Has She Made a Huge Mistake?

Kate Collins never imagined her journey to the Kansas Territory in 1855 would be filled with such obstacles and challenges. As she arrives to teach at a New England Emigrant Aid Company settlement, she is met with constant problems – from nature’s wrath to the pain of loss. But it’s not just external forces that challenge Kate who left a suitor and damaged relationships in Boston. She must confront the question: if God wants her to teach in Kansas, then why does he allow her to face such obstacles?

Follow Kate’s journey as she navigates the harsh realities of life in the territory. As tensions rise and the struggle for a free state intensifies, Kate must confront her own feelings and desires to find her true path.

This gripping tale of faith, perseverance, and love is set against the backdrop of the pre-Civil War period known as “Bleeding Kansas” and is a must-read for historical fiction fans.

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Early Reviews

I asked a few newsletter readers to review an early edition of the book. Here’s what they said:

Just finished the book. A fun historical fiction book! And the ending!! Had to keep turning pages until I got there. — Carole Vorst

I finished reading Kate’s Crucible! As I read, I was transported through time, experiencing the untamed Kansas territory alongside Kate and the other settlers. I was intrigued by Kate’s character development and faith journey throughout the novel. Her determination to discern and fulfill God’s purpose for her life was inspiring. At the same time, the way Kate wrestled with questions, doubts, and insecurities made her authentically human and relatable. I was so invested in her story, that I wasn’t prepared for the ending! I would love to see how the story unfolds after Kate’s “big decision”, and how the paths of other characters diverge as a result. — Amie Jones

I really enjoyed reading Kate’s Crucible. Loved that as I read the wonderful descriptions I could a picture in my mind the people, their interactions and their surroundings. I love a book of history that is told from a personal perspective that helps us understand the challenges of that time. When I came to the last page I felt that it would be nice to have another book that tells how the characters continued on. — Chaille Conklin

I just finished the book. It was so spellbinding that I read the entire last half this morning! (I’m a rather slow reader so that’s saying something.) I, simply, couldn’t put it down. Thank you, Elmer, for allowing me to be one of the first to read Kate’s Crucible. — Cindy Gochenour

“Kate’s Crucible,” releasing in about three weeks! This faith-filled historical fiction novel is an enjoyable read, while centering on something we often struggle with: What is God’s will for our lives? — Kim Mallette

It was the most introspective book I’ve read… I was not just in the action, but in the thought life of the characters. — Jeremiah Holcomb

 It had a comforting feeling to me – I think because of the historical elements, the simpler times. I loved it. I was completely engaged in the story. — Jill Elizabeth

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