Jane Kirkpatrick’s impeccable research skills shine through in her latest historical fiction novel, One More River to Cross.
When the Stephens-Murphy-Townsend group leaves Missouri in 1844 bound for California, they don’t expect fierce October snowstorms in the rugged Sierra Nevada mountains.
It becomes clear that some of the large wagons holding materials needed for future livelihoods cannot make it in the deep snow. The large party of fifty-two separate in three directions. The Horseback Group continues overland. The Wagon Guards stay to protect the heaviest wagons. The Wintering Women group comprising of eight women and seventeen children, seek shelter in a makeshift cabin at the headwaters of the Yuba River to await rescue.
During the long months, near-fatal accidents happen, food supplies go from barely adequate to nearly non-existent. Each group experiences hazards. The Wintering Women who previously had their lives shaped and dictated by fathers, husbands, even brothers, now find inner strength to make their own decisions to carry on, to survive.
Months go by. Truths surface. All the groups experience terrifying incidents and hardships. As they struggle to survive, they discover strength in family and friends, and in themselves.
One More River to Cross is a remarkable story of survival, and of perseverance when all seems hopeless. Award-winning author Jane Kirkpatrick has written a memorable, moving story about the endurance of our early pioneers.
