Stay with the Wagons

Ghosts Along the Oregon Trail #3

by David Fitz-Gerald

Venture deep into the uncharted wilderness and crest the continental divide.

Stay with the Wagons is the enthralling third chapter in the Ghosts Along the Oregon Trail series. Dorcas Moon has discarded her mourning dress and yearns for freedom and independence amidst the vast frontier. But a perilous world and a commanding wagon master keep her tethered. Ultimately, it's a brutal bout of fever and ague that confine her to camp.

Relentless disasters and beguiling challenges unfold in this installment. A young man is crushed beneath a wagon wheel. Dorcas' son breaks an arm, a grizzly bear attacks the wagon train, and the looming threat of attacking outlaws whips the emigrants into a worried frenzy. How many must perish before they reach the end of the trail?

As chaos reigns, her troubled daughter, Rose, disappears once again, leading Dorcas on a perilous quest. Tracking Rose to a sacred site, they encounter a blind seer and a legendary leader, Chief Washakie. Rose's enchantment with Native American adornments sparks Dorcas' concern about an unexpected suitor and raises worries about Rose's age.

Stay with the Wagons is bursting with action, adventure, and survival. It is a story of resilience and empowerment on the Oregon Trail.

Claim your copy now and re-immerse yourself in a tale of high-stakes survival, unexpected alliances, and the indomitable spirit of Dorcas Moon.

Genres: Historical Fiction

235 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 15, 2024

About the author

David Fitz-Gerald writes frontier and pioneer western fiction from the wilds of western Vermont—about as far west as you can get without slipping into New York.

Though he’s never wrangled beeves to market, Dave was a top hand on his grandfather’s dude ranch in the Adirondack Mountains… before he turned ten. He’s lived most of his life on dirt roads. Whenever he gets the chance, he travels west to recharge his spirit on the windswept prairies.

He’s an Adirondack 46’er which means that he’s hiked to the top of every mountain in the park. In 2018, Dave completed the 1960s fitness craze by hiking 50 miles in one day. That’s one heck of a long walk, but not nearly as grueling as the iconic trails that he chases in his fiction.

Even after all these years, Dave still has his head in the clouds like Ken from My Friend Flicka, and a quiet, self-reliant spirit like Sam from The Trumpet of the Swan. That blend of wonder, heart, and spirit runs through the characters he portrays. His editor states he is “exceptionally good at creating real moments between characters”—and readers seem to agree.

Dave’s breakthrough series, Ghosts Along the Oregon Trail won Chanticleer’s Grand Prize for Book Series. He’s now the author of nearly twenty novels and counting, and as long as there’s coffee in the kitchen, Dave will be plotting one adventurous story after another.

Reviews

[Fred Barnes · Rating 5 out of 5]

HALF WAY TO OREGON, THE MOON FAMILY & THEIR FELLOW TRAVELERS MEET THE CHALLENGES HEAD ON

☆☆☆☆☆

Walking beside their oxygen driven wagons twenty miles a day, six days a week, on the move before sunrise, full of the few possessions to survive their trek through the wonderous landscape along the Oregon Trail meeting friendly Indians, mountain men, and even a few famous people from their time. Their group face faces river crossings, wolfs, bears, and rattlesnakes. It's not a walk or hike in nature that we might take on a day off or even a weekend camping trip with dangers around every corner and behind every rock and these people press on daily to reach what they hope is the land of milk and honey.

Dorcas Moon and her family not only experience the marvelous sights on the trail, they meet the famous mountain man Jim Bridger at Fort Bridger and Luis Vaskiss. They spend the 74th July 4th celebration and are treated to a BBQ and contests of breaking in a horse, shooting, archery, and even axe throwing.

Stay with the Wagons: A Pioneer Western Adventure (Ghosts Along the Oregon Trail Book 3) by David Fitz-Gerald is a well written tell of the hardships and joys of those who left the frontier of known civilization for the promise of free land to call their own in the land of milk and honey. This is a very enjoyable book and series and I hope you will enjoy it as much as I have.

Quotes:

"The Oregon Trail seems like an endless succession of trials, tribulations, and tragedies."

"The lure of excitement and adventure aren't to blame when things go wrong."

"I'll never understand how anybody can think that color of someone's skin makes them more or less human than another."

[Gail Cook · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book from the author.

