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Through Rushing Water
When the life she planned for herself is snatched away, Sophia's eyes open to the life God has planned for her.
Sophia Makinoff is sure that 1876 is the year she's going to become the wife of an up-and-coming congressman. But when the congressman humiliates her by proposing to her mousy roommate, Sophia wants nothing more than to disappear and avoid the wedding plans. She grasps at her first opportunity for escape and signs up for the Board of Foreign Missions.
She thinks she'll be going to China . . . but even running away doesn't go as planned when she's instead sent to the Ponca Indian Agency in the Dakota Territory. It's an abysmal, primitive place for a lady of society, but as she gets to know the people, she discovers she can't abandon them. The motives that led her there were anything but pure, but she finds a new purpose in trying to protect "the least of these."
The water rushes around her—literally and figuratively—as Sophia learns that the only way to fulfill her purpose is to ignore the distractions and focus on God's leading.
Sophia Makinoff is sure that 1876 is the year she's going to become the wife of an up-and-coming congressman. But when the congressman humiliates her by proposing to her mousy roommate, Sophia wants nothing more than to disappear and avoid the wedding plans. She grasps at her first opportunity for escape and signs up for the Board of Foreign Missions.
She thinks she'll be going to China . . . but even running away doesn't go as planned when she's instead sent to the Ponca Indian Agency in the Dakota Territory. It's an abysmal, primitive place for a lady of society, but as she gets to know the people, she discovers she can't abandon them. The motives that led her there were anything but pure, but she finds a new purpose in trying to protect "the least of these."
The water rushes around her—literally and figuratively—as Sophia learns that the only way to fulfill her purpose is to ignore the distractions and focus on God's leading.
352 pages, Paperback
First published July 3, 2012
32 people are currently reading
583 people want to read
About the author
Catherine Richmond
7 books133 followersYou are worthy.
Even if you’re shy like the heroine of Spring for Susannah.
Even if you fail at your mission like Sophia in Through Rushing Water.
Even if you can’t convince your boss of your competence like Mabel in Gilding the Waters.
Even if you have a child with a disability like Caroline in Third Strand of the Cord.
The world says you’re lacking, but God knows better. He loves you so much, He sacrificed His son for you. He wiped your sin-slate clean and made a way for you to go to Heaven. So join me on the porch – take the air chair and put your feet up – and let me tell you about this God who loves you!
Even if you’re shy like the heroine of Spring for Susannah.
Even if you fail at your mission like Sophia in Through Rushing Water.
Even if you can’t convince your boss of your competence like Mabel in Gilding the Waters.
Even if you have a child with a disability like Caroline in Third Strand of the Cord.
The world says you’re lacking, but God knows better. He loves you so much, He sacrificed His son for you. He wiped your sin-slate clean and made a way for you to go to Heaven. So join me on the porch – take the air chair and put your feet up – and let me tell you about this God who loves you!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
July 29, 2012
Through Rushing Water is an eye-opening novel about the hardships suffered by the Indians back in the 1800s and specifically the Ponca Nation. I enjoyed reading about the first impression that the people had regarding Sophia, the heroine, and how over time she changed their opinion of her. The things the tribe and the people working with the trible suffered were horrible, and yet they hung in there and kept pressing on. I loved how the author showed the blessing that came from helping the helpless and based on what the tribe had to work with, which was very little, they really were in a lose-lose situation. The fact that they were moved off their land and so many died is heart breaking as well.
This gripping saga of suffering and hidden blessings found in the midst of incredible trials is not a story for wimps, that's for sure. I loved how the title fit the one thing that helped Sophia to cope with the toughest situations, which was to "ignore the rushing water." That was the only way she could focus on the critical needs and not feel like she was drowning from the many things she couldn't do anything about. She could serve the person in front of her. That was a great analogy and one I'll remember when I feel overwhelmed.
Though I have to say I grew frustrated with Will and Sophia's lack of communication about their feelings and the many assumptions they made along the way that weren't true. I was rooting for them and wondering if they'd ever make that heart connection that would lead to marriage. While the delay was enough to make me pull my hair out in anticipation, it was a satisfying ending. The book seemed a tad long to me in that the resolution was long in coming, but overall it was a good read and I enjoyed it a lot.
This gripping saga of suffering and hidden blessings found in the midst of incredible trials is not a story for wimps, that's for sure. I loved how the title fit the one thing that helped Sophia to cope with the toughest situations, which was to "ignore the rushing water." That was the only way she could focus on the critical needs and not feel like she was drowning from the many things she couldn't do anything about. She could serve the person in front of her. That was a great analogy and one I'll remember when I feel overwhelmed.
Though I have to say I grew frustrated with Will and Sophia's lack of communication about their feelings and the many assumptions they made along the way that weren't true. I was rooting for them and wondering if they'd ever make that heart connection that would lead to marriage. While the delay was enough to make me pull my hair out in anticipation, it was a satisfying ending. The book seemed a tad long to me in that the resolution was long in coming, but overall it was a good read and I enjoyed it a lot.
August 14, 2013
I would give this book a four and a half. I don't want to confuse anyone but I rated it a 4 on audible.com partly because the narration was problematic.
But the book overall gets a five star rating for its uniqueness and "sticking power." How many books do you walk away from and you don't remember a thing about them? It won't be that way when you read this book. Unfortunately the narration was poor to middling which impacted my enjoyment of this book. The intonation, etc., of the narrator made the heroine come off as totally unsympathetic in the beginning of the book. Only as the story moved on was I able to get past the problem with my listen--the narrator mispronouncing French words that were spoken by the heroine, a French teacher and fluent in French, for one and this downbeat tone of depression for the heroine's voice that seems due to the narrator rather than as written. A shame because the overall story is unique, has a hopeful message, and is a memorable one. Catherine Richmond has no control over the narrator and had I read the book I'd likely have given it a 5 Star rating. Characterization was refreshing. I'd recommend the book but I'd avoid this audible version unless, like me, you really need to hear it instead. I will be reading future Richmond books but hope to avoid this narrator. If I'd read it myself this book would have been more enjoyable--lesson learned as far as this narrator. Always enjoy finding new authors to love and Cathy Richmond has a lot to offer.
