In the rugged wilderness of northern Wisconsin, young fourteen-year-old Ezra Mulvey finds himself thrust into the role of protector and provider for his younger brother after their mother leaves and their father pursues the elusive dream of Yukon gold. As time marches on and the world around him transforms, Ezra remains rooted in the simple life he knows.

As the years pass, Ezra faces the harsh realities of life in a world forever changed by war.

The community around him is hit hard, with the loss of so many brave young men leaving deep scars. Amidst the trials and heartache, Ezra endures quietly, feeling the weight of loneliness and loss. His resilience is further tested after a near-fatal encounter with a mother bear, an event that brings him into the care of Regina Forrest, a quiet and compassionate nurse who tends to his wounds.

Through her gentle presence and their shared love for the serene beauty of a place they call "Gina's Valley," Ezra begins to find a path back to himself, discovering love and a renewed sense of faith.

Set against the backdrop of the 1920s-a time of prohibition, post-war, and technological change-this is a story of a man who faces life's greatest challenges with quiet strength, finding hope in unexpected places and discovering the true meaning of faith and love.

Mark Gengler

Our Ancestors Series

Young Adult, 1920s, Early 20th Century historical fiction, Wisconsin, rural life, Great War, WWI, prohibition, romance, friendship, true hero, family