The Path of Saints and Sinners by J.F. Collen is a historical novel and the fourth installment in the Journey of Cornelia Rose series. Set in the Utah Territory during the late 1850s and early 1860s, the book follows Cornelia Rose Wright, a young mother and midwife, as she navigates the challenges of frontier life. The story begins with Cornelia and her family arriving in Great Salt Lake City, where they encounter cultural clashes, political unrest, and the complexities of a Mormon-dominated society. Cornelia’s journey is both physical and emotional, as she struggles to adapt to her new environment while maintaining her identity and values. Her interactions with historical figures such as Brigham Young and Colonel Connor add to the narrative, highlighting the tensions between federal authority and local governance. The book also explores themes of family dynamics, loyalty, and the sacrifices women often make in pursuit of stability and harmony. Cornelia’s role as a midwife and her evolving relationship with her husband, Obadiah, provide a lens into the societal dynamics of the time.

J.F. Collen skillfully balances the personal and the political, weaving Cornelia’s family life with larger historical events such as the Mountain Meadow Massacre and the Civil War’s impact on the region. These elements are seamlessly integrated into the narrative, providing context without overshadowing Cornelia’s personal journey. The pacing is steady, alternating between moments of domestic life and historical drama. The Path of Saints and Sinners is an engaging read for fans of historical fiction, particularly those interested in the American West. Collen’s storytelling style and attention to historical accuracy make this a memorable addition to the Journey of Cornelia Rose series.

The Path of Saints and Sinners by J.F. Collen is book four in the Journey of Cornelia Rose series. Previously in Flirtation on the Hudson, Cornelia “Nellie” Entwhistle resists strict early 19th-century expectations, leaning toward medicine with an independence uncommon for young women. Nellie later leaves her beloved Hudson Valley and family when her husband, Obadiah Wright, becomes a judge, moving westward to Utah’s frontier settlement. On the trail, Nellie is expecting as the Wrights push forward on the arduous journey to Salt Lake. Surrounded by danger, the rumblings of what is happening on conditions and authority among the Mormons drive uncertainty. Now, the Wrights reach Salt Lake, where Nellie encounters strict gender roles, plural marriage, and frontier dangers. She manages her family in unfamiliar religious practices and develops relationships while adjusting to the demands of pioneer society. “Thank the good and merciful Lord we left this treachery behind us. Yes, we were quite the party of survivors.”

The Path of Saints and Sinners by J.F. Collen continues with a remarkable portrayal of pioneer life, where romance, family, and history are brought together in the quality of storytelling fans of the series have come to expect. Nellie and Obadiah's loving relationship is revealed through thoughtful dialogue, quiet gestures, and their inner reflections, giving each moment an authenticity that draws readers directly into their world. Obadiah’s warmth, humor, and steadfast presence complement Nellie’s determination and perspective, creating a bond that feels tangible and heartfelt. The historical setting is vivid and specific, from frost-covered yards and potbellied stoves to winter markets and childbirth customs, grounding the story in a time and place that feels lived-in. Daily domestic life, social expectations, and political events surrounding Brigham Young and the Nauvoo Legion are woven naturally into the plot, balancing intimate and larger-scale occurrences. The result is a deeply satisfying and believable journey through love, duty, and community. Very highly recommended.

The Path of Saints and Sinners: Journey of Cornelia Rose Book 4 by J.F. Collen is about Nellie and her family as they arrive in Great Salt Lake City in 1857 to start a new life. It tells the story of what happened to them from when they arrived till they left in 1863. While they believe it to be a peaceful region where they can start afresh, it turns out to be a tense city with rumors about the US Army and plans by the Nauvoo Legion to block Echo Canyon, including attacks on a nearby train. Despite the instability in the region, Nellie tries to make a home and community for her family. She balances her role as a wife and a mother with her own independent spirit. She meets different people, faces challenges, goes through pain and loss, and shows great courage.

This is the kind of book I love to take with me whenever I go on a long trip or holiday. The narrative moves at a smooth pace. I loved how real Nellie was—she was stubborn, not perfect, curious, and even rebellious, which made me admire and follow her. It was nice seeing how Nellie and her husband, Obadiah, had different ambitions. Nellie wanted a normal, stable life, but her husband wanted adventure and a powerful job—I wished he paid a bit more attention to Nellie's worries. I love how the author mixed home life, like cooking, packing a wagon, and singing with the children, with history, like the Utah War and soldiers visiting parlors. The writing style is detailed and full of history and emotions, which helped to bring the frontier to life. Even though the book is set in the 1800s, the issues that people faced then still feel important in our world today. It covers themes of family, faith, and women’s freedom. I recommend The Path of Saints and Sinners by J.F. Collen to lovers of historical fiction, especially readers who enjoy books about social, political, and family life.