But the book overall gets a five star rating for its uniqueness and "sticking power." How many books do you walk away from and you don't remember a thing about them? It won't be that way when you read this book. Unfortunately the narration was poor to middling which impacted my enjoyment of this book. The intonation, etc., of the narrator made the heroine come off as totally unsympathetic in the beginning of the book. Only as the story moved on was I able to get past the problem with my listen--the narrator mispronouncing French words that were spoken by the heroine, a French teacher and fluent in French, for one and this downbeat tone of depression for the heroine's voice that seems due to the narrator rather than as written. A shame because the overall story is unique, has a hopeful message, and is a memorable one. Catherine Richmond has no control over the narrator and had I read the book I'd likely have given it a 5 Star rating. Characterization was refreshing. I'd recommend the book but I'd avoid this audible version unless, like me, you really need to hear it instead. I will be reading future Richmond books but hope to avoid this narrator. If I'd read it myself this book would have been more enjoyable--lesson learned as far as this narrator. Always enjoy finding new authors to love and Cathy Richmond has a lot to offer.
August 8, 2012
This is another wonderful historical offering from the gifted writer who debuted with Spring for Susannah. This new inspirational novel fictionalizes the true events experienced by the Indians on the Ponca Reservation of Dakota Territory when they were forced to relocate in the middle of the winter. It is true to the details of the broken promises and the horrible way the Indians were treated and brings forward one of our most embarrassing times as a nation. Greed and prejudice drove so many who had the power to make decisions that impacted a whole group of people in such horrible ways.
The central character, Sophia Makinoff, is strong, self-assured and planning to marry a US Congressman. She has just finished college and is making her plans for a life in Washington DC, when said congressman proposes to her roommate. Heartbroken and anxious to escape the talk about being jilted, she signs up with the Board of Foreign Missions, hoping to go to someplace like China. Instead, she is assigned to the Ponca Indian Agency in Dakota Territory.
There she meets Willoughby Dunn, a man who touches her heart and her soul and teaches her the ways of the Indians and the ways of faith.Together, they try to improve the conditions of the Indians and fight for their right to stay on the land that was given to them in the initial treaty. They also forge a bond that is so solid, it carries them through the many challenges they face.
For people not familiar with what happened to the Ponca Indians, this is a sometimes harsh introduction to what they experienced at the hands of the white man. But it also gives an insight into the pride and dignity and willingness of those Indians to try to assimilate, while still hanging on to their land and their birthright.
I am not normally a huge fan of inspirational fiction as sometimes the message is delivered with a hand that is too heavy, but Ms. Richmond has managed to give that message of faith and hope without being preachy. The key to that I think is that the faith is so much a part of the characterization that it rings true. The romance is handled with the same deft hand and has the classic feel of great romances like Gone With the Wind and Casablanca, with many layers of intimacy that do not involve sex. I am not a prude, and in some stories the bedroom scenes are necessary, but a book like this proves that it is possible to portray a deep love without putting the characters in bed together.
I thoroughly enjoyed Spring for Susannah and am so glad I had the opportunity to read this book.
The central character, Sophia Makinoff, is strong, self-assured and planning to marry a US Congressman. She has just finished college and is making her plans for a life in Washington DC, when said congressman proposes to her roommate. Heartbroken and anxious to escape the talk about being jilted, she signs up with the Board of Foreign Missions, hoping to go to someplace like China. Instead, she is assigned to the Ponca Indian Agency in Dakota Territory.
There she meets Willoughby Dunn, a man who touches her heart and her soul and teaches her the ways of the Indians and the ways of faith.Together, they try to improve the conditions of the Indians and fight for their right to stay on the land that was given to them in the initial treaty. They also forge a bond that is so solid, it carries them through the many challenges they face.
For people not familiar with what happened to the Ponca Indians, this is a sometimes harsh introduction to what they experienced at the hands of the white man. But it also gives an insight into the pride and dignity and willingness of those Indians to try to assimilate, while still hanging on to their land and their birthright.
I am not normally a huge fan of inspirational fiction as sometimes the message is delivered with a hand that is too heavy, but Ms. Richmond has managed to give that message of faith and hope without being preachy. The key to that I think is that the faith is so much a part of the characterization that it rings true. The romance is handled with the same deft hand and has the classic feel of great romances like Gone With the Wind and Casablanca, with many layers of intimacy that do not involve sex. I am not a prude, and in some stories the bedroom scenes are necessary, but a book like this proves that it is possible to portray a deep love without putting the characters in bed together.
I thoroughly enjoyed Spring for Susannah and am so glad I had the opportunity to read this book.
July 11, 2012
I so enjoyed Catherine Richmond's Spring for Susannah that I really wanted to read her next book...and it does not disappoint!
We begin with Sophia Makinoff teaching at girls college, and convinced she is about to marry a new Congressman. When things don't turn out as planned she attends a Missionary Meeting and immediately signs up...thinking she is going to China. Again things don't turn out as she has planned and we find her in South Dakota at Ponca Indian Agency where she will teach. What turns out for her to be a disappointment soon turns into a blessing.
Willoughby Dunn or Will [the carpenter] Nettie and Henry Granville[Mom and son [Rev] and James Lawrence[the Indian Agent]. These are the people that Sophia will be spending her time with, along with the Indian children and adults.
Will turns out to be such a blessing...he turns discards into something usable...like a dipper for the children to drink their water from using tin cans. Nettie does the cooking, and becomes a dear friend to Sophia.
Unfortunately the story is based on actual fact...and I find it heartbreaking.
Come along and experience some of the History in the making of our Country, you will easily get lost in this book. We may not agree with what happens to these innocent people, but it brings to light the facts.
I received this book through Netgalley and the Publisher Thomas Nelson, and was not required to give a positive review.
We begin with Sophia Makinoff teaching at girls college, and convinced she is about to marry a new Congressman. When things don't turn out as planned she attends a Missionary Meeting and immediately signs up...thinking she is going to China. Again things don't turn out as she has planned and we find her in South Dakota at Ponca Indian Agency where she will teach. What turns out for her to be a disappointment soon turns into a blessing.
Willoughby Dunn or Will [the carpenter] Nettie and Henry Granville[Mom and son [Rev] and James Lawrence[the Indian Agent]. These are the people that Sophia will be spending her time with, along with the Indian children and adults.
Will turns out to be such a blessing...he turns discards into something usable...like a dipper for the children to drink their water from using tin cans. Nettie does the cooking, and becomes a dear friend to Sophia.
Unfortunately the story is based on actual fact...and I find it heartbreaking.
