I listened to the unabridged audio edition of Amethyst, and while I found this story started off very well (albeit a bit predictably), I was disappointed to find this novel lost steam about halfway through. Mostly because the author insists on multiple POV switches within the tale which was disconcerting... And secondly because I did not care for either of the romances. Amethyst's relationship with captain McHenry was not very fleshed out. Even though she is a title character, the novel is quickly subsumed by the regular cast leaving her albeit weak story by the wayside. Opal's relationship with the preacher was likewise unsatisfying (to me), because of the age difference between these two characters. I just did not like Jacob because he found a girl so young attractive. I know its historically accurate, but to be frank it skeeved me out. I would prefer if he found a woman his own age. That this character was the town preacher made it worse.

Overall, while this novel was enjoyable, it just lacked oomph to keep me interested. Also, the author usually does a better job of romances than this. 3 stars. Only average.

Amethyst by Lauraine Snelling will most definately take a place on my shelf, displayed along with the best. I don't think it was the best in the series, but it was certainly entertaining and a great read.
I liked how Amethyst's story was a little different than the others. For one, she didn't come from a good background at all. Ruby and Opal grew up in a well-to-do house, even though techinically they were not family. Pearl grew up in a wealthy family. Amethyst didn't have either. She was neither wealthy nor loved. And i found that a refreshing change.
There were other aspects of the book, however, that i found rushed. Little Squirrel's death was over in about five lines. No struggle, no nothing. Just dead. There were other things too, that ended too quickly.
I definately recommend that a reader begin with the first book in the series. All four book rely heavily on each other and it won't make sense if you start on book three.
I love romance and i found Amethyst and Jeremiah's relationship, along with that of Opal and Jacob's relationship beautiful. Opal's struggle with her faith, too, was written beautifully. Also, Snelling's description of scenery and the daily comings and goings were on target and at times i felt as though i were sitting in the room or on the range with the characters.
All in all this was a wonderful book and is highly recommended.

Enjoyed the sequil for this series. I have reread all four of her books in the series "Dakotah Treasures" and have enjoyed them each time.