Well this story just tells me what a modern day softie I am with my centrally heated house and a car to travel around in.

Dorcas and the rest of the travelling village, as she calls it, are really having a tough time. The fears of facing wild animals and snakes have been added to with stories from another wagon train of robbing murderers.

The deaths keep coming, mixed in with some good news too.

This is a really good series that describes a time of harsh living as some people travelled to find a better life for themselves and their families.

Bring on book 4.

[kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

You know how when a friend is telling you their dream and you can't wait for them to finish because other people's dreams are boring. Has anyone you have ever told a dream to begged you to tell it to them again. No? Didn't think so. So way too many dream sequences. Imho.

If you have a daughter with obvious mental illness do not encourage her to get married. Rose is bat shit crazy. She shouldn't marry an Indian a white man or somebody from another planet. What should they do with her? I'm truly clueless. It's1850. I can't imagine there are any good options. There are barely any in 2024 for the mentally challenged. But back to Rose. Getting married. Setting up house, tent, teepee or igloo is going to be problematic for her. The inevitable pregnancies more so.

That said I did enjoy the story and am lookin forward to the next one.

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am loving this series and these characters!!❤️

[Cathie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I scream at the path. “You should be ashamed of yourself. How much is enough? You are the Devil’s highway. Why do you do this to people? How many lives must you ruin? Are you out to get us? What next? Must we all die? Leave us alone and let us go in peace. I don’t know how much more we can take.”

Dorcas Moon left for Oregon with a clear vision of what her life would be like when her family reached their destination. Her husband, Larkin, would become a banker, fulfilling a lifelong dream, and her children would grow up in a land of possibilities.

It has been a few weeks since Larkin Moon’s death, and Dorcas is still trying to figure out what the future now looks like for herself and her children. That is, if they make it to Oregon. The road is thwart with danger, and a new tragedy seems to strike the journeying caravan at every turn. How much is too much?
And can the travellers reach their destination before death takes them all?

Stay with the Wagons is the third instalment of David Fitz-Gerald’s enthralling series, Ghosts Along the Oregon Trail. This book picks up where the last instalment left off, following Dorcas Moon and her family on a perilous journey. Amidst mounting tensions and inevitable sorrow, the lines begin to blur between what can be classed as an inevitable accident, and what seems to be the road pushing back, enveloping the caravan in a foreboding aura.

The path to Oregon seems never-ending, and yet, Dorcas can’t bring herself to turn her family around. Their journey has taken them far, and they have invested enough time and sacrificed too much. They can’t just head back to what they once called home. It seems like they have no other choice but to persevere and continue their journey, even though they don’t seem to know what they are travelling for anymore. Losing Larkin was enough of a life-changing event and brought enough grief by itself. But slowly, death comes to visit more and more people. Dorcas has never been one to bow to speculation, nor one with any semblance of belief in the supernatural, but the further they travel, the more it seems that their journey is cursed. The intense layer of uncertainty in this story immerses the reader in Dorcas’s journey. Dorcas often finds herself unnerved throughout this novel, and the reader alongside her can’t help but feel the same.

As this series progresses, Dorcas remains an incredibly well-crafted character and one that the reader can admire for her tenacity, but as she faces one thing after another, Dorcas’s resolve begins to crack. Mr Fitz-Gerald has masterfully created an underlying sense of danger within his story, putting the reader on edge as Dorcas, who has been such a strong and determined character thus far in the series, begins to doubt herself, and question things she had previously been absolutely certain about.

Dorcas’s daughter, Rose, takes on a greater role and becomes more central to the narrative in this book. Since the start of the journey, Rose has been a major source of concern for Dorcas. She became fixated on the graves along the road, and though her behaviour of having one-sided conversations, as if she were communicating with the dead, was initially dismissed as a vivid imagination, her peculiar actions have now become a significant worry. Rose is often found in a trance, as though she were living in a different realm and could neither see nor hear those around her. More worrying, though, is her tendency to wander away from the wagons without telling anyone where she is going, or leaving any trace of what might have caught her attention. Rose seems to simply vanish, and until she is found, her existence becomes an unsolvable conundrum. Life on the trail is dangerous enough. To step off the path, and away from the protection offered by the wagons, is a risk certainly not worth taking. At times, it can be difficult not to grow frustrated with Dorcas over how she approaches the situation with Rose. When he was alive, Larkin had been insistent that Rose was simply going through a phase, and that she would grow out of it quickly. While Dorcas tries to follow his parenting style, even after his passing, she does spend a lot of time away from her own wagon, leaving Rose to her own devices, and more often than not, she returns to find Rose nowhere to be found. The reader does have a slightly increased level of information on what dangers lie in situ, but Dorcas’s concern over the welfare of her family in this novel does appear overshadowed by how little time she spends with them, which only makes the reader more on edge. The tension in the novel reaches new heights as the reader is left to imagine where Rose is and the danger she could be in.

