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The Douglas Robbins ShowAuthor: Douglas
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Interview with Historical Fiction Author Larry Rather
Episode 133
Friday, 20 February, 2026
Send a textAs Long As Rivers Run is a tale of lore, wisdom, and wonder; a story of hardship and healing in a rugged wilderness full of challenges and rewards. Protagonist Tom Dunagan was thrown into the role of a surgeon during the Civil War under conditions that yielded more sadness than success. The weight of the war is a cloak he struggles to shed. After the war, he and his 13 year-old daughter, Brooke, cross the Continental Divide and stumble upon a Ute father and son in their own tragic situation. Tom’s heroic effort to save the Ute man’s life after an intense encounter with a grizzly bear gives passage for Tom and his daughter to enter the mystic world of an Ute family band. They learn that the circle of the seasons is driven by the circle of water that drives the circle of life—a profound truth in a harsh land where water is not merely a resource, but the single, sacred thread that binds existence. The novel reiterates a lesson in survival that rings true to this day: the preciousness of water must never be forgotten.Taking place in a time when great riches for our Native Americans was measured in the number and quality of their horse herd, a time of strike-it-rich dreams in a rock's golden vein. While the story touches on greed, jealousy and violence common of that time, we also find moments of kindness, understanding and love, all cradled in the wilderness of the Rocky Mountains.Pick it up hereAbout the author, Larry Ray Rather:Larry Ray Rather is a rancher by day, and a weaver of words by night. A true 'Buddhist Cowboy,' Rather's deep connection to the land and the wisdom gleaned from a life spent outdoors resonate with his spiritual principles. Rather finds peace in the saddle and inspiration in the quiet contemplation of the mountains. His blend of Western heritage with the Eastern philosophies of Buddhism creates a unique perspective, one that emphasizes mindful observation, respect for all living things, and a deep appreciation for the present moment.A lifelong learner, Rather's curiosity extends beyond the written word. He is an avid student of history, archaeology, and the natural sciences, constantly seeking to understand the intricate web of life that surrounds us. Whether he's exploring the ancient ruins of the American West or simply observing the intricate dance of a hawk in the sky, Larry finds inspiration in every corner of the world.When he is not writing, he is often found with his horses and mules. Whether preparing for a day trip in the aspen-covered forests, or a weeks-long trip through rugged mountain terrain, you can expect him to return with documentation of arrowheads, wolf tracks, and things of that sort. Support the show
