Leah Angstman Knihy

Out Front the Following Sea is a historical epic of one woman's survival in a time when the wilderness is still wild, heresy is publicly punishable, and being independent is worse than scorned--it is a death sentence. At the onset of King William's War between French and English settlers in 1689 New England, Ruth Miner is accused of witchcraft for the murder of her parents and must flee the brutality of her town. She stows away on the ship of the only other person who knows her innocence: an audacious sailor--Owen--bound to her by years of attraction, friendship, and shared secrets. But when Owen's French ancestry finds him at odds with a violent English commander, the turmoil becomes life-or-death for the sailor, the headstrong Ruth, and the cast of Quakers, Pequot Indians, soldiers, highwaymen, and townsfolk dragged into the fray. Now Ruth must choose between sending Owen to the gallows or keeping her own neck from the noose.

Celebrated for its authentic portrayal of American life, this award-winning work delves into the intricacies of everyday experiences and relationships. Through vivid storytelling, it captures the essence of diverse characters navigating their personal struggles and triumphs. The narrative intertwines themes of identity, community, and resilience, offering readers a profound reflection on the American experience. With its compelling prose and rich imagery, the book resonates deeply, making it a significant contribution to contemporary fiction.