Here is another sneak peek of a first draft of the forthcoming historical fiction novel (working title Desert Steve) by Markus McDowell.
“Farming cotton? In California?” Her eyes were shining. Steve knew she always a wanted to move in California. He was not sure she knew just how large it was.
“Indeed, yes. There is a valley about 150 west of Phoenix, called there Palo Verde Valley. It’s south of a town called Blythe City. Homesteads are for sale all through the valley. Big demand for cotton these days. They’ve ran canals for irrigation from the Colorado River all through the valley—been working on it for 30 years!”
She peered at him. “How do you know all this?”
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He smiled. “I’ve been researching Southern California for many years. In fact, I posted a letter to the land office in Blythe City. They just got as post office there recently.”
“But…but…really?” She leaned over and put her hand on his arm. “We just pick up and leave?”
“Well, it’s not quite that simple. I think I should take a trip out and see what’s available.”
“Just you? You don’t want us to go?”
“From Phoenix to Los Angeles, there are no roads. Just a dirt and gravel trail across the desert. It won’t be an easy trip in our old jalopy. I might take a stagecoach. Once we know our plans, we’ll pack up and go.”
She sat, staring at the table for a few moments. Then she reached out and grabbed his hand. “Let’s do it! I know you are not happy here, and I have always wanted to get out.”
Steve smiled. She was such a trooper. The perfect wife for him. “Okay. We’re at the beginning of October. I say I go as soon as possible—good time to travel the desert, in the winter. Maybe we could plan on moving, God willing, in November or December.”
“The baby is due in January.” She looked at him with raised eyebrows.
Steve had forgotten she was pregnant in all his excitement. “Uh, yes. Do you prefer to wait until after the baby is born?”
She shook her head and laughed. “No! I’m saying the sooner the better.”
“I concur.” He took a deep breath. “Very well, my darling, I shall begin working on places to travel. Let’s see…” His eyes became distant. “Will talk to Elmer at the stagecoach office, see what he knows about the route. Horse? Stagecoach? He’ll have good advice.” He stood up, mind elsewhere, still talking. “Once I have a travel plan. I’ll send a post to the land office again to make an appointment, once that’s done, we can…” His voice trailed off as he wandered out of the room.
Lydia smiled. She loved it when Steve began working on a new idea.
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A captivating historical fiction saga that traces the indomitable spirit of “Desert” Steve Ragsdale, a man who helped shape the American West.
In 1921, after losing his Kansas cotton farm to an inability to pay the taxes, Steve ventures into California’s desert with a bold vision. Defying a harsh land and no roads except ruts in the sands, he founds the town of Desert Center—a beacon of resilience amid heat and hardship. From his early days in Coffeyville, Kansas, confronting outlaws, to navigating the Great Depression, World War II, and the rise of Eagle Mountain Mine, Steve’s journey is one of grit, humor, and unwavering conviction. His motto, “Nuff sed,” encapsulates a life of action over words, as he battles the harsh environment, builds communities, and leaves a legacy etched in desert lore.
Blending historical events with vivid storytelling, McDowell explores themes of perseverance, family, and the human condition, drawing readers into a world where one man’s dream transforms a wasteland. With meticulously researched details—from Gruendike’s Well to the Colorado Aqueduct—this novel immerses you in the 20th-century West.
Perfect for fans of historical fiction and Western epics, Nuff Sed is a testament to the enduring power of determination. Join Desert Steve’s extraordinary adventure and discover why his story still resonates today.
Discover more from Markus McDowell, author
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