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The Women of Cannon Beach #1
Across the Crying Sands
In 1888 Mary Edwards Gerritse is a cheerful, well-read, witty, and confident young woman who spends as much time as possible outdoors on the rugged Oregon coast where she and her husband, John, are making a home. The two are a formidable pair, working hard to prove up their homesteading claim and build a family.
But as Mary faces the challenge of young motherhood and struggles with questions about her family of origin, she finds the fearless girl she once was slipping away. Life feels less like the adventure she thought it would be and more like a daily struggle.
When Mary loses the baby she's carrying (and nearly her own life in the process), she finds an unconventional way to bring the joy back into her by taking over a treacherous postal route. As Mary becomes the first female mail carrier to traverse the cliff-hugging mountain trails and remote "crying sands" beach, with its changing tides and sudden squalls, she recaptures the spark she lost and discovers that a life without risk is no life at all.
Based on a true story.
But as Mary faces the challenge of young motherhood and struggles with questions about her family of origin, she finds the fearless girl she once was slipping away. Life feels less like the adventure she thought it would be and more like a daily struggle.
When Mary loses the baby she's carrying (and nearly her own life in the process), she finds an unconventional way to bring the joy back into her by taking over a treacherous postal route. As Mary becomes the first female mail carrier to traverse the cliff-hugging mountain trails and remote "crying sands" beach, with its changing tides and sudden squalls, she recaptures the spark she lost and discovers that a life without risk is no life at all.
Based on a true story.
304 pages, Paperback
Published May 20, 2025
95 people are currently reading
3950 people want to read
About the author
Jane Kirkpatrick
68 books1,051 followersKirkpatrick brings us a story of one woman's restoration from personal grief to the meaning of community."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
June 8, 2025
“The future would take care of itself, Mary decided. They were all writing a new chapter in their lives with its good days and bad. What mattered was not that there were unpleasant chapters, but that they were writing this story together.”
Across The Crying Sands is the first book in a new trilogy titled ‘The Women of Cannon Beach.’ Author Jane Kirkpatrick was inspired by the real-life history of one of the first female mail carriers in Oregon. In the 1890s, Mary Gerritse delivered mail via packhorse in this isolated section of the North Oregon Coast, from Tillamook to Cannon Beach.
This new-to-me author explores the universal themes of loss, grief, and friendship, and then showcases them through the lens of a newly married couple and homesteading in a rugged part of the Western USA.
My sole purpose in reading this book was to learn more about a pioneering woman who chose a career and a family at a time when this wasn’t common. However, I realized that I had more in common with Mary than I initially thought. Don’t pass on this book thinking that because it focuses on homesteading or because the main character is married with children, you won’t be able to identify with the characters. I promise you’ll find this a layered and complex read. Yes, Mary had 4 children in quick succession, and, although I can only imagine what a handful this must have been, it was the lens with which she viewed marriage that I identified with most. There were many instances where either Mary or John could have thrown in the towel and said, “Marriage isn’t what I thought it would be.” But they were two committed people who grew up (Mary was a young bride), matured, changed, and then eased into a life completely different from what they had imagined or planned. Mary could have focused on what she’d lost (her identity, her independence, or her purpose), or her guilt at needing to ask for help, or what her husband thought of her (embarrassed that she sought employment, that he couldn’t trust her alone on the homestead, or that she made poor decisions), but she knew she needed adventure, so she hired a nanny and “went to sea in a sieve.”
I appreciated learning about the origins of Tillamook, remittance men, and the definition of grace.
My takeaway: don’t overlook the power of resilience and fight for whatever you need to keep your sanity.
Mary is someone I admire, so I’ll be watching out for book 2 in this series.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Across The Crying Sands is the first book in a new trilogy titled ‘The Women of Cannon Beach.’ Author Jane Kirkpatrick was inspired by the real-life history of one of the first female mail carriers in Oregon. In the 1890s, Mary Gerritse delivered mail via packhorse in this isolated section of the North Oregon Coast, from Tillamook to Cannon Beach.
This new-to-me author explores the universal themes of loss, grief, and friendship, and then showcases them through the lens of a newly married couple and homesteading in a rugged part of the Western USA.
My sole purpose in reading this book was to learn more about a pioneering woman who chose a career and a family at a time when this wasn’t common. However, I realized that I had more in common with Mary than I initially thought. Don’t pass on this book thinking that because it focuses on homesteading or because the main character is married with children, you won’t be able to identify with the characters. I promise you’ll find this a layered and complex read. Yes, Mary had 4 children in quick succession, and, although I can only imagine what a handful this must have been, it was the lens with which she viewed marriage that I identified with most. There were many instances where either Mary or John could have thrown in the towel and said, “Marriage isn’t what I thought it would be.” But they were two committed people who grew up (Mary was a young bride), matured, changed, and then eased into a life completely different from what they had imagined or planned. Mary could have focused on what she’d lost (her identity, her independence, or her purpose), or her guilt at needing to ask for help, or what her husband thought of her (embarrassed that she sought employment, that he couldn’t trust her alone on the homestead, or that she made poor decisions), but she knew she needed adventure, so she hired a nanny and “went to sea in a sieve.”
I appreciated learning about the origins of Tillamook, remittance men, and the definition of grace.
My takeaway: don’t overlook the power of resilience and fight for whatever you need to keep your sanity.
Mary is someone I admire, so I’ll be watching out for book 2 in this series.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
April 8, 2025
This is a cover that caught my attention right away. Why? Because that's my beach! That's my beautiful Cannon Beach that I grew up visiting. So many years walking in that exact spot with those rocks. Of COURSE I'm going to read this new book by the fabulous Jane Kirkpatrick!
This book goes back to a time when the coast was still being settled. When the roads were only just being created to tie the coastal cities together. When tourism at the beach was still rapidly brighter gleam in investors' eyes. oh I enjoyed reading the names of the towns I know so well. Seaside. Tillamook. Cannon Beach.
And even though those cities are gaining attention as tourist destinations, a good chunk of this book explores the fact that much of the Oregon Territory is still unsettled and available for homesteaders if they can last.
the book begins with Mary the day before her wedding. So excited to start her new life with her beloved husband. And the book ends after several of her children have been born so you get to see a good span of years in her life. She's got major ups and downs as the reality of her marriage and what her husband has promised vs delivered arises. And also the book explores the frustration Mary feels when she's left behind with the children to "do all the work" of settling a homestead while her husband gets to leave it behind as he earns his way. She comes to the realization that she's not cut out to be left behind and fill a traditional role as wife and mother. She longs for adventure.
the book addresses Mary leaving her children behind with her mother for weeks/months as she rides a pack horse to deliver mail. As she works as a cook for the construction crew.
The plot also adds in the mystery behind who Mary actually is as we see her mother's point of view as she is hiding Mary from the truth of her childhood. Who is the man who keeps trying to find Mary? What is in the notes that Mary's mother keeps burning without reading?
The third POV is from Mary's husband as he tries to reconcile his love of Mary, his role as a husband, his perceived role of her as a wife and Mary's own personality. The things he loves most about her are the things that are also causing her to drive him crazy.
So I personally didn't really like Mary. I just couldn't relate to her burning desire for fulfillment outside of her life as wife/mother in regards to being willing to LEAVE THEM behind with her mother for weeks and months on end to pursue her need for adventure. I mean this was the partially tamed Oregon territory! It just turned me off of the story and I put the book down several times.
There is faith woven into the story as usual for the author's books.
4 Stars. Very historically sound. But I kept being able to put it down.
*Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for my ARC of this book. All opinions are 100% my own.
This book goes back to a time when the coast was still being settled. When the roads were only just being created to tie the coastal cities together. When tourism at the beach was still rapidly brighter gleam in investors' eyes. oh I enjoyed reading the names of the towns I know so well. Seaside. Tillamook. Cannon Beach.
