Publication Date: April 2025
Synopsis:
After their mother dies, Haidie Richards and her younger brother, Boots, are put to work in an orphanage. Their father left four years earlier to find a gold mine in Colorado Territory, and since then he’s sent only three letters. Still, Haidie is certain that he is alive, has struck gold, and will soon send for them.
But patience is not one of Haidie’s virtues, and soon she and her brother make a break for it. Boots and Haidie, disguised as a boy, embark on a dangerous journey deep into Western territory. Along the way, Haidie learns fast not only how to handle mules, oxen, and greedy men, but also that you are better off in a community. Hers includes a card shark, independent “spinster” sisters, and a very fierce dog. Once she arrives in Colorado and finds out the truth about her father, Haidie will need all her new friends for a get-even plot worthy of The Sting.
What To Expect:
Readers can expect a western reminiscent of True Grit that follows two young children on a journey West to find their father.
Content Warnings:
Language: A couple uses of religious exclamations
Sexual Content: There is talk of sex and prostitutes throughout the book, but no sexual act takes place
Violence: Mild – Fighting, bullying, attacks, gun violence, injuries, domestic abuse
Substance Use: Mild – Talk of drinking alcohol and using tobacco
Prejudices: Hatred/prejudice towards Native Americans, sexism
Religious Themes: The characters speak about the Bible and Christianity but not in a devout way. It is not a major theme in the book and some religious leaders are portrayed in a negative way.
Other Topics: Parental death, infant loss, cheating/lying, pregnancy out of wedlock
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