The Reluctant Pioneer

by Julie McDonald Zander

Matilda Koontz cherishes her life as a wife and mother on a Missouri farm, but her hardworking husband wants to claim free farmland in the Pacific Northwest. When he suggests selling the farm to trek two thousand miles across the Oregon Trail, she balks.

But in the spring of 1847, Matilda and Nicholas Koontz and their sons embark on a grueling journey westward. Fresh graves testify to dangers of disease, accidents, starvation, and a multitude of hazards threatening her family and her beloved’s dream.

With new struggles at every turn, Matilda wonders how she can protect her sons on such a perilous journey. Will they reach the trail’s end? Will the babe growing inside her womb survive?

When tragedy strikes, the question changes: How can she possibly continue?

This pioneer woman’s journey is inspired by a true story.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Historical, Westerns

352 pages, Paperback

First published September 20, 2024

Reviews

[Jeanette Durkin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! This book is amazing! The Oregon Trail is a part of history that has always interested me! The author's writing brings to life the joys and trials that the pioneers faced.

The characters are written brilliantly! Matilda is someone that I'd like to emulate. She's a wonderful wife, mother, and friend. Her faith sustains her through many trials and harrowing circumstances. Nicholas is such a good father and provider. Captain Magone is another favorite. He's a strong leader, compassionate and caring.

I'm glad that the author, Julie McDonald Zander, did not shy away from writing about the difficulties that the pioneers faced. Lives were lost, injuries happened, and starvation was a constant fear. But, there were the joys of new life to be celebrated, friendships formed, and the hope for a better future.

I look forward to reading more books by this author! I was provided a complimentary copy of the book from St. Helen's Press via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[linda hole · Rating 3 out of 5]

I always find it interesting to read about the Oregon trail. The book was for me a little bit slow, i really liked the Main characters, their strength and spirituality . It was interesting to follow their daily lives on the trail. And the ending felt a little bit abrupt for me, it left me with questions i Will not get answered. But I am very glad i read the book. 3.5 stars . Thank you to netgalley for letting me read this e arc in exchange for an honest opinion

[Wendy Glassford · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have never wrote a review before...I usually just read the book and give it Stars. However, this book by far is one of the best books I have ever read. It's filled with just enough true history to get me interested and to keep me intrigued but has that feel of a true historical fiction book that grabs me and it won't let me go. This book will be one of the few I will keep on my shelf to read again and again. I can't wait to read more fiction from Julie McDonald Zander!

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book gave a compassionate and comprehensive perspective of the Oregon Trail journey. I was eager to read this book since it is based on a historical legend from my community, researched & written by a local author. My own 3x great grandparents crossed the country by covered wagon, so I was extra invested in reading about the journey.
The main character was relatable, including her anxiousness about leaving the Midwest and the decisions she had to make about her next chapter in the Oregon Territory after her arrival. I was engaged in every chapter as the details of day-to-day trail life was intertwined with the main character’s hopes & fears. I was inspired by her faith that comforted her throughout the hardships.
It left me wondering if there might be a sequel of her life as Washington became part of the US, or perhaps stories about the next generations of her family.
All in all, a great book and highly recommended for history lovers!

[Sussie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! I learned so much about the Oregon Trail. I enjoyed seeing the character development. If you are looking for a clean historical fiction romance, this book is for you!


This ARC was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Lynda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 5 stars ~ Genre: Historical fiction ~ Pages: 396 ~ Publish Date: 1 Oct 2024

Far from another Oregon Trail book, this poignant story was inspired by a true one. And it pulled at my heartstrings. I suspect it will do the same for you. I wonder how many husbands announced to their wives they were going west. And the wife had the same reaction Matilda Koontz had — “What!” followed by “No.” I was drawn to this book by the description. Plus I’m the family genealogist with ancestors who were the first settlers in what became Sullivan County, Missouri. As well as a yet-to-be-proved, great or great-great-grandmother “born in a covered wagon”. I have none who took the Oregon Trail. I am always pulled to a story about pioneers—the courage they had to travel into the unknown.

