The Platte River Waltz, Chapters 1-4

This SAMPLE contains the first four chapters, approximately fifty pages, as excerpted from, The Platte River Waltz, Orphans in the Storm.

Set in a panorama of the American West as its portrait is first being painted, The Platte River Waltz is the initial stroke in the unfolding of Josh Bonner’s tale. In 1848, only seventeen years old, on the Oregon Trail and suddenly orphaned, Josh begins a journey through the unsettled frontier of a wild continent. Just making first acquaintance with manhood, he quickly finds his future linked to Elizabeth Hampton, a coquette from his old hometown. Together they resolve to venture into an uncertain and dangerous future. Accompanied by Jubilee, an escaped slave, Josh and Elizabeth join a wagon train of Missouri emigrants led by a voyageur scout and a town constable turned captain. The couple commences a lusty exploration of the lands they pass and of each other.

The scout is the first to recognize the mettle of Josh Bonner, taking the novitiate under his wing. Others in the party, a missionary couple, an adventurous sawbones, and a clan of farmers, quickly recognize the newcomers as a formidable alliance that drives the expedition across the wild prairie. The land, the weather, and human frailty threaten, but cannot daunt their resolve. Populated with compelling characters, colorful dialog, intriguing subplots, and thrilling encounters, The Platte River Waltz explores a period of American history largely bypassed by contemporary historical fiction.

This first installment contains the initial chapters and introduces the characters, settings, and style of the overall work painting them into the backdrop of the western plains at the commencement of the great migration from the civilized East.

"What a wonderful and superbly written account of a journey West!
I was completely absorbed by the remarkable characters and sweeping landscapes- caught so brilliantly by the magnificent writing and plotting!
A winner!!!"
--as reviewed on goodreads.com—

"I have to say that this was one of the best books I have read in the past year. A few minutes ago I ordered [The Growler Brigade], and cannot wait to start reading it. I'm surprised a book this good was self-published.."
--review on Amazon--

“The author has painted a rich landscape onto which he has thrown an diverse group of characters to bring us the start of what promises to be a remarkable series.”
--Amazon, UK--


Please note the language and vernacular of the mid-1800s is used throughout and some references might be considered offensive but is incorporated for historical fidelity. The content is for the mature reader, not recommended for children.