Come along and experience some of the History in the making of our Country, you will easily get lost in this book. We may not agree with what happens to these innocent people, but it brings to light the facts.
I received this book through Netgalley and the Publisher Thomas Nelson, and was not required to give a positive review.
September 6, 2015
The historical significance is this book's saving grace. So 2 stars. I appreciated the research that went into this. It is a story that needs to be told. But everything else was a bust for me. For being Christian Fiction it felt a little light. It felt like Sunday School back in my Baptist Church days....and by the way, it wasn't fun. Everything felt like a text book answer. I also thought that the romance was distracting from the point of the story. It would have made a stronger statement about the raw deal these Indians received at the hands of the US government if the romance wasn't there. Overall, this just didn''t work for me.
April 22, 2025
Through Rushing Waters, was honestly a book I really enjoyed. I loved the characters, the romance and especially loved the circumstances and time period. Most of all, I LOVED how in every moment this story never loss sight of what’s important. So with That being said, I hope you enjoy my review a much as I enjoyed this book…
We start of this book being introduced to Sophia Makinoff who is a strong and passionate person who longs to make an impact to those around her, longing to please the lord and use everything she knows for the benefit of others.
She expects a marriage proposal from a man who she presumes will benefit her chance of being known. But when the proposal goes to her friend opposed to her she is taken back, shocked and not realizing that if it would been her, her life would actually have not served the purposes she longed.
She impassively offers to become a missionary, and is brought to the Ponca Indian agency in the harsh Dakota territory. She uses her talents, with teaching, the poor unfortunate Indian children who lack many things like food, warmth and education. She arrives and stays with Nettie, Henry, James and Will, all there to aid in helping the Indians. Although she was at first perceived to be pretty and outspoken she later shows that she is beyond that and actually is exactly what the people need. While there she becomes friends with Will Dunn who shares her passion for helping those less fortunate. Will is a selfless carpenter who does all he can to help the Indians survive amidst their harsh living conditions even if that means giving up whatever he has for them. Thus being said, together they both face many challenges and joys. Forming a bond beyond friendship both using their strengths to help each other up and those around them. We see challenges like close friends deaths, starvation, harsh weather, rough soldiers and unreliable policy that isn’t what it’s perceived. Forcing the Indians to barely survive. But many joys in Learning that people aren’t always what they may seem, yet each person has a soul worth saving. And worth doing their best to help.
Although these circumstances can be very unpleasant we are able to see Gods hand through it all, showing us that he has a perfect plan amidst the way things may be playing out. Will and Sophia have to turn to the Lord many times, in literally any disaster knowing that he is the only one who could possibly save them. And every time from beginning to end he comes through. Through this adventure, we learn countless of important lessons, showing me that ultimately when we have all we need sometimes we take for granted the smallest things that many people can’t even dream of.
Yes. It’s hard to see suffering and loss but sometimes it takes the hardest things to remind us what’s most important.
I also really loved the highlighted idea of purpose and influence. Like shown in this quote…“influence doesn’t come from being married to a big important man, living in a big, important city. It comes from being in Gods Will, wherever He puts you, and doing whatever he tells you, no matter how big or small.” This just really stuck out to me reminding me that what we do is important but what’s most important is being in Gods Will. And only through his will is when we can make the most impact to ourselves, those around us, but most importantly, Gods kingdom.
We start of this book being introduced to Sophia Makinoff who is a strong and passionate person who longs to make an impact to those around her, longing to please the lord and use everything she knows for the benefit of others.
She expects a marriage proposal from a man who she presumes will benefit her chance of being known. But when the proposal goes to her friend opposed to her she is taken back, shocked and not realizing that if it would been her, her life would actually have not served the purposes she longed.
She impassively offers to become a missionary, and is brought to the Ponca Indian agency in the harsh Dakota territory. She uses her talents, with teaching, the poor unfortunate Indian children who lack many things like food, warmth and education. She arrives and stays with Nettie, Henry, James and Will, all there to aid in helping the Indians. Although she was at first perceived to be pretty and outspoken she later shows that she is beyond that and actually is exactly what the people need. While there she becomes friends with Will Dunn who shares her passion for helping those less fortunate. Will is a selfless carpenter who does all he can to help the Indians survive amidst their harsh living conditions even if that means giving up whatever he has for them. Thus being said, together they both face many challenges and joys. Forming a bond beyond friendship both using their strengths to help each other up and those around them. We see challenges like close friends deaths, starvation, harsh weather, rough soldiers and unreliable policy that isn’t what it’s perceived. Forcing the Indians to barely survive. But many joys in Learning that people aren’t always what they may seem, yet each person has a soul worth saving. And worth doing their best to help.
Although these circumstances can be very unpleasant we are able to see Gods hand through it all, showing us that he has a perfect plan amidst the way things may be playing out. Will and Sophia have to turn to the Lord many times, in literally any disaster knowing that he is the only one who could possibly save them. And every time from beginning to end he comes through. Through this adventure, we learn countless of important lessons, showing me that ultimately when we have all we need sometimes we take for granted the smallest things that many people can’t even dream of.
Yes. It’s hard to see suffering and loss but sometimes it takes the hardest things to remind us what’s most important.
I also really loved the highlighted idea of purpose and influence. Like shown in this quote…“influence doesn’t come from being married to a big important man, living in a big, important city. It comes from being in Gods Will, wherever He puts you, and doing whatever he tells you, no matter how big or small.” This just really stuck out to me reminding me that what we do is important but what’s most important is being in Gods Will. And only through his will is when we can make the most impact to ourselves, those around us, but most importantly, Gods kingdom.
January 5, 2022
2.5 stars
While I love the story and premise of this book, there was a lot of things I struggled with.
I have read very few novels that portray stories about Native Americans during this time period. It’s very sad to see how Americans treated them, just because the colour of their skin was different.
Sophia is a strong lady who has an amazing character change throughout the story. I loved her experience in teaching the Indian children, despite being put in a situation that wasn’t ideal for her. Her love for them is so heartwarming and truly amazing.
Now, to comment on a few things I didn’t appreciate:
-There was so much room for more character development in this book, especially for Will. I felt like I didn’t get to really know him and wanted to get to know him more.
-Sophia was Russian Orthodox, and I struggled with a few things when it came to the religious aspect of the book. There wasn’t enough for me to confirm that the salvation aspect was Biblical, however, Sophia does have a few icons that she keeps. While she says these are for her to “focus while she prays,” I found them to be a little questionable. The reverend in this book is looked down upon because of his strictness and morals. Because of this, it almost makes religion appear to be the enemy at times.