“All her direct blood descendants had died out, so there was no one left to tell her story,” Zander said. “I thought someone should.”[1] And I for one am so glad she did.

I highly recommend “The Reluctant Pioneer”. It is gripping. It’s filled with facts. It’s based on the journey Matilda (Glover) Koontz Jackson and her family took in 1847. Matilda was later known as “Washington Territory’s Grand Lady”. The book did not feel like a 396-page tome — I read it in four days. Never forget the book is what I would call “semi-fiction” and is based on a true story.

I can’t imagine embarking on such a journey with four young children. Henry, age 8. Barton (Bart), age 6. Grundy, age 5. And Johnny, age 3. And she was pregnant with child number five. Keep in mind the first wagon train to Oregon was in 1836. The major migration via the Oregon Trail began in 1843. Nicholas Koontz had Lansford W. Hastings’ book, “The Emigrants’ Guide to Oregon and California” (published in 1845).[2]

Be sure to read the “Author’s Note” at the end of the book.

I received a complimentary DRC (digital review copy) of “The Reluctant Pioneer” via NetGalley from the publisher, BooksGoSocial. A positive review was not required; the opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

Rating: 5 stars
Cover: Perfect
Pages: 396
Publish Date: 1 October 2024
#TheReluctantPioneer #NetGalley #JulieMcDonaldZander

[1] Source: Sharing the Untold Story of ‘Washington Territory’s Grand Lady’.
[2] Note: The Donner Party used this same guide.

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this book in exchange for an honest review.
Stories of pioneers and their journeys west are a good reminder of how the PNW was formed. This book shows the treacherous conditions the pioneers faced. It also shows how some Indians were friendly and others no as much.

[Judy Zell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Christian fiction based on the true story of a family with 4 young children traveling west on the Oregon Trail in 1847. They had many harrowing adventures during the 6-month journey, so there are several prayers and Bible verses in this gripping book.

[Jeri Stockdale · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a good read. The title fits for this wife and mother who doesn't want to head west in 1847 as part of a wagon train to the Oregon Territory. She has good reasons for wanting to stay with the life she knows and loves. I felt for her and could imagine myself in her place. There are plenty of risky situations full of tension that kept me turning pages. It's an excellent story and the bonus is that it's based on a true story of one of Oregon's early pioneer women, Matilda Koontz. I highly recommend it!

[Tracie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Several people have written nonfiction accounts of the Oregon Trail, but Julie McDonald has crafted a living, breathing story. With humor and tenderness, Zander portrays pioneers as real people. Matilda is a woman of faith who experiences realistic doubts and fears, and her children add to the story. The author’s depiction of Joseph Magone as wagon train captain is well-done and gives readers a portrait of a true leader. Zander effectively wove together fact and fiction to create a satisfying ending for readers as well.
I received a complimentary review copy. All opinions are my own.

[Yvonne Kays · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this historical novel! Julie McDonald Zander truly took us on the dangerous journey the pioneers made in wagon trains crossing the country to the Oregon Territory. Wonderful details brought to life the sacrifices, difficulties, and the courage needed to traverse the Oregon Trail, based on the true story of Matilda and Nicholas Koontz, leaving their home in Missouri for the Pacific Northwest. Excellent writing, touching story, highly recommend!

[Carmen · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fabulous book about Matilda Koontz and her reluctant decision to follow her husband West on the Oregon Trail. Their trials and tribulations were unthinkable, and I cannot fathom their hardship. This well-written book is filled with twists and turns, starvation, and danger. And let's not forget about hope and community.

A super debut book by Julie McDonald Zander. Well done!

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading "Washington Territory's Grand Lady...", I knew her story, but having it in fiction was such a delight. The sights, sounds, and emotions are very realistic as I traveled with Matilda.

[Mary E Trimble · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Reluctant Pioneer, a novel by Julie McDonald Zander, is an inspiring story of faith and determination of a family who treks two thousand miles along the Oregon Trail.

