Through Rushing Waters

Through Rushing Water by Catherine Richmond

The best book I’ve read in a long time, Through Rushing Water is a thoroughly engaging story that combines history with romance and adventure. Christian fiction writer Catherine Richmond has crafted an excellent, must-read novel that shines with genuine yet unique characters in a colorful, old West setting.

After being jilted by her intended fiancé, Sophia Makinoff takes the first offer to leave her college town. She signs up with the Mission Board to teach Ponca Indian children in the American West of the 1800s. Sophia’s sophisticated manners are definitely out of place in this rough, uncharted  territory. She quickly discovers that the Indians suffer from a lack of food and basic farming implements.  Sophia lives in the Indian Agency house with Preacher Henry, his mother, Nettie, agent James and carpenter Will.  Teaching in a one-room schoolhouse, Sophia has experiences with the children that begin to change them and her.  Along with light-hearted, funny classroom moments, there is the disturbing backdrop of the historical movement of all tribes to the “Indian Territory.”  

This is a masterful story filled with compassion, history and just plain fun. It’s a love story of Sophia and the man she can’t seem to understand even as he protects her from gun runners and a devastating snowstorm.  It’s a commentary on the sometimes cruel treatment of the proud Native Americans forced to leave the land they love.  It’s a tribute to God’s grace as Sophia’s faith grows day by day.

Making the story even more engaging, the author has penned events and characters from historical research; the “Author’s Note” appendix is quite enlightening.  Kudos to a professional writer who keeps the reader wondering what will happen next and does not bore us with unnecessary detail. I highly recommend this book.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions expressed here are my own.