in women's suffrage may enjoy this one. I was given a free copy from the publisher and all opinions expressed are my own.
    • 5/5

      Oct 8, 2021

      It’s been too long since I’ve read a Regina Scott book! Brimming with historical tidbits, lovable characters, witty and humorous dialogue, this well-written book with an engaging plot should be on every historical fiction lover’s must-read list.

      I loved Cora’s independent spirit and determination. Nathan’s backstory and his emergence as a new man with faith tugged at the heartstrings and made him so real and swoony. I felt like I was on the mountain with them as they climbed - and the journey indeed was most glorious.

      It’s book 3 in the series but can totally be read as a stand alone. I received the book from publisher and via NetGalley and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are solely my own.
    • 4/5

      Oct 7, 2021

      I've enjoyed all three novels in Regina Scott's American Wonders collection. They act as standalones but the thing that ties them all together is that they take place at National Parks before they are even considered National Parks. A View Most Glorious follows Cora Baxter's quest to get to the top of Mount Rainier to raise awareness for the suffragette cause. For propriety's sake she will travel with her stepfather and a guide - but the guide in question happens to be a prickly man that once held the same social standing that Cora does. Nathan Hardee is reluctant to take the spoiled society girl to the top of the mountain as it's treacherous and she has no experience. She eventually wins him over and as they set out on their journey they discover that they have more in common then they thought. Cora falls in love with the exertion and the beauty all around her - and in the process Nathan starts to fall a little for her. There are more dangerous things than than mountain path to watch out for though; Cora's dastardly suitor and her conniving mother have a few tricks up their sleeves. Historical romance at it finest - inspirational fans won't want to miss out.
    • 5/5

      Oct 7, 2021

      This is the 3rd book in the American Wonders Series. But not to worry, it is a stand-alone book with new characters than the previous books. It was a nice ending to the series and I have really enjoyed the series which takes you to interesting and captivating places that many, including myself have not yet been able to enjoy personally.
      Cora has a definite goal and is a strong woman who wants to make an impact on the Women's Suffrage of this time period. If a woman can climb a mountain, she can surely vote! As she takes on the climb of Mt. Rainier, there are many challengers that would be difficult for even the most experienced climber, but she doesn't give up.

      The historical fiction book which takes place in 1893, has Christian values and is a sweet and enjoyable read. There are challenges to overcome, both personal and physical. It has an adventurous theme, which I really enjoy. The characters are enjoyable and I especially liked Cora's stepfather as he continues to support her in her endeavors.

      I received a complimentary book from the publisher. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
    • 5/5

      Sep 30, 2021

      You are not going to want to miss reading this wonder book. The title of the book tells you what you need to know. Coraline and Nathan both need to learn what they really want in life. They both get to learn in one way when Nathan is hired to take Coraline up to the summit of Mount Rainier. Coraline and Nathan both need to learn to stand up for themselves in many ways. I loved the descriptions of the climb up this mountain. I did not want to put this book down. I received a copy of this book from Revell for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
    • 4/5

      Aug 30, 2021

      This is the 3rd book in the series. I read the first book but missed the second somehow. I'm sorry I did as this series is really good. I'm thankful I was chosen to read and review this third book.

      This book is well written and easy to read. It is a Christian book with a strong woman leading character with some romance thrown in. It is not preachy and shows how someone with strong faith can influence someone weaker.

      The descriptions are excellent, transporting the reader to new places. The characters are quite well developed. The editing was excellent, especially since I was reading an ARC book.