And even though those cities are gaining attention as tourist destinations, a good chunk of this book explores the fact that much of the Oregon Territory is still unsettled and available for homesteaders if they can last.
the book begins with Mary the day before her wedding. So excited to start her new life with her beloved husband. And the book ends after several of her children have been born so you get to see a good span of years in her life. She's got major ups and downs as the reality of her marriage and what her husband has promised vs delivered arises. And also the book explores the frustration Mary feels when she's left behind with the children to "do all the work" of settling a homestead while her husband gets to leave it behind as he earns his way. She comes to the realization that she's not cut out to be left behind and fill a traditional role as wife and mother. She longs for adventure.
the book addresses Mary leaving her children behind with her mother for weeks/months as she rides a pack horse to deliver mail. As she works as a cook for the construction crew.
The plot also adds in the mystery behind who Mary actually is as we see her mother's point of view as she is hiding Mary from the truth of her childhood. Who is the man who keeps trying to find Mary? What is in the notes that Mary's mother keeps burning without reading?
The third POV is from Mary's husband as he tries to reconcile his love of Mary, his role as a husband, his perceived role of her as a wife and Mary's own personality. The things he loves most about her are the things that are also causing her to drive him crazy.
So I personally didn't really like Mary. I just couldn't relate to her burning desire for fulfillment outside of her life as wife/mother in regards to being willing to LEAVE THEM behind with her mother for weeks and months on end to pursue her need for adventure. I mean this was the partially tamed Oregon territory! It just turned me off of the story and I put the book down several times.
There is faith woven into the story as usual for the author's books.
4 Stars. Very historically sound. But I kept being able to put it down.
*Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for my ARC of this book. All opinions are 100% my own.
August 16, 2025
When I saw the title for this series, I knew I had to read it. I visited Cannon Beach for the first time two years ago, and have since dreamed of my next visit. I absolutely love the historical detail that Ms. Kirkpatrick included in the story. The rugged beauty of an area that is now a tourist draw held me riveted. I would love to have seen it before the area was settled.
I adored how the main storyline was told from the POV of Mary. She is the epitome of the women who helped to settle and forge a new life in the Pacific Northwest. Mary's character is skillfully developed as she grows into womanhood. She is torn between her life as a wife and mother with one of adventure, helping to establish a claim and as well as serving for a time as a postal carrier, traversing unsettled territory filled with danger. It is her strength and grit that attracted her husband, which he continues to respect through the years. The reality of marriage to a man she loves is full of ups and downs...very much a realistic relationship of a young couple who find time to dream, yet face reality and work through many hardships to forge a better life.
Great story, with some loose threads that I anticipate will continue in the next book. At times, the story was told from a few secondary characters POV and I am looking forward to seeing their stories fully developed in the next book(s) in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
I adored how the main storyline was told from the POV of Mary. She is the epitome of the women who helped to settle and forge a new life in the Pacific Northwest. Mary's character is skillfully developed as she grows into womanhood. She is torn between her life as a wife and mother with one of adventure, helping to establish a claim and as well as serving for a time as a postal carrier, traversing unsettled territory filled with danger. It is her strength and grit that attracted her husband, which he continues to respect through the years. The reality of marriage to a man she loves is full of ups and downs...very much a realistic relationship of a young couple who find time to dream, yet face reality and work through many hardships to forge a better life.
Great story, with some loose threads that I anticipate will continue in the next book. At times, the story was told from a few secondary characters POV and I am looking forward to seeing their stories fully developed in the next book(s) in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
May 20, 2025
A wonderful historical read based on the lives of real Oregon pioneers. The first in a new series, The Women of Cannon Beach, introduces multiple people whose lives intertwined along the northern Oregon coast.
The author's impeccable research comes through as historical figures come to life, and makes it feel like stepping back in time. Mary was like many women--facing the challenges of early married life, motherhood, and difficult times as an early homesteader. It was easy to relate to her struggles, yet inspiring to see how she rose above with the help of family, friendships and faith. This author always highlights the lives of interesting people I have never heard of before and leaves an impression of how a seemingly ordinary person, who chose to do the hard thing, could make an impact for good on generations to come.
Looking forward to more books in the series. Recommend for historical inspirational fiction fans. 4.5 stars
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
The author's impeccable research comes through as historical figures come to life, and makes it feel like stepping back in time. Mary was like many women--facing the challenges of early married life, motherhood, and difficult times as an early homesteader. It was easy to relate to her struggles, yet inspiring to see how she rose above with the help of family, friendships and faith. This author always highlights the lives of interesting people I have never heard of before and leaves an impression of how a seemingly ordinary person, who chose to do the hard thing, could make an impact for good on generations to come.
Looking forward to more books in the series. Recommend for historical inspirational fiction fans. 4.5 stars
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
May 27, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ I enjoyed the homesteading aspects and the Oregon coast descriptions. I loved learning about the difficulties the pioneers went through, the triumphs and the heartaches. Overall enjoyable read.
April 19, 2025
Wow! What an amazing book! The title is what captured my attention right away. They crying sands is an appropriate name as later revealed. It starts off with an almost devastating disaster. There are secrets kept by many of the characters that threaten their relationships. The setting in Oregon represents a tough but satisfactory existence.
Mary - she's strong physically and mentally. She's a hard worker and often has too much on her plate. John- hm. I liked him, then I didn't, and then he became a better man by the end. I admire him for trying to be the provider for his family, but sometimes the cost to his family was too much. Jewell is a jewel! She's a faithful friend, always showing up at just the right time. I hope she's in the next book!
There are a lot of questions raised that are unanswered, but the cliffhanger promises that more will be revealed.
I was provided a complimentary copy of the book from Revell via Netgalley through Interviews and Reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Mary - she's strong physically and mentally. She's a hard worker and often has too much on her plate. John- hm. I liked him, then I didn't, and then he became a better man by the end. I admire him for trying to be the provider for his family, but sometimes the cost to his family was too much. Jewell is a jewel! She's a faithful friend, always showing up at just the right time. I hope she's in the next book!
There are a lot of questions raised that are unanswered, but the cliffhanger promises that more will be revealed.
I was provided a complimentary copy of the book from Revell via Netgalley through Interviews and Reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 9, 2025
DNF about 15% in. I picked this up because of the setting; my family has vacationed in Cannon Beach for about 30 years, so I was really excited for that element.
It’s been a long time since I read a Kirkpatrick book; I enjoyed them at first but kynda stopped as I had a hard time getting into them—more character driven than plot, and a bit tedious for my taste. This is still the case for me with this read, so I’m setting it aside; I’m sure others will enjoy it, I just didn’t.
It’s been a long time since I read a Kirkpatrick book; I enjoyed them at first but kynda stopped as I had a hard time getting into them—more character driven than plot, and a bit tedious for my taste. This is still the case for me with this read, so I’m setting it aside; I’m sure others will enjoy it, I just didn’t.
May 22, 2025
Two truths came frequently to mind as I read Across the Crying Sands: 1) as I’ve long suspected, there is no way I would have survived as a pioneer, and 2) if John were my husband I would have purse whomped him with a saddlebag several times over by the end of this story. Haha! In all seriousness though, I have such admiration for real life women of the frontier who blazed more than one sort of trail for those that came after them. Even ‘just’ (and I use that word lightly) the wives and moms who held down the homestead, did the chores, raised the kids, played the role of protector and hunter and gatherer and doctor and teacher, while their husbands were employed away from home for days or weeks or even months on end. Mary Edwards Gerritse is one such heroine, and I enjoyed meeting her on the pages of Jane Kirkpatrick’s latest novel based on true events.
