The thing that most attracts me to historical fiction is taking the factual record as far as it is known, using that as scaffolding, and then letting imagination build the structure that fills in those things we can never find out for sure.

Geraldine Brooks

Nancy Sowell

When my children were young, they loved reading and listening to historical fiction. The rich and exciting stories developed in each of them a delight of discovery and deeper understanding. After they were grown, I decided to further explore the genre, this time at the opposite end of a pen. Thus, Lightning in His Hand was born, with a sequel now in the works.

Being a strong proponent of integrated studies, I wove bits of natural science as well as the political and cultural transitions of the mid-nineteenth century into a story that unfolds on a little-known but historically significant trail—the Old Spanish Trail. Such integration will continue in subsequent books.

I endeavor to write stories that are clean and moral but not moralistic. Tough subjects are still tackled but approached with sensitivity.

My husband and I live in the Southern Rockies and take great delight in hiking the many mountain trails and exploring the rich history and cultures of the Southwest.

I hope you enjoy reading Lightning in His Hand as much as I enjoyed writing it. Happy reading!