      I was given an ARC copy to read and review on my request. The review is totally my own opinion.
    • 5/5

      Aug 28, 2021

      An enjoyable read! This book is well-crafted with great descriptions and a strong plot. While it is the third book in a series, it functions as a stand-alone. I hadn’t read any others in the American Wonders series, or even any of Regina Scott’s other works, but I will be checking them out now!
    • 5/5

      Aug 25, 2021

      This novel is thoroughly enjoyable, both warm and inspiring. Cora is a winning heroine,. She is full of grit and determination, yet not so willful that she does not struggle to accommodate those she loves. The most difficult, and most relatable relationship is with her mother. Cora recognizes that her mother loves her deeply, has sacrificed greatly for her daughter, and truly wants what is best for her. Unfortunately, her ideas of what is best are entirely wrong for Cora, and her grit and determination are a match for Corals at every turn.

      The author clearly loves Mt. Ranier, and it is wonderful to vicariously appreciate its splendor through the eyes of Cora and Nathan. I highly recommend this story when a reader is seeking something both entertaining and uplifting.

      I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
    • 4/5

      Aug 22, 2021

      Not having read anything from Regina Scott, I wasn't sure what to expect when I read A View Most Glorious. But I will be reading more from this author. Even though it is the third book in the American Wonders Collection, it is easily a stand-alone book. Scott is an excellent storyteller and has created compelling, unforgettable characters and placed them against the backdrop of the mountains in Washington state. The story explores various relationships--family, friendships, romantic, and that of the scheming wanna-be suitor. Cora is determined to climb Mt. Rainier for a couple of reasons--one, to bring the cause of women's vote to the forefront, and two, to ensure she does not have to marry the man her mother has chosen for her. Scott keeps the tension high as the story advances. With raging rivers, rockslides, and mountain crevasses to navigate across, I wondered if Cora indeed would have to give in to her mother's wishes--especially when Mr. Wanna-be kept popping up! Would Cora and her mountain man guide be able to navigate the differences in their lifestyles to make a life for themselves? I enjoyed this historical romance and am looking forward to reading more from Ms. Scott.
      I was given a complimentary advance reader's copy of the book and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.
    • 4/5

      Aug 16, 2021

      This beautifully written novel takes place in Tacoma, Washington, in 1893. Cora is from a rich family and her mother has picked out the man for her to marry. Cora isn't the normal socialite of the time. She went to college, works in her step fathers bank and has no intention of marrying Cash Kincade, the man her mother thinks is perfect. Cora is part of the suffragette group and has been asked to climb Mt Rainier to prove that women can do anything that a man can do She needs a guide for this treacherous climb and hires Nathan- a man who's turned his back on high society and is content to live by himself out of the city. Her mother has agreed that if she is successful on climbing Mt Rainier, she will quit pushing her to marry Cash so Cora has two good reasons to be successful. The trip is dangerous and difficult but the more time Cora spends with Nathan - the more she realizes that he and his lifestyle may be just what she needs to be happy.

      Along with two great characters and a good plot, we also get beautiful descriptions of Washington and the land around Mt. Rainier. Cora finds out that she is much stronger than she thought she was and that achieving her goals will bring her happiness in her life.

      Thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book to read and review.
    • 5/5

      Aug 16, 2021

      Cora has two impelling reasons to climb Mt. Rainier. First is to bring attention to the suffragette movement and to help gain voting rights for women. The second is to satisfy a bargain with her mother: if she completes her quest of climbing to the summit, she will be free from her mother’s choice of husband for Cora. Mr. Kincaid is man she totally dislikes but whom her mother believes is of excellent social standing and would be a good match for Cora. To aid her in her quest, Nathan Hardee is hired by her stepfather to guide them both up the mountain. Though born into a family of wealth, Hardee lost his standing in proper society when his father lost his fortune and committed suicide in the midst of the Panic of 1893. Now considered to be a rough but knowledgeable mountain man, Cora sees past the outer trappings to the inner strength and goodness that makes up a man’s true worth. The stories in this series are all equally spellbinding and informative. Each has as a backdrop a wonder of creation. Each story has a remarkable cast of characters. The series is built on Christian beliefs that factor into the stories. Romance is in the air, but not to be taken lightly or achieved easily. These stories are extremely well written and a delight to read. I can’t wait to see where Regina Scott takes us next!
    • 5/5

      Aug 10, 2021

      It was good from start to finish. 1800's Washington State.