It’s been a minute since I’ve read a novel by this author, only since I gravitate more toward romance, but this cover, the setting, the description, and the fact that it’s the first in a series grabbed my attention. Kirkpatrick excels at bringing to life the stories of pioneer women who showed great strength in turbulent circumstances, and Across the Crying Sands is a prime example. Mary Gerritse is young and somewhat naive, but her witty personality (with a little sass thrown in for good measure) and adventurous soul serve her well when marriage and motherhood – and proving up a claim – don’t match her idealistic expectations. My heart went out to her more than once, though I also questioned several of her choices. (However, considering we’ve already established that I wouldn’t survive on the frontier, my opinion about Mary’s decisions doesn’t mean a whole lot lol) The secrets that her parents, particularly her mother, are keeping from her raised my investment in Mary’s story and I am really engaged in how this will play out in the next book. Another reason I’m looking forward to book two? Mary’s Native American friend Jewel, whom I loved so much. I can’t wait to see where her story goes from here too, especially with how Kirkpatrick leaves Jewel’s subplot in this one.
Bottom Line: Across the Crying Sands by Jane Kirkpatrick takes us to the Pacific Northwest frontier and paints a realistic and inspiring portrait of the women who loved and lost and toiled and made a life for themselves and their families against insurmountable odds. The coastal setting gave a new spin to the pioneer theme, with different challenges that gave me a fresh perspective on the rugged beauty of that area of the country (which is on my bucket list to visit) and what it took to settle it. While there were moments I got frustrated with Mary and especially John, I was nonetheless invested in their marriage and rooting for their family to thrive. And the two side characters I really loved – Jewel and Herbie – have me eager to see where their respective stories will take them in the next book(s). Kirkpatrick’s writing is smooth and poignant as she brings to life the stories of frontier women who are strong but still relatable to our more fragile selves. If you love stories like that, and if the beach calls your name, and if you don’t mind that everything isn’t wrapped up in a tidy bow at the end, then you need to read Across the Crying Sands too!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
It’s been a minute since I’ve read a novel by this author, only since I gravitate more toward romance, but this cover, the setting, the description, and the fact that it’s the first in a series grabbed my attention. Kirkpatrick excels at bringing to life the stories of pioneer women who showed great strength in turbulent circumstances, and Across the Crying Sands is a prime example. Mary Gerritse is young and somewhat naive, but her witty personality (with a little sass thrown in for good measure) and adventurous soul serve her well when marriage and motherhood – and proving up a claim – don’t match her idealistic expectations. My heart went out to her more than once, though I also questioned several of her choices. (However, considering we’ve already established that I wouldn’t survive on the frontier, my opinion about Mary’s decisions doesn’t mean a whole lot lol) The secrets that her parents, particularly her mother, are keeping from her raised my investment in Mary’s story and I am really engaged in how this will play out in the next book. Another reason I’m looking forward to book two? Mary’s Native American friend Jewel, whom I loved so much. I can’t wait to see where her story goes from here too, especially with how Kirkpatrick leaves Jewel’s subplot in this one.
Bottom Line: Across the Crying Sands by Jane Kirkpatrick takes us to the Pacific Northwest frontier and paints a realistic and inspiring portrait of the women who loved and lost and toiled and made a life for themselves and their families against insurmountable odds. The coastal setting gave a new spin to the pioneer theme, with different challenges that gave me a fresh perspective on the rugged beauty of that area of the country (which is on my bucket list to visit) and what it took to settle it. While there were moments I got frustrated with Mary and especially John, I was nonetheless invested in their marriage and rooting for their family to thrive. And the two side characters I really loved – Jewel and Herbie – have me eager to see where their respective stories will take them in the next book(s). Kirkpatrick’s writing is smooth and poignant as she brings to life the stories of frontier women who are strong but still relatable to our more fragile selves. If you love stories like that, and if the beach calls your name, and if you don’t mind that everything isn’t wrapped up in a tidy bow at the end, then you need to read Across the Crying Sands too!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
August 25, 2025
A beautiful story of a young family homesteading on the Oregon coast and the hardships and love.
May 27, 2025
I did not realize this was the first in a series. That might explain the abrupt ending of the book… but one character completely disappears without explanation! Overall I felt like I was reading a long book report.
September 10, 2025
Based on a true story, I appreciated the history about Mary Gerritse, and Cannon Beach. However, this book was a lot of narrative and not enough dialogue for me.
August 5, 2025
Just finished this beauty, and it was everything l've come to expect from a Jane Kirkpatrick story and more. More, because I learned so much about Cannon Beach and its formidable homesteaders on the rugged Oregon Coast—a place that holds special memories.
Whether or not readers relate to her, Mary Gerritse is a fascinating and remarkable woman in history. The author drew her story from Mary’s own writings, as well as newspaper accounts, and beautifully crafted a cohesive tale that would make for lively book club discussion.
Adventure packed, this one, and the writing is exquisite of course. I love, too, that the author pays tribute to the area's indigenous people and the beautiful name they gave this stretch of the coast, Crying Sands.
I rotated between the print book and audio, and the audio narrator is excellent.
Whether or not readers relate to her, Mary Gerritse is a fascinating and remarkable woman in history. The author drew her story from Mary’s own writings, as well as newspaper accounts, and beautifully crafted a cohesive tale that would make for lively book club discussion.
Adventure packed, this one, and the writing is exquisite of course. I love, too, that the author pays tribute to the area's indigenous people and the beautiful name they gave this stretch of the coast, Crying Sands.
I rotated between the print book and audio, and the audio narrator is excellent.
April 23, 2025
I loved being in the Pacific Northwest in the 1890's as the characters progress towards more updates. It was interesting to see the thoughts behind the roads that were laid and how mail was distributed.
I loved Mary and her fierce determination and resilience to survive amidst a harsh climate. She took a lot of risks in order to achieve her dreams.
There seemed to be a lot of loose ends but maybe those will weave together in the next book?
Thanks to the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.
I loved Mary and her fierce determination and resilience to survive amidst a harsh climate. She took a lot of risks in order to achieve her dreams.
There seemed to be a lot of loose ends but maybe those will weave together in the next book?
Thanks to the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.
July 5, 2025
I wonder if this couple talked about ANYTHING regarding their future plans before they got married. I understand it's a story about a woman who wants more than the traditional life of a pioneer woman but she seemed so whiney to me. And John, the adult who wanted to play the sailor, leaving his wife to manage EVERYTHING... including the babies that popped out after a shore leave. What happened to her best friend, who just vanished part way through the book?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 17, 2025
Jane Kirkpatrick is skilled at writing novels based around true stories or events and this is no exception.
In 1888 16 year old Mary Edwards is a confident and outgoing young woman who is about to marry John Gerritse and begin a new life on their homesteading claim. John, however, is less than forthcoming about the actual state of the claim Mary is expecting to move onto, which means that the young couple instead begin their married life living with Mary's parents. We soon discover that there is a question about Mary's own birth and family when we learn about her mother's fear of strangers and the familys successive moves to increasingly remote places. Indeed, her mother is happy Mary is marrying John partly because his homesteading claim is so remote! This element of the story is referred to periodically but not resolved, so looks likely to be an overarching thread through this series. Meanwhile, we are faced with the struggles Mary finds herself dealing with as she becomes a young mother in very difficult circumstances. Her free spirited character begins to feel suffocated by the demands of motherhood and the long periods when she is alone while her husband works away. There are a number of crisis points leading up to the worst, when she loses her unborn baby, and nearly her own life too. This leads to a dramatic change in her lifestyle when she's recovered. Determined to find some independence and adventure she takes on part of her husband's dangerous postal service route.
