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“Finding Mr. Sunday” is a novel just published by Advance resident Dick Ward.

Set in the post Civil War era, it is about a young man, Will Sunday, who is suddenly thrust into life alone. His sheltered upbringing left him unprepared for the realities of life that hit him abruptly and squarely in the face.

He decides to head west on a wagon train, but before he reaches his departure point, he is shot, robbed and left for dead.

Enter two women, Kate Daniels, a beautiful young widow and her equally beautiful daughter, Mary Nel, who forever become an integral part of his life. He struggles to become the man he wants to be while wrestling with his own weaknesses, insecurity and fear of losing anyone he holds dear.

The story follows Will as he recovers from his wounds while in the care of the two women, and on through his journey west.

The story begins in the Missouri countryside where post war turmoil prevails and follows their trip west on a wagon train, a prolonged stay in Salt Lake City, a mining venture in the mountains of Wyoming and their eventual arrival in California. They settle in the San Joaquin Valley and each pursues individual dreams.

The cities of Sacramento and San Francisco figure prominently as the story of the three characters unfolds.

“There is adventure, excitement and real history at every turn,” Ward said.

Considerable research was done to insure accuracy in events, culture, geography and settings in the novel. Ward traveled to some of the areas and places included in the book.

While based in the era of early western development, the book expands the genre, emphasizing the universal themes of coming of age, self discovery, love, trust and relationships.

“It is an easy read, written to tell a good story that entertains and pleases the reader,” he said. “The surprise ending will be well received and leave the reader feeling good.”

An Amazon review excerpt: “Captivating – it truly felt like you were living the life of Will Sunday. I will miss my reading time with this book that easily took me to another time and place each night. Add it to your reading list for sure.”

Ward is a Virginia native and graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University. He is a retired marketing executive for a Fortune 500 company. He and his wife Betty make their home in Kinderton.

He can be reached via email at weedazee@yahoo.com, findingmrsunday@gmail.com or by phone at 336-971-2158.

“Finding Mr. Sunday” can be ordered from Amazon Books or Barnes & Noble or directly from the author. Contact him at one of the provided email addresses.