The Scarlet Thread, written by Francine Rivers, is about two women, centuries apart, who are joined through a tattered journal as they contend with God, husbands - and even themselves – until they fall into the arms of the one who loves them unconditionally. When Sierra discovers the handcrafted quilt and journal of her ancestor Mary Catherine Murray, she finds that their lives are amazingly similar. Although the women are separated by time and circumstance, Mary Catherine endured the hardships of life on the Oregon Trail, many of the issues and problems they face are remarkably similar.  By following Mary Catherine’s example, Sierra learns to surrender to God’s sovereignty and unconditional love.In relation to this book, Charles W. Eliot said: "Books are the quietest and most constant of friends; they are the most accessible and wisest of counsellors, and the most patient of teachers.”The American author of fiction with Christian themes, including inspirational romance novels, began her literary career at the University of Nevada, Reno, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Journalism.  She has been awarded or nominated for numerous awards and prizes.