      It's the story of a young woman determined to climb Mt.Rainier/ Mt Tacoma...both names were bantered about, in order to draw attention to the Tacoma Women's Suffrage Association trying to gain support for women's right to vote.

      She enlists the aid of Nathan Hardee and his partner Waldo to guide her and her stepfather to the summit. He takes some convincing but finally agrees, much to the disappointment of her mother. Coraline's mother has plans for Coraline to marry a man she thinks fits societies rules. Coraline doesn't wish to displease her mother but she can't stand the man her mother has chosen and Coraline wants to achieve the climb for herself as well as the Women's Suffrage movement.

      The trip is on and the story mostly surrounds the beautiful scenery and the climb. We watch as Nathan and Cora fall in love with each other and for Cora a totally new life. There is a background story of Nathan's old life and why he left it for the mountains.

      An enjoyable read with pitfalls thrown in the way and help from God. It's a 3 book series and I look forward to book 3.

    Book preview

    A View Most Glorious (American Wonders Collection Book #3) - Regina Scott

    "Unputdownable! Regina Scott has outdone herself with this, the third of the American Wonders stories. With characters as multifaceted as a diamond, vivid descriptions of western Washington’s majestic scenery, and a plot with more twists and turns than the path up Mount Rainier, A View Most Glorious is historical romance at its best. I highly recommend it."

    Amanda Cabot, bestselling author of Dreams Rekindled

    "A View Most Glorious is, indeed, glorious! I thoroughly enjoyed Regina Scott’s well-researched story that takes you into the troubled city of Tacoma, Washington. It’s 1893, and spunky suffragette Coraline must climb a mountain to strike a blow for suffrage and help gain women the right to vote. But suffrage isn’t the only reason to climb an imposing Mount Rainier. What awaits her if she fails is far more treacherous. Desperate to succeed, she must put her hope in a man who appears as rugged and wild as the mountain she’s to climb. But her guide Nathan Hardee is so much more . . . This adventure-filled tale with its wonderful characters will have you holding your breath as Coraline faces more opposition than what the mountain can throw at her. And with so much at stake, she can’t afford to lose."

    Kit Morgan, USA Today bestselling author

    Books by Regina Scott

    AMERICAN WONDERS COLLECTION

    A Distance Too Grand

    Nothing Short of Wondrous

    A View Most Glorious

    © 2021 by Regina Lundgren

    Published by Revell

    a division of Baker Publishing Group

    PO Box 6287, Grand Rapids, MI 49516-6287

    www.revellbooks.com

    Ebook edition created 2021

    All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means—for example, electronic, photocopy, recording—without the prior written permission of the publisher. The only exception is brief quotations in printed reviews.

    Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data is on file at the Library of Congress, Washington, DC.

    ISBN 978-1-4934-3179-3

    This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons, living or dead, is coincidental.

    Baker Publishing Group publications use paper produced from sustainable forestry practices and post-consumer waste whenever possible.

    To my team—Emily, Rachel, Kristin M, Kristin K, Brianne, and Karen—thank you for all you did to see this book through. To Glen Storbeck, Pierce County Library historical research librarian extraordinaire, for getting excited about my urgent queries and finding me answers. To my father, who first shared with me the wonders of God’s creation. And to our heavenly Father, who created all the views most glorious for his children to enjoy.

    Contents

    Cover

    Endorsements

    Half Title Page

    Books by Regina Scott

    Title Page

    Copyright Page

    Dedication

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    Letter to Reader

    About the Author

    Back Ads

    Back Cover

    1

    ALONG THE WATERFRONT OF TACOMA,

    WASHINGTON, AUGUST 1893

    She was causing a stir.

