Fire of the Covenant: The Story of the Willie and Martin Handcart Companies

I read this book before going as a leader on a re-creation of a handcart "trek". I've long known of many of the hardships and struggles of the handcart pioneers, but turns out I had only an inkling. Some of the circumstances were so extreme, I would hardly think it possible to go forward. And yet they did, and they tried, and most of them made it. I liked how the story starts in Europe (couple of places), and shows the faith it took to leave their native lands. You really grow to love the characters, their families, and get to know them. As my wife and I participated in Trek, we were able to share stories we didn't have or know before. Though the stories would be far more impactful to our group of teens if they read the book themselves (which we loaned). It sure made it a different experience for us having read it and experienced a tiny sliver of what it might have been like. Our experience was through severe thunderstorms, which there is one part of the book that reminded me of! A must read for members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, but an excellent read for anyone who wants to read an emotionally engaging book about our U.S. history of immigrants who helped settle the western United States. Great read!

I actually read this book several years ago. My brother and sister-in-law were going on "Pioneer Trek" with the young men and women of their ward. I just knew they had to read this. They had previously visited Martin's Cove. Knowing they were going on "Trek", I bought this book for my brother's birthday. Three days after they returned from their emotional, spiritual experience, the book arrived in the mail. I thought after having such an experience , that this book would help to put all they had gone through into perspective. They had only "trekked" in the summer, and in the heat. This gave better insight into how it might have been if they had had to travel in the dead of winter, with no food, not winter clothing, no hope of rescue. Their experience cannot ever come close to the real experiences of the handcart pioneers. But it did give them some sort of idea how it might have been, and a grateful heart for those who had faith in every footstep, with no thought of reward. For me, I have never had the opportunity to go on "Trek", because of health reasons. But reading this book gave me an understanding of the faith of these people and their dedication to God. I have been to Martin's Cove, and felt the feeling of reverence on that hallowed ground. This book brought that historical event to life for me, I must admit, tears were shed almost every chapter. If you are of pioneer heritage, or whether you are a modern day convert... this book will touch you, on every level, like no other. Especially gratifying was the fact that so many of the "real" characters in the book seemed so familiar to me. One of the rescuers..John Blackham, (I don't recall if he was mentioned by name) is the great-great-grandfather of my son in law. Of all of Gerald Lund's fine books...this is my favorite. An ABSOLUTE MUST READ!!

I think Gerald best Book ever is the second coming of the Lord. But this Book Is so well researched, I loved that at the end of each chapter he has the quotes from the actual journals of where he got some of this ideas. There are many stories and acoustic ya that I have never heard before— And I used to go to the historical sites at Martins Cove and Sixth Crossing regularly— To read listen and learn.

Gerald Lund is a great writer. This book is amazing. It is interesting if you are a member of the LDS church or if you just enjoy history. You cannot put this book down. I have read the book once and I have listened to it four times and will again. If you like history about the early and mid 1800's you will love this book. This is a excellent book and I rate It is right up there with Roots.

This is my favorite book because it's my favorite kind of book. Lund weaves fiction into historical accounts with ease and creates characters along with whom you laugh, cry, and struggle. This story about the handcart companies is absolutely incredible. I love the chapter notes that give the real accounts from which Lund composes the story line. Every time I finish this book, I am inspired and continue to think about the characters, both fictional and historical. I would recommend it to anyone wanting a good read!

This is very well researched, with a good story line. Maybe too much detail for a non-Morman reader. But I do recommend this book - I have such respect for the tenacity and faith of these pioneers!

This is yet another great read by Gerald N. Lund! You will not be disappointed with your purchase. Gerald Lund takes you on a personal journey with the Willey and Martin hand cart companies as they journey from Europe to Utah. There is love found, love lost, tragedy, and an experience that magnifies the faith of those who journeyed with these companies which made their testimonies firm of the love of God and his mercies. You will laugh and cry through this book, but more importantly you will leave this book with a new understanding of these amazing pioneers and of God. Couldn't put it down! Looking forward to picking up another great story from Gerald Lund soon!

This book based on the handcart companies of the Latter Day Saints journey to Salt Lake is an overwhelming testimony to the power of faith. The author's ability to weave fictional characters into the lives of actual people through the writings of those who experienced this journey gives an amazing and factual look at the power of the human body and spirit. The book in no way sugar coats the hardships and reality of this journey. You become part of every family; rejoicing with them and grieving with them. Could not put this book down even though I knew how it would end.

This book was bought as a gift for a Latter Day Saint. I hope she liked it too and will buy even more of the Gerald Lund series.

Great book not best of condition