Background
Published in 1976, “To the Far Blue Mountains” is the second novel in Louis L’Amour’s Sackett series. The story continues the adventures of Barnabas Sackett, who, after returning to England, faces a royal warrant accusing him of possessing a treasure believed to be lost by King John. To escape persecution, Barnabas flees to America, where he establishes a trading post and starts a family. The novel explores themes of exploration, survival, and the challenges of settling in the New World.
My Thoughts
Similiar to the first book, L’Amour paints a picture of the nearly unstoppable force that is Barnabas Sackett. However, this time around the reader is treated to his rise and demise in the Americas, showing he can indeed be beaten. Sackett had 5 children and all are ready to continue the legacy of the Sackett name and more importantly, are there to continue on the series.
I enjoyed the time taken by L’Amour to get the details right. His depictions of the peoples and times seem to fit well in the time period and his writing would stand up to more contemporary standards when dealing with minorities and native populations.
Recommendation
I enjoyed this sequel even better than the first. I will be continuing through the series.