Ron Barnett

The first wagon train to Oregon country moves slowly across the Great Plains, reaching the foothills of the Rocky Mountains in early autumn. Led by wagon scout “Whip” Holt, the 500-strong community of courageous men, women, and children prepare for the bitter winter ahead. Among them are dreamers and drifters, foreigners and natives, friends and enemies. But it is a pair of strong-willed women who are Whip’s most unexpected allies.

They are the first wagon train to cross the American continent—and forge the Oregon Trail. Five-hundred courageous men, women and children, led by mountain man Whip Holt, they have survived the Rocky Mountain winter, fierce native attacks, and countless other hardships. Now, on the last leg of their journey, they face their greatest challenge yet. Three mighty nations have sent explorers to stake their claims — the English army, Russian agents, and American pioneers—but only one can win.