Matilda Koontz loves her life. She and her husband Nicholas are the parents of four rambunctious boys ranging in ages from eight to three. They live on a Missouri farm, but Nicholas fears the land won’t be enough to sustain their sons when they grow up and have families of their own. Matilda balks when Nicholas suggests they sell their farm and trek two thousand miles west where they can claim free land. She eventually agrees and they sell their farm and say goodbye to their Missouri family. Matilda realizes she will probably never again see her beloved aging mother.

In the spring of 1847 the Koontzes join a wagon train and embark on their grueling journey westward bound for the Willamette Valley, Oregon. Their covered wagon, pulled by four oxen, is stuffed with essential tools, clothing and food. Rather than ride in the wagon as it bounces and jerks along on the rough trail, they walk. Matilda is just beginning to realize she is again pregnant, but she often carries their youngest son or at least holds his hand as they trudge along the hot dusty trail. They are sobered at the sight of fresh graves, people who have died along the way of disease or accidents. Matilda cooks their meals on an open fire. As their supplies dwindle, the men hunt, or sometimes the families are able to replenish at forts along the way. Their journey seems endless and fraught with danger.

When tragedy strikes, not once but twice, their dreams are shattered. How can they possibly continue? What happens next is a testament to faith and determination.

Although the Reluctant Pioneer is a work of fiction, it was inspired by a true story. Author Julie McDonald Zander has also written an award-winning non-fiction story of this brave woman: The Story of Matilda (Glover) Koontz Jackson. Both the novel and non-fiction books are inspirational and worthy accounts of this brave woman.

[Andrea · Rating 4 out of 5]

I very much enjoyed travelling west from Missouri to Oregon with Matilda and her family.  Coming from New Zealand, this history is little known to me, but Julie McDoanld Zander painted such a vivid picture of day to day life.....settlers suffering with a mundane diet and the endless chores, combined with periods of high drama and absolute terror.
"The Reluctant Pioneer" is a historical fiction book based on the true story of the well known american history figure Matilda Koontz and her family; along with an ensemble cast of fellow travellers caravaning across the Oregon trail.
Matilda (Glover) Koontz was thirty-seven years old, a pregnant wife, and the mother of four young sons when her husband struck the idea of moving his family to the other side of the USA, so his sons would have ample land to farm when they grew up. Matilda was very hesitant...rightly so. But in those times, females bowed to the wishes of the husband. Starting in May 1847, their trek across the Oregon Trail,  to the promised free fertile farmland in the Willamette Valley, was an epic journey. Physically and mentally tough. Many lives were lost along the way. 
Like many others on the trail, Matilda relied heavily on scriptures to calm her mind and nerves. Her faith is sorely tested and she questions why God sends her such hardship and grief (I don't want to elaborate as a spoiler).
This is Matilda's personal journey. She sure was resilient and gained a reputation for hospitality, kindness, care for others (especially those women on the trail who gave birth) and good cooking! 
Thanks to NetGalley, Julie McDonald Zander and BooksGoSocial for my copy of this fabulous read.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love books set on the Oregon Trail and have read many of them over the years. This one was slightly different in that it focused more on family and the relationships between the fellow travelers, than on the Trail itself. That said, there were still some hardships faced along the way - realistic issues that we know happened to the pioneers themselves. I was appreciative of the way this "new to me" author brought faith aspects into the story such as the reliance and dependence on God. We follow the story of Matilda and Nicholas Koontz leaving Missouri with their four young sons, seeking a better life in the Oregon Territory. Much happens along the way, but I won't go into spoiler specifics. This book kept my attention the entire way, through twists and turns. At the end, I was surprised to learn via the author's note that this was based on a real person and family! As a northwest native myself (with family that also braved some difficult times to get here many years ago), I was very happy to learn about another bit of Pacific Northwest history I didn't know. I'm hoping for more books by this author in the future!

Many thanks to NetGalley for a free copy of this book to read and review.