    Wouldn’t be the first time. Coraline Baxter was used to heads turning, eyes widening when she walked in a room. It happened at the society balls her mother insisted she attend, where she was expected to be the best dressed, the most polished. It had happened at the Puget Sound University, where she had been one of a few women. It happened when she arrived at the bank, where she was the only female accountant.

    So it shouldn’t surprise her that it was happening at Shem’s Dockside Saloon, which likely hadn’t seen many women and certainly not ladies accompanied by a father.

    Stepfather, something corrected her. Beside her, Stephen Winston blinked blue eyes wreathed in wrinkles he’d earned by peering at ledgers all day. His gloved hand gripped the gold head of his ebony walking stick as he glanced around the dimly lit eatery. The occupants likely hadn’t seen many gentlemen of his caliber either. His tailored coat, satin-striped waistcoat, and gold watch hanging by a thick chain proclaimed him a man of means.

    Means seemed hard to come by for most of the men in the room. The rough plank floors, open beams, and unplastered walls spoke of toil, hardship, and the camaraderie of men with pride in their own worth. Still, it was little more than a shanty perched over Puget Sound, and it was hard to smell the brine over the smoke in the air.

    She tried not to wrinkle her nose. Winston didn’t bother to hide his dislike. His lips were slightly curled under his trim white mustache. And he was staring.

    They were staring back.

    Dozens of them. Each cap or hat covered hair that peeked out below as if it were none too sure of its surroundings. Wool sweaters were rolled up at the sleeves to display arms that had labored for long hours. Gazes sized her up, showed interest or suspicion. Her mother had taught her to dress for the part she would play in any situation, but she hadn’t realized the gray taffeta overcoat that was cut to show the lace at her throat and sleeves would look so out of place here. Then again, she’d never visited a saloon before and had no plans to repeat the experience.

    Conversation dwindled, stopped. Someone shoved back a chair with a screech of wood on wood.

    Do you see him? Cora hissed.

    Winston started to shake his head no, then stiffened. There. That table near the wall. That may be young Nathan.

    Nathan Hardee was no longer the youth her stepfather had remembered. That much was clear. He was facing away from them. Shoulders in a dark wool coat stretched wider than the back of the wood chair on which he sat. Lamplight picked out gold in the wavy brown hair that spilled nearly to those shoulders. Winston hurried forward, and she followed, careful to keep any part of her coat from touching the sawdust-covered floor, scarred tables, or a patron. Still they watched her.

    Let them look. She had more important things to concern her.

    An older man about her stepfather’s age and with hair as white rose from the table as they approached. He was a little taller than Winston, but narrower, and his face was carved in lines and hollows, as if life had worn him thin.

    Mr. Winston? he asked, brown eyes darting from her stepfather to her and back again.

    Yes, Winston acknowledged. You must be Waldo Vance.

    Around them, voices rose, glasses clinked. One of the gang had recognized them. They were accepted.

    For now.

    Vance nodded to her stepfather. That’s right. This is Nathan Hardee. I believe you knew his father.

    Hardee showed not the least welcome as he swiveled in his chair just enough to meet her stepfather’s gaze. The son of a prominent family, Winston had said. She’d met dozens over the years. He didn’t resemble any of them.

    Society men strived for the same golden tan on their skin, but his was likely more the result of his work guiding people into the wilderness than the time he’d spent at lawn tennis. Society men often wore beards and mustaches, some quite prominent, but his was just thick enough to hide behind. Society men had the same assessing look, but few had so dark a green to their eyes, like the cool shadows of a forest. Society men dressed in plaid coats during the day or deepest black at night, not brown wool and poorly spun cotton. When she approached, society men bowed and flattered. He had to notice her standing at Winston’s side, yet he didn’t rise as propriety demanded.

    Afraid you’ve wasted your time, he said in a deep voice that reverberated inside her. I’m not looking to act as a guide.

    He hadn’t even given her a chance to explain or make an offer. Frustration pushed the words out of her mouth.

    A shame. We pay handsomely, and there’s not many who can say that right now.