-The romance was just not it. There was no smooth trail to either of them falling in love with each other. It happened in a heartbeat basically. Don’t even get me started on the times a man had to catch his breath when a woman put down her hair or fanned herself because of the heat. Or when a woman considers using her body parts, while covered, to beguile a man!
While I love the story and premise of this book, there was a lot of things I struggled with.
I have read very few novels that portray stories about Native Americans during this time period. It’s very sad to see how Americans treated them, just because the colour of their skin was different.
Sophia is a strong lady who has an amazing character change throughout the story. I loved her experience in teaching the Indian children, despite being put in a situation that wasn’t ideal for her. Her love for them is so heartwarming and truly amazing.
Now, to comment on a few things I didn’t appreciate:
-There was so much room for more character development in this book, especially for Will. I felt like I didn’t get to really know him and wanted to get to know him more.
-Sophia was Russian Orthodox, and I struggled with a few things when it came to the religious aspect of the book. There wasn’t enough for me to confirm that the salvation aspect was Biblical, however, Sophia does have a few icons that she keeps. While she says these are for her to “focus while she prays,” I found them to be a little questionable. The reverend in this book is looked down upon because of his strictness and morals. Because of this, it almost makes religion appear to be the enemy at times.
-The romance was just not it. There was no smooth trail to either of them falling in love with each other. It happened in a heartbeat basically. Don’t even get me started on the times a man had to catch his breath when a woman put down her hair or fanned herself because of the heat. Or when a woman considers using her body parts, while covered, to beguile a man!
July 10, 2012
At the prologue, I couldn’t help having sympathy for this main character. Being spurned by the guy who has made you think he wants to marry you in front of hundreds of people? People that all knew he was sure serious about our heroine. Yeah, I cringed more than a little bit for the poor woman.
After being “left at the altar”, Sophia is determined to do something that will give her something…and hopefully get her back to her homeland. Being a teacher to Indians wasn’t really her plan. Watching her change from the inside out, was a beautiful sight in this character. I loved that she took on their plight and fought for it like it was her own.
I will admit I did not like the book near as much as I expected. The plot seemed lost many times and the romance weak amongst the background of the main story of protecting and providing for the Indians. I couldn’t truly identify with the characters, though I loved Sophia’s determination and heart. It just all seemed too much and too…lost.
That isn’t to say there aren’t good qualities to the story. Will is a charming character and a great hero. I wish I could have gotten to know him a bit better. The ending was a happy one and the preacher was good at making me dislike him. ;-)
All in all, not my favorite yes, but enjoyable qualities still to the story.
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publishers for my copy to review.
After being “left at the altar”, Sophia is determined to do something that will give her something…and hopefully get her back to her homeland. Being a teacher to Indians wasn’t really her plan. Watching her change from the inside out, was a beautiful sight in this character. I loved that she took on their plight and fought for it like it was her own.
I will admit I did not like the book near as much as I expected. The plot seemed lost many times and the romance weak amongst the background of the main story of protecting and providing for the Indians. I couldn’t truly identify with the characters, though I loved Sophia’s determination and heart. It just all seemed too much and too…lost.
That isn’t to say there aren’t good qualities to the story. Will is a charming character and a great hero. I wish I could have gotten to know him a bit better. The ending was a happy one and the preacher was good at making me dislike him. ;-)
All in all, not my favorite yes, but enjoyable qualities still to the story.
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publishers for my copy to review.
November 24, 2012
WOW. I loved this book so much! This is a story for historians, advocates, everyday people making the world more just, one student or construction project at a time. In many romance novels, the focus is on attraction -- the redeeming and/or compatible qualities of the main characters are secondary (or absent) to describing the feelings of butterflies, intrigue, flirtation, passion, etc. Not so here! Sophia and Will are awesome, admirable, believable people, and you totally want them to get together so they can be this happy, in love, super hero team. The history is meticulously researched and focuses on an important issue that I didn't know much about, namely, the eviction of the Ponca tribe from the Niobrara River valley, and the subsequent Standing Bear Trial, in which American Indians were given rights as people in the eyes of American law. So interesting, and beautifully presented here, seamlessly woven into a romance novel. Disclaimer -- yes, this book is written by my (awesome) mom, but it's not my usual genre, and I loved it! If you like romance, you'll get your fix here, but even if you're not the type to pick up a paperback with Fabio (or Stephenie Meyer's name) on the cover, I promise you won't find this one cloying or tawdry, but instead endearing, fascinating and inspiring. To me, there's nothing more romantic than a couple who brings out the best in each other on an adventure to fight evil for good.
July 18, 2015
This was pretty much your standard Christian historical fiction romance. While I don't read this genre nearly as often as I used to, I do still occasionally get the urge to read one because they're usually simple and sweet.
I liked the missionary and teaching aspects of Through Rushing Waters, and I also enjoyed getting to see Sophia's growth throughout the book. That being said, I felt that several of the secondary characters (and even the main love interest) fell just a little bit flat for me. I didn't love how quickly he fell for Sophia, either.
The story itself was interesting. I liked getting to read about the Ponca tribe, and I thought, for the most part, it was a fairly fast read (though I did set it aside for several days). I also thought it dealt with some heavier topics than you tend to find in this genre (not to say that they aren't out there!), which I thought the author handled very well. Towards the end I got a little bit bored, but that wasn't something that I felt was an issue throughout the story.
All-in-all, Through Rushing Waters is a pretty decent, albeit somewhat stereotypical Christian historical fiction romance. I didn't love the romance, but I enjoyed the rest of the story. I would recommend for anyone who is a already a fan of the genre and who might be interested in the missions aspect.
I liked the missionary and teaching aspects of Through Rushing Waters, and I also enjoyed getting to see Sophia's growth throughout the book. That being said, I felt that several of the secondary characters (and even the main love interest) fell just a little bit flat for me. I didn't love how quickly he fell for Sophia, either.
The story itself was interesting. I liked getting to read about the Ponca tribe, and I thought, for the most part, it was a fairly fast read (though I did set it aside for several days). I also thought it dealt with some heavier topics than you tend to find in this genre (not to say that they aren't out there!), which I thought the author handled very well. Towards the end I got a little bit bored, but that wasn't something that I felt was an issue throughout the story.
