Marci S. (MarciNYC) reviewed on 6/1/2006

Helpful Score: 5

A fantastic story. The history of early Nieuw Amsterdam/Old New York is the background of this wonderful bit of historical fiction. Sally and Lucas Turner arrive in Nieuw Amsterdam in the mid-1600s. The story of the Turner descendants and the feud between the two sides of the family are continued through the American Revolution.

I enjoyed this for the history, the way that fictional and historic figures were woven into the storyline, and having lived in NYC, I smiled when I realised the names of the streets come from many of the historical figures or places. While it's a fascinating look at the 'medical' profession of the times; I must say that reading some of the surgical techniques made me a bit uneasy. Makes me glad that medicine has advanced greatly and for anesthesia!

Highly recommended to those who enjoy historical fiction or are interested in New Amsterdam/New York history. (I'm still singing "even old New York was once New Amsterdam...")

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