Dr. Joshua Gibbs is a doctor who learned his trade during the atrocities of the Civil War. Although he survived the war, Joshua left the battlefront with scars. Unable to relate to his family in Philadelphia, he sets up a medical practice in the small town of Cowbird Creek, Nebraska. Dr. Gibbs hopes to find peace and solitude in the monotony of small town life. He finds friendship, community, purpose, and as the book’s cover promises, love.
Did you ever visit Yellowstone National Park looking forward to seeing the iconic Old Faithful erupt, but instead found that you were equally amazed at the abundant wildlife and intriguing bubbling mud pots? That aptly describes this compelling novel. Yes there is romance and no shortage of good-intentioned neighbors. But the real appeal lies in Wyle’s attention to detail. Readers will be immersed in the late 1800’s and charmed by the dialogue and habits of Cowbird Creek’s residents. Simple tasks like laundry and cooking take on new meaning when viewed through the character’s eyes. Social morays of the time are dealt with in a diplomatic, yet refreshingly honest way.
What Heals The Heart is a time-machine in a compact tome. Prepare to whisked away to a time when men tipped their hats to women and the local barber was an adequate stand-in for a physician. If you love period pieces, Karen A. Wyle’s book will satisfy even the most discerning reader. This elegant novel is an exquisite example of romance at its finest!
