Rushing the Klondike a novel by Joan Donaldson-Yarmey

 

I congratulate Ms Joan Donaldson Yarmey for recreating the Gold Rush in the Northern Territory and bringing it to life in her epic romantic novel Rushing the Klondike.

Many of the characters she vividly portrays are actual men and women. Among them is the Jesuit Priest, Father Judge who had a mission  in Fortymile where he bult a residence, a church and a hospital. It is also worth mentioning the legend of three men who found a baby on Christmas Eve which has its place in the folklore of the Klondike.

While reading the novel, I travelled with Pearl Owen a journalist, who supplements her income baking and selling sour dough bread and working in a hotel, her cousin and friends in Dawson and the area around it, including mining camps.  Dawson  was a thriving town with hotels, supply stations, restaurants, bars and a population of 3,500 who lived in cabins or tents.

 When the ice on the Yukon melted in spring 1897, Pearl’s friend, Florence, arrived with her brother, Dr Andrew Beckworth.  The Beckworths and many other prospectors hoped to make their fortunes. Pearl and Andrew like each other but are uncertain of their future.

I recommend Rushing the Klondike which I have awarded a 5* review.

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