Marah Ellis Ryan 
That Girl Montana 
Western Novel

Marah Ellis Ryan’s ‘That Girl Montana’ is a captivating novel set in the American West, exploring themes of love, sacrifice, and female empowerment. The richly detailed descriptions of the landscape and the complex characters draw the reader into a vivid portrayal of life in the frontier. Ryan’s writing style is poetic and evocative, with a focus on the inner lives of her characters, making the book a compelling read for those interested in historical fiction. Marah Ellis Ryan was known for her adventurous spirit and travels, which influenced her writing and enabled her to bring authenticity to her depictions of the West. ‘That Girl Montana’ reflects Ryan’s own experiences and observations, as well as her progressive views on gender roles and society in the late 19th century. I highly recommend ‘That Girl Montana’ to readers who enjoy historical fiction with strong female protagonists and lyrical prose. Marah Ellis Ryan’s novel is a timeless tale that offers insight into the challenges and triumphs of women in a rapidly changing world.

About the author

Marah Ellis Ryan (1860-1934) was a versatile and prolific American author, actress, and activist, whose narrative craft was illustriously showcased in her 1901 novel, ‘That Girl Montana.’ Ryan’s literary oeuvre unfurled across several genres, embodying the romantic spirit of the American West with a particular empathy towards Native American cultures. Predominantly known for her empathetic portrayal of Native American life, her writing style is marked by a richly descriptive voice and an engaging, dramatic narrative technique. Ryan took a progressive stance for her era, often highlighting the strength and resilience of her female protagonists. ‘That Girl Montana’ remains a significant work, being emblematic of her ability to weave poignant tales that fuse romance, adventure, and a deep appreciation for the American landscape. Born in Pennsylvania, Ryan’s work was a part of the movements that sought to romanticize and preserve the rapidly vanishing frontier life of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In her time, she was recognized both for her literary contributions and her spirited dedication to the arts. While not as widely read today, scholars of Western American literature consider her work an important part of the cultural tapestry of the United States, reflecting the complex interactions and narratives that forged the nation’s identity during a period of significant change and expansion.