Sally Cabot Gunning delves into the untold stories and human experiences that lie beneath the surface of well-known historical events. Driven by a profound connection to her native Massachusetts, she masterfully weaves the region's rich past into compelling narratives. Her distinctive approach brings forgotten figures to life, exploring the lesser-known facets of historical eras. Gunning writes with a keen eye for detail and a passion for revealing the past in ways readers may not have encountered before.
Set against the backdrop of 18th-century France and Virginia, the story follows young Martha Jefferson as she navigates life after her mother's death. Accompanying her father, Thomas Jefferson, on a diplomatic mission to Paris, Martha experiences a world of culture and politics. After five years abroad, they return to Monticello, where the challenges of family legacy and personal growth unfold, highlighting the complexities of their relationship and the historical context of their lives.
Set in a colonial New England whaling village, this historical novel intertwines themes of female strength and societal judgment. It explores the lives of women navigating their roles and relationships in a harsh, patriarchal environment, reminiscent of the emotional depth found in The Red Tent and the moral complexities of The Scarlet Letter. The narrative delves into personal struggles, community dynamics, and the haunting legacies of the past, offering a poignant reflection on resilience and identity.
Ida, meanwhile, has left her love for painting behind.It comes as no surprise to Ida when Ezra is hours late for a Thanksgiving dinner, only to leave abruptly for another supposedly urgent business trip to Boston.
Set in colonial Cape Cod, this novel follows an indentured servant grappling with the constraints of law and societal expectations, as well as her own emotional struggles. The story delves into themes of freedom, love, and the complexities of servitude, highlighting the protagonist's journey toward self-discovery and autonomy amidst the challenges of her time.