Gem of Marlon

A young scientific prodigy named Paula escapes from her home planet of Marlon in a distant galaxy. She travels to Earth to seek refuge from ruthless leaders who want to steal her Lilac Gem; a technological marvel she created that possess nearly limitless powers, including time travel. Searching for the perfect cover in Earth’s history, she bonds with an 1843 family whose daughter, Martha, just happens to be her double. Departing from St. Louis, Paula and the family embark on the Oregon Trail . . . a 2,100 mile journey across America to the fertile lands of the Pacific Northwest. Along the way, Paula displays the abilities of her wondrous Gem through selfless acts of science and medicine. While her mysterious powers are questioned by those on the wagon train, a merciless team from Marlon searches for Paula in 1957 America where she periodically travels to. Keeping her true identity a secret along the dangerous Oregon Trail and avoiding capture in 1957 proves challenging. All the while, Martha and her family do what they can to accept Paula’s unearthly presence and protect her from her foes in two centuries. Gradually, Martha learns of Paula’s secrets and the ultimate plan for her mysterious Lilac Gem. This ground-breaking novel by author James A. Locke blends fantastic futuristic science-fiction with historically accurate events taken directly from one of America’s most demanding experiences - the Oregon Trail! Combined with scientific ingenuity, suspense, family devotion, and humor, Gem of Marlon is a wonderful and imaginative story that will entertain readers of all ages.