Journeys Unanswered

SPOILERS AHEAD

So, I focused Journeys very much on the travels of Colt and Sarah. Winnie’s travel was necessary, but it wasn't the story.

Sarah's real father, Billy, is mentioned throughout the book, up until his eventual death at the hands of Colt. I have been asked a few times now how Billy managed to escape the law multiple times. I'm sure there is also the burning question, why was Billy escaping the law in the first place?

In short, the story built itself. I didn't actually know why he was running, or how he escaped, until I reached the end of the book. Enter Arlene.

Who is Arlene?

Arlene is a waitress, she is NOT a saloon girl. However, during that time, some men didn't differentiate the two. Billy was one of those men. Arlene is introduced at the end of Journeys, and featured as a side character in Homes.

Why does Arlene hate Billy so much?

Simple answer, Gus is the product of rape. Which leads to our next answer.

Why was Billy running?

Billy was running because Arlene was a fighter, and although he managed to have his way with her, he was no killer, yet. Arlene was not going to let him get away with it, so his only choice was to run.

How does Billy escape the law?

Initially, they outrun the law on horseback and arrive to the train platform in time to catch a train and leave before the lawmen arrive.

Billy was stowed in a livestock train car after the attack on the train. This is where he escapes from the second time.

The third time Billy escapes is completely due to negligence. The town he is arrested in is small, and has a small jail, with only a few officers.

And the dying question...

What about Francine?

I'm happy to announce I have decided to write a prequel to Journeys that will focus on Francine life as a child up until Colt, Sarah, and Walter arrive at her doorstep.

STAY TUNED.