Life Along the Applegate Trail

<p> Questa has just buried her dead husband alone under the blazing desert sun.</p><p> Chase Gunner has chosen to head West for a better life.</p><p> Both are venturing along the Applegate Trail in a caravan of covered ox-drawn wagons.</p><p> Romance sparks when they meet.</p><p> Can the chivalrous cowboy win the heart of this beautiful independent widow?</p><p> More importantly will they survive the treacherous journey which is supposed to be safer than following the Oregon Trail westward?</p><p> Dangerous and perilous better describe the six-month journey over 800 miles as Questa Chase and dozens of families brave wild animals and mountains along with the threat of deadly illness starvation and harsh weather.</p><p> This fictional tale set in 1847 was inspired by the true story of travelers in 1846 who ventured West.</p><p> Then 150 years later their saga inspired history enthusiast Linda Lochard to join a re-enactment of a 51-day trek along the Applegate Trail.</p><p> Along the way she experienced the grueling realities of wagon train travel-while learning the tragic and triumphant fates of those on the trail 150 years beforehand.</p><p> Linda penned <em>Life Along the Applegate Trail: A Tale of Grit and Determination</em> to highlight the travelers' hardships especially those of women who gave birth in harsh conditions.</p><p> Romance humor and kindness balance the danger and suffering as this beautifully written story provides a historic peek at people driven by hope for a better future.</p><p><br></p>