This is a story which I found took some time to connect with. For a long time I found Mary's husband John to be an unlikeable man, and Mary's parents aren't especially warm either. In the latter case, I found I understood them better as her mother's fears were more explained. If there's one key thread throughout, it's that of communication, and how the lack of it can cause serious and long-reaching issues. So far as Mary and John's marriage goes there is also the very big issue of unequal dreams and hopes. While John is impressed by Mary's strength, resilience, and spirit, he is a man who doesn't like to be challenged, to discuss his plans, or to have his wife ask questions about - well, ANYTHING, really. Which did make me wonder, several times, why he chose to marry her. It was also one of the elements which made me feel rather cool towards him! It took him a VERY long time to realise that his marriage was a partnership, not just him living his own life and making decisions which were never discussed beforehand, yet telling Mary what to do and largely ignoring her struggles.
The secondary story, about the English 'second son' Herbie I also found a bit difficult. The story is well written, obviously well researched, and the sense of place is excellent thanks to skilled descriptive writing. For me though, the characters were simply a bit flat. I'm more interested in finding out about Mary's birth family, and I'd also like to know what happens/happened to Jewell.
The faith elements are subtle and well woven. I DID like the element of 'walking prayers', something which someone who was a significant influence in my own early Christian path used to do most days in the gardens near his home. As someone who has thought a lot about the sacredness of the ordinary, I also very much liked the appreciation of Mary's mother that 'the sacred... was everywhere. One just needed to notice.'
For me I think this is a 3 1/2 star read. Despite it's many positives, I found the main characters hard work for rather too much of the book. Others may well feel differently though and that's the joy of reading fiction.
In 1888 16 year old Mary Edwards is a confident and outgoing young woman who is about to marry John Gerritse and begin a new life on their homesteading claim. John, however, is less than forthcoming about the actual state of the claim Mary is expecting to move onto, which means that the young couple instead begin their married life living with Mary's parents. We soon discover that there is a question about Mary's own birth and family when we learn about her mother's fear of strangers and the familys successive moves to increasingly remote places. Indeed, her mother is happy Mary is marrying John partly because his homesteading claim is so remote! This element of the story is referred to periodically but not resolved, so looks likely to be an overarching thread through this series. Meanwhile, we are faced with the struggles Mary finds herself dealing with as she becomes a young mother in very difficult circumstances. Her free spirited character begins to feel suffocated by the demands of motherhood and the long periods when she is alone while her husband works away. There are a number of crisis points leading up to the worst, when she loses her unborn baby, and nearly her own life too. This leads to a dramatic change in her lifestyle when she's recovered. Determined to find some independence and adventure she takes on part of her husband's dangerous postal service route.
This is a story which I found took some time to connect with. For a long time I found Mary's husband John to be an unlikeable man, and Mary's parents aren't especially warm either. In the latter case, I found I understood them better as her mother's fears were more explained. If there's one key thread throughout, it's that of communication, and how the lack of it can cause serious and long-reaching issues. So far as Mary and John's marriage goes there is also the very big issue of unequal dreams and hopes. While John is impressed by Mary's strength, resilience, and spirit, he is a man who doesn't like to be challenged, to discuss his plans, or to have his wife ask questions about - well, ANYTHING, really. Which did make me wonder, several times, why he chose to marry her. It was also one of the elements which made me feel rather cool towards him! It took him a VERY long time to realise that his marriage was a partnership, not just him living his own life and making decisions which were never discussed beforehand, yet telling Mary what to do and largely ignoring her struggles.
The secondary story, about the English 'second son' Herbie I also found a bit difficult. The story is well written, obviously well researched, and the sense of place is excellent thanks to skilled descriptive writing. For me though, the characters were simply a bit flat. I'm more interested in finding out about Mary's birth family, and I'd also like to know what happens/happened to Jewell.
The faith elements are subtle and well woven. I DID like the element of 'walking prayers', something which someone who was a significant influence in my own early Christian path used to do most days in the gardens near his home. As someone who has thought a lot about the sacredness of the ordinary, I also very much liked the appreciation of Mary's mother that 'the sacred... was everywhere. One just needed to notice.'
For me I think this is a 3 1/2 star read. Despite it's many positives, I found the main characters hard work for rather too much of the book. Others may well feel differently though and that's the joy of reading fiction.
April 18, 2025
“It was his job to keep his family safe even if did upset her,” Mary’s husband determines in Jane Kirkpatrick’s novel, Across the Crying Sands.
~ What ~
The first book in The Women of Cannon Beach series, this 304-page paperback targets those interested in Christian historical fiction about living on the Oregon Coast in the late 1800s. With no profanity, topics of mistreatment, illness, and death may not be appropriate for immature readers. The beginning includes reviews, a list of the author’s written books, maps, and a cast of characters while the ending has a poem, sneak peek to the next book in the series, six discussion questions, the author’s notes and acknowledgments, resources, a biography, and advertisements.
In this story supported by history dating back to 1888, Mary Edwards Gerritse is married at sixteen and pregnant at seventeen in a rugged Oregon coastal town. While her husband is gone for weeks or months at a time delivering mail or helping on a ship, it is up to her to carry on and survive, even when she has four young children. With a wanderlust for adventure, she must learn how to fend for herself to find her purpose in life. Meanwhile, those around her, including her secretive mother, her uncertain husband, a foreigner wanting to prove himself, and an American Indian finding her footing, flow in and out of Mary’s life.
~ Why ~
Since I live in Oregon, I was drawn to this series that involves the state, its land, climate, and growing civilization. I enjoyed learning about the first female mail carrier of Crying Sands Beach and the building of the Elk Creek Road, which brought travelers to the remote area. The story explains well what women went through living alone on the land to survive.
~ Why Not ~
Those who do not like stories that mention God may not like this series, but it is not overdone or the focus of the book. Some may not like the tale is told by multiple characters, thus there is little closure in the first book. I found Mary selfish and controlling with the book’s ending abrupt and anticlimactic.
~ Wish ~
Having read several books by the author, I wish the eternal plan of salvation were given.
~ Want ~
If you like historical fiction about a stubborn woman’s search for freedom, even when married with children in the late 1800s, this one has a strong protagonist who is determined to find her way.
Thanks to Revell and Interviews & Reviews for this complimentary book. I am under no obligation to give a positive review.
~ What ~
The first book in The Women of Cannon Beach series, this 304-page paperback targets those interested in Christian historical fiction about living on the Oregon Coast in the late 1800s. With no profanity, topics of mistreatment, illness, and death may not be appropriate for immature readers. The beginning includes reviews, a list of the author’s written books, maps, and a cast of characters while the ending has a poem, sneak peek to the next book in the series, six discussion questions, the author’s notes and acknowledgments, resources, a biography, and advertisements.
In this story supported by history dating back to 1888, Mary Edwards Gerritse is married at sixteen and pregnant at seventeen in a rugged Oregon coastal town. While her husband is gone for weeks or months at a time delivering mail or helping on a ship, it is up to her to carry on and survive, even when she has four young children. With a wanderlust for adventure, she must learn how to fend for herself to find her purpose in life. Meanwhile, those around her, including her secretive mother, her uncertain husband, a foreigner wanting to prove himself, and an American Indian finding her footing, flow in and out of Mary’s life.
~ Why ~
Since I live in Oregon, I was drawn to this series that involves the state, its land, climate, and growing civilization. I enjoyed learning about the first female mail carrier of Crying Sands Beach and the building of the Elk Creek Road, which brought travelers to the remote area. The story explains well what women went through living alone on the land to survive.
~ Why Not ~
Those who do not like stories that mention God may not like this series, but it is not overdone or the focus of the book. Some may not like the tale is told by multiple characters, thus there is little closure in the first book. I found Mary selfish and controlling with the book’s ending abrupt and anticlimactic.
~ Wish ~
Having read several books by the author, I wish the eternal plan of salvation were given.
