Leah and Clara are two colored women who have traveled from New York to Sacramento for better opportunities. Things are less than ideal for them even though they are getting by with their restaurant and laundry business. But because of their race and gender, they must still deal with racism and bigotry. Clara is in love with Pastor Caldwell, who, in turn, seems more interested in Leah. Leah isn’t interested in marriage and enjoys being independent. One day a Chinaman comes into her establishment and wants his shirt laundered. Even with the lack of communication between them, Clara is more than happy to clean his shirt and even gives him some spare clothes. She is uncomfortable by the way this strange man stares at her, but she ignores it. Quiang finds Clara to be very pretty and can’t wait to see her again.

 

When Quiang goes back for his shirt, Clara makes him a meal and although they can barely understand one another, they both feel something special between them. Both know they can’t act on it because of their stations in life, and this is proved even more when two rough looking white men destroy Clara’s business. Quiang wants revenge against these men who stole everything from Clara, and he begins working for a very dangerous and powerful man. Quiang thinks this is his way of escaping his less than appealing life. Once he has enough money, he wants to marry Clara and make a family with her. Clara has fallen for Quiang and would love nothing more to be with him, but first they must overcome so much in order to have a future together.

 

Sharon Cullar’s GOLD MOUNTAIN is a well written and deep historical romance where many issues are raised, especially in regards to race. Ms. Cullars doesn’t back away from the social issues that were so very strong during the mid nineteenth century. She gives a very realistic view of what both Clara and Quiang had to give up, as well as trying to make their way through life in a very cruel world.

 

Even with the cultural and language barriers between Clara and Quiang, their attraction for one another is a beautiful thing. The respect and love they have is strong, and these two will do whatever they can to be together. Their very emotional love scenes simmer and are what the reader is expecting. There is also a great deal of tension with an exciting and suspense-filled ending.

 

I applaud Ms. Cullars for writing a wonderful and rich cultural romance about crossing barriers and embracing someone who is different.

By Romance Junkies Reviewer: Katie Click here to Buy this Book Now!   Romance Junkies Content Editor: Dottie Romance Junkies Publishing Editor: Chrissy   Top of Page