This was my first time reading a Sam Ledel book. It was a relatively easy read as a historical romance, it was nice, Elizabeth and Julia were likeable enough and there was a good group of secondary characters that added to the overall storyline. Overall it was fine but just lacked a bit of spark for me, however a book that would be liked by many.

I am a fan of Sam Ledel, having read a number of her books. I also enjoy reading westerns and this was enjoyable. Julia Holte relocates with her sister Rose and husband Henry from Texas to Colorado. Julia is full of guilt and uses wagering and competition as a stress release. After countless run-ins with Sheriff Volz, getting a job and meeting Eleanor Perry and her son Peter, she calms down and finds purpose. The supporting characters are wonderful additions to the story, especially for their unconditional love. Eleanor's friend Sue and Julia's friend Ralph were the kind of friends anyone would like to have. And yes, the story needed the sheriff. I embraced the slow friendship-to-romance between Eleanor and Julia. The information about mining was interesting and detailed enough the danger was an understanding. The springs, town and environment was well described. There was much to like about this story,

Discovering Gold is a charming historical romance set in Idaho Springs, Colorado—a lively mining town filled with hardworking laborers, chatty townsfolk, and a corrupt sheriff. Vivid descriptions bring the setting to life, from the bustling main street and towering mine to the sparkling streams and majestic mountains. The dialogue feels authentic, and the characters are distinct and well-developed.

I appreciated the careful attention given to building the relationship between Julia and Eleanor. The stolen glances, lingering touches, and extended eye contact created a simmering chemistry that felt both believable and compelling. Their individual backstories added meaningful tension, especially as Julia continued to clash with the town sheriff, who clearly has a personal vendetta against her.

Eleanor’s son, Peter, along with Julia’s sister and brother-in-law, are strong supporting characters whose relationships evolve significantly throughout the story. Their development adds real emotional depth and richness to the narrative.

Discovering Gold is a richly layered historical romance that balances slow-burning chemistry with strong character development and a vivid sense of place. The growing bond between Julia and Eleanor is both tender and electric, grounded in meaningful backstories and emotional nuance. The well-drawn setting of Idaho Springs—with its rugged charm, small-town gossip, and looming threat of a corrupt sheriff—adds tension and authenticity. With a cast of well-rounded supporting characters and relationships that evolve with heart and complexity, this story offers much more than a simple romance—it’s a heartfelt journey through love, resilience, and community.

The story is set in 1927 with the location Idaho Springs, a small mining town where gold was first discovered in Colorado. Julia Holte came to town with her sister Rose and her husband. Her family accepts that she’s always been a little wild and Tom-boyish. Her drinking and making strange bets has her on the bad side of the crusty town sheriff. She gets a job working in the office of the town mine. There she meets Eleanor and her son Peter. Elenor came to the town as a mail order bride. She married and settled into the hard life only to have her husband leave after she had her Peter. She provides for her and her son by washing the mining uniforms by hand.

I’ve been to Idaho Springs and it still has a mine tour of the original gold mine. It is very typical of many mining towns in the picturesque Rockies. This story is rather wholesome but feels realistic. Elenor and Julia are endearing as they go slowly from friendship to attraction. They have to be careful and yet are accepted by those that love them. The side characters enhance the story. I love sisters that love unconditionally and support each other.

I enjoyed the story. The pace is slow but it allows the characters to grow on you. I wanted them to find a way to be together. (3.5 Stars)

Discovering Gold by Sam Ledel is a tender, emotionally resonant romance set against the rugged beauty of a Colorado mining town. Eleanor Perry, a guarded single mother shaped by abandonment, and Julia Holte, a bold cowgirl fleeing the consequences of her own recklessness, are two women from vastly different worlds who find unexpected connection in each other. Ledel crafts their slow-building relationship with care and depth, allowing the characters’ pasts to shape but not define their futures. The novel is grounded in quiet moments—shared meals, tentative conversations, and the unspoken ache of loneliness—that gradually build into something real and lasting.

Discovering Gold was my first book by the author Sam Ledel, and overall I liked it. I don’t think I realized going in that it was a historical setting, but one of the strengths of this book was the author’s ability to set the scene and by the end of the book I felt like I could hear the noise coming from the mine as loudly as the characters could.

The story starts strong with a dark and somewhat haunting prologue. A theme that the author tries to keep going throughout the book to add depth to Eleanor’s character that (mostly) succeeds. I also enjoyed the supporting characters and the storyline with the corrupt sheriff.

The reason I’m only giving this three stars is because for a romance I felt very little chemistry between the two mains, especially in the beginning. It did eventually progress to a relationship but it just seemed like a lot of unnecessary back and forth for something we knew was gonna happen anyway. Because… it’s a romance.

Overall I’d say this is a decent historical romance read that I’m sure a lot of people would enjoy, but there are better ones out there to read first.

