The Fire and the Ore
Tamar Loader and her family travel from England to join the steady stream of people whose newfound Mormon faith draws them to the harsh landscape of Utah Territory. Their pilgrimage is fraught with challenges and very nearly destroys them, but Tamar clings to the promise of a better life with a man she feels destined to marry, only to discover he is already married.
Jane Shupe is travelling with her family to California when a series of tragedies leave her alone and caring for an ailing younger sister. Out of desperation she agrees to marry a local Mormon man despite not being a part of the church. When Jane shows up at the church for her wedding, she discovers that Thomas Ricks is planning to marry both her and Tamar, despite already being married to Tabitha, the local healer and her friend.
Under a shroud of secrecy, the women must navigate a marriage that includes more than just a husband. The absence of their husband increases their uncertainty with each other and their position in society. When the political climate causes the U.S. Army to come after the Mormon community, the sister-wives flee into the wilderness and discover what family means to each of them.
A deeply moving novel that is so beautifully crafted you can’t help but feel the sun beat down on your back or the snow bite into your skin. The evocative setting and well-researched history combined with nuanced characters make this novel one not to miss. As a bonus, the author’s note is extremely insightful, thorough and adds much to the story.
