Oceans Between Us: Shanghaied in the Rose City! Hardcover – February 8, 2026

Based on Historical facts, this story takes place in Portland, Oregon in late 19th Century. Opportunities were boundless. Ripe for those willing to work hard and take a chance. Timber, Shipping, Construction jobs were plentiful. At least that is what Jacob thought. He, his wife, and baby son make the journey from Utah to Portland for a more independent life. Jacob leaves home early one day looking for work. He gets "Shanghaied!" He wakes up as a slave on a Merchant Ship bound for Asia. His wife, Maggie, searches for him. This story exposes a macabre period in American History little known. It's a story of Crimps and cover-up of the highly lucrative business of providing crew for short-handed ships. Famous Crimps, such as Joseph "Bunko" Kelly, and Ana Gomes. They would often drug their victims into compliance. Some times, even over dosing them to death. Tales are told of Ana Gomes, a Boarding House owner, sewed rats in to her expired victim's clothing to pass them off is being alive! The Maritime laws at the time not only did not protect victims, they consequently encouraged it. Finally Maggie moves on. Jacob endures over twenty years before he escapes. He finds his way home to find everything changed. A heart felt ending. This Historical Fiction novel is based on true events in Portland, Oregon, Astoria, San Francisco, Seattle. Explore the underground tunnels in Portland, Oregon also known as the "City of Roses". Shocking statistics follow the story for perspective. This novel must be made into a movie! Read more