Ms Ledel decided to take us to the year 1927 where we got to meet Eleanor Perry along with her young son Peter. Eleanor didn’t have a family she was close to so she answered an ad advertising marriage. Apparently there were men in need of a wife and when she arrived she met Louis Perry, got herself married. Her life still wasn’t easy but she made do. When he left she had to make her way keeping a roof over their heads and food on the table. Doing laundry for the ‘Monarch Mines’ was hard work. And seeing as she didn’t have a washing machine she did all the laundry by hand.
Julia Holte came to Colorado to be with her sister Rose and her husband Henry. She felt she had to stay with Rose to make up for a mistake that cost Rose dearly. Now Rose didn’t blame Julia for her problems, but Julia still blamed herself. Never interested in being ‘lady like’ she not only drank too much but was known for her fist, ready to fight anyone in her way.
Ms Ledel is great when it comes to writing stories worth reading. All in all a pretty good story. Very enjoyable read.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bold Stroke Books

A very sweet and engaging slowburn historical fiction with strong main charactersa that had depth and were emotionallt grounded. I thoroughly emjoyed the story and look forward for more books from this author. I recommend.

Thank You Bold Strokes Books and NetGalley for this ARC copy.

Discovering Gold by Sam Ledel is set in 1920s Colorado. It focuses on the lives of two women Eleanor Perry and Julia Holte.
Eleanor is a single mother who works as a laundress for the local gold mill while taking care of her eight year old son Peter. Julia is a transplant from Texas who moved to Colorado with her sister and brother in law for a fresh start.

I typically get nervous about historical stories because they don’t always end well for queer characters, but thankfully this book gave me the happily ever after I was hoping for. It had enough action to keep me interested but at almost every turn it went with the more cozy option which kept me from the usual anxiety I get with historical books.

I really enjoyed this story. The main characters each came with their own complex backstories. I did think sometimes it took too long for some of the details about their pasts to come out but found that when they did it added to the story and characters.

If you enjoy historical books, more cozy than not, and found community then this book is a great choice.

Thank you Sam Ledel, Bold Strokes Books, and NetGalley for the ARC.

This was a really sweet and engaging historical slow burn romance with strong main characters, that had depth and were emotionally grounded. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book getting to know these characters. The story had me immersed from beginning to the end, and I really look forward to what this author writes next. I would definitely recommend this book to my friends and family.

Discovering Gold by Sam Ledel is a tender, slow-burn romance that celebrates the unexpected beauty of connection when you least expect it. Featuring Eleanor and Julia—two women who weren’t searching for love but find it anyway—the novel captures the magic of chance encounters and the slow unfolding of genuine affection.

Ledel excels at creating emotionally grounded characters with depth and relatability. Eleanor and Julia are both strong, authentic women whose chemistry is undeniable from the start, and their evolving relationship is written with care, vulnerability, and warmth. The dialogue is natural, the pacing thoughtful, and the emotional journey feels earned rather than rushed.

What makes Discovering Gold shine is its sincerity. It’s a sweet and engaging story that quietly pulls readers in with heartfelt moments and strong character dynamics. Whether you’re a longtime fan of sapphic romance or new to the genre, this book offers a comforting, feel-good escape that lingers in the best way.

4.5 stars

A slow burn historical romance set in 1930's Colorado about a single mother (Eleanor) and a newcomer to town (Julia). While this one does have a bit of an antagonist in the sheriff, most people in town are warm and accepting (or at least willing to change).

I genuinely enjoyed most of this book. The pacing was a little slow for my taste, but it turned out to overall be cozier than I anticipated. I like the cast of characters and the way life in a milling town was portrayed. I love Julia's sister and brother-in-law and how they love Julia no matter if she's stirring up trouble or being scared of love.

(SPOILER) There are a couple instances of homophobia, but it does get challenged and the characters either change their tune or get their comeuppance.

Thank you to NetGalley and publisher for the opportunity to read and review.

I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.

Eleanor is raising her son Peter who is handful after her husband Louis abandoned her. She managed to get odd jobs around town while also working laundry for single men working the mines as support. Julia follow her sister and her family to town but she butts head with the Sheriff who seems to have it out for her as her sister lands her a job to get her stay out of trouble but to also get her to figure out what she wants out of life. Eleanor and Julia meet and their is a spark as they grow closer they have to hide their relationship but will they have a future and will the people in their life accept them.

Eleanor and her young son live in a mining town. Her husband abandon them when the boy was very young but she has managed to take odd jobs to support them including laundry for single men working the mines. But something is missing.
Julia has come to live with her sister after getting into trouble but trouble keeps following her as the sheriff wants her gone.
There are sparks between Eleanor and Julia but how will other reacts to two women wanting to be together. It’s going to be a sweet road to love.


Thank you #netgalley #boldstrokesbooks for this ARC

“Discovering Gold” by Sam Ledel is a historical romance set in the 1920’s gold mining town of Idaho Springs, Colorado. The story features single mother, Mrs, Eleanor Perry, and wild Texas cowgirl, Julia. Eleanor has an eight-year old son, Peter, who is adorable but does challenge authority because he wants to work at the gold mining mill like his father, Louis. Louis was sick, likely attributable to the mill, and ended up leaving his family.

