When Winter Comes

De: V. A. Shannon

Narrado por: Susannah Jones

In the voice of an unforgettable heroine, V. A. Shannon explores one of the most harrowing episodes in pioneer history - the ill-fated journey of the Donner Party - in a mesmerizing novel of resilience and survival.

Mrs. Jacob Klein has a husband, children, and a warm and comfortable home in California. No one - not even her family - knows how she came to be out West 13 years ago. Jacob, a kind and patient man, has promised not to ask. But if she were to tell her story, she would recount a tale of tragedy, mishaps, and unthinkable choices - yet also sacrifice, courage, and a powerful, unexpected love....

1846: On the outskirts of Cincinnati, wagons gather by the hundreds, readying to head west to California. Among the throng is a 15-year-old girl eager to escape her abusive family. With just a few stolen dollars to her name, she enlists as helpmate to a married couple with a young daughter. Their group stays optimistic in the face of the journey's hazards and delays. Then comes a decision that she is powerless to prevent: Instead of following the wagon train's established route, the Donner Party will take a shortcut over the Sierras, aiming to clear the mountains before the first snows descend.

In the years since that infamous winter, other survivors have sold their accounts for notoriety and money, lurid tales often filled with half-truths or blatant, gory lies. Now, Mrs. Klein must decide whether to keep those bitter memories secret, or risk destroying the life she has endured so much to build.

©2018 V. A. Shannon (P)2018 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Excellent

A story, not a textbook, thank goodness. Very interesting and human. The narrator was great. I'm not an historical fiction fan and especially try to avoid the Donner Party stories because it's so uncomfortable but this was really good. Just enough facts and just enough empathy.

The only little weirdness was the talking about why women shouldn't get the vote. Just a tiny side story but weird.

Wonderful book

I was reluctant to listen to the book. But from the moment I started listening to it, I hardly took breaks (I finished at 4 am). Fluent writing. Well written and excellent narration. The transition between the past and the present is done smoothly. The characters are fascinating. One of the best historical novels I've read. I will look to read more books by thוis author.

Good book

I enjoyed this story. I also appreciated the follow up at the end by the author.

Very good narration on difficult material. Really didn’t expect to like this book, but this was a good read!

Liked the story & information. The narrator was very good. It made me thankful that I live where I do.

The way it's written

Honestly loved this book. Especially the way it's written. The slivers of presant and past are wonderful blende.