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The second of a six-part series, this novel begins with the return of Anne to America with her new husband, John, and his best friend, Daniel. After being married in France, the couple travels to Anne’s hometown of Yorktown, VA, for a long visit with her family. An accomplished horse trainer, Daniel works out a deal with Anne’s father to train the horses of his large estate. John, however, faces several obstacles which pose a threat to his and Anne’s continued happiness. One from his past has resurfaced, and the outcome of a legal problem will determine the couple’s future. Having only military experience, he is tempted by the offer of a new commission, and he and Anne return to England. Will John take the commission, or will he and Anne return to her beloved family and farm?
Robinson draws a fascinating picture of life in the early nineteenth Century. Her eye for detail as she describes the many aspects of farm life in America helps to paint a picture of the growing young country. Trouble with Native Americans, the carryover of English Common Law, the absence of an aristocracy, and the disillusionment of those who have lost much during the Revolution are all addressed. When John and Anne return to England to hear of his new commission, the stark differences between England and America are apparent. The characters are well-rounded, and the plot has many interesting twists that keep the reader engaged. The novel can be read as a stand-alone because an excerpt from the first book helps bring readers up to speed with the saga’s plot. Those who enjoy historical fiction will find much to like about Robinson’s work, and the book’s ending will have fans eagerly reaching for the next in the series.