    His gaze drifted over her. I hear you can’t pay either.

    Winston’s ivory cheeks flushed crimson. Now, see here, he blustered. You have no call to impugn my reputation. I am the director of the Puget Sound Bank of Commerce. We may have been overly generous in these trying times, but we are as secure as the mountain itself.

    A mountain I won’t help you climb, Hardee said, turning to face the wall again as if that would be enough to dismiss them.

    There had to be something she could say to persuade him. Money didn’t seem to matter—oddly enough. Neither did prestige. And forget the need to posture and prove himself a gentleman. Her cause probably wouldn’t sway him either. Too few men in the city could be bothered to support women’s suffrage. How could she get through to a man who apparently needed nothing?

    This is not what we were promised, her stepfather fumed. I wrote you specifically, Mr. Vance. I understood you had the authority to arrange matters.

    Vance shrugged. You can lead a horse to water . . .

    But apparently you can’t make him drink, Cora concluded. Unless it’s the questionable drink of this fine establishment. She turned to her stepfather. We might as well go. We have no need to link ourselves with wastrels.

    Hardee rose. Goodness, how he rose. He dwarfed her stepfather and Vance. He likely dwarfed every man in the room. The top of her head reached only to the broad bone of his chest.

    Just because I won’t do your bidding, he said, gazing down at her, doesn’t make me a wastrel.

    But it does make you a fool, Cora said, grasping any opening he would give her. Lumber barons are digging ditches to keep a roof over their heads; shipping heiresses are cleaning toilets to make ends meet. We’re offering good money, just to guide us up Mount Rainier.

    Why, he asked, eyes narrowing, would a woman like you want to climb Mount Rainier? I won’t risk my life on a whim.

    She raised her chin and met his assessing stare with one of her own. Fear and anger and frustration fought for supremacy. A whim, he called it. Striking a blow for suffrage, returning the right to vote to the women of Washington State—a whim. Refusing the advances of a tyrant—a whim. Securing her future, making herself beholden to no man—a whim.

    I don’t need to justify my reasons to anyone, she told him. I’m offering generous pay for your skills. We need a guide to see me safely to the summit and back to Longmire’s Medical Springs. Are you that man?

    He didn’t answer, gaze on hers as if he could see inside her for the truth. She’d been in society too long not to know how to hide her secrets. If sweet looks didn’t suffice, bravado generally did.

    He is, the older man insisted, head bobbing. No one knows the mountain better than Nathan Hardee. He’s guided business leaders and government agents up that mountain. You couldn’t be in better hands.

    As if he disagreed, Hardee flexed the fingers of his large hands, hands business leaders and government agents trusted. Did that mean she could trust them? Did that mean she could trust him?

    He didn’t trust her.

    Not interested, he said, and he returned to his seat once more.

    divider

    He couldn’t state it more baldly. He wasn’t taking a spoiled, high-society sweetheart into the wild. He still couldn’t believe Waldo had suggested it.

    Just hear them out, his mentor had urged as they’d ridden into Tacoma with the pack mules for supplies. This is a good opportunity. Enough to allow us to buy lumber and nails to add another room before winter.

    The amount of money Stephen Winston had offered was indeed a pretty price, if it was real. The Panic had robbed families of their homes, men and women of their dignity. The financial turmoil could well force him and Waldo back into the society Nathan abhorred if he didn’t accept work.

    But not this work. It smelled of nonsense. How did he know she wouldn’t cry complaint the moment things became difficult—and they would become difficult—then refuse to pay him? He’d had one or two society members attempt to treat him that way. They thought he was still one of them. What did he need with money?

    He hadn’t been one of them for years, and God willing, he would never be one of them again.

    Besides, how did he know the banker and his daughter even had money to pay? The fellow wasn’t the only one in Tacoma with the threat of ruin hanging over his head.

    Men reacted badly to ruin. Look at his father. Look at himself.

    The beauty beside him tugged at her father’s sleeve. Come, Winston. We are wasting our time. Surely we can do better.