~ Want ~
If you like historical fiction about a stubborn woman’s search for freedom, even when married with children in the late 1800s, this one has a strong protagonist who is determined to find her way.
Thanks to Revell and Interviews & Reviews for this complimentary book. I am under no obligation to give a positive review.
June 4, 2025
Across the Crying Sands, a powerful historical novel by Jane Kirkpatrick, is book one of “The Women of Cannon Beach” series. The novel is inspired by a true story and takes place along Oregon’s Pacific coast beginning 1888.
Mary Edwards is the only child of loving parents. Her mother harbors fears and finds contentment in staying close to home and tending her family. She’s cautious, even fearful, around strangers.
Mary, 16, is happiest when outdoors, relishing the rugged Oregon coast. She marries John Gerritse, 24, originally from The Netherlands, a sailor who has sailed around the world. The two work hard to prove their homesteading claim as they start their family. It doesn’t take Mary long to realize being a wife and mother isn’t the adventure she had expected. She loves her family, but doesn’t find fulfillment in the endless feeding and caring for a rapidly growing family. She yearns for adventure, for something besides the endless drudgery of homemaking.
John works hard, and for a spell goes back to sea, then later works the land to provide for his family. To bring in extra income, he takes a mail route, riding horseback for miles, delivering mail to seaside communities. Mary, in the meantime, has had a miscarriage and experiences deep depression. She desperately needs to be outdoors, to have adventure, to do something. John finally agrees to allow Mary to take over the mail route. They hire someone to care for the children so that John can continue working the land.
Mary’s mail route takes her along the wild Pacific coast, through rugged mountain trails and remote beaches, always on the lookout for changing tides and sudden squalls. She finds the spark of life she had lost, and relishes in the adventure. But will she be able to cope with the dangers this adventure presents?
I loved this story of courage and unconventional lifestyle. Typical of Jane Kirkpatrick’s novels, she describes the history of the area, how Cannon Beach got its name, and the development of this rugged coast. Across the Crying Sands brings the settlers and landscape to life. Through Mary Edwards Gerritse, we learn that “women are capable of being good wives and mothers and having careers,” and the importance of being true to yourself and following your own values, beliefs, and passions.
Mary Edwards is the only child of loving parents. Her mother harbors fears and finds contentment in staying close to home and tending her family. She’s cautious, even fearful, around strangers.
Mary, 16, is happiest when outdoors, relishing the rugged Oregon coast. She marries John Gerritse, 24, originally from The Netherlands, a sailor who has sailed around the world. The two work hard to prove their homesteading claim as they start their family. It doesn’t take Mary long to realize being a wife and mother isn’t the adventure she had expected. She loves her family, but doesn’t find fulfillment in the endless feeding and caring for a rapidly growing family. She yearns for adventure, for something besides the endless drudgery of homemaking.
John works hard, and for a spell goes back to sea, then later works the land to provide for his family. To bring in extra income, he takes a mail route, riding horseback for miles, delivering mail to seaside communities. Mary, in the meantime, has had a miscarriage and experiences deep depression. She desperately needs to be outdoors, to have adventure, to do something. John finally agrees to allow Mary to take over the mail route. They hire someone to care for the children so that John can continue working the land.
Mary’s mail route takes her along the wild Pacific coast, through rugged mountain trails and remote beaches, always on the lookout for changing tides and sudden squalls. She finds the spark of life she had lost, and relishes in the adventure. But will she be able to cope with the dangers this adventure presents?
I loved this story of courage and unconventional lifestyle. Typical of Jane Kirkpatrick’s novels, she describes the history of the area, how Cannon Beach got its name, and the development of this rugged coast. Across the Crying Sands brings the settlers and landscape to life. Through Mary Edwards Gerritse, we learn that “women are capable of being good wives and mothers and having careers,” and the importance of being true to yourself and following your own values, beliefs, and passions.
April 5, 2025
5 stars, Good Friends and Family Secrets
ACROSS THE CRYING SANDS (WOMEN OF CANNON BEACH SERIES, BOOK ONE)
by Jane Kirkpatrick
This is the story of Mary and John, a young couple in love, who are engaged to be married. They will be homesteading on the rugged coast in the late 1800s, on the Oregon near Astoria.
They are good friends with Herbert (Herbie) who is a younger son from England, who is trying to make his own fortune.
Mary's best friend is Jewell, who is a Clatsop-Nehalem Indian who lives with her beloved grandfather, near Mary.
As I read this book, I felt like every five pages, I was marking qq (quotable quotes) The way with words of this author is quite fascinating. Quotable Quotes: ...stomach trolls and bone sprites...and thought thieves...; ...vowing to be there, no matter how...; ...Holy Jumblies...; ...taking care of a dog is like preparing your heart for loss, same with a horse...; ...sleeper wave...; ...(a baby being born) was more monumental than delivering a stove...
Every book of Jane Kirkpatrick's that I've read, I've liked. I love most of them. She has a unique way of blending fact and fiction together into a compelling story. Her stories all have a strong female protagonist, drawing you into their story, so you wish you could be just like them. Her stories are standalones.
Highly recommend.
I received a complimentary copy of #AcrosstheCryingSands from #JaneKirkpatrick #NetGalley #Revell I was not obligated to post a review.
#pacificnorthwest #Indians #standalone #bingedbook #strongfemaleprotagonist #ClatsopNehalemIndians #AstoriaOregon #PortlandOregon #Oregon #lighthouses #mystery #tsunami #inspirationalfiction #inspyfiction #ChristianFiction #BakerPublishing #packhorsemailcarrier #WomenofCannonBeachSeries #England #homesteading #lossofchild #basedonatruestory
ACROSS THE CRYING SANDS (WOMEN OF CANNON BEACH SERIES, BOOK ONE)
by Jane Kirkpatrick
This is the story of Mary and John, a young couple in love, who are engaged to be married. They will be homesteading on the rugged coast in the late 1800s, on the Oregon near Astoria.
They are good friends with Herbert (Herbie) who is a younger son from England, who is trying to make his own fortune.
Mary's best friend is Jewell, who is a Clatsop-Nehalem Indian who lives with her beloved grandfather, near Mary.
As I read this book, I felt like every five pages, I was marking qq (quotable quotes) The way with words of this author is quite fascinating. Quotable Quotes: ...stomach trolls and bone sprites...and thought thieves...; ...vowing to be there, no matter how...; ...Holy Jumblies...; ...taking care of a dog is like preparing your heart for loss, same with a horse...; ...sleeper wave...; ...(a baby being born) was more monumental than delivering a stove...
Every book of Jane Kirkpatrick's that I've read, I've liked. I love most of them. She has a unique way of blending fact and fiction together into a compelling story. Her stories all have a strong female protagonist, drawing you into their story, so you wish you could be just like them. Her stories are standalones.
Highly recommend.
I received a complimentary copy of #AcrosstheCryingSands from #JaneKirkpatrick #NetGalley #Revell I was not obligated to post a review.
#pacificnorthwest #Indians #standalone #bingedbook #strongfemaleprotagonist #ClatsopNehalemIndians #AstoriaOregon #PortlandOregon #Oregon #lighthouses #mystery #tsunami #inspirationalfiction #inspyfiction #ChristianFiction #BakerPublishing #packhorsemailcarrier #WomenofCannonBeachSeries #England #homesteading #lossofchild #basedonatruestory
August 15, 2025
2.75*, this book interested me for the setting and imagining mail delivery along the coast. As far as setting it did deliver and was mostly the reason for continuing with the book as it dragged out and became slow and less interesting the more I read. The mail delivery portion was more mentioned than brought to life and was 90% her husband or a male and only towards the end of the book the female MC.
