Jane Long of Texas

Rarely mentioned in history books, Jane Wilkinson Long is nevertheless regarded by many as the "Mother of Texas." As such, her exciting life has become the stuff of legend--and now, of this fascinating historical novel.To the manor born was Jane Wilkinson, and with her family name came powerful political connections, money, a spirit of adventure . . . and an amazingly strong will. When Jane fell in love with the dashing doctor James Long, her loyalty was total. Against her family's wishes, they married when she was but sixteen.Doctor Long, a veteran of the War of 1812, used Jane's fortune to build an army to conquer "Tejas." Jane was left behind, but she would soon follow.Before Jane was twenty-two, her life changed forever.Long's cause was doomed, and his death in Mexico City was a mystery that Jane was compelled to solve. Her bold quest swept her into Texas, and there she stayed--playing an unexpected role as spy and revolutionary in the fight for independence from Mexico.Her quest also carried her into the folds of history as a patriot and role model who even today should be revered and emulated.Author Neila Skinner Petrick has loved the Southwest since childhood, when she heard marvelous stories of early Texas settlers. A video writer and producer, Mrs. Petrick has won national and regional awards for her work. She lives in Dallas with her husband Tom, who helped her greatly in creating Jane Long of Texas. This is her first novel.