Across Unstill Waters

Ben Stephenson dreams of building his fortune along the trade routes of America's western rivers. But first, he must keep a promise to a dying friend whose younger sister has fallen prey to their unscrupulous stepfather's greed and cruelty. When the little girl starts exhibiting strange behavior, Ben is forced to dredge up demons from his past he thought long buried, in order to keep his promise and ensure her safety.

Lucy Swearingen is bright, inquisitive, independent-and haunted by strange images and words she can't comprehend. When her favorite older brother dies, it sets off a chain of events that leave her not knowing who to trust or what unknown reality lurks beneath the twists and turns of her family's saga. Running away to a distant uncle's home seems the only option. But will she find the truth in time to save herself and her family's legacy?

Based on the true story of two early American families brought together by chance and peril, but each destined for greatness, Across Unstill Waters brings to life the early American landscape as never before told in a gripping, old-fashioned historical adventure.

The Wishing Shelf Book Awards readers:
"Vividly described characters in a gripping historical plot. Excellent read."
"The flowery language is a joy."
"Fascinating.... character-led story; the author determined to help the reader really get to know her central and secondary characters."
"Poetic storytelling. A charming story set in 18th century America."