An immersive journey back to the 1850s when the American dream was a possibility for any man willing to work for it. But what about a woman? Or an immigrant's son? Queen of the West tells an unlikely couple's story of love, ambition and striving for a more equitable America. Feisty, eighteen-year-old Annie reluctantly moves with her family from New York City to Cincinnati, the booming Queen City of the West, leaving behind the culture and scant opportunities for women. She meets handsome Max, an aspiring capitalist from the Over-the-Rhine immigrant neighborhood. They bond through their common ambitions to fight the established order in pursuit of their dreams. Annie is drawn to the National Women's Movement but discovers that fighting for women's rights smacks against society's expectations and the restrictions of a traditional life with Max. She must ultimately choose between love and independence to fight for the cause. "Fans of Ohio history and women's fiction will enjoy this book."— Historical Novels Review "Chock-full of local historical references for Cincinnatians." An ideal book club selection with timeless themes: a coming-of-age love story, equality in marriage, class and immigrant bias, and the interplay between politics and media – historically illuminating and deeply relatable! Book One of the Queen of the West historical fiction trilogy--Step into the epic saga that explores Cincinnati's unique place in the westward expansion and the rise of a prosperous America. "Fans of Ohio history and women's fiction will enjoy this book."--Historical Novels Review JR Zink grew up in Wadsworth, Ohio and earned his BBA from the University of Cincinnati. He enjoyed a successful career as a management and technology consultant and executive leader before stepping away from the business world to develop his right-brain talents as an author. In addition to writing, he coaches high school swimming and enjoys running, backpacking, bicycling and travel. JR and his wife raised a family and now live in the historic Over-the-Rhine neighborhood in Cincinnati.