All-in-all, Through Rushing Waters is a pretty decent, albeit somewhat stereotypical Christian historical fiction romance. I didn't love the romance, but I enjoyed the rest of the story. I would recommend for anyone who is a already a fan of the genre and who might be interested in the missions aspect.
February 10, 2020
The narrator for this audio version did this book no justice. In fact it made it very hard to get through and skipped a few chapters.
The embarrassing moment in the beginning that is the catalyst for our heroine Sophia made me feel bad for her. However, the injustice of what happened to the Native Americans, specifically the Ponca Nation in North Dakota, tugged at my heart strings.
I think had a read the book it may have been rated higher.
The embarrassing moment in the beginning that is the catalyst for our heroine Sophia made me feel bad for her. However, the injustice of what happened to the Native Americans, specifically the Ponca Nation in North Dakota, tugged at my heart strings.
I think had a read the book it may have been rated higher.
June 19, 2018
Reread in 2018. Obviously didn't enjoy it as much as I did the first time as I'm no longer Evangelical, but I appreciated the lengths the author went to paint the atrocities committed against Native Americans, and I appreciated that the heroine was an outsider. Despite the cheesiness of the spiritual aspects, I still enjoyed this. It's the first time I've read or reread a Christian novel in a good while and it wasn't as triggering as I expected.
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GENRE: HISTORICAL ROMANCE
PUBLISHER: THOMAS NELSON
PUBLICATION DATE: JULY 03, 2012
RATING: 5 OUT OF 5 – NEAR PERFECT
PROS: Great spiritual message about relying on God’s direction and guidance; unconventional non-American heroine; realistic plot progression and conclusion; well-researched historical details about the Poncas
CONS: None!
Sophia Makinoff thought she had her entire life planned out. She was to marry a congressman and become a woman of substantial influence in the political world – that is, until the congressman in question decided that her roommate would make a better wife than Sophia. Humiliated, Sophia takes the first opportunity she has and escapes the women’s college where she used to teach, signing up to become a missionary. But although the life of a missionary appealed to her, Sophia imagined that she would be spending her time witnessing to natives in China, not teaching the poverty-stricken children of the Ponca tribe in Nebraska. The way her students live couldn’t be further from what Sophia experienced as a child, growing up amongst nobility in Russia. The other agency workers are reticent to Sophia, both because she wasn’t born on American soil and because her Orthodox Christian beliefs confuse them. Sophia doesn’t see how she’s ever going to adapt to life with the Poncas, but as she becomes aware of how much her students need and how little the government provides them with, she uses the links and influence from her previous lifestyle to aid the Agency’s work. But no amount of letter-writing can stop the government from moving the Poncas away from their homeland to Indian Territory. Sophia and the other agency workers fight to stop this move from occurring, but only Sophia and Will, the agency carpenter, truly know the full affects of such a decision. Will is the only employee who has learned the Ponca’s language and understands when Sophia needs to bend the Agency’s rules to suit the needs of her students. But it seems that all of their efforts will have been in vain, if the Poncas are forced from their homes. Will this also mean the end for Sophia and Will’s relationship, if they no longer have their common cause to unite them?
Although I had my issues with the structuring of Catherine Richmond’s debut novel, Spring for Susannah, her writing showed a lot of originality and promise, which prompted me to add Through Rushing Water to my wishlist as soon as I heard about it. I was a little cautious at approaching Through Rushing Water, in case the book didn’t live up to its absolutely stunning cover, but thankfully this novel far surpassed my expectations. The little quirks that made Spring for Susannah so unique have come into their fullness in Catherine’s second novel, proving that new and innovative books can still come out of the Christian historical fiction genre.
One of the things that can grate me about any novel that deals with racism or the treatment of minority groups is the sheer improbability that the average white American in any given time period just happens to have not bought into the racial stereotypes of their peers. What are the chances, honestly, that the daughter of a prosperous plantation owner in Texas in 1850 just happens to be a militant abolitionist? Through Rushing Water, thankfully, avoids this problem by making Sophia an outsider to the issue of Christianising and relocating Indian groups. Although Sophia has lived in the United States for several years and taught at a women’s college in New York, she was brought up in Russia and also spent part of her life in France. She’s familiar with other cultures and races, and this allows her to see the treatment of the Poncas from a different angle from those she works with. While I was initially surprised that Catherine had chosen a non-American heroine for her novel, it was a pleasant surprise, especially to a reader who is also an outsider to American culture. Sophia’s background and experiences of other cultures brought an angle to Through Rushing Water that just couldn’t have been explored with an American heroine without seeming too forced or modernised, and I commend Catherine for taking a step outside the traditional comfort zones of Christian fiction to choose a non-American heroine.
As I mentioned previously, my biggest struggle with Spring for Susannah was the unconventional pacing of the novel. When I reached the three-quarters mark in Through Rushing Water and realised that Sophia’s time with the Poncas was coming to an end, I did wonder if this chance of pace and location was going to affect my rating of this book. But what I expected to be a flaw in this novel actually ended up making it more realistic. Anyone who has studied this period of history knows that Sophia couldn’t have saved the Poncas from being relocated to Indian Territory, and her move to the city of Omaha actually brought a lot of contextualisation into the story. Sophia’s encounters with her new friends and neighbours made her realise how little the people of Nebraska knew about the local tribes and she was able to use her experiences as an opportunity to educate those who had bought into stereotypes about “wild Indians”. As much as I love a neatly tied-up happy ending, I felt that the end of Through Rushing Water was optimistic yet realistic in the way it was left open, with the hope that Sophia might still be able to help the Poncas while living in Omaha.
The final quarter of the novel also allows Sophia’s relationship with Will to develop. Some readers may be disappointed that the hero and heroine found little time to profess their love for each other while working among the Poncas, but again, this is probably quite understandable, given the stressful conditions under which they were living and working. Towards the end of the book, we get the chance to see their relationship blossom under different circumstances, and Sophia and Will realise the false nature of the assumptions they had made about each other when they first met. Their romance is sweet, but not the main focus of the novel. That said, I did love the epilogue, which not only gives hope for the Ponca tribe but also for Sophia and Will’s relationship. Some epilogues can come across as cheesy in the way that they skip forward a few years to prove that the hero and heroine are still happy, but Through Rushing Water managed to avoid this while still being optimistic.