The series as a whole has a fascinating layout, meticulously crafted with attention to the historical detail. Each chapter of the book chronicles a day on the road, giving it the feel of a personal journal, which is a unique and effective storytelling approach. To fully grasp and immerse oneself in the story, it is crucial to read this series in sequential order, as each book seamlessly continues from where the previous one ended, creating a single cohesive narrative.

This novel achieves greater depth by including short segments that provide insight into the positions and actions of a group of outlaws on the road. The outlaws are characters in their own right, who all very much have their own stories to tell. Through the use of these short snippets, the author effectively builds tension for the reader. While the caravan is aware of the outlaws, the reader’s knowledge of their plans leaves them with a feeling of helplessness as they await the outcome.

As the series progresses, the tension and uncertainty are becoming more palpable. Stay With the Wagons: A Pioneer Western Adventure (Ghosts Along the Oregon Trail Book 3) by David Fitz-Gerald is just one piece of a much larger picture, but one of great importance. Without knowing exactly what will be the climax of the series, what the outcome will be, or when it will happen, is anxiety-inducing. This novel, this series, will captivate you and leave a lasting impression.

I Highly Recommend.

Review by Ellie Yarde
The Coffee Pot Book Club

[Paul Bennett · Rating 5 out of 5]

BLURB
Venture deep into the uncharted wilderness and crest the continental divide.

Stay with the Wagons is the enthralling third chapter in the Ghosts Along the Oregon Trail series. Dorcas Moon has discarded her mourning dress and yearns for freedom and independence amidst the vast frontier. But a perilous world and a commanding wagon master keep her tethered. Ultimately, it's a brutal bout of fever and ague that confine her to camp.

Relentless disasters and beguiling challenges unfold in this installment. A young man is crushed beneath a wagon wheel. Dorcas' son breaks an arm, a grizzly bear attacks the wagon train, and the looming threat of attacking outlaws whips the emigrants into a worried frenzy. How many must perish before they reach the end of the trail?

As chaos reigns, her troubled daughter, Rose, disappears once again, leading Dorcas on a perilous quest. Tracking Rose to a sacred site, they encounter a blind seer and a legendary leader, Chief Washakie. Rose's enchantment with Native American adornments sparks Dorcas' concern about an unexpected suitor and raises worries about Rose's age.

Stay with the Wagons is bursting with action, adventure, and survival. It is a story of resilience and empowerment on the Oregon Trail.

Claim your copy now and re-immerse yourself in a tale of high-stakes survival, unexpected alliances, and the indomitable spirit of Dorcas Moon.
265 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 15, 2024
REVIEW
Unrelenting drama, that’s what you’ll find in this tale of toil and trouble. The author has brought this amazing trek to life. It’s difficult to imagine the agonizing daily grind; the sheer magnitude of what these pioneers are trying to accomplish; the mounting fears of what lies ahead. Dorcas Moon and her disparate group of travelers continue to push on; and continue to survive the tumult and uncertainty. With more yet to come, my peeps and fellow travelers along the Oregon Trail, yoke up those oxen. There are more rivers to cross, and hills to climb. 5 Stars

[Peter Hendrycks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another quick read in the series. Dorcas seems to have bad luck. She has suffered many mishaps and tragedies, but still keeps on. She is fortunate her young kids and Stillman keep things going, while she recovers. As a parent, I would find it difficult to deal with a child as withdrawn and troubled as Rose. I hope that part has a happy ending! At least they are off the plains and into the mountains now. I like how the author weaves into the story encounters with famous Indian chiefs like Spotted Tail and Washakie. I wonder if they really were as nice as they are depicted? I guess it has to do with the situation, and the amount of respect shown on both sides......

[Kelly Alberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

“A gripping and emotional journey across the untamed frontier.”

