Bernadette Inclan was a Medical Laboratory Professional for 45 years before shifting to creative writing in retirement. Her articles on genealogy have been published in Somos Primos, the online genealogical magazine, and several of her short stories have been posted, by her friend and author, Charles Jackson (see https://chuckjacksonknowme.com/) on his online Blog. She has finished her first book, a family history memoir, and has begun researching for her second book.
“My family has deep roots in the Americas. I am a descendant of the Conquistadors of New Spain, New Mexico, and Louisiana. In 2016, I received my certificate as an honoree of the First Families of Bexar County, Descendants of Joseph de Urrutia, Juana de Dios de Urrutia, and Ignacio Gonzalez Ynclan/Inclan. In 2021, the Order of the Descendants of El Cid verified my lineal descent from José Miguel Sanchez Diaz, a gateway ancestor with noble descent from Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar, El Cid.”
Outgoing, independent-minded fifty-something-year-old Eloisa Cavazos Diaz, Auntie, decides to invite her eighteen-year-old niece, Barbara Esquivel, on a road trip to Tampico Mexico in search of her baptismal certificate. During the twelve hours drive through south Texas and into Mexico, Auntie tells Barbara the story about an overlooked ancestor, José Narciso Cavazos, to whom the King of Spain awarded 600,000 acres of Texas land, El Agostadero De San Juan de Carricitos. Skirting the Texas counties of El Agostadero,
Auntie brings to life how in 1793, Narciso abandoned the aristocratic comforts of the established La Hacienda De Los Cavazos in Nuevo Leon, Mexico, to start something new, challenging, and full of obstacles in a barren landscape known to both Spain and Mexico as no man’s land. In vivid detail, Auntie chronicles Narciso’s passion to not only slog through the wild pasturage of Texas but also to appease the Indians who saw their territory dwindling as a result of land grants the Mexican government freely gave away.
"In 'The Perils of Beginnings,' readers are transported to a time of grandeur and ambition, where the dream of land and legacy is as vivid as the sunset over Tejas. The author masterfully intertwines history with the Cavazos family's lineage, drawing us into Narciso's journey to establish a future for his family. As we traverse alongside Narciso and Manuel, we are reminded of the rich cultural tapestry that is the foundation of the Southwest. The narrative is ripe with the raw beauty of the land and the complexities of colonial life, making it a compelling and insightful read."
"'The Perils of Beginnings' is a sweeping tale of determination and legacy, set against the backdrop of early Spanish colonization. The author brings to life the Cavazos' family saga with rich detail and a deep understanding of the historical context. The dialogue between Narciso and his son Manuel crackles with life, revealing the character's depth and the era's challenges. This story is a captivating homage to the spirit of the settlers and the land they seek to tame, delivered with an authenticity that resonates long after the final page is turned."
"This manuscript delivers a poignant narrative that is as educational as it is entertaining. 'The Perils of Beginnings' plunges the reader into the heart of the Cavazos family's dreams and struggles, capturing the essence of the pioneering spirit. The author's skillful depiction of the Southwest and the intricate relationships within the Cavazos family provides a richly textured read that is both moving and inspiring. It is a magnificent exploration of heritage, courage, and the enduring bond between a father and his son."
"'The Perils of Beginnings' is a beautifully crafted story that paints a vibrant picture of the Cavazos family's endeavors in a world on the brink of transformation. The author's eloquent prose and vivid imagery bring every scene to life, from the lush landscapes of Tejas to the intimate moments shared between Narciso and his family. It is a heartfelt tribute to the legacy of settlers, their connection to the land, and the timeless pursuit of a better life. A truly enchanting read that captures the essence of adventure and familial love."