    Waldo glanced at him and jerked his head toward the pair. That was Nathan’s cue to placate, apologize. Most men probably begged her pardon when they refused her. And they likely refused her rarely. That pale hair piled up on the top of her head with curls teasing her fair cheeks. Those big blue eyes. The figure outlined in the wasp-waist coat. She probably crooked her finger and they all came running.

    Not him. He’d left behind society’s rules for the glory of God’s creation. Playing proper hadn’t changed the fact that his father was gone, along with the bulk of the fortune he’d amassed selling land in the burgeoning city. Nathan knew what it meant to fall from grace.

    Go out to the carriage, dearest, the banker told her. I have a few words I’d like to say to Mr. Hardee, and I’d prefer not to say them in front of a lady.

    Her brows went up, as if she were surprised by his forcefulness, but she nodded. The banker watched her traipse out of the saloon.

    So did every other man in the room.

    Save your breath, Nathan told the fellow. Nothing you say will change my mind.

    All the bluster went out of him, and he plopped down in the chair Waldo had vacated. Waldo pulled up another to join them.

    Forgive the subterfuge, Mr. Hardee, Winston said, face sagging as if he had wearied himself with all the posturing. What I said to Coraline is only true. While I have no intention of remonstrating, I simply didn’t want her to hear me beg.

    Again Waldo glanced Nathan’s way. Nathan ignored him to focus on the banker. Why would a man like you need to beg? Is there something more at stake in this climb?

    Entirely too much, he admitted with a sigh. Coraline is a member of the Tacoma Women’s Suffrage Association. The ladies have asked her to climb the mountain to raise awareness and support of their cause.

    Nathan snorted. There are far safer ways to gather support and other women more experienced at climbing.

    True, Winston allowed. I gather the idea was that if Coraline could manage it, then any woman could manage it.

    And if any woman can climb the mountain, then why not give them the vote? Waldo concluded. Makes sense to me.

    I’m all for every person having the vote, Nathan told them both. I’m still not convinced Miss Winston must climb the mountain.

    Miss Baxter, the banker corrected him. I am Coraline’s second stepfather.

    So her mother was on her third husband? That was a wretched thing to have in common. Nathan’s mother had been through two other men since his father had died as well.

    Miss Baxter, then, Nathan said. Climbing Mount Rainier is a grueling feat. I won’t subject an untried climber to it.

    But you must. He leaned closer, blue eyes imploring. I may not have been there at Coraline’s birth, but I am her father in every sense of the word, and I want her to be happy. My wife believes the only way for a woman to be happy is to marry well. If Coraline doesn’t reach the summit, she has promised her mother she will return and marry the man of her mother’s choosing. He lay his hand on Nathan’s arm. Please, my boy, help me save my daughter from an unhappy future.

    He could see the fellow’s point. The men Nathan’s mother had married hadn’t made her particularly happy, from what he’d heard. Other women in society seemed more resigned than pleased with their marriages. Good for Miss Baxter for trying to break the mold.

    But to risk her life?

    He pulled back his arm. I’ll think on it.

    The banker beamed. That’s all I can ask. I will hope for good news soon. He rose, nodded to Waldo, and headed for the door.

    Nathan raised his empty glass to order another sarsaparilla.

    Stuff and nonsense, Waldo spat out.

    I agree, Nathan said.

    Waldo scowled at him. I was talking about you.

    I warned you not to get your hopes up, Nathan reminded him. It’s hard enough climbing the mountain with an experienced group of hikers. She wouldn’t last past Longmire’s.

    Seems to me she has more grit than that, Waldo grumbled as the barkeep brought them two more of the earthy drinks. He nodded to the man. Sorry for the bother, Shem. You got any stew on?

    Soup only, Shem Holland answered, setting a heavy glass down with a grimace nearly swallowed by his thick brown beard. Vegetable.

    We’ll take two bowls, Nathan said.