This is based on a real person and for me the fictionalizing and turning it into a trilogy didn't work. I lost interest about halfway through and it was easy to set aside. A portion of me related to Mary in that motherhood is not what I thought it would be, but a greater part of me struggled with her as a character. Her mysterious family background is hinted at but nowhere near resolved and it gave me very negative feelings towards her mom (who may or may not have kidnapped her?). So, overall I appreciated the setting and learning more of the history of an area I am familiar with and have spent time at, but as whole the book was a letdown for me.
"The Bar, it was called, and it put seamen like John into peril crossing it. On certain days, ships broke up or had to wait a day or two until the sea calmed. Mary thought it was a bit like life-surviving suffering times, having to wait." pg 19
"They stood in silence watching the sea breathe, survival and loss like two oars moving the ship of life forward whether they were ready or not." pg 26
"Sometimes one person's dreams could seem another's nightmare until one saw the wisdom that comes only with time." pg 37
"The future would take care of itself, Mary decided. They were all writing a new chapter in their lives with its good days and bad. What mattered was not that there were unpleasant chapters, but that they were writing this story together." pg 136
This is based on a real person and for me the fictionalizing and turning it into a trilogy didn't work. I lost interest about halfway through and it was easy to set aside. A portion of me related to Mary in that motherhood is not what I thought it would be, but a greater part of me struggled with her as a character. Her mysterious family background is hinted at but nowhere near resolved and it gave me very negative feelings towards her mom (who may or may not have kidnapped her?). So, overall I appreciated the setting and learning more of the history of an area I am familiar with and have spent time at, but as whole the book was a letdown for me.
"The Bar, it was called, and it put seamen like John into peril crossing it. On certain days, ships broke up or had to wait a day or two until the sea calmed. Mary thought it was a bit like life-surviving suffering times, having to wait." pg 19
"They stood in silence watching the sea breathe, survival and loss like two oars moving the ship of life forward whether they were ready or not." pg 26
"Sometimes one person's dreams could seem another's nightmare until one saw the wisdom that comes only with time." pg 37
"The future would take care of itself, Mary decided. They were all writing a new chapter in their lives with its good days and bad. What mattered was not that there were unpleasant chapters, but that they were writing this story together." pg 136
May 20, 2025
A delightful read from the pen of renowned writer Jane Kirkpatrick.
I have come to realise that Christian fiction writing is not just a talent or a hobby but a calling. The skill of a Christian writer is dependent on the level of experience of Christ Jesus and the amount of light in the writer. Jane Kirkpatrick writes like someone who has both attributes. Her writing style is subtle and fills readers’ minds with the fragrance of her God.
Across the Crying Sands, the first book in The Women of Cannon Beach series is a novel that will immediately immerse readers who are into such a genre of books. The novel tells the story of Mary Edwards, a young maiden about to marry her husband-to-be, John Gerritse. After a near-miss death incident, the two marry and are thrust into the journey of marriage.
What I liked about this novel was how the story flowed. It felt like I was drinking spring water on a hot summer day. I was drawn to Mary and her challenges with her marriage and settling down. The addition of other characters like Herbert Logan, an Englishman exiled from home who was still in love with a woman he is forbidden to love, Jewell, a native American woman and Mary’s fretful mother who harbours secrets, made this novel more enjoyable to read.
I kept on waiting for the incident that changed Mary’s life, as stated in the book’s synopsis. The incident finally did happen, but the ending of the novel felt like a cliffhanger. Perhaps the second book in this series will tie all the loose ends of this novel.
I will recommend this book to new and existing fans of Jane Kirkpatrick.
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House through NetGalley and Interviews & Reviews for my honest opinion.
I have come to realise that Christian fiction writing is not just a talent or a hobby but a calling. The skill of a Christian writer is dependent on the level of experience of Christ Jesus and the amount of light in the writer. Jane Kirkpatrick writes like someone who has both attributes. Her writing style is subtle and fills readers’ minds with the fragrance of her God.
Across the Crying Sands, the first book in The Women of Cannon Beach series is a novel that will immediately immerse readers who are into such a genre of books. The novel tells the story of Mary Edwards, a young maiden about to marry her husband-to-be, John Gerritse. After a near-miss death incident, the two marry and are thrust into the journey of marriage.
What I liked about this novel was how the story flowed. It felt like I was drinking spring water on a hot summer day. I was drawn to Mary and her challenges with her marriage and settling down. The addition of other characters like Herbert Logan, an Englishman exiled from home who was still in love with a woman he is forbidden to love, Jewell, a native American woman and Mary’s fretful mother who harbours secrets, made this novel more enjoyable to read.
I kept on waiting for the incident that changed Mary’s life, as stated in the book’s synopsis. The incident finally did happen, but the ending of the novel felt like a cliffhanger. Perhaps the second book in this series will tie all the loose ends of this novel.
I will recommend this book to new and existing fans of Jane Kirkpatrick.
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House through NetGalley and Interviews & Reviews for my honest opinion.
May 25, 2025
Across the Crying Sands by Jane Kirkpatrick
4 Stars
BLOG POST: https://bookloveramanda.blogspot.com/...
I love that Jane Kirkpatrick tells stories about real life people in history. This one is a story of Mary Edwards Gerritse, a woman who was adventurous and wanted more beyond her traditional role as a wife and mother. Mary and her husband John have been through a lot, living on the Oregon coast in the late 1800s. Mary is a very determined woman who wants more than just typical motherhood....she wants adventure, purpose and to learn about her family's past.
She becomes the first female mail carrier in her region during that time and takes on the treacherous postal route of the "crying sands beach area". She definitely defied the expectations of her time, reminding you that sometimes you take a risk for what your dreams are, even as a young mother, and that's ok to pursue those dreams. Would recommend. I related to her feelings of wanting more than just being a stay at home Mom too. She was looked down upon for leaving her children with her family to watch them while she went to work with her husband. For me, I can understand wanting that fulfillment outside of just those things and found it relatable.
Looking forward to book 2 next April.
Read if you like:
- Stories about real people in history
- Strong, independent women in history
- Frontier and pioneer life
- Themes of pursuing dreams, careers and
- Overcoming and walking through grief
- Atmospheric settings on the Oregon coast
Thank you to the publisher for a copy to honestly read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
4 Stars
BLOG POST: https://bookloveramanda.blogspot.com/...
I love that Jane Kirkpatrick tells stories about real life people in history. This one is a story of Mary Edwards Gerritse, a woman who was adventurous and wanted more beyond her traditional role as a wife and mother. Mary and her husband John have been through a lot, living on the Oregon coast in the late 1800s. Mary is a very determined woman who wants more than just typical motherhood....she wants adventure, purpose and to learn about her family's past.
She becomes the first female mail carrier in her region during that time and takes on the treacherous postal route of the "crying sands beach area". She definitely defied the expectations of her time, reminding you that sometimes you take a risk for what your dreams are, even as a young mother, and that's ok to pursue those dreams. Would recommend. I related to her feelings of wanting more than just being a stay at home Mom too. She was looked down upon for leaving her children with her family to watch them while she went to work with her husband. For me, I can understand wanting that fulfillment outside of just those things and found it relatable.
Looking forward to book 2 next April.
