The Sagebrusher A Story of the West   By: Emerson Hough (1857-1923)

In "The Sagebrusher: A Story of the West" by Emerson Hough, readers are transported to the untamed lands of the American West at a time when life was defined by narrow possibilities and harsh realities. Through vivid and captivating prose, Hough weaves a tale of adventure, self-discovery, and the pursuit of dreams that resonates with the spirit of the frontier.

Set against the backdrop of the late 19th century, the novel introduces us to John Lovering, a young man seeking his destiny away from the predictable confines of his comfortable Eastern life. Driven by a desire for a fresh start and a burning curiosity about the Great Plains, Lovering finds himself drawn to the untamed beauty of the West with its vast open spaces, towering mountain ranges, and rugged individuals who call it home.

Hough's depictions of the Western landscape are nothing short of magnificent. The author's descriptive powers allow readers to feel the dry heat of the prairie, to hear the haunting howl of the coyote in the distance, and to see the breathtaking sunsets that stretch as far as the eye can see. His ability to evoke both the beauty and the unpredictability of the West adds an atmospheric depth that captivates and immerses readers into every scene.

But it is not just the setting that Hough brings to life; it is the people who define this tale. Lovering's encounters with a diverse cast of characters, from rugged cowboys to Native Americans, helps to illuminate the complex tapestry of the West. Each character, meticulously crafted by the author, brings their own unique struggles, hopes, and dreams to the forefront, adding layers of authenticity and depth to the story.

At its core, "The Sagebrusher" explores universal themes of self-discovery, loyalty, and the pursuit of a place to call home. As Lovering grapples with his own identity and tries to reconcile his ambitions with the harsh realities of Western life, readers are taken on an emotional and introspective journey. Hough's insightful exploration of the human spirit in the face of adversity makes this novel a powerful and thought-provoking read.

While some readers may find the novel's pacing slow at times, those who appreciate rich character development and a deep understanding of the Western landscape will be rewarded. "The Sagebrusher: A Story of the West" is a captivating tale that shines a light on an era long past, reminding us of the hardships, triumphs, and dreams that shaped the American West into what it is today. Emerson Hough's masterful storytelling and his ability to transport readers to a bygone era make this novel a valuable addition to any bookshelf.

First Page:

I. SIM GAGE AT HOME II. WANTED: A WIFE III. FIFTY FIFTY IV. HEARTS AFLAME V. BEGGAR MAN THIEF VI. RICH MAN POOR MAN VII. CHIVALROUS; AND OF ABUNDANT MEANS VIII. RIVAL CONSCIENCES IX. THE HALT AND THE BLIND X. NEIGHBORS XI. THE COMPANY DOCTOR XII. LEFT ALONE XIII. THE SABCAT CAMP XIV. THE MAN TRAIL XV. THE SPECIES XVI. THE REBIRTH OF SIM GAGE XVII. SAGEBRUSHERS XVIII. DONNA QUIXOTE XIX. THE PLEDGE XX. MAJOR ALLEN BARNES, M.D., PH.D. AND SIM GAGE XXI. WITH THIS RING XXII. MRS. GAGE XXIII. THE OUTLOOK XXIV. ANNIE MOVES IN XXV. ANOTHER MAN'S WIFE XXVI. THE WAYS OF MR. GARDNER XXVII. DORENWALD, CHIEF XXVIII. A CHANGE OF BASE XXIX. MARTIAL LAW XXX. BEFORE DAWN XXXI. THE BLIND SEE XXXII. THE ENEMY XXXIII. THE DAM XXXIV. AFTER THE DELUGE XXXV. ANNIE ANSWERS XXXVI... Continue reading book >>