At thirteen, while sailing on The Francis in a wave of early Puritan settlers, John Lee first encounters his nemesis, Richard Hawkes, while catching Hawkes in the act of stealing. To protect his fellow traveler, Lee swears an oath to never expose the thievery—an oath which Lee feels bound to keep. This oath causes him much anguish over the years. He is tormented by this secret knowledge, and as time goes by, he must silently watch as Hawkes’ power grows along with his crimes. Lee struggles inwardly over the damage his silence brings upon the community, yet he can find no way to break his word without jeopardizing his very soul. In the backdrop of a young America, Hawkes and Lee remain enemies, and their hatred of each other grows, while Lee struggles to find a way to expose this evil and bring justice to those Hawkes has harmed.
This is an epic tale of the early years of American settlement. Universal themes of good vs. evil, the search for truth and meaning, and mankind’s relationship with God are all explored through the lives of the author’s roundly established characters. Lovers of history will appreciate the detailed accounts of life during this period in history. From early relationships with Native Americans to Puritan beliefs and society to witchcraft trials, this work is filled with adventures. Meticulously researched, it offers a fascinating glimpse inside the many aspects of the world of Puritan settlers while immersing the reader in a mesmerizing tale that one won’t soon forget.
RECOMMENDED by the US Review