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Overstreet has created a sweeping saga that is not only quite well-researched but also emotional and fascinating. The author's novel takes place on the verge of a new dawn for the Old West. It's 1910, and the world is changing. This novel, which moves from the past and present, follows Julia Halley, an owner of the Many Springs Canyon Trading Post on the Navajo Reservation in New Mexico, and her "gathering." Each character gets to have their story told in great detail: not just Julia, who is herself complicated, courageous, and independent, but also the other characters are developed, such as Harry Whitaker, Toya, the siblings Clement and Johanna Yazzie, and Owen Rouse.
With his novel, Overstreet has created something that is on par with the 1985 Western epic Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry. The story begins with an unusual November snowstorm and a thrilling rescue. At around 750 pages, the book's length can be unnerving at first, but Overstreet does a good job of keeping the pacing smooth and the plot, which, as noted before, moves back and forth in the past, intriguing. The narrative never feels too confusing or jumbled. In keeping with the title, there is also a type of full-circle subplot, which is one of the reasons for the gathering.
Overall, this historical epic is packed full of information. Overstreet demonstrates his knowledge of the Navajo and Hopi, as well as the period. The Old West was an unforgiving place, and the past always catches up with one. However, it's how one survives and moves past the trauma that matters. There is admirable character growth in the story, especially with Julia. Readers who are looking for a new voice in the Western or general historical fiction genre will be delighted.