    Shem hitched up trousers that bagged at his waist. You mind if I see the money first? Whole lot of folks mistake me for the poor farm these days.

    Nathan pulled out a dollar and tossed it on the table. The metal gleamed on the dark wood. Shem’s eyes gleamed nearly as brightly.

    Coming right up, he said, scooping the coin into the palm of his hand.

    Be careful showing silver like that, Waldo fussed as the proprietor hurried away. Some men would do most anything for money these days. He glanced left and right before muttering, Except climb Mount Rainier.

    It’s a fool’s errand, Nathan insisted, leaning back in his chair.

    Says you. You took her in dislike afore she ever opened her mouth. I saw it.

    Nathan shrugged. I’ve met enough like her.

    Waldo shook his head. No, you ain’t. I’ll have you know that little girl graduated from the Puget Sound University, one of the first women to do it.

    That was impressive. He knew how rigorous college studies could be. As the son of a prominent businessman, he’d graduated from the State University in Seattle. But that had been eight long years ago. Life had changed. He’d changed.

    She rides too, Waldo continued, as if warming to his theme. Real good, I hear. And she’s a gem at lawn tennis.

    Nathan eyed him. Do you even know what lawn tennis is?

    Waldo pouted. No, but it sounded hard.

    Miss Baxter is obviously a paragon, Nathan said. But that doesn’t mean I have to take her up the mountain.

    Shem hustled back with a tray, setting it down in front of them with a flourish. The battered bottom of the tin bowl was evident through the clear liquid, and Nathan could count the pieces of carrot and celery clinging desperately to the sides. The soup was accompanied by two thin slices of bread.

    How about some butter? Waldo asked as Shem straightened.

    ’Fraid not, he said. Had to sell the cow.

    Maybe you should have cooked the cow, Waldo said, poking his spoon at the vegetables.

    I’m just doing what I can to stay open, Shem said.

    Waldo pointed his spoon at the barkeep. You saw Miss Baxter. You think she can climb a mountain?

    Shem grinned. She’s got pluck. Rumor has it even Cash Kincaid is sniffing at her heels, but she’ll have none of it.

    Good for her, Waldo cheered.

    She had sense and courage, then. Kincaid was ruthless, his tactics just short of illegal. If he was the man her mother intended for Miss Baxter, Nathan couldn’t think of a better fellow to receive a setdown. He only wished he could be the one to give it to him.

    He pushed back his chair. Finish my soup, Waldo. I have something I need to do.

    Waldo frowned. Now? I thought we weren’t starting home until tomorrow. We have to pick up the supplies.

    We may have to delay a day or two, Nathan told him. It all depends on how long it takes Miss Baxter to feel ready to climb a mountain.

    2

    Though she was curious about what her kindhearted stepfather had said to Mr. Hardee, Cora decided not to press Winston as he joined her in the carriage.

    He still refused, I take it, she said instead.

    For the moment, Winston said, settling in his seat across from her.

    Alternatives? she asked as the carriage started for home. Out on the gray waters of Commencement Bay, a white-sided steamship blew a blast as it headed for South America or Asia.

    Winston shifted on the brown, padded leather bench, mouth tight below his mustache. A few—a very few, mind you—other guides were recommended to me, but I am uncertain of their characters, particularly when it comes to escorting the fairer sex under such circumstances.

    The fairer sex. It wouldn’t be the first time someone had tried to minimize her capabilities because she was female. This idea that women were somehow less was what prevented them from winning the vote as well.

    I don’t need a guide to coddle me, she informed him as the carriage turned onto Tenth Street, away from the warehouses and into the multistoried buildings that made up the heart of the city. Just one who knows his way around the mountain.

    Winston glanced out the window to where the snowcapped peak dominated the skyline to the southeast. So close, as if she could walk to the base in no more than an hour when in truth it was sixty-some miles away by wagon road and trail.

