cover image Not Between Brothers: An Epic Novel of Texas

Not Between Brothers: An Epic Novel of Texas

D. Marion Wilkinson. Boaz Corporation, $27.95 (680pp) ISBN 978-0-9651879-0-9

Spanning three decades in the early 19th century that saw the birth and early years of the Independent Republic of Texas, this well crafted, gripping first novel portrays three cultures-Mexican, white immigrant and Comanche-in bloody collision. In 1826, lured by the promise of land and freedom, ambitious young Louisianian Remy Fuqua joins the tide of white immigration to Texas, where the Mexicans and Comanches already have strong roots. Remy's marriage to Beatrice, daughter of a wealthy Mexican family, brings both joy and pain, for he must give up his Anglo life. During a Comanche raid, Beatrice and their three children are captured by Kills White Bear, a brutal war chief. Although Remy rescues his wife and daughter, he loses both sons; one is killed, the other is kept by Kills White Bear and raised as his own child. Remy's life is further shaken when Beatrice bears the Comanche chief's son. Through the years, Remy fights alongside Sam Houston for Texan independence, rides with the new Texas Rangers against the Comanche and struggles to keep his family together. Texas's secession from the Union in 1861 finally forces Remy to flee west, into a dramatic confrontation with Kills White Bear, the two sons they claim in common and Beatrice. Wilkinson is a gifted storyteller who brings Texas history to life with a tale rich in adventure and high emotions. (Jan.)