Anne Butler Montgomery is an author whose diverse life experiences shape her literary voice. As a former sports journalist and teacher, she brings a unique perspective on human emotions and relationships to her writing. Her novels often delve into themes connected to the desert and its inhabitants. Montgomery focuses on crafting compelling characters and engaging narratives that draw readers into her characters' worlds.
Set against the backdrop of World War II, the story follows Bud Richardville as he is drafted into the Army in 1943. The narrative explores his experiences and challenges as he navigates military life during a tumultuous time in history, highlighting themes of bravery, sacrifice, and the impact of war on individuals and society.
Set against the backdrop of the Arizona desert, the story follows Rebecca as she navigates her struggles and seeks hope amidst challenging circumstances. The harsh yet beautiful landscape mirrors her internal journey, prompting her to confront her past and discover resilience. Through encounters with the desert's wild nature and the people she meets, Rebecca's quest for healing unfolds, highlighting themes of survival, self-discovery, and the transformative power of hope.
As a Vietnam veteran and former Special Forces sniper descends into the throes of mental illness, he latches onto a lonely pregnant teenager and a group of Pentecostal zealots - the Children of Light - who have been waiting over thirty years in the Arizona desert for Armageddon. When the Amtrak Sunset Limited, a passenger train en route to Los Angeles, is derailed in their midst in a deadly act of sabotage, their lives are thrown into turmoil as local and state police, FBI investigators, and a horde of reporters arrive on the scene. As the search for the saboteurs heats up and the authorities question members of the cult, they uncover more questions than answers. And then the girl vanishes. As the sniper struggles to maintain his sanity, a child is about to be born in deep in the wilderness.
Rose Madsen is running away from her Fundamentalist Mormon community. Adan Reyes is running away from his abusive foster home. The two teens meet and escape to the mountains, but once they are discovered, they must decide if some adults are worth trusting.