Redemption on the Red River

“Class of 1837, we salute you, and we charge you to go out and make an impact upon your world.”At graduation, Anna Collins has her whole life ahead of her – a teaching post, a handsome fiancé and a future which twinkles with promise. A week later, her life lies in tatters as ambitious Martin breaks her heart, his father blocking her career. Nearly destroyed by grief and despair Anna decides to prove him wrong, and to her family and to herself that she can succeed as a teacher and survive without a man in her life.When the only chance for employment as a teacher is an opening at Fort Towson in Indian Territory, she accepts it as an answer to her prayers and boards the ‘Jewel Belle’. Her journey introduces a host of adventures, from the gossip of the women on board to the chivalrous Captain Nathaniel, who rescues her from the drunken advances of a soldier. As their friendship deepens, Anna finally allows herself to feel love but when they are separated at Shreveport, she finds herself doubting her ability to inspire love in others. Throwing herself thoroughly into her teaching, she battles the hostility of the locals, facing her demons again and again, as she grows to understand her strength and penchant for the land around her. Settling into her new home, it is not until a twist of fate brings Nate back into her life that can truly understand that love cares not for time, but for the heart.