    Are you certain this is prudent, dearest? he murmured, brow puckering. Nathan seems certain you could be harmed. Perhaps some other lady more experienced could climb.

    She’d made the same argument when her friend Mimi Carruthers and the other members of the Tacoma Women’s Suffrage Association had asked her to consider the matter. It was a tremendous honor. She gave Winston the answer they’d given her.

    Miss Fuller has already climbed it once. Doing so again would hardly make as much impact as if a lady of some social standing did it for the first time.

    Judge Wickersham’s wife, then, Winston said. No one could assail her standing in society or her success at climbing.

    Mrs. Wickersham is not a great supporter of our efforts, Cora reminded him. Like those in the Seattle Women’s Suffrage Association, she feels we are best served by focusing on domesticity rather than demonstration.

    He looked at her hopefully. Like her mother, Winston couldn’t accustom himself to the fact that she wasn’t afraid to demonstrate.

    It must be me, Cora told him. And you heard Mother. It’s climb or marry. I prefer to climb.

    Winston sighed. I simply cannot like the risk.

    Cora smiled at him. Funny. You’re usually the one to encourage me to take risks with the bank’s money.

    He returned her smile. And I have acknowledged that you have a better eye for sizing up proposals than I ever had. But this is something else entirely. His gloved hands folded over each other on the head of his walking stick. It was one thing for you to attend college and enter the workforce. The right people will appreciate and commend you for it. This venture could well cost you your life.

    A chill went through her, even though the day was warming. Surely not. Many people have attempted the summit in recent years. Mr. Van Trump has gone five times.

    And more have turned back from weather, exhaustion, or the inability to find a safe route, Winston insisted. I want better for you.

    So do I, Cora promised him as the carriage turned onto C Street and paralleled the trolley tracks. But we both know Mother has set her sights on Mr. Kincaid. Find me a guide.

    He nodded. I’ll see what I can do, but I will hope young Nathan changes his mind. At least he was one of us.

    He began to sound like her mother. Cora arched her brows. I saw very little evidence that Mr. Hardee ever spent time in good society.

    His conversation certainly didn’t betray the fact, Winston allowed, and his manners were not what I had expected, but make no mistake. The name Hardee commanded a great deal of respect in the area when you were a girl. His late father amassed a fortune selling real estate when the Northern Pacific first arrived.

    Cora made a face. And his son prefers to live like a fur trapper in the wilderness?

    It was a sudden change in circumstance. Winston tugged at his red-speckled tie as if the blue silk had tightened around his neck. The poor fellow was found dead at his desk. Gunshot wound to the temple.

    Cora shuddered. How awful. What of his mother?

    She soon remarried. You recall Mrs. Quinton?

    She’s Mr. Hardee’s mother? The interconnections in the small community still surprised her on occasion. Mrs. Quinton was a social hostess as well regarded as Cora’s mother. Hardee had fallen indeed if he was no longer associated with her. Was it a willful choice or something in his character that made him unwelcome in society? Perhaps it was a good thing they must seek another guide.

    The carriage rumbled to a stop under the porte cochère at the side of the house, and Winston climbed out to assist her in alighting. She couldn’t help glancing up at the fine home her stepfather had built for her mother. Tall fluted columns held up the overhanging roof of the carriageway, while pedimented windows looked out on the street and gardens behind. The white siding, crenelated white trim, and fan window over the door and into the servants’ quarters at the top of the house added an elegance few could achieve. It was her mother’s pride and joy.

    The wood-paneled side entryway opened to grand stairs down to the ballroom below and a corridor to the rest of the house. Lily, the ladies’ maid she shared with her mother, came to take her coat even as Winston went ahead of her toward his study at the back of the house.

    Where is my mother at the moment? Cora asked the little dark-haired maid as they continued to the main entry hall, paneled in white with tall ceilings.

    In the drawing room, miss, Lily answered, draping the fabric over her lean arm. Answering invitations that arrived this morning.

    Good.

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