Dr. Zoe Cavendish: Frontlines on the Frontier

by Colleen Neily

Based on a true story and set during the Great Depression, Dr. Zoe Cavendish finds herself torn between societal expectations and her desires. Zoe embarks on a pioneering adventure of Northwestern Alberta as one of the first female Canadian doctors. As she traversed the ethical waters as a feminist in 1930, she also had to conquer treacherous challenges, including harsh weather conditions and rugged landscapes, using limited resources. Her dream of being a medical doctor and humanitarian to frontier immigrants and the Indigenous Beaver tribe comes at a great personal cost. Her indomitable, provocative spirit and unwavering determination against all odds propel her forward while torn between love and duty. Will she succeed or succumb to the pressures of society? Find out in this captivating tale of passion, betrayal, and redemption.

266 pages, Paperback

Published February 21, 2024

About the author

Hi there! I wanted to share something with you. Writing has always been a passion of mine, something that I started doing seriously after a long and fulfilling career in nursing that spanned over four decades. I love researching, exploring history or current topics, and unearthing fascinating stories that I can bring to life on paper.
Writing, a gift I've honed over the years, has taken various forms-from columns in local newspapers, articles in nursing professional magazines, to hospital policies and procedures. I've even compiled books filled with unpublished poems and short stories, waiting for the perfect moment to share them professionally. The prospect of this new career path brims with endless possibilities, and I am excited that I’ve started this new chapter of my life.
Recently, I had the honour of publishing my debut historical fiction novel, Dr. Zoe Cavendish—Frontlines on the Frontier. This captivating tale is based on the life of my great Aunt, one of Canada's first female doctors, in 1929. Her story, a testament to resilience and feminism, is a unique narrative that overcame countless barriers. Can you imagine the challenges she faced as a woman on the Northern Frontier in Alberta during that time? It's a story that fills me with immense pride to share.
When I am not writing, I enjoy spending time outdoors with my husband, Michael, at our lake house. I also find solace in gardening, hiking, canoeing, and fishing. Since my nursing career kept me busy, I have been catching up on movies. I even watch Disney movies with my grandchildren, who range in age from three months to twenty years. It is a great experience to share these moments with them. As a Christian woman, my motto is to put my family first and pay it forward whenever possible.

Reviews

[Adele Lamothe · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this novel about an extraordinary woman who challenged norms and overcame countless obstacles.

Dr Zoe Cavendish defies expectations as she fearlessly tackles her role as a medical missionary in Alberta’s northern frontier in the late 1920s. Battling against skepticism and the harsh elements of nature, Dr Zoe’s determination is boundless as she navigates the untamed wilderness on horseback to tend to her patients. Snowstorms and floods are no match for this resilient doctor who is guided by her unwavering faith.

Inspired by real events, this beautiful story will transport you to the rugged landscape of the northern frontier as Dr Zoe changes lives and brings communities together. But amidst the chaos of her demands, will there be room in her heart for love? You’ll have to read it to find out!

[Henry Wilkinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed it a lot. I spent time in the Peace River area as a young man, and reading about Dr Zoe's adventures there brought many good memories. The descriptions of the frontier living were very well done, and the story with its villains and heroes kept me interested all the way through.

[Carol Owens · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting read about the Peace River area based on the memoirs of their female frontier physician.

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. A quick read from a local Canadian Author about her ancestor who was one of the first female doctors and the challenges she faced.