Through Rushing Water is far from being a conventional historical romance, considering the Russian heroine, unusual plot progression and focus on historical details over romantic intrigue. I encourage potential readers to not be put off by these quirks that so endeared Through Rushing Water to me, and to take a chance on a budding author who I hope will continue to bring something original to this popular genre.
Review title provided by Thomas Nelson.
---
GENRE: HISTORICAL ROMANCE
PUBLISHER: THOMAS NELSON
PUBLICATION DATE: JULY 03, 2012
RATING: 5 OUT OF 5 – NEAR PERFECT
PROS: Great spiritual message about relying on God’s direction and guidance; unconventional non-American heroine; realistic plot progression and conclusion; well-researched historical details about the Poncas
CONS: None!
Sophia Makinoff thought she had her entire life planned out. She was to marry a congressman and become a woman of substantial influence in the political world – that is, until the congressman in question decided that her roommate would make a better wife than Sophia. Humiliated, Sophia takes the first opportunity she has and escapes the women’s college where she used to teach, signing up to become a missionary. But although the life of a missionary appealed to her, Sophia imagined that she would be spending her time witnessing to natives in China, not teaching the poverty-stricken children of the Ponca tribe in Nebraska. The way her students live couldn’t be further from what Sophia experienced as a child, growing up amongst nobility in Russia. The other agency workers are reticent to Sophia, both because she wasn’t born on American soil and because her Orthodox Christian beliefs confuse them. Sophia doesn’t see how she’s ever going to adapt to life with the Poncas, but as she becomes aware of how much her students need and how little the government provides them with, she uses the links and influence from her previous lifestyle to aid the Agency’s work. But no amount of letter-writing can stop the government from moving the Poncas away from their homeland to Indian Territory. Sophia and the other agency workers fight to stop this move from occurring, but only Sophia and Will, the agency carpenter, truly know the full affects of such a decision. Will is the only employee who has learned the Ponca’s language and understands when Sophia needs to bend the Agency’s rules to suit the needs of her students. But it seems that all of their efforts will have been in vain, if the Poncas are forced from their homes. Will this also mean the end for Sophia and Will’s relationship, if they no longer have their common cause to unite them?
Although I had my issues with the structuring of Catherine Richmond’s debut novel, Spring for Susannah, her writing showed a lot of originality and promise, which prompted me to add Through Rushing Water to my wishlist as soon as I heard about it. I was a little cautious at approaching Through Rushing Water, in case the book didn’t live up to its absolutely stunning cover, but thankfully this novel far surpassed my expectations. The little quirks that made Spring for Susannah so unique have come into their fullness in Catherine’s second novel, proving that new and innovative books can still come out of the Christian historical fiction genre.
One of the things that can grate me about any novel that deals with racism or the treatment of minority groups is the sheer improbability that the average white American in any given time period just happens to have not bought into the racial stereotypes of their peers. What are the chances, honestly, that the daughter of a prosperous plantation owner in Texas in 1850 just happens to be a militant abolitionist? Through Rushing Water, thankfully, avoids this problem by making Sophia an outsider to the issue of Christianising and relocating Indian groups. Although Sophia has lived in the United States for several years and taught at a women’s college in New York, she was brought up in Russia and also spent part of her life in France. She’s familiar with other cultures and races, and this allows her to see the treatment of the Poncas from a different angle from those she works with. While I was initially surprised that Catherine had chosen a non-American heroine for her novel, it was a pleasant surprise, especially to a reader who is also an outsider to American culture. Sophia’s background and experiences of other cultures brought an angle to Through Rushing Water that just couldn’t have been explored with an American heroine without seeming too forced or modernised, and I commend Catherine for taking a step outside the traditional comfort zones of Christian fiction to choose a non-American heroine.
As I mentioned previously, my biggest struggle with Spring for Susannah was the unconventional pacing of the novel. When I reached the three-quarters mark in Through Rushing Water and realised that Sophia’s time with the Poncas was coming to an end, I did wonder if this chance of pace and location was going to affect my rating of this book. But what I expected to be a flaw in this novel actually ended up making it more realistic. Anyone who has studied this period of history knows that Sophia couldn’t have saved the Poncas from being relocated to Indian Territory, and her move to the city of Omaha actually brought a lot of contextualisation into the story. Sophia’s encounters with her new friends and neighbours made her realise how little the people of Nebraska knew about the local tribes and she was able to use her experiences as an opportunity to educate those who had bought into stereotypes about “wild Indians”. As much as I love a neatly tied-up happy ending, I felt that the end of Through Rushing Water was optimistic yet realistic in the way it was left open, with the hope that Sophia might still be able to help the Poncas while living in Omaha.
The final quarter of the novel also allows Sophia’s relationship with Will to develop. Some readers may be disappointed that the hero and heroine found little time to profess their love for each other while working among the Poncas, but again, this is probably quite understandable, given the stressful conditions under which they were living and working. Towards the end of the book, we get the chance to see their relationship blossom under different circumstances, and Sophia and Will realise the false nature of the assumptions they had made about each other when they first met. Their romance is sweet, but not the main focus of the novel. That said, I did love the epilogue, which not only gives hope for the Ponca tribe but also for Sophia and Will’s relationship. Some epilogues can come across as cheesy in the way that they skip forward a few years to prove that the hero and heroine are still happy, but Through Rushing Water managed to avoid this while still being optimistic.
Through Rushing Water is far from being a conventional historical romance, considering the Russian heroine, unusual plot progression and focus on historical details over romantic intrigue. I encourage potential readers to not be put off by these quirks that so endeared Through Rushing Water to me, and to take a chance on a budding author who I hope will continue to bring something original to this popular genre.
Review title provided by Thomas Nelson.
September 19, 2018
3.5 stars!
This was not really the best writing. There was a lot of confusing dialogue and the author skipped important scenes without explanation.
However, it was one of the most honest integrations of Christianity I’ve read.
I also liked the characters.
This was not really the best writing. There was a lot of confusing dialogue and the author skipped important scenes without explanation.
However, it was one of the most honest integrations of Christianity I’ve read.
I also liked the characters.
August 12, 2012
Catherine Richmond in her new book, “Through Rushing Water” published by Thomas Nelson takes us to the Dakota Territory in 1876.
From the back cover: Sophia has her life all planned out—but her plan didn’t include being jilted or ending up in Dakota Territory.
