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Amidst the solitary beauty of the vast landscape and the harsh realities of the day, Virginia Nosky's novel White River takes readers on a dramatic journey across America during the mid-nineteenth century. As white settlers looked to stake their claim in the Western territories, the focus here is on Jane Woodard, a young Massachusetts bride on a rugged 800-mile cross-country pilgrimage, as part of the "West or Bust Association" wagon train. The trek is filled with new discoveries as Jane experiences the duties of women on the trail. Correspondence between Jane and her sister Lettie, who is back home, lends a personal touch to the narrative.
Within this historical timeframe, major conflict exists between soldiers and the Native Americans. Readers will witness the brutal savagery of renegade Indians, resulting in direct repercussions for Jane. An intricate story unfolds when Jane is saved by the kindness of Kaab't, a more peaceable Navajo brave. As romance ensues, Jane is torn between two cultures, yet ultimately realizes she must return to a more familiar way of life. Throughout the story, Nosky intricately weaves contrasting themes of birth and death, love and hate, tragedy and triumph. Here the emotional sensibilities are particularly keen as Nosky describes the loss and devastation befalling several heroic individuals.
Nosky has clearly done much research into the displacement of Native Americans. Though taking creative license to accommodate the storyline, the author intentionally provides material resources, as well as a glossary of Navajo terms. The novel is beautifully threaded throughout with elements of Navajo culture and legend, which appropriately enhances the work's indigenous flavor. There is a classic sense to this tale that resonates in the love story between Jane, the proper blue-eyed blonde from the East, and the strong and honorable Indian warrior. Underlying secrets add to the enticement of the narrative, connecting central characters and propelling readers forward. Short chapters also serve this purpose.
Nosky charms with a literary vision so richly textured and detailed, that here even the sweeping Southwest vista becomes a character unto itself. With elemental foresight, one could easily envision this fine, historical romance, translating effortlessly to the cinematic screen.
RECOMMENDED by the US Review