Helpful Score: 5
In this early 19th-century romance, the author demonstrates her flair for incorporating historical fact-in this case, the political maneuverings surrounding the acquisition of the Louisiana Territory-so skillfully into a fascinating fictional plot that it goes down painlessly; indeed, it reads like great gossip. The story centers on the love triangle between Louise Therese Chartier, an Osage half-breed who was sold as a child bride five years previously; married infantry sergeant Daniel Morgan, who assumes responsibility for fiery Louise when her husband is killed; and Daniel's high-strung commander, Lt. James Wilkinson, the leader of an expeditionary force charged with exploring the Arkansas River. Though Daniel is strongly attracted to Louise, his sense of honor keeps him from turning his back on his wife. James, meanwhile, pursues Louise for her beauty and her inheritance, which his father, General Wilkinson, hopes to use to build his own private empire.