Sophia Makinoff is certain 1876 is the year that she’ll become the wife of a certain US Congressman, and happily plans her debut into the Capitol city. But when he proposes to her roommate instead, Sophia is stunned. Hoping to flee her heartache and humiliation, she signs up with the Board of Foreign Missions on a whim.
With dreams of a romantic posting to the Far East, Sophia is dismayed to find she’s being sent to the Ponca Indian Agency in the bleak Dakota Territory. She can’t even run away effectively and begins to wonder how on earth she’ll be able to guide others as a missionary. But teaching the Ponca children provides her with a joy she has never known—and never expected—and ignites in her a passion for the people she’s sent to serve.
It’s a passion shared by the Agency carpenter, Willoughby Dunn, a man whose integrity and selflessness are unmatched. The Poncas are barely surviving. When US policy decrees that they be uprooted from their land and marched hundreds of miles away in the middle of winter, Sophia and Will wade into rushing waters to fight for their friends, their love, and their destiny.
Sophia Makinoff, of Russian descent, grew up in America and became a teacher. When her dreams of marriage are shattered she signs up for missions work and is sent to the Dakota Territory. As she teaches the Ponca tribe children she falls in love with them and sees their need. Sophia teams up with Willoughby Dunn to stop the stealing of their land. Together these two make a stand through rushing water standing on the Rock of God. This is an exciting story even though there are no runaway stage coaches, no train robberies or take overs of the town by evil gunmen. Just one couple against evil men who want to steal the Indian land and force them to march hundreds of miles in the dead of winter. Ms. Richmond gives us wonderful characters that we care for and root for and shows us a dark period in American history. This is a wonderful read and I recommend it highly. Looking forward to more from Catherine Richmond
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the back cover: Sophia has her life all planned out—but her plan didn’t include being jilted or ending up in Dakota Territory.
Sophia Makinoff is certain 1876 is the year that she’ll become the wife of a certain US Congressman, and happily plans her debut into the Capitol city. But when he proposes to her roommate instead, Sophia is stunned. Hoping to flee her heartache and humiliation, she signs up with the Board of Foreign Missions on a whim.
With dreams of a romantic posting to the Far East, Sophia is dismayed to find she’s being sent to the Ponca Indian Agency in the bleak Dakota Territory. She can’t even run away effectively and begins to wonder how on earth she’ll be able to guide others as a missionary. But teaching the Ponca children provides her with a joy she has never known—and never expected—and ignites in her a passion for the people she’s sent to serve.
It’s a passion shared by the Agency carpenter, Willoughby Dunn, a man whose integrity and selflessness are unmatched. The Poncas are barely surviving. When US policy decrees that they be uprooted from their land and marched hundreds of miles away in the middle of winter, Sophia and Will wade into rushing waters to fight for their friends, their love, and their destiny.
Sophia Makinoff, of Russian descent, grew up in America and became a teacher. When her dreams of marriage are shattered she signs up for missions work and is sent to the Dakota Territory. As she teaches the Ponca tribe children she falls in love with them and sees their need. Sophia teams up with Willoughby Dunn to stop the stealing of their land. Together these two make a stand through rushing water standing on the Rock of God. This is an exciting story even though there are no runaway stage coaches, no train robberies or take overs of the town by evil gunmen. Just one couple against evil men who want to steal the Indian land and force them to march hundreds of miles in the dead of winter. Ms. Richmond gives us wonderful characters that we care for and root for and shows us a dark period in American history. This is a wonderful read and I recommend it highly. Looking forward to more from Catherine Richmond
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
July 2, 2015
Through Rushing Water by Catherine Richmond may remind one of another novel written by Catherine Marshall, Christy. Sometimes readers don't know where to start because there is just too many good things in a read. This is the case for me, with spiritual endeavors, the concept of loving each person, and the battle to save misunderstood people on the brink of extinction. Catherine Richmond does a remarkable job filling out the pleasant main characters, including secondary ones, writing with honesty, and raw emotions as these tough characters hold onto what little they had, their gifts that they take great joy in. The main female character, Sophia, is a flighty type, travelling all over the world to see what it has to offer, from France, her homeland Russia, and North America. Surprisingly though, she can carry her own share of work, and knows how to survive, and take care of others, especially the Ponca students. Through increasingly difficulties that affect each person in a real way, Sofia, Will, and the others learn to ignore the rushing waters around them, and focus on what God has planned for them. Some scenes will move readers, vivid memories of history that comes to light about the treatment of the Poncas in the United States, and the fictional account that brings readers to an understanding about the struggles that the Aboriginals might have faced, and the harsh realities sometimes only experienced in the tv shows. This read is absolutely recommended to historical lovers and a yearning to learn more about what the Lord has in store for you, and how He can demonstrates His love in events such as this one.
July 29, 2012
Through Rushing Water by Catherine Richmond is about a Russian born, American implanted teacher Sophia Makinoff. She's pretty sure she has her future figured out when the man she thought would propose chose another instead. In a sudden decision to join a mission board, with hopes of going to China, she finds herself the new teacher on a small Ponca Indian reservation. Its the last place she wanted to be, but God proves what we want and what we need are two different things.
I loved this story more than I thought I would. I've always enjoyed historical type fiction. This one is even loosely based off a true life story. I felt that the story moved well and you actually could get to feel for the different characters. They all become dear and close.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a slowly evolving romance, and looking for a little insight to what it was like back when the west was 'wild'.
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com http://BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/wa... : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
I loved this story more than I thought I would. I've always enjoyed historical type fiction. This one is even loosely based off a true life story. I felt that the story moved well and you actually could get to feel for the different characters. They all become dear and close.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a slowly evolving romance, and looking for a little insight to what it was like back when the west was 'wild'.
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com http://BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/wa... : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
May 19, 2021
This is the first book by this author I’ve read, and I look forward to more. I loved that the story takes place in the American west, yet the female main character is Russian. It was fascinating to see my country through her eyes and have an opportunity to understand a believer from another country and faith. Her world is totally upended and her plans are thwarted, and I enjoyed watching her navigate through the twists and turns. Will Dunn is a swoon-worthy hero who I fell in love with immediately. His passion for the Native Americans and his frustration with the bureaucracy are palpable. He has a wonderful sense of humor that slowly comes out as he sees that Sophia is genuine. The author does a great job of educating the reader about the plight of the Natives in general and the Poncas specifically, without feeling like a lecture or textbookish. There are historical notes in the afterward that are enlightening. Highly recommended.
