West of the Sunset

Danger, distress, and death, mixed with friendship, camaraderie, and joy, promise to make this adventure one to remember. Nineteen-year-old Tyler Linders, his Pa, and twelve-year-old sister Penny set out on the Oregon Trail in 1852, traveling with a wagon train containing eighty-five wagons and over 450 people. Tyler is hoping that, by the time they reach Oregon, he will meet a suitable young lady, willing to settle down with him on the 640 acres he plans to homestead. After initially being interested in the Ellis twins, Billie Kay and Kelly Jay, Tyler develops eyes for only Rachelle Palmerston, the femme fatale of the wagon train and desired by every unmarried man. Meanwhile, a feisty young Austrian, Angelique Hapsburg, makes heartfelt attempts to get Tyler to notice her, even as he wants her to go away so he can focus upon Rachelle. The trip starts out well for everyone, but the farther the wagon train travels, the more the hardships arise. Tempers, internal conflicts, disease, and stupidity cause turmoil among the conglomeration of people on the train. Moreover, the emigrants must deal with broken wagons, worn-out stock, and unpredictable weather. Then comes an encounter with Indians that separates the wagon train community even further. Tyler puts his life on the line, time after time. All the while, he hopes to impress Rachelle Palmerston and win her heart. With all the struggles and dangers that face the members of the wagon train, will he and his family make it safely to Oregon? Will he find the right woman to share the rest of his life?