The Old River Road

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Description: 1885. When seventeen-year-old Clara Boutwell married her dashing coworker, William McDonald, she was convinced her life was near perfect. The journey before them as newlyweds in the great city of Chicago was promising and exciting. But a frightening disease soon takes William in its grip, forcing them to the clean air of the western frontier in a desperate attempt to save his life. But pioneering doesn’t prove to be easy, with miles between neighbors instead of fences. On the eastern Washington prairies, the McDonalds face hardships and trials in a new world where everything is tested, from physical endurance to emotional strength—down to their relationship and faith in the Lord. 
This novel tells the incredible true story of Clara and William, the great-great-grandparents of the author, in a sweet narrative full of laughter, tears, and the struggles of an early pioneering family. Prepare yourself to share in their experience as you read this account of a pioneer family in Washington state, and see their lasting legacy that has endured into the fifth generation.

Those who are listed on Homeschooled Authors.com are my people. Anytime I am not sure what to read, I grab one of their books from my kindle or shelf. I picked this one from the list on my Kindle books, wanting something I knew wouldn’t be filled with things I might regret reading.

Remember those old book series or movies that were popular before we were born but our parents had us watch? …the ones that gave the story of most of a person’s life from very young until they were old and gray? This book reminded me of those series/movies. It takes Clara from when she is seventeen and living in the city until she is in her thirties and living out west. Unlike most books today, there isn’t a climax in this book, no one huge struggle. I think that the book suffered some for that.

Clara was a very realistic character. Perhaps that is because she really was, as this is all based on the great-great-grandparents of the author. You get the full sweep of her early life within the pages. Her romance was sweet and gentle, she is close to her family, and her faith is important to her.

The pace of the story is gentle, steady, and lifelike. It isn’t slow, but it isn’t in a hurry either. I found it relaxing. If you want a lot of action, or cannot stand a story without a climax, this book is not for you. If you are into older, nostalgic reads, this book is perfect.

I recommend this book to those who love historical fiction, books based on real people, and nostalgic feeling stories.