Kirkus Reviews
“…engaging story that inserts aspects of real-life West Coast history into these parallel narratives. …delivers a stirring plot.”
--Kirkus Reviews
Readers' Favorite Five Star Review
"It was almost impossible to set this book down. ...truly a treat for the mind."
--Readers' Favorite Five Star Review
Publishers Weekly BookLife Review
"In this ambitious work, Smathers imparts the wisdom of studying the past in order to move more fully and sincerely into the future....This intriguing mix of history with a contemporary story of discovery and acceptance will powerfully move readers looking for narratives of the American melting pot."
--Publishers Weekly BookLife Review
Wendy Voorsanger, Award-winning author, Prospect of a Woman
“Wonderful, sweeping saga! Illuminates the authentic women in early California.”
—Wendy Voorsanger, Award-winning author, Prospect of a Woman
Historical Novel Society’s Magazine Review
"...offers a nuanced and appreciative illustration of a complicated past, threaded through with hope for unity and understanding. A rewarding and enriching read."
--Historical Novel Society’s Magazine Review
Kathy Nielsen, Professional Genealogist, California History Librarian
“…a fascinating history lesson as well as an inspiring story. Smathers goes back nearly nine generations to tell the saga of a family that began with the Ohlone tribe, merged with Spanish conquerors, Mexican settlers, and finally with an Irish immigrant. She captures the pain and struggle of each of these groups and the role they played in California history.”
--Kathy Nielsen, Professional Genealogist, California History Librarian
Diana Y. Paul, Award-winning author, Things Unsaid
"In This Land of Plenty captures the complex dynamics of family, exploration and exploitation, and the necessary accommodation to circumstances without submission. Extraordinary accomplishment by the author."
--Diana Y. Paul, Award-winning author, Things Unsaid