The Big Drift A Novel

The Big Drift A Novel by Patrick Dearen, published by TCU Press in 2014, is a historical fiction work set in the winter of 1884 in the Middle Concho region of Texas. This 232-page narrative follows Will Brite, a Slash Five cowboy, as he faces an unprecedented blizzard. During this harsh winter, he encounters Zeke Boles, a former slave with a troubled past, who becomes an unexpected presence in Will’s life as they navigate the challenges of survival and the complexities of their intertwined fates.

Readers will find a rich exploration of themes such as redemption and resilience as Will and Zeke’s lives become linked during one of the most brutal cattle roundups of the nineteenth century. The story delves into the harsh realities of life in the West, highlighting the struggles and camaraderie among the Slash Fives as they search for stray cattle. With its focus on historical elements and the experiences of African American characters, The Big Drift offers a unique perspective on the Western genre, inviting readers to engage with a narrative that reflects both personal and collective journeys.