Read if you like:
- Stories about real people in history
- Strong, independent women in history
- Frontier and pioneer life
- Themes of pursuing dreams, careers and
- Overcoming and walking through grief
- Atmospheric settings on the Oregon coast
Thank you to the publisher for a copy to honestly read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 9, 2025
I have always loved historical fiction books because I learn so much from them (I am a history nut) so was eager to dive into this story. And I am pleased to say that I was not disappointed by the story! Not only did I find myself transported back in time to a setting I was easily able to imagine, but I was able to connect with the characters on an emotional level. I was able to feel the pain of loss, to experience the struggles of family life, and to celebrate the victories. I did not realize this was based upon a real person until I went to write this review. Then I had to google Mary Edwards Gerritse to learn more about her. And I can report that I was even more impressed by author Jane Kirkpatrick and her storytelling skills after doing so because I didn't find any discrepancies or outlandish creative liberties taken. This is why I LOVE historical fiction so much, especially when an author is as precise in her research as Kirkpatrick appears to be. I now have a new appreciation for women in that time period and have learned about a woman I had never heard of before. And what an amazing life she had! As for the writing itself, Kirkpatrick is a skilled author who can manipulate words in a spell-binding way. She craftily brought the characters to life, painted pictures of settings through masterful descriptions, and led me from page to page and chapter to chapter with creative word play. I can't wait to read her next book! She is one author I definitely don't want to miss out on reading in the future!
May 30, 2025
Across the Crying Sands by Jane Kirkpatrick is a beautiful tale of one adventurous woman. The story is focused on Mary. Mary is getting married to her husband John. They go into an unsettled part of land and troubles soon find them. Mary also lost a child. But despite that she bounces back and moves forward like a male soldier. She does have kids much later but is willing to leave them behind. I couldn't understand how she was so devastated to the lost of the one child and then when she has kids she leaves them behind to be a woman of action and out in the wild. I guess some people can never be tamed or kept in one place for long. Her role as a mother is not great and neither is her wife skills.
She feels horrible when her husband leaves her behind to handle their place and raise their kids. But did either of them really think of how the kids are affected? However, there are moments that show they love their kids but they are just really independent souls trying to make the best of their marriage and occupations in life. I loved Mary's kids. I loved how the novel showed the way Mary's fiery independence helped others in need. She still has some motherly ways about her but they're very subtle. Overall, it made me cry, laugh, and wonder a lot over plenty of things. Jane Kirkpatrick writes an amazing tale that shows the true spirit of the early settlers. Across the Crying Sands is a must read for all historical fans.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
She feels horrible when her husband leaves her behind to handle their place and raise their kids. But did either of them really think of how the kids are affected? However, there are moments that show they love their kids but they are just really independent souls trying to make the best of their marriage and occupations in life. I loved Mary's kids. I loved how the novel showed the way Mary's fiery independence helped others in need. She still has some motherly ways about her but they're very subtle. Overall, it made me cry, laugh, and wonder a lot over plenty of things. Jane Kirkpatrick writes an amazing tale that shows the true spirit of the early settlers. Across the Crying Sands is a must read for all historical fans.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
August 19, 2025
Across the Crying Sands is the first book I have read by Jane Kirkpatrick, and it is also the first in The Women of Cannon Beach series. The story begins quickly, with an element of shock in the first chapter. It’s filled with surprises from the characters, light biblical references, and just a touch of romance.
Mary marries at seventeen and struggles with her husband, John, often being away for work. She tries to balance her roles as a wife, mother, and daughter. Honestly, I wasn’t very fond of Mary as the story progressed, since she seemed more interested in pursuing other adventures than in caring for her babies. As the book continues, she struggles with feeling empty and overtired from raising children while working on the farm. I was glad she eventually received help and that she and John came to an agreement, though I felt her character sometimes cast motherhood in a negative light.
However, I did appreciate the realistic portrayal of marriage and their communication. I was also glad to see John’s character grow as he found ways to help Mary.
I enjoyed learning about Mary and her family but what I thought was the theme of the book did not come until closer to the end. Also, several secrets remain unresolved, which I look forward to being revealed in the second book.
Overall, I enjoyed the frequent shock factors, the history, and the suspense created by the hidden secrets.
✨ I won a copy of the book and chose to review it. All opinions are my own.
Mary marries at seventeen and struggles with her husband, John, often being away for work. She tries to balance her roles as a wife, mother, and daughter. Honestly, I wasn’t very fond of Mary as the story progressed, since she seemed more interested in pursuing other adventures than in caring for her babies. As the book continues, she struggles with feeling empty and overtired from raising children while working on the farm. I was glad she eventually received help and that she and John came to an agreement, though I felt her character sometimes cast motherhood in a negative light.
However, I did appreciate the realistic portrayal of marriage and their communication. I was also glad to see John’s character grow as he found ways to help Mary.
I enjoyed learning about Mary and her family but what I thought was the theme of the book did not come until closer to the end. Also, several secrets remain unresolved, which I look forward to being revealed in the second book.
Overall, I enjoyed the frequent shock factors, the history, and the suspense created by the hidden secrets.
✨ I won a copy of the book and chose to review it. All opinions are my own.
May 7, 2025
Got my early copy through NetGalley.
Based on the real-life story of Mary Gerritse, the first female mail carrier along the northern Oregon coast, “Across the Crying Sands” covers her story from the time she is betrothed to her Dutch immigrant husband John to her life as a young mother to four children. She and her husband struggle to create their homestead as the lure of sea travels beckons her husband and her need for companionship and the sight of Cannon Beach entice her to take a mail route—unheard of for a woman during her time. Long before paved roads and automobiles, Mary rides on her faithful and steady horse, Prince, draped with the mailbags on its back. They hug the cliffs and traverse the trails highlighting the danger of frontier life in the wild Northwest. Aside from her adventures on horseback, Mary also deals with a mysterious photograph found at her parents’ house. Who are the sad children staring into the camera lenses?
The slow, steady pace of the story matches the horse’s gait as it carries Mary along her mail route. Mary’s “uncommon” views on her role as mother and wife challenge norms of the day and may leave readers with a sense of disenchantment—if they were expecting a more traditional homestead wife. Nevertheless, it’s a wonderful glimpse into local Oregon history and the mystery and saga continue in the planned upcoming books in the series.
Based on the real-life story of Mary Gerritse, the first female mail carrier along the northern Oregon coast, “Across the Crying Sands” covers her story from the time she is betrothed to her Dutch immigrant husband John to her life as a young mother to four children. She and her husband struggle to create their homestead as the lure of sea travels beckons her husband and her need for companionship and the sight of Cannon Beach entice her to take a mail route—unheard of for a woman during her time. Long before paved roads and automobiles, Mary rides on her faithful and steady horse, Prince, draped with the mailbags on its back. They hug the cliffs and traverse the trails highlighting the danger of frontier life in the wild Northwest. Aside from her adventures on horseback, Mary also deals with a mysterious photograph found at her parents’ house. Who are the sad children staring into the camera lenses?
The slow, steady pace of the story matches the horse’s gait as it carries Mary along her mail route. Mary’s “uncommon” views on her role as mother and wife challenge norms of the day and may leave readers with a sense of disenchantment—if they were expecting a more traditional homestead wife. Nevertheless, it’s a wonderful glimpse into local Oregon history and the mystery and saga continue in the planned upcoming books in the series.
October 9, 2025
3.5 rounded up to 4. This is my first book by this author, which I read for a book club, and I was pleasantly surprised. It’s very character driven, with the plot itself taking a back seat to Mary’s growth, relationships, and personal development. It was all very lovely, well paced and I loved the history of the area that is included. I also admired the nod to women’s rights, the recognition that women can be more than wives & mothers and still be loved by the King, and can seek help when it’s needed, especially during that period of history. I didn’t always agree with her decision, but admired her pluck and determination to seek her own adventures. Knowing that this is based on a real person is something extra special.
My biggest critique is that there was a HUGE thing going on in the first section of the book, but it just like disappeared in the remainder of the book, and there was no resolution for or (even mention of it) in the slightest during the rest of the book. This is a VERY large plot hole and I don’t commend the author and the editors for dropping that ball completely. I’m hoping that perhaps we find out more in the subsequent books in this series, but if we don’t, I honestly don’t know if I’d invest in more books by this author for that very reason. Here’s hoping we find out the rest of the story!
