JANET OAKLEY, TREE SOLDIER

A government forestry camp set deep in the mountainous forests of the Pacific NW might not seem the likely place to find redemption, but in 1935, Park Hardesty hopes for just that. Blaming himself for the fiery accident that caused his brother's disfigurement and the death of the bootlegging woman he loved, planting trees, building bridges and mentoring tough, homesick New Jersey boys brings him both penitence and the renewal of his own self-worth. When he wins the love of Kate Alford, a local naturalist who envisions joining the Forest Service, which allows only men, he also captures the ire of a camp officer who refuses to let her go. Just when he is ready to seek his brother's forgiveness, he is falsely accused of rape. Every aspect of his life he has tried to rebuild is in jeopardy. In the end, the only way he can defend himself is to tell the truth about his brother, but he risks being kicked out of the camp. Worse, he could lose Kate's love forever.

Janet Oakley is an award winning author of memoir essays.  She has been published in various magazines, anthologies, and other media including the Cup of Comfort series and Historylink the online encyclopedia of Washington State history.  She writes social studies curricula for schools and historical organizations, demonstrates 19th century folkways, and is the curator of education at a small museum in La Conner.  Her historical novels, The Tree Soldier and The Jossing Affair were PNWA Literary Contest finalists.  She currently is revising a novel set in mid-19th century Washington Territory.

Village Books is pleased to carry copies of Janet Oakley's novel, Tree Soldier. To obtain a copy call 360-671-2626.