[Jacqui · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspired by a true story, Julie McDonald Zander's The Reluctant Pioneer (St. Helens Press 2024) is an excellent fictionalized historical recount of the ten-month (I think--maybe longer) Oregon Trail journey traveled by so many settlers in the second half of the 1800's and one of the most prominent methods the fledgling country had to open the western lands to settlement. Told through the eyes of Matilda Koontz, who reluctantly agrees to the long journey with her husband and four children, one more on the way, and a 100+ wagon train of similar families, to seek the life her husband is sure is better than what they leave behind. The details include some well known--like dangerous river crossings, hunger and privation, sickness, Indian threats--but also, others rarely spoken of in other Oregon Trail books--how they made limited supplies last and helped each other do the impossible. At times, the story could be called tedious because of all the detail but the trip was tedious so I felt their fatigue, their bone weariness. For me, this particular Oregon Trail book was eye opening and delightful. 

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars
The Reluctant Pioneer
Julie Mcdonald Zander
An absolute masterpiece of a book, easily my favorite book of the year! This is by far one of the best books, I have read on the Oregon trail and early American history. I felt as if I was right there walking/riding alongside of Matilda and her family. I had a very hard time putting this book down.
As a woman living in the US, it's easy to forget that life was not always so easy. The only transportation available in the mid 1800s was horse, wagon or feet. A pregnant Matilda, her husband Nicholas and their four boys left their home and everything they knew to walk/drive their wagon led by oxen 1800 miles from Missouri to Oregon with the hopes of free land and a better life for their family. What a journey they had!
The author has based this book on a true story and has done a masterful job of retelling their story and the story of so many of those who made this same or similar journey.

I highly recommend this book to everyone.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and Netgalley.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspired by a true story, Matilda’s journey comes to life in this remarkable portrayal of the courage and tenacity of the pioneer spirit. Julie McDonald Zander demonstrates the trials and perils of the Oregon trail in a realistic way that will have your heart pounding and eyes dripping well before you reach the end.
Although I have read other stories about the Oregon Trail, I will never think of it the same way ever again. These are the kinds of brave heroes we need to hear about today: people who trusted in God to see them through the most extreme of circumstances.
Pick this book up and you will not be able to put it down. It is a compelling read, as well as an important depiction of a part of American history that should never be forgotten.
*I received a complimentary copy of this ebook from BooksGoSocial through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Ethel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Westward ho the wagons! In the spring of 1847, Matilda and Nicholas Koontz and their 4 sons embark on a challenging journey westward. This after persuading Matilda to sell the farm and leave on the Oregon Trail to claim a homestead. Not wanting to leave Missouri and her family, this devout woman finally agrees after much reading of the Bible and her faith in God. The two thousand mile trip, which takes 6 months, is filled with danger, and challenges as they cross difficult terrain and rivers. The daily trek is hard on the families, as most walk along the wagons. Babies are born on this journey, people face hardships and death. This book is based on a true story of Matilda Koontz, well researched and well written. My thanks to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a read that makes you feel lucky, these are the people that helped make this country and some gave it all.
A story based on the life of Matilda Koontz Jackson, a real person, but a fictional tale of what might have happened to her.
We are with Matilda and Nicholas and their four sons as they embark on a life changing trip in 1847 from Missouri to Oregon, as they travel the Oregon Trail.
This is such a good read, and I was page turning for answers, these are really hard times, and we don't know whom will survive to the destination.
Be sure to read the epilogue and author's notes, I loved the updates!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher BookGoSocial, and was not required to give a positive review.

[Emma Filbrun · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am not a fan of the typical “prairie romance” Christian fiction books, but when I saw that this book was based on the life of a real woman, I decided to give it a chance. I’m glad I did—I enjoyed it. This book is quite different from a lot of others I have read. It does not romanticize the Oregon Trail, but describes it in all its dusty boredom and danger. I enjoyed following Matilda on the trip she really hadn’t wanted to take, and watching her learn more about God and drawing closer to Him as she experienced trials and then tragedy. Read this book if you enjoy historical fiction based on reality.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley, and these are my honest thoughts about it.