My biggest critique is that there was a HUGE thing going on in the first section of the book, but it just like disappeared in the remainder of the book, and there was no resolution for or (even mention of it) in the slightest during the rest of the book. This is a VERY large plot hole and I don’t commend the author and the editors for dropping that ball completely. I’m hoping that perhaps we find out more in the subsequent books in this series, but if we don’t, I honestly don’t know if I’d invest in more books by this author for that very reason. Here’s hoping we find out the rest of the story!
May 15, 2025
This review by librarian Christine Barth first appeared in the May 2025 issue of Library Journal.
Mary Edwards is only a teenager, but she is convinced that sailing into marriage with John Gerritse will be a great adventure. Sometimes, though, it seems as if they are going to sea in a sieve, just like the Jumblies in her favorite Edward Lear poem. Oregon Territory along the Pacific coastline in 1888 seems just the place for dreamers like Mary and John, although both underestimate the backbreaking labor it will take to carve out a homestead of their own on land that the government has snatched from Indigenous peoples. No matter that a road to the coast does not yet exist, Mary and John know that they can help make Cannon Beach a tourist destination. Side characters such as a Nehalem Clatsop woman named Jewell and an English remittance man named Herbie bring both risk and reward into the couple's lives. VERDICT Kirkpatrick (Beneath the Bending Skies) writes of Western expansion with an eye for people whom history books often forget. There are no 21st-century anachronisms in this tale based on a real-life couple. Readers who like to see the day-to-day unfolding slowly in unexpected ways, as in the work of Sandra Dallas and Tracie Peterson, will enjoy.
Mary Edwards is only a teenager, but she is convinced that sailing into marriage with John Gerritse will be a great adventure. Sometimes, though, it seems as if they are going to sea in a sieve, just like the Jumblies in her favorite Edward Lear poem. Oregon Territory along the Pacific coastline in 1888 seems just the place for dreamers like Mary and John, although both underestimate the backbreaking labor it will take to carve out a homestead of their own on land that the government has snatched from Indigenous peoples. No matter that a road to the coast does not yet exist, Mary and John know that they can help make Cannon Beach a tourist destination. Side characters such as a Nehalem Clatsop woman named Jewell and an English remittance man named Herbie bring both risk and reward into the couple's lives. VERDICT Kirkpatrick (Beneath the Bending Skies) writes of Western expansion with an eye for people whom history books often forget. There are no 21st-century anachronisms in this tale based on a real-life couple. Readers who like to see the day-to-day unfolding slowly in unexpected ways, as in the work of Sandra Dallas and Tracie Peterson, will enjoy.
May 15, 2025
This review by librarian Christine Barth first appeared in the May 2025 issue of Library Journal.
Mary Edwards is only a teenager, but she is convinced that sailing into marriage with John Gerritse will be a great adventure. Sometimes, though, it seems as if they are going to sea in a sieve, just like the Jumblies in her favorite Edward Lear poem. Oregon Territory along the Pacific coastline in 1888 seems just the place for dreamers like Mary and John, although both underestimate the backbreaking labor it will take to carve out a homestead of their own on land that the government has snatched from Indigenous peoples. No matter that a road to the coast does not yet exist, Mary and John know that they can help make Cannon Beach a tourist destination. Side characters such as a Nehalem Clatsop woman named Jewell and an English remittance man named Herbie bring both risk and reward into the couple's lives. VERDICT Kirkpatrick (Beneath the Bending Skies) writes of Western expansion with an eye for people whom history books often forget. There are no 21st-century anachronisms in this tale based on a real-life couple. Readers who like to see the day-to-day unfolding slowly in unexpected ways, as in the work of Sandra Dallas and Tracie Peterson, will enjoy.
Mary Edwards is only a teenager, but she is convinced that sailing into marriage with John Gerritse will be a great adventure. Sometimes, though, it seems as if they are going to sea in a sieve, just like the Jumblies in her favorite Edward Lear poem. Oregon Territory along the Pacific coastline in 1888 seems just the place for dreamers like Mary and John, although both underestimate the backbreaking labor it will take to carve out a homestead of their own on land that the government has snatched from Indigenous peoples. No matter that a road to the coast does not yet exist, Mary and John know that they can help make Cannon Beach a tourist destination. Side characters such as a Nehalem Clatsop woman named Jewell and an English remittance man named Herbie bring both risk and reward into the couple's lives. VERDICT Kirkpatrick (Beneath the Bending Skies) writes of Western expansion with an eye for people whom history books often forget. There are no 21st-century anachronisms in this tale based on a real-life couple. Readers who like to see the day-to-day unfolding slowly in unexpected ways, as in the work of Sandra Dallas and Tracie Peterson, will enjoy.
September 21, 2025
A heartwarming tale set in just the right time and tone.
Mary Gerritse, like most young girls her age, wants one thing: to find a husband and start a family. Even though sixteen is young to be married, it is not uncommon and when Mary finds a husband, she isn’t sure why she still feels unsatisfied with her life. Being antsy for something new she jumps at the chance for a change along the Oregon coast.
Jane Kirkpatrick has done a great job in crafting the start of a new series with new characters that will be easily likable and one readers will want to cheer on. I enjoyed this story and the characters throughout, Mary in particular was easy for me to like, she was spunky and full of life. Remembering the time frame this is set in will help readers relate to the characters and the hardships and even the accomplishments they might achieve. This was a quick read that I enjoyed more than I expected for a historical fiction, which can sometimes be slow reads. I would recommend this book to readers that enjoy historical fiction and have been fans of Jane Kirkpatrick.
I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.
Mary Gerritse, like most young girls her age, wants one thing: to find a husband and start a family. Even though sixteen is young to be married, it is not uncommon and when Mary finds a husband, she isn’t sure why she still feels unsatisfied with her life. Being antsy for something new she jumps at the chance for a change along the Oregon coast.
Jane Kirkpatrick has done a great job in crafting the start of a new series with new characters that will be easily likable and one readers will want to cheer on. I enjoyed this story and the characters throughout, Mary in particular was easy for me to like, she was spunky and full of life. Remembering the time frame this is set in will help readers relate to the characters and the hardships and even the accomplishments they might achieve. This was a quick read that I enjoyed more than I expected for a historical fiction, which can sometimes be slow reads. I would recommend this book to readers that enjoy historical fiction and have been fans of Jane Kirkpatrick.
I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.
June 17, 2025
I chose this book for reading because I spent some time in Cannon Beach in my earlier years, and I generally like "Christian Historical Fiction" stories. This was not a favorite, in fact, I almost gave up on it. For my personal nostalgia, I liked reliving life in the Cannon Beach area, and remembered many of the area's towns and landscape. I could imagine riding horses in that area, and impressed that this gal rode so many miles in a day!
However, I did not like Mary at all, nor John for that matter. I kept hoping that her stupid choices would come back to bite her with unwanted consequences. Choosing adventure and career over raising her children herself was selfish. John's career choices were pretty selfish as well, but at least I think he figured that out near the end. Mary, on the other hand, seemed to be honored for her selfish & poor choices.
The book went on & on, with too many varied characters and unanswered questions. I know this is part of a series, and the unanswered questions will likely be addressed in later sequels, but I won't be reading them.
However, I did not like Mary at all, nor John for that matter. I kept hoping that her stupid choices would come back to bite her with unwanted consequences. Choosing adventure and career over raising her children herself was selfish. John's career choices were pretty selfish as well, but at least I think he figured that out near the end. Mary, on the other hand, seemed to be honored for her selfish & poor choices.
The book went on & on, with too many varied characters and unanswered questions. I know this is part of a series, and the unanswered questions will likely be addressed in later sequels, but I won't be reading them.
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