In 1816 Christian Kerchner and family leave Germany and set sail for America and a new beginning. In mid-voyage his wife tragically dies in childbirth and he is left to face the new world with two small sons. With determination he forges ahead to make a good life. Despite seemingly insurmountable obstacles, he builds his home and eventually remarries. All is good until members of his family are kidnapped and his future is once again uncertain. Faith and courage lead him on as he searches frantically for clues. Christian is driven to the edge of despair as his crops are threatened and his barn burns. By sheer determination and the support of his community he works to overcome his desperation and care for those who are near to him. In her new book Marilyn Maun tells the poignant story of one man's struggle for survival in a new land. It is an unforgettable story of desperation, faith and courage and shows his amazing determination and resilience.