'Tho I Be Mute: A Prequel Novel

Home. Heritage. Legacy. Legend.

'Tho I Be Mute is the captivating true love story of John and Sarah Ridge unfolding through the eyes of their adult daughter, Clarinda. As an interracial couple in early 19th century America, a time of deep prejudice, their journey is one of resilience and determination.

Daughter to the Foreign Mission School Steward, Sarah Bird Northrup lives a simple life in Cornwall, Connecticut, but finds her quiet world shaken when an ill Cherokee student is brought to her home. Despite the disapproval of her parents, Sarah and the young Cherokee fall deeply in love. However, their bond is tested when Sarah's parents force two years of separation. Love conquers all, and they eventually marry and settle at John's family home in Cherokee country.

Once an outsider himself, John watches as Sarah struggles to adapt to a foreign culture and language. With the help of Honey, a girl half Cherokee and half African, Sarah finds the strength to overcome the unfamiliarity surrounding her. After the birth of their unique daughter, Clarinda, Sarah discovers her own voice and embraces the power of her husband's culture and heritage.

John, now an attorney for the Cherokee Nation, fights tirelessly against to force the American government to recognize Cherokee sovereignty and that of his people's Creek neighbors. Alongside his friend David Vann and cousin Elias Boudinot, editor of the Cherokee Phoenix, John confronts his own privilege and haughtiness, standing up for his Cherokee family, their home, and their rich land. But, the path to justice is uncertain.

'Tho I Be Mute is a poignant and inspiring tale that reminds us of the strength of love, the power of home, and the courage it takes to fight for what is right. Through daughter Clarinda's journal, we are transported back to a time of struggle and temporary triumph, where the bonds of family and the pursuit of justice shape a legacy.

The strength to fly comes from courage alone.