The second novel in Nicki Ehrlich’s series brings her young character to the old West.

Nicki Ehrlich is a local writer, author of a 2022 coming-of-age novel titled Ellis River, followed by the just-published Zephyr Trails, the second volume of what is planned as a trilogy.

“I didn’t think that Ellis River stands alone,” Ehrlich says. “The plot begged for more.”

Readers did, as well. The books tell a story of a teenage girl, Ellis, and is set in the wake of the Civil War, reflecting the chaos in American lives, when many were displaced and disconnected from their families.

Ellis is forced to find hers. This young horse-lover travels on the saddle from Tennessee to Missouri and toward California, meeting friends, working out her taught past and seeking her father and brother. Eventually, Ellis finds employment and adventure with the legendary mail service Pony Express. The title of the second volume refers to the Zephyr Post, where Ellis works.

“In the 19th century people had to grow up much quicker,” Ehrlich says. “So in her time, Ellis is practically an adult.”

She is going through what today would be described as PTSD, Ehrlich adds. But Ellis also has to be tough due to the environment around her.

The plot is fast and natural; the language – and the story – is appropriate for young adults. There are some allusions to Ellis’ budding love life; she feels both ways, attracted to men and women, and has a lot to figure out.

The novel avoids politics. There’s no good or bad side in Ehrlich’s Civil War. “War is simply terrible,” Ehrlich says. “And there are better ways of solving problems.”

The author is more interested in the big West. Ehrlich has been into Westerns all her life. Among her favorites titles are Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and Dances With Wolves.

Ehrlich and her heroine share the story of moving through the U.S. and finding home in California. She is now halfway through the third book about Ellis.

“I like her,” Ehrlich says of the character she has spent so much time with. “But yes, it requires patience too.”

Ehrlich self-publishes but her books can be found in local bookstores and libraries.

Nicki Ehrlich’s book launch party takes place at 1pm Sunday, Aug. 4. Riverhouse Books, 208 Crossroads Blvd., Carmel. 626-2665, info@riverhousebookscarmel.com, riverhousebookscarmel.com.