The happy struggle. From a sod house to flapper fun, dance halls, drinking houses and serenades on Loon Lake, Washington, where a lake cabin is built that becomes the author’s sanctuary. A combination of memoir, family history and fiction based on oral legend.
Inlanders of the Pacific Northwest are resilient during Prohibition, making moonshine or riding the rails or dancing for money or smuggling liquor across the Canadian border. Some go to prison or are shot and killed. The lucky ones have the thrill and distraction of falling in love. Be inspired by the optimism, ingenuity, and perseverance of everyday people. Love will prevail if you let it . . .
Ida had been attracted to his daring, mischievous, wide-eyed enthusiasm for the future. “What’s the worst that could happen?” he would ask and distract her with a squeeze, a kiss or a twirl before she could answer. It had felt like his attitude could overcome anything, that they would always be happy together though she wasn’t entirely sure that she could trust him. When the bottom dropped out of the wheat industry, he thought of his family’s old moonshine recipe called Perseverance. He had all that wheat, and a little shine could take the sting out of hard times.
Walking unescorted into the Marie Antoinette Ballroom at the Davenport Hotel as if she owned the place, fringe whipping with her walk, she thought about the thrill of a clean, handsome man holding out his hand to lead her onto the dancefloor. No one would ever question her presence on a dancefloor. It was her home.
Outstanding historical novel that weaves the experiences of its memorable characters with intriguing factual historical detail. It includes many moving scenes and is a wonderful celebration of the fortitude of those who lived during the era covered. Highly recommended. -- Edith Wairimu, Readers’ Favorite
Shea is one heck of a storyteller! Vivid character building and seamless dialog, a story packed with love, endurance and faith. So much more positive than the other stories of this time period. You’ll love it. –A. O’Mohondro, Phoenix, AR
A good historical time and tale not often told in the mainstream historical novel. –Pacific Northwest Writers Association