My thoughts: As an individual that has lived in North Carolina my entire life and originally from the coastal area, and as an individual that has always been fascinated by history - any era, I have found that reading Shannon McNear's fictional historical stories of the early settlers of the shores of what is now Virginia and North Carolina to be utterly fascinating.
The author treats the historical accounts - both from recorded history of the "natural" or Indian people as well as the English settler's accounts, with delicate respect and artistry.
In Rebecca (#3 in the Daughters of the Lost Colony series), the energetic, wise, enthralling, and intelligent daughter of the head King of the Powhatan nation comes alive on the pages capturing the interest of the readers as well as the story's characters. Her story bespeaks of her lively and happy life and then how danger, tragedy, and deep offense come upon her. It further speaks of her careful and intelligent examination of the words of the English and their man of God as he introduces her the the God of the English - the Christ.
I found the story initially interesting but slow - for me - to read because I kept stumbling mentally on the names of the characters amongst the naturals or Indians. That is my short coming and simply mine. Not that of the author's. Once I became more accustomed to their names, the story captured my interest and my heart.
The author has an abundance of supporting information at the back of the book as well as a time line and a list of characters and the role they play. Worth the read after or before you read the story. I highly recommend this series.
About the book: A Native Princess Follows Her Heart
Born the daughter of a Powhatan chieftain and a woman of unknown origins, Mato’aka enjoys a carefree life. When strange men from across the eastern waters appear near her home, she regards them at first as a mere curiosity. Soon, though, she finds herself torn between fascination for one of their leaders and the opinions and ways of her people–then becomes a pawn in their delicate and dangerous game of politics. Drawn to a young Englishman, John Rolfe, who has lost a wife and baby daughter, she shares his griefs. . .and perhaps something more.
Born the daughter of a Powhatan chieftain and a woman of unknown origins, Mato’aka enjoys a carefree life. When strange men from across the eastern waters appear near her home, she regards them at first as a mere curiosity. Soon, though, she finds herself torn between fascination for one of their leaders and the opinions and ways of her people–then becomes a pawn in their delicate and dangerous game of politics. Drawn to a young Englishman, John Rolfe, who has lost a wife and baby daughter, she shares his griefs. . .and perhaps something more.
Could she have a future among the English of Jamestown, accepting their ways and even changing her name? Could her destiny be a part of the lasting legacy of the Lost Colony of Roanoke?
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Books may be purchased here - Barbour Publishing.
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