This novel was written in 1985; a day when homosexuality was condemned. This book reflects that; if you are offended, do not read it. However, it is a minor part of the story and it doesn't come up until the second half of the novel.

Amanda Boone is traveling on a train to California. She has completed her work to become a nun but is waiting until getting to the mission (where she is to teach) before making a final decision. Incredibly, the Church has given her a valuable crucifix to take to the mission. She has no one to accompany her and she is timid. She is an orphan who lived her whole life in a New York City orphanage. This is her first trip anywhere and she's nervous.

Seasoned and a dangerous man, Moss Tucker notes the shy woman on the train and befriends her. When the train is robbed, the men decide to kidnap Amanda and sell her in Mexico. They also take the crucifix. Moss is seriously wounded trying to stop the kidnapping. This is just the beginning of a tremendously entertaining story. This novel has an incredible number of twists and turns. It is a stand-alone story; it will be hard to forget this novel and its characters soon. Overall score = 4.5 stars.

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