Pampered, fun-loving Laurie Sinclair hates everything about the rough, ugly mining town of Lucky Creek, California. She only left Philadelphia because her wealthy father opened the Monarch Gold Mine-and because Brandon, the man she'd hoped to marry, sent her away. But when Brandon changes his mind, she's ready to pack her bags-until her father is suddenly killed in a mine explosion, and her brother is badly injured . . .

As troubles mount for the Sinclairs, including a ruinous unexpected debt, they save themselves by selling half their mine ownership to Darcy McKenna, a friend of Laurie's late father. Brusque and brooding, Darcy is the opposite of exuberant Laurie. Yet as Laurie stays on to help him in the office, Darcy soon finds himself smiling and happier, while Laurie finds her interests are changing. She might even be falling for Darcy. But her heart won't truly be tested until Brandon shows up-and throws her life into chaos . . .

Praise for Shirley Kennedy and her novels

"The historical details are vivid and realistic and should appeal to fans of the historical romance genre. The characters are interesting, the story is engaging, and the romance is slow-building and sweet. River Queen Rose is a great start in what looks to be a promising historical series by Kennedy." -RT Book Reviews, 4 Stars

"Shirley Kennedy spins a tale sure to pull at the heartstrings of her readers." -RT Book Reviews on Three Wishes for Miss Winthrop, 4 stars