I probably read this book between 1972 and 1975, but I got it from the library so there is no telling how old it was.
The only thing I remember is that the heroine started the book as a poor relation. She had dyed the dress she was wearing for dinner and was embarrassed about it. In the middle of the family meal the hero showed up, asked her to marry him and took her off into the west with him.
I used to think it was an Edna Ferber book, but I’ve read through every Ferber book I can think of. It is also definitely not Michener’s _Centennial_ which has a similar scene involving Levi and Ellie Zendt.
I wonder if it’s THE BARGAIN BRIDE by Evelyn Sibley Lampman?
Thanks, but the book I’m looking for is older than the one by Lampman. But thanks!
I think this may be a book by Elisabeth Hamilton Friermood. The one I remember best is Circus Spangles, but I don’t think it’s that one. But I’m pretty sure I remember the book you are talking about, and it was one of her other books. It was pretty close to the Ferber books, so that might be why you’re remembering that author.
Thanks, Kelly W! I’ll go to the library and flip through some of her books.