R E K. (bigstone) - , reviewed on + 1438 more book reviews
Set in the area around Wenatchee, WA, this incredible story centers on life in 19th Century orchards of the Wenatchee River Valley. William Talmadge is a soft spoken humble character whose life is followed throughout the book. An orphan whose sister disappears at the age of 17, he finds purpose beyond his grief and beloved orchard by helping two teenage pregnant girls.
Having escaped from a man whose sexual and physical needs they were forced to endure, they are intent on stealing his apples. Fearful of others, particularly men, they stay far enough away so they can run. Gradually, Jane and Della accept his help. As they become comfortable with this gentle man gun toting men arrive to capture them. Talmadge fiercely defends the young women, giving the men money to leave.
An incredible story that slowly draws the reader into the lives of the characters, one gets to know Talmadge first. He, his widowed mother and younger sister settled in the valley and began the orchard. Forty years later his encounter with the girls occurs. Native Americans trade horses and help in the orchard, and one, Clee, a mute Nez Perce, becomes a lifelong friend. Others in his circle are Caroline Middey, a local herbalist; Angelene, the surviving child; and Della, the troubled and fiercely independent surviving mother. Clee and Caroline are confidants and advisers and their friendship helps him as he struggles with all the encounter with the girls brings. Talmadge views the girls as his family. A fatherly love develops for Angeline bringing happiness he had not before known while his concern for Della's life on the road is troubling. He feel so responsible for this young woman.
This well written book emphasizes strength, friendship, love, compassion and determination to live one's own life. The author's style blends individuals whose lives are linked and affected by happenstance or if you would have it, fate. Good, good read that stays with one a long time.
Having escaped from a man whose sexual and physical needs they were forced to endure, they are intent on stealing his apples. Fearful of others, particularly men, they stay far enough away so they can run. Gradually, Jane and Della accept his help. As they become comfortable with this gentle man gun toting men arrive to capture them. Talmadge fiercely defends the young women, giving the men money to leave.
An incredible story that slowly draws the reader into the lives of the characters, one gets to know Talmadge first. He, his widowed mother and younger sister settled in the valley and began the orchard. Forty years later his encounter with the girls occurs. Native Americans trade horses and help in the orchard, and one, Clee, a mute Nez Perce, becomes a lifelong friend. Others in his circle are Caroline Middey, a local herbalist; Angelene, the surviving child; and Della, the troubled and fiercely independent surviving mother. Clee and Caroline are confidants and advisers and their friendship helps him as he struggles with all the encounter with the girls brings. Talmadge views the girls as his family. A fatherly love develops for Angeline bringing happiness he had not before known while his concern for Della's life on the road is troubling. He feel so responsible for this young woman.
This well written book emphasizes strength, friendship, love, compassion and determination to live one's own life. The author's style blends individuals whose lives are linked and affected by happenstance or if you would have it, fate. Good, good read that stays with one a long time.
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