About the Book:

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, she balks.

But in the spring of 1847, Matilda and Nicholas Koontz and their sons embark on a grueling journey westward. Fresh graves testify to dangers of disease, accidents, starvation, and a multitude of hazards threatening her family and her beloved’s dream.

With new struggles at every turn, Matilda wonders how she can protect her sons on such a perilous journey. Will they reach the trail’s end? Will the babe growing inside her womb survive?

When tragedy strikes, the question How can she possibly continue?

This pioneer woman’s journey is inspired by a true story.

| Goodreads |

My Review:

The Reluctant Pioneer by Julie MacDonald Zander
Rating: 5/5
Pages: 396
Published: September 9, 2024
Series: N/a

This story surprised me, in a good way! I was curious after reading the blurb, and I admit I do like the cover. Still, my experience with historical fiction, especially this type of story, tend to be on the slower side, and even a bit dry or stilted at times. Not this one. From the first chapter or two, I found myself pulled into this story, and loved getting to know Matilda and her family.

The journey is hard-fought and filled with challenges, but made for a wonderful and inspirational tale! The main characters seem to be Anglican, and the story does include some mentions of faith and trusting in God.

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