“Simply terrific—tense and exciting, while gently and honestly addressing the brutal hardships of the westward migration. …[Leah] takes center stage as a smart, resourceful, determined, and realistic heroine who embodies the age-old philosophy that it isn’t what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters.” - Publishers Weekly (starred review)
“Carson’s world-building skills are extraordinary…The author paints an early America that is teeming with people from an array of backgrounds and beliefs-the diversity of the characters is as integral to the plot of the book as it was to shaping the United States.” - Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA)
“Lee…is a smart, feisty, and likable protagonist who encounters all the hardships one would expect on the arduous journey West…the fast-paced plot, a hint of mild romance, and the added element of fantasy make this stand out.” - School Library Journal
“Carson is known for her world-building and strong female characters and she handles everything with carefully constructed, well-researched aplomb. It’s a book that illuminates an important segment of American history…sustaining YA interest through adventure, fantasy, and romance.” - Booklist (starred review)
“With an organically diverse cast, three-dimensional characters, a vividly evoked setting, and the lightest touch of romance, Carson’s novel captures the trepidation and exhilaration of journeying into the unknown.” - The Horn Book
“An empowering and powerful read perfect for one who enjoys history and adventure. …Carson takes us on a wild wagon journey peppered with drama and mystery.” - Romantic Times BOOKclub
“Pure storytelling gold. …The author capably crosses genres and breaks stereotypes, and the result is an absorbing adventure that only hints at the thrills that will surely come in the next two books.” - The Daily Summit
“Lee is an ambitious, generous, kind and scrappy character…Fans of Carson’s work will enjoy this road-trip-turned-Western, and newcomers will love the flair she brings to her characters and settings.” - Deseret News
“Carson does nice work adding nuance to her side characters, showing minor evolutions that challenge the racism, sexism, and classism deeply rooted in most of the people Leah encounters…Fantasy readers will likely find Leah and her gold-sensing core to be intriguingly different than the usual heroine.” - Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books