Stay with the Wagons is a powerful continuation of the Ghosts Along the Oregon Trail series, filled with grit, heartbreak, and resilience. Dorcas Moon’s transformation from grief to determination makes her such a compelling heroine you can’t help but admire her strength as she faces one trial after another on the rugged trail. The blend of personal struggles with sweeping frontier dangers fever, wild animals, outlaws, and loss makes this installment impossible to put down.

[Stephanie · Rating 2 out of 5]

an ok read

I enjoyed book 2 better than book 3. The ending on book 2 was less of a cliffhanger than this one. This is another one that appears to stop practically mid paragraph.
So far all three “books” could have been a single book. I am glad they are on KU because they aren’t worth the $4.99 for each individual story.

[Sandy Estes · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story of the travelers along the Oregon Trail depicts many of the hardships encountered.

I love reading historical fiction about the West and this series is one of the best I have read!
Dorcas, her family and fellow travelers encountered Disease Accidents Death Robbers And a grizzly bear. The will to survive Is strong

[michael e. atkinson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good books with one major flaw.

I just had to stop reading this third one. That ridiculous, childish Viper bs is just too hard to take. Fitz must have let his pres teen daughter write that part. Sad you would screw up a book like that. Ill never read another of these.

[Carol · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wagon train

I have grown very fond of the characters in these books....they are very interesting and they make me anxious to continue this series. They are entertaining and exciting...good read!

[JoAnn HIcks · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful series! Western fiction is not the usual
type of book I read, but I'm so excited I have stumbled upon this author. I'm on the fourth book in the series and I know I'll be sad when it's finished.

[Candie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stay With The Wagons

A continuation of the first 2 books in the series and just as exciting. I can’t wait for the next book.
I still feel like I’m following along on the Oregon Trail with the wagon train. And, all the excitement of the trip, whether it’s good or bad.

[Deborah Kosnett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent read!

This is the third book of five, regarding a group of settlers traveling the Oregon trail. Their journey is not typical, and I can't wait to see what happens in the next two books!

[Mandy Gerwig · Rating 4 out of 5]

this one was a little slower moving than the rest and it is hard to believe that Rose is only 13 years old because she is acting much older! I know times were different then but this seems a little far-fetched.

[Loretta · Rating 3 out of 5]

Third book in a 5 book series. I’m enjoying the characters and getting to know them more as the series continues. Some parts of the book seem unlikely, mostly pertaining to the daughter, Rose. She’s only thirteen and her antics seem very unrealistic. Time to move along to book 4!

[Earlene Click · Rating 5 out of 5]

third book in this series

This, the third book in this adventurous series does not fail to please. There continues to be excitement and danger.

[Jeannie N Sommers · Rating 4 out of 5]

Part three in the series keeps us interested. love learning more about the wagon, trains, and what are ancestors went through. The characters are very good.

[Robert Kennedy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stay With the wagonns

A wonderful read. There were lots of questions and later answers. But still unanswered was the behavior of Rose the daughter.

[Val Wilkerson · Rating 5 out of 5]

great series

I am moving directly to book four. This is a great series about the Oregon trail. It’s from a woman’s point of view.

[Wayne Money · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good Reading

I have enjoyed this series of books. I wonder how many people faced problems like those talked about in these books.

[Beverly Kee · Rating 5 out of 5]

A brilliant addition to this series!

What a great story, the hardships seem so real! I loved the wild mustang mare! Can't wait to read the next book!

[laureen strnad · Rating 5 out of 5]

Respect the past

One day at a time. Each day traveled brings a new adventure.. Each book bring me more respect of our forefathers.

[Deloris Brinks · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story continues on the trail.

I like how this story continues and include s different characters and adventures of those people who tried to describe each day.

[Sue · Rating 2 out of 5]

Although I enjoyed the first two books in the series, starting the third book, I felt like I was rereading the same thing. Couldn't go on with it.

[Jamie Laster · Rating 4 out of 5]

great continuation of the series

This is a cute story and I love how it’s broken up. Can’t wait for part 4. And see who makes it to Oregon

[Sheree Strickland]

Oregon trail

Excellent details and story of the Oregon trail. It's kind of a journal and feels more like a true story.

[Paula Clever · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW!! Great reading

[Colleen · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. Short and easy to read. Rose the daughter is getting weirder by the minute.