Every Bend in the River

Every Bend in the River by Emerson Ford
9/23/25; 324 pages
Storm Publishing

Every Bend in the River by Emerson Ford is very highly recommended historical fiction which opens in Virginia, 1749. It follows a free spirited girl as she tamps down her nature and turns into a dutiful woman and a young man from Scotland.

Rosanna Waters loves following her twin brother Phil and their neighbor John around, fishing and shooting, rather than helping her mother do the many chores required around their farm. One day her actions results in her mother having a terrible accident, so Rosanna tries to set her rebellious nature aside and takes on caring for her brothers and sisters and the other responsibilities her mother can no longer do. 

Then one day she and Phil are allowed a day off and head into town. It is there she meets Callum Stewart, a Scottish indentured servant, who likes her for exactly who she is. Then in 1754 war sends Phil and later Callum to join Washington's army and circumstances change Rosanna's life. She marries, carves out a farm in the South Carolina backcountry and has eight children while tragedy comes and unrest in the country is all around.

The writing is excellent in this historical fiction novel which covers some of the struggles one may have experienced at the time through telling Rosanna's story. It is based on a true story and portrays the determination, spirit, strength, and grit it took to survive during that time. Included as part of the narrative are real historical events and people of the time. Beyond the tale of a life hard fought, there is an underlying love story, both of a mother, woman, and country. The chapters jump ahead by multiple years, with the chapter opening showing the date covered. 

All the characters are well-written and portrayed as realistic individuals with strengths and weaknesses as they face and persevere over hardship and unimaginable circumstances. It is inspiring to see how both Rosanna and Callum overcome their circumstances. They both have a streak of independence and determination which serve them well over the years through grief, trials, and sacrifice. 

I'm not normally a fan of historical fiction but I think those who are will truly love Every Bend in the River. Thanks to Storm Publishing for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.