The Trail of the Axe: A Story of Red Sand Valley

"The Trail of the Axe: A Story of Red Sand Valley" by Ridgwell Cullum, is a character-focused story set in the Red Sand Valley that follows a strong lumberman named Dave and the intricate connections he has with those around him, especially the captivating Betty Somers, who is set to marry the unreliable Jim Truscott. The novel kicks off by introducing us to Dave, a hardworking and kind man who has built a prosperous lumber mill over twelve years but feels insecure about his looks. Drama enters the scene with the return of Jim Truscott, someone who has struggled with a life of moral decay. As the story goes on, Betty has to struggle with marrying Jim, especially when she discovers his misbehavior. The author is setting the scene for the main themes of love and responsibility, all within a world of people fighting for their own way.