This was an enjoyable slow burn romance with some intense chemistry between Eleanor and Julia. I liked the way that Eleanor was able to “tame” Julia’s wild side through love, conversation, and family life with her and Peter. In return, Julia made Eleanor’s life worth living again following the disappearance of her husband. The supporting characters such as Sue (“you didn’t hear that from me”), Rose, Harry, and Ralph also added depth and a family dynamic to the story. The sheriff, Volz, added a needed antagonist to the mix, who ended up getting what he deserved in the end. Overall, this was a highly enjoyable read where I also learned a little about gold mining, 4.5 stars

I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Set in 1927 in a small and close-knit Colorado mining town, Discovering Gold is a story of pure gold (pun intended). Following single mom Eleanor and swoon-worthy cowgirl Julia, this is a charming book not only about romantic love between the protagonists, but so much unconditional love amongst many of the supporting character.

Ledel beautifully combined my love for historical romance and the single mom trope (a woman treating her romantic interest’s child with so much care just does a thing or two to me - sigh). The chemistry between Eleanor and Julia was simply beautiful, their small interactions melting my insides with each chapter, especially when each of the women experienced obstacles that almost pushed the other away. The care and love these women have for one another was precious in every way possible, and is something I will remember for a long time. My heart is so full!

3.5 Stars


Discovering Gold by Sam Ledel is set in the 20’s in a small town in Colorado. The author crafted the setting with attention to detail. The sense of community was captured perfectly and gave the read a warm vibe of belongingness.

I also appreciate how the hardships of the early frontier living was highlighted like the negative side of mining, the dangers of falling ill and the great possibility of death and the downside of living in a small community where everyone knows everyone’s business.

I would categorise the main characters’ romantic development as slow burn and quite sweet. However, the self-doubt and indecision going back and forth was quite tiresome the third time it reoccurred. Maybe once or twice but the third time felt like it was overdone and got tedious to read through.

In summary, Discovering Gold was a comfortable read with minimal tension and a cozy found family vibe.

Thanks to NetGalley and publisher for the ARC.

this book was a good one. its setting and location was one ive not read of before so it was an eager choice and im glad i did. i could really captrue the time in the authors words. i was able to see the judgements and feelings surrounding so much of what occurred at that time. it wasnt an easy time especially if you suddenly had it tough.
so when Eleanor finds herself left by her husband one night she knows she has to take this all on herself. and she vows to. ignoring or trying to ignore the whispers and judgment she vows that all she will do now is make sure her son is ok. everything esle is closed. she loses her hope and it breaks her heart. its not an easy life. and retreating further from others and into herself just seems to be a given.

Julia has her own troubles. shes not like the others. or should i say not like the others say she should be. she never has been but vows never too be. she wont be pushed into roles she isnt meant to be in. not in her mind anyways. so when her own doings means she needs to leave her place of home she goes with the sister she loves to this new town. the town where Eleanor lives. and lets just say she doesnt get off to the best start there either.
Julia needs a new life. so she promises herself to keep at it. the sheriff has other ideas.
then she meets Eleanor. and Eleanor meets Julia and there is a meeting of something missing for each of them. there in each other a spark lights and a chink in their armour is formed. but both will need to be brave. both will need to heal. can they do that. can they do it together. and can they fight for what they both actually deserve and want. it wont be easy. but these girls are strong enough for the both of them.

I love a good historical book and thus the settings of this one intrigued me. It is played out in the 1920’s in a small town in Colorado. It is interesting to read about how things may have been in those days and to add a good romance adds and extra layer.

I loved how struggling single mum Eleanor copes on her own despite all challenges after her husband left. When Julia comes to town to support her sister Rose she is kind of a wild one to start with but after meeting Eleanor things slowly change. They are sweet together and all you want is for them to be happy together and not judged for being two women loving each other.

The pacing of the book is a bit dragging at times but overall an enjoyable read.

would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this lovely book

based in the early frontier years eleanor answers an ad to become a wife to a lonely miner in idaho springs colorado but when he disappears one night leaving her with her son to fend for themselves eleanor decides to retreat from everyone and their judgmental ways and just concentrate on her son..... its a hard life for her and takes in washing to keep afloat

julia holte is the tom boy of the family and not at all like her dainty sister but they love each so much that when things become to much julia decides to travel with her sister and new hubby to idaho springs to start a new life for themselves

julia though cant resist a challenge and is soon in trouble with the sheriff and finds herself most days in jail just because he can.... the sheriff has taken an instance dislike to julia and her ways and has taken it upon himself to police her activities to the hilt....

as julia and eleanor get to know each from the mining office they each recognise a need in each other.... but with the sherriff breathing down their necks and the judgement of the town its not easy for them to become friends ....

ohhh man this storyline was very addictive love a good cowboy/western storyline and this one hit the right buttons for me...early life settlers did have it hard but as the town mostly pulled together it was great to see this one doing that as well....

my second book by this author and this one is my favourite by far