“Before We Died explores the complexities of the relationship between two Irish-American brothers who embark on an Amazonian adventure fraught with peril. With her signature blend of literary elegance and heart-thrilling suspense, Schweighardt weaves an enticing, early-twentieth-century tale of passion, greed and sacrifice which will leave readers reaching for the next novel in the Rivers series!”
—Kristen Harnisch, International bestselling author of The Vintner's Daughter and The California Wife.

“With great skill, Schweighardt brings to magnificent life the colors, smells and sounds of Amazonia in this compelling tale of love, loss and honest men butting heads with privilege and greed.” 
—Damian McNicholl, author of A Son Called Gabriel and The Moment of Truth.

"An exciting fictional account that explores the very real issues around the consequences of greed and misunderstanding between cultures. Schweighardt’s story happened with rubber tappers a century ago; it continues today around oil, lumber, cattle, soy, and the mining of crystals and other resources. This book, besides being a good read, is a wake-up call!"

—John Perkins, New York Times Bestselling Author 

About the Author;

Joan Schweighardt grew up in northern New Jersey and lived in Florida and New York before moving to New Mexico. In addition to her own writing projects (which include six novels and a memoir), Joan makes her living editing, writing and ghostwriting for private and corporate clients. In the years between 1999 and 2005 she also had her own independent publishing company and published several award-winning titles—including a Barnes and Noble “Discover Great New Writers” title—for other authors. She has also agented some books, including sales to St. Martin’s, Wesleyan University Press, Red Hen, and more.