The American West's storied past has shaped the country we see today. These three short stories examine the experiences of girls and women on the frontier during a time-period when cultures were clashing, territories were becoming states, and the transcontinental railroad was connecting the east and the west. Yet when faced with difficult decisions, can these women do what is right? Or necessary?Freedom in the Raw (2013 Texas Observer Short Story Contest Honorable Mention Recipient):Cora is desperate to escape her harsh life, plagued by drought in the Nebraska Territory, and throws caution to the wind when she is befriended by an unlikely ally.The Kansas is in turmoil as it vies for statehood, and Elsa must protect her homestead from riders, uncertain if they are friend or foe.The Irishman's cleaning out their parents' farmhouse attic, sisters Kate and Moira discover a locket containing the image of a mysterious 19th century woman. The locket holds a piece of family history that neither woman has ever heard about.
Award-winning and Amazon bestselling author E. Elizabeth Watson is convinced life is better with good coffee, chocolate, and a pair of hiking boots. Ever since her elementary school librarian "published" her epic childhood tales--complete with laminated handmade covers--she's enjoyed exploring the world through literature and history.
A recovering archaeologist and biomed research coordinator, Elizabeth now spends her days penning heroes ranging from Scottish and Medieval warriors to Texas cowboys crowned with Stetsons. Whether in kilts or pearl-snaps, her heroes wear plaid.
Watson lives on a mountainside in West Virginia with her husband, sons, and various pets. Always honored to hear from readers, make sure to follow her on social media below. Thank you for visiting, and enjoy my happily ever afters!
Wonderful examples of interweaving character development with complexities of plot. Highly recommend. This author has a gift for developing characters and plot. I highly recommend! Watch for future publications. You will not be disappointed!
I found this lovely book of short stories to be a pleasure to read. I have read the author’s other published works which are medieval and Scottish romances. These stories have the same romantic voice with an added element of Old West adventure. It is quite unique! This author is especially talented at her character development, and these stories are no exception. My only regret is that each story is not full book...yet?!
Another can’t miss from E. Elizabeth Watson! I was immediately drawn in to each short story in the collection. I don’t know whether to be excited about how I can daydream more story for each of these shorts, or disappointed that I’m robbed of the author’s voice and imagination finishing the narrative for me!
The author was able to paint pictures with her words of the times, situations and characters involved in life navigating the frontier in all the stories found in Westward Bound. It made following the complex plots easier to understand and follow, yet they were also intriguing......and left the reader wanting more! I would highly recommend this author's works and one should be prepared to wait in anticipation of her next story or book to come out. My favorite short story in this grouping was Freedom in the Raw as it made me feel so many different emotions...... I cheered for the heroine as she took off and yet I felt the struggle and pain of her father. Don't miss it or the other two wonderful stories! And keep this author, Ms. E. Elizabeth Watson, on your radar for future works. I know I will!!!!