Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on The Reluctant Pioneer by Julie McDonald Zander, a work of historical fiction that was inspired by the true story of a pioneer woman’s journey.
"A must-read for fans of historical fiction and of strong women.” ~Dawn Shipman, award-winning author of the Lost Stones of Argonia Series
The Reluctant Pioneer
Released: September 2024Genres: Historical Fiction, Westerns, Western & Frontier Christian Romance, Christian Historical Romance
4.8 stars, 43 ratings
From $4.99
Matilda Koontz cherishes her life as a wife and mother on a Missouri farm, but her hardworking husband wants to claim free farmland in the Pacific Northwest. When he suggests selling the farm to trek two thousand miles across the Oregon Trail, Matilda balks, but in the spring of 1847, Matilda and Nicholas Koontz and their sons embark on a grueling journey westward on the Oregon Trail.
With new struggles at every turn, Matilda wonders how she can protect her sons on such a perilous journey. Fresh graves attest to dangers of disease, accidents, starvation, and a multitude of hazards threatening her family and her beloved’s dream. Will they reach the trail’s end? Will the babe growing inside her womb survive?
When tragedy strikes, the question changes: How can she possibly continue?
This pioneer woman’s journey is inspired by a true story.
Praise for The Reluctant Pioneer
"Inspired by the true story of Matilda Koonz Jackson, this engaging historical novel brings readers to tears and, at other times, to the edge of their chairs." ~Sandra Crowell, author of The Land Called Lewis
"Captures the tumultuous journey...and unwavering hope of one woman who began the walk to Oregon Territory in 1847. If you enjoy reading Jane Kirkpatrick’s fiction or other historical novels about women who overcome tremendous hardship for the sake of their family, you’ll love The Reluctant Pioneer." ~Melanie Dobson, award-winning author of Where the Trail Ends
"A heart-rending, beautiful tale inspiring us to relate to the courage, heartbreak, and joys of an amazing woman.” ~Barbara Tifft Blakey, author of Bertie’s War
"Captures not just experience, but the motivations and relationships that impacted Oregon Trail riders." ~Midwest Book Review
Bonus: Sign up for Julie's newsletter and get a FREE copy of Retracing the Oregon Trail in Pictures.
About the Author
Julie McDonald Zander, an avid fan of history, earned a bachelor's degree in communications and political science from the University of Washington. After working two decades as a newspaper reporter and editor, she launched a personal history business to capture and preserve life stories. Her company, Chapters of Life, has published more than seventy-five books. Her nonfiction book about Matilda Koontz Jackson, Washington Territory's Grand Lady: The Story of Matilda (Glover) Koontz Jackson, was a finalist for the Western Writers of America Spur Award and the Will Rogers Medallion. Julie and her husband live in the Pacific Northwest, where they raised two children.Learn more at Julie's website, get a free copy of Retracing the Oregon Trail in Pictures when you sign up for her newsletter, and be sure to follow Julie online:
