BOOKS
Aly DeRay's breakout novel, Hush the Cries of a White Dove, is a heart-warming historical epic western romance where Kathleen Sheldon the 19-year-old daughter of a widowed ranch owner in the mid-1800s. Their beautiful ranch lay in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, in the far northwest corner of Nebraska Territory, now known as Wyoming. They led peaceful and content lives until the sudden uprise of a nearby, angry tribe of native Americans. After several small attacks on their quiet community, a final attack ended in the destruction of their town of Augusta. Kathleen survived but found she was alone. Everyone she had ever known and loved, were slain, including her family, her friends, and even her beloved, Alex. Terrified, she soon realized that her only chance of survival was to submit and go with the native who finds her in the smoky aftermath of the attack. This man who took part in her family's demise, could never be trusted, and never forgiven, without her loved ones, did she really care what happened to her?
After finding his lost beloved, Kathleen Sheldon alive and well, but married another man, love torn Alexander Johnson makes his way toward destinations unknown. With his faithful friend, Jacob Miller, they face many adventures along the road to the town of LaVelle.
From narrow escapes of numerous enemies, to being trapped within the death-defying rocky walls of a great canyon, and attacks of ravenous wild animals, the two companions experience trials they could never have imagined would happen to them.
When they arrive in the town of LaVelle, the unsuspecting Alex and Jacob face their life's biggest challenge. Settling down. Could the love of two local women tame their wild spirits? Are Angela and Martha Potter up for the challenge?
When Alexander Johnson and Jacob Miller learn that the US government had targeted all of the Native American people to be evacuated from their homelands and forced to live on reservations, they felt it was their duty to go and warn their friends, the people of the Shoshone nation.
For years, the newly elected chief of the Shoshone people, Shoots the Buffalo Running, had been a special aid and ally to Major Tyler of the farthermost outpost of the west, Fort Robbins, in Nebraska Territory. Because of Chief Shoots the Buffalo Running's brave service as a fierce fighter, spokesperson, and trusted guide through hostile territories, Major Tyler was able to convince military officials to bypass much of the land the Shoshone people called home for thousands of years. Treaties were drawn up that would allow the Shoshone tribe to remain as allies and protectors of the Army.
Sudden tragedy struck, and after a fateful turn of events, the people of the Shoshone nation found themselves again, at the mercy of the US government.
When Alex and Jacob arrived at the Shoshone village, they found they were too late. The Army soldiers had already been there and gone, taking with them all the white captives who had lived peacefully among the Shoshone people. White Dove, also known to Alex as Kathleen Sheldon, was among those taken to a detainment and reformation camp in Mills City, Montana.
With the Army breathing down their necks on one side and hostile Natives in pursuit all around them, Alex and Jacob race to find a way to get to Kathleen to ensure she got back to where she belonged: Back to the waiting arms of her husband, Thunder Horse.
Will they make it in time? Or will White Dove be lost in the shuffle of all the captives only to be forced to live out the rest of her life alone, as Kathleen Sheldon, in white society?
REVIEWS
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A Captivating Journey Through History and Emotion
Aly DeRay’s Voices Hushed in the Valley is an absolute masterpiece that seamlessly blends historical fiction with deep emotional storytelling. From the very first page, I was transported to the rugged landscapes of the Nebraska Territory and immersed in the lives of the Shoshone people and their allies.
The characters are richly developed and incredibly relatable. Alexander Johnson and Jacob Miller’s determination to warn their friends of impending danger is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. The portrayal of Chief Shoots the Buffalo Running is particularly moving, showcasing his bravery and wisdom in the face of adversity.
DeRay’s writing is both poetic and powerful, painting vivid pictures of the setting and the intense emotions of the characters. The plot is gripping, filled with unexpected twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat. The historical accuracy and attention to detail are commendable, making the story not only engaging but also educational.
One of the standout aspects of this book is its exploration of cultural identity and the struggle to preserve it. The journey of White Dove, also known as Kathleen Sheldon, is a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of staying true to one’s roots.
Voices Hushed in the Valley is a must-read for anyone who loves historical fiction, adventure, and stories that touch the heart. Aly DeRay has crafted a timeless tale that will stay with readers long after they turn the last page. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a captivating and thought-provoking read.
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I really enjoyed the way your writing painted a picture as I read, No, that's not right, you directed a movie as I read your story and was so interested, it took 2 nights to read.
Great Read!
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Take care of yourself!
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