[Vicki F · Rating 5 out of 5]

Based upon the life of Matilda Koontz Jackson, The Reluctant Pioneer by Julie McDonald Zander is an inspiring yet heart-wrenching tale of her travels from Missouri to Oregon on the wagon train. Although most of the characters were real, it is a work of historical fiction. As would be characteristic of that time period, a strong Christian faith is prominent in the lives of the pioneers.

Staying true to the time period, historical facts, and actual events, Zander has written a moving, emotional work.

Releases Sep 20th. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Robin Willson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Matilda really didn't want to go to Oregon. Her husband was determined though. Very well told and moving story of her journey - based on a historical figure. Strengthened by Christian lessons as she learned to adapt and persevere through her own trials and those around her. Many history lessons brought to life throughout. Would make a great movie. A meaningful story with substance.

I received this book free from the author and NetGalley review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
#TheReluctantPioneer #NetGalley #JulieMcDonaldZander #BooksYouCanFeelGoodAbout #BooksGoSocial

[Jean Mader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have ready many, many books this summer. And my favorite book is…”The Reluctant Pioneer” by Julie McDonald Zander. I truly loved this book and I highly recommend it.

I have many reasons for highly praising this book which personalizes a major historical event. 300,000 to 400,000 people traveled the Oregon Trail from 1840-160. It was an epic migration as pioneers headed from the mid-west to the Oregon Territory, mainly via covered wagon groups. “The Reluctant Pioneer” is Matilda, a young woman married to “good guy” Nicholas, and mother of 4 young, sweet and adorable boys. Her husband is eager to head to Oregon to establish a better life for his family. Matilda is reluctant, because she must leave behind her family and way of life.

The trail to Oregon is filled with excitement, eagerness, and hardships. This fascinating story makes the 6 month journey of over 2,000 miles come to life. And readers will be reminded of the hope, courage, and faith of these sturdy pioneer forefathers. Matilda’s story is based on a true story.

This is a very well-written book. (Reminiscent of Janette Oke.)Well done, author Julie McDonald Zander. Thanks to Net Galley, St. Helens Press and Books Go Social for an advance digital review copy. This is my honest review.

[B Yvonne · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked the storyline and the main characters. The way the book is written kept my attention and I really like the writing style. It makes you want to finish the book. That had a downside for me because the build-up felt very slow. Because of this I lost my interest a bit but because of the way it is written I did finish it and I was curious how it would end. The ending was a bit rushed for me compared to the rest. For anyone who likes slow-moving books this is definitely recommended. Overall it was a good book.

[Kathleen Ryder · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book, it is very much in the vein of Janette Oke’s Love Comes Softly series, especially book 3, Love’s Long Journey.

This is a historical fiction book based on the true story of Matilda Koontz and her family who travelled the Oregon trail in covered wagons. At 37, pregnant, and a mother of four sons already, it was an epic journey. Physically and mentally tough, with many lives lost along the way. Like many other travellers, Matilda relied of her faith in God to get her through.

Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this ARC in return for my honest review.

[Cathleen Cooney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed in the United States on January 13, 2025
An excellent, well written and very enjoyable book. Author, Julie McDonald Zander, did an amazing amount of research to bring the Oregon Trail to life for her readers. Based on a true story
I really enjoyed reading the story of Matilda and her family as they made the journey from Missouri to Oregon.
The fact that the book is based on a true story makes it very emotional and interesting. I highly recommend reading The Reluctant Pioneer. it's a page turner and you won't want to put it down. Enjoy!

[Carol Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a journey! This story captured my imagination and raised my appreciation for the Oregon Trail pioneers. It was difficult to stop reading at night and I could hardly wait to continue reading at my next opportunity.

Most of us take our present benefits for granted without considering the sacrifices made to establish new settlements in the areas where we now live. Matilda’s faith, surrender, bravery, heartbreaks, losses, gains, and discoveries will permeate my thoughts for some time.

[Jackie Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a well written story of one families journey on the Oregon trail. This story of Matilda and Nicholas Koontz shows the excitement, worries, heartache and joy that the people on Oregon trail. It reminds us of the struggles these early settlers had in coming to the Pacific Northwest. Very good book that kept my attention and moved quickly. Highly recommend.