Shy Julie Johnson of 1967 dreams of a different life. The seventeen-year-old wants popularity, a clique of friends, and boys calling for dates. When she finds a secret door in the old Carnegie Library, she exits into the rustic world of 1907, where she must learn to trust strangers for the first time in her life. With nothing to lose, she ventures out, one step at a time, from her tightly guarded existence. She finds that making good friends like Debby is easier than she thought, and a handsome boy, Ren, wants to hold her hand and take her to a dance.
But when a notorious outlaw, the Apache Kid, learns about the Yavape' Apache magic that transported Julie, a native woman warns that her life may be in danger. The Kid has been on the run for years, and this seems like the perfect way for him to escape. Knowing she must learn the reason for her presence here, Julie tries new things, takes risks, and finds life with her guardians, Rilla and Charles Keeler, can be fun and rewarding, even without makeup, running water, or electricity.
But when the Apache Kid kidnaps her and drags her into a remote area in the surrounding mountains, Julie faces her biggest test. Enduring pain and hardship, only her faith and a message from the Apache Maiden's spirit sustain her. Sharing the Maiden's message for the Kid only enrages him, leaving Julie afraid for her life, but the Kid leaves her to be rescued. Her trials are not over as he continues to stalk her, and when the right storm rolls in, Julie and Charles find him waiting for them. Attacking Charles, the Kid drags Julie into the portal, releasing her at the last minute. A few weeks later, Julie leaves her friends and arrives back in 1967, a changed young woman with a new perspective and confidence. She soon has a visit from a person out of the past who provides the answers to her questions about those she left behind. In their honor, she intends to live the life of her dreams.
About the author:
VC Williams has a strong background in technical writing and is delighted to devote her life now to writing fiction. She previously worked in administrative and accounting roles in retail, government, manufacturing, and non-profits. She also served twelve years as a business administrator/minister for a large church in El Paso. Texas. VC is a second-generation Arizonan and a history enthusiast. She is married with two sons and two grandchildren. She has been blessed with opportunities to travel and has visited many beautiful places here and around the world. She is a member of the Historical Novel Society, the Arizona Authors Association, and the Arizona Territorial Society.
