The Wintering Place: A Novel

The Odriscoll brothers have survived a Sioux massacre and are fleeing north with Toms lover, Sara. They come upon a sheltering rock by a river, but their attempts to find food and endure the winter are threatened by the arrival of two trappers. The rock and the river become their safe place, but when spring comes, their paradise is threatened by human nature.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 21 February 2023
Publisher: WW Norton & Co

In the rugged and unforgiving landscape of Dakota Territory in 1867, theODriscoll brothers have narrowly escaped a devastating Sioux massacre, leaving Michael gravely wounded. As they flee north alongside Toms lover, Sara, they stumble upon a sheltering rock by a river, a potential lifeline in their desperate quest for survival. With the hope of finding sustenance and enduring the harsh winter, they set up camp, but their hopes are soon dashed by the arrival of two trappers. Their presence unleashes a series of bloody events that will mark the trio as Outlaws, hunted relentlessly by the Montana Vigilance Committee. Their likenesses grace Wanted posters in settlements and mining camps along the treacherous Bozeman trail, warning others of their presence.

Entering any town becomes a perilous endeavor, as they must resort to shooting their way out to survive. The rock and the river become their sanctuary, a place of safety amidst the chaos. As spring arrives, their paradise unfolds before them, with the promise of new beginnings. However, the world refuses to let them rest, and even in this idyllic setting, human nature stirs up trouble.

In this captivating follow-up to his acclaimed novel, Wolves of Eden, Kevin McCarthy weaves a tale of three incredibly human characters fighting for survival in a vast, breathtaking, and merciless wilderness. TheODriscoll brothers, Sara, and the trappers are all flawed individuals navigating a world filled with danger and uncertainty. Their struggles, triumphs, and sacrifices are vividly portrayed, drawing the reader into their emotional journey. McCarthy masterfully explores themes of resilience, loyalty, and the human capacity for both kindness and cruelty, creating a story that is both heart-wrenching and inspiring.

As the trio faces countless challenges and obstacles, their bond grows stronger, testing the limits of their loyalty and trust. They must navigate treacherous terrain, confront ruthless enemies, and confront their own inner demons. Through it all, they remain determined to survive, relying on each other's strengths and supporting one another in their darkest moments.

The landscape itself becomes a character in the story, with its rugged beauty and unforgiving nature adding to the tension and drama. The rock and the river provide a sense of sanctuary and hope, but they are also fraught with danger and uncertainty. The trio must constantly be on their guard, aware of the lurking threat of capture and death.

The arrival of the trappers brings a new layer of complexity to the narrative. Their presence sets in motion a chain of events that will forever change the course of their lives. The trappers are not just ruthless hunters, but also complex characters with their own motivations and desires. Their interactions with the trio spark a series of confrontations and conflicts, testing the boundaries of their loyalty and trust.

The Montana Vigilance Committee, led by the ruthless Sheriff John Taggart, is determined to bring the Outlaws to justice. Their pursuit is relentless, and they will stop at nothing to capture the trio. The Outlaws must constantly be on the run, evading capture and staying one step ahead of their pursuers.

Despite the odds, the trio manages to survive and thrive in the wilderness. They find solace in each other, forming a tight-knit community that relies on their collective strength and resilience. They learn to adapt to their surroundings, using their skills and knowledge to survive in a world that seems intent on destroying them.

As the story reaches its climax, the Outlaws face their final battle against the Montana Vigilance Committee. The stakes are high, and the odds are stacked against them. But they are determined to fight for their freedom and their lives. In a heart-pounding showdown, they emerge victorious, securing their place in history as legends of the wild west.

The Outlaws: A Tale of Survival in the Wild West is a powerful and unforgettable story that explores the human spirit in the face of adversity. Kevin McCarthy's vivid prose and compelling characters bring the rugged landscape to life, making the reader feel as if they are right there alongside the trio. This is a must-read for anyone who loves adventure, drama, and the untamed spirit of the American West.

Weight: 500g
Dimension: 163 x 242 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781324020486