June 14, 2019
This may very well be a pretty good story. However, due to the fact that I kept falling asleep while listening to the audio version, I really can't say for sure. The narrator of this particular audio version was uninspiring, at best, and annoying at worst. I think that is the main reason I couldn't fully engage in the story and kept falling asleep and, consequently, losing my place in the story line.
As for the literature itself, it will never be put on a "great writing" list. But I think the plot is probably ok and some people would really enjoy it. Truth be told, I became pretty bored with it and just skipped ahead to the end of the book. No surprises there either.
Clean Readers: from what I heard, I would assume that this book is 100% clean.
As for the literature itself, it will never be put on a "great writing" list. But I think the plot is probably ok and some people would really enjoy it. Truth be told, I became pretty bored with it and just skipped ahead to the end of the book. No surprises there either.
Clean Readers: from what I heard, I would assume that this book is 100% clean.
July 30, 2014
well, I almost gave this book two stars but decided on three because of the historical significance and the importance of books like this in relating the horrible conditions and treatment of Native Americans. I also feel that the style of writing was not enough for me. I wanted and needed more than just relaying facts and occasional mix of romance with spiritual mini sermons. I am a Christian, believe and cherish the Gospel but I wanted more spiritual depth; I wonder if this book was geared towards a person who is on the fence spiritually.
April 29, 2018
This was a hard book to follow at times. The stops and starts seemed quite sudden and there was a lot of detail in some areas and a serious lack in others. Often my brain would struggle to make the transition from one event to another since there wasn't a natural break or flow in the story. With that said I did enjoy many of the characters and what they were trying to accomplish, and the bit of history this book was portraying, I just struggled with the delivery.
November 11, 2019
One of my favorites of Cathy's. She always does her homework, and I especially enjoyed seeing the Ponca and how badly they were treated by Americans through the eyes of the Russian teacher. Builds to an important climax that incorporates the trial of Standing Bear.
March 18, 2020
Such a wonderful story, and a lesson in history as well!
July 9, 2022
I thought that the premise of the book was great, and the book seemed like it had a lot of promise. However, this book wasn’t a good read. The only reason I’m even giving it two stars is the historical context that I pray is eye opening for readers. The author did a great job of exploring that side of things.
My two biggest thoughts are as follows:
1. We needed about a million more details on the two main characters. The insights that the author gave us were strange and seemed oddly placed, and I feel like we got so little development (of Will most specifically). It’s clear that she rushed it all in there at the end, which still didn’t give us a lot of information.
2. The storyline doesn’t feel cohesive. It feels like the author chose random scenes to elaborate on and skimmed by other scenes that felt like they held more weight overall in the end. Nor does the storyline feel like something that actually logically would play out? I like the overall idea of the plot, but the way that she wrote it just wasn’t done well.
I’d recommend avoiding wasting your time with this book. If you’re looking for a good Christian fiction read about working with Native Americans that gives accurate historical info, Tracie Peterson did a great series on it that has all 4-5 star books in it.
My two biggest thoughts are as follows:
1. We needed about a million more details on the two main characters. The insights that the author gave us were strange and seemed oddly placed, and I feel like we got so little development (of Will most specifically). It’s clear that she rushed it all in there at the end, which still didn’t give us a lot of information.
2. The storyline doesn’t feel cohesive. It feels like the author chose random scenes to elaborate on and skimmed by other scenes that felt like they held more weight overall in the end. Nor does the storyline feel like something that actually logically would play out? I like the overall idea of the plot, but the way that she wrote it just wasn’t done well.
I’d recommend avoiding wasting your time with this book. If you’re looking for a good Christian fiction read about working with Native Americans that gives accurate historical info, Tracie Peterson did a great series on it that has all 4-5 star books in it.
August 14, 2023
I tend to read romance novels because they're rather simple, and guarantee a happily ever after. This is the first one I've read in a while that turned out to be much more than that.
This books shows the overwhelming plight of the First Nations in a visceral way. I was familiar with the horrors they faced, and the discrimination they still face today, but this brought it much closer to home.
What's more, this story is one of great Faith, simultaneously confronting me with my own failings in trusting God and His timing, and inspiring me to do better.
I read through the afternoon and evening to finish this book in a day, and it was well worth it.
This books shows the overwhelming plight of the First Nations in a visceral way. I was familiar with the horrors they faced, and the discrimination they still face today, but this brought it much closer to home.
What's more, this story is one of great Faith, simultaneously confronting me with my own failings in trusting God and His timing, and inspiring me to do better.
I read through the afternoon and evening to finish this book in a day, and it was well worth it.
August 23, 2017
This is a wonderfully crafted historical novel that poignantly describes the plight of well meaning "white people" trying to "save America's native's". I loved the characters, their interactions with the natives, and the various behaviors that were exhibited by all. The story showcases in a simple way the utter tragedy of the American Indian's push onto reservations. I thought it was brilliant having Sophia be a Russian who recognizes the similarities between the Russian peasants and the American natives in their way of interpreting the universe and celebrating and honoring their God.
February 1, 2019
I really enjoy Through Rushing Water I enjoyed the character Sophia she was smart, stronge and well spoken she stood by what she believed. I think I would have given this story four start but because I took pauses reading this story maybe this is why I didn't get to enjoyed it more. Definitely a good historical read!!!!
August 29, 2019
A good, well written story. I liked the main characters and the way they lived their faith. It dealt well with the subject of a difficult time in American history when the Native Americans were being driven off their land. Not a page turner yet worthy of a read when you are in the mood to take time and soak it in.
February 14, 2020
This is a youth, teen, young adult Christian story about colonialism & a female immigrant missionary finding her calling on the Great Plains in the 1800s. It hits alot of the important plights regarding the indoctrination & resettlement of indigenous of central plains in a very clean mild way. Hopefully readers will dig deeper into this part of history even tho it's much more unpleasant than what's written in this novel. The audio reader is adequate but reading the book not performing it. 3.5
June 3, 2019
Couldn't put this one down! It was just the right balance of the character's feelings and the events of the book. Every time it seemed predictable, it changed course. Kept true to historical context of the story as well. Excellent read!
April 18, 2025
My first book by this excellent author. Catherine has a special gift of taking us along for a journey. You soon forget that this a novel. That these wonderful people you have learned to care so much for, have been uniquely created y this wonderful writer.
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