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Cate of the Lost Colony
Lady Catherine is one of Queen Elizabeth's favorite court maidens-until her forbidden romance with Sir Walter Ralegh is discovered. In a bitter twist of irony, the jealous queen banishes Cate to Ralegh's colony of Roanoke, in the New World. Ralegh pledges to come for Cate, but as the months stretch out, Cate begins to doubt his promise and his love. Instead it is Manteo, a Croatoan Indian, whom the colonists-and Cate-increasingly turn to. Yet just as Cate's longings for England and Ralegh fade and she discovers a new love in Manteo, Ralegh will finally set sail for the New World.Seamlessly weaving together fact with fiction, Lisa Klein's newest historical drama is an engrossing tale of adventure and forbidden love-kindled by one of the most famous mysteries in American the fate of the settlers at Roanoke, who disappeared without a trace forty years before the Pilgrims would set foot in Plymouth.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 24, 2010
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 225 reviews
July 5, 2016
Okay... Wow, that book was just absolutely amazing!!! The writing was soo good and I was always wanting to read it. The historical aspect was very fascinating with England and Roanoke and Cate was an outstanding character! I really really liked her and I felt like she would have been a feminist of the 16th century and I loved how she could stand up to herself and her feelings and it was all just really well written. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical novels or this would be a great book to read if you are trying to get into the historical fiction. Everyone should pick it up because it's definitely worth the read!
October 20, 2010
In a Sentence: Cate of the Lost Colony is a masterful coming-of-age tale that takes place in a vivid historical setting.
My Thoughts
When I was in high school, I picked up Lisa Klein's first novel, Ophelia, and absolutely loved it. As such, I was really excited to read Cate of the Lost Colony. Klein has written a few books between Ophelia and Cate, but this is only the second one that I've read.
Cate of the Lost Colony definitely lived up to the high standard set by Ophelia. The characters were just as real, the writing was just as good, and Klein's historical accuracy was spot on, as usual.
Speaking of historical accuracy, I was amazed by the detail that went into Cate of the Lost Colony. As a former Global Studies major, I've taken quite a few history classes, and I'm usually able to pick out at least a few minor errors in most historical fiction. I wasn't able to to that with this book, which made me very happy! I can only imagine how much research Klein put into writing this novel, but it definitely paid off.
I loved the main character, Cate. She was strong and independent, but not so much that she was abrasive or foolish. Cate is subject to all of your typical human emotions (like love and fear), but she fights very hard to do what she thinks is right and smart, instead of trying to take the easy way out. Most important of all...she stays true to herself amidst a sea of intimidating, strong-willed (and male) figures, even though many women of her age would have chosen to stay in the shadows.
Cate of the Lost Colony is a book I would recommend to readers who tend to stay away from the historical fiction genre. In my opinion, Lisa Klein is one of the best historical fiction writers out there. Her stories stay true to historical fact, but at the same time, she manages to put her own creative spin on things. If there's ever been a writer to make history come alive, it's Lisa Klein!
My Thoughts
When I was in high school, I picked up Lisa Klein's first novel, Ophelia, and absolutely loved it. As such, I was really excited to read Cate of the Lost Colony. Klein has written a few books between Ophelia and Cate, but this is only the second one that I've read.
Cate of the Lost Colony definitely lived up to the high standard set by Ophelia. The characters were just as real, the writing was just as good, and Klein's historical accuracy was spot on, as usual.
Speaking of historical accuracy, I was amazed by the detail that went into Cate of the Lost Colony. As a former Global Studies major, I've taken quite a few history classes, and I'm usually able to pick out at least a few minor errors in most historical fiction. I wasn't able to to that with this book, which made me very happy! I can only imagine how much research Klein put into writing this novel, but it definitely paid off.
I loved the main character, Cate. She was strong and independent, but not so much that she was abrasive or foolish. Cate is subject to all of your typical human emotions (like love and fear), but she fights very hard to do what she thinks is right and smart, instead of trying to take the easy way out. Most important of all...she stays true to herself amidst a sea of intimidating, strong-willed (and male) figures, even though many women of her age would have chosen to stay in the shadows.
Cate of the Lost Colony is a book I would recommend to readers who tend to stay away from the historical fiction genre. In my opinion, Lisa Klein is one of the best historical fiction writers out there. Her stories stay true to historical fact, but at the same time, she manages to put her own creative spin on things. If there's ever been a writer to make history come alive, it's Lisa Klein!
October 14, 2010
I enjoyed Lady Macbeth's Daughter by Klein and I wondered how she would craft Cate of the Lost Colony into a fictional work of art. Well, I didn’t have to worry because Klein pulled me into another beautifully written work of historical fiction built around events of the Lost Colony of Roanoke. It's astounding to read about some of these historical figures and the mysteries surrounding what actually happened to the Colony. The detail that was put into creating the characters piqued my interest even more as I read about the lives of three protagonists told in alternating viewpoints.
Throughout this book, I continued to wonder if the actual figures were like their fictional work. I was mesmerized by the politics and inner workings of the Queen's court but I was most intrigued with the characters. Cate, full of wonder and questions about the new world finds herself on a dangerous journey of the unknown after falling out of favor with the Queen. Sir Walter Ralegh was an interesting individual. I was always trying to discern his motives whether they were for the Queen's favor, Catherine's affections or just for monetary gain and fame. Manteo, the proud Indian was a delightful character. I enjoyed reading all about his views on his people and the English and how he was always trying to find ways to make peace between the two. Klein did a great job with the characters in this book!
Cate of the Lost Colony is a well crafted novel filled with political intrigue, adventure, and great characters. This book intertwines beautifully with fact and fiction. I think readers of historical fiction will enjoy this book just as much as Klein’s previous books. I look forward to reading more of Klein’s novels.
Throughout this book, I continued to wonder if the actual figures were like their fictional work. I was mesmerized by the politics and inner workings of the Queen's court but I was most intrigued with the characters. Cate, full of wonder and questions about the new world finds herself on a dangerous journey of the unknown after falling out of favor with the Queen. Sir Walter Ralegh was an interesting individual. I was always trying to discern his motives whether they were for the Queen's favor, Catherine's affections or just for monetary gain and fame. Manteo, the proud Indian was a delightful character. I enjoyed reading all about his views on his people and the English and how he was always trying to find ways to make peace between the two. Klein did a great job with the characters in this book!
Cate of the Lost Colony is a well crafted novel filled with political intrigue, adventure, and great characters. This book intertwines beautifully with fact and fiction. I think readers of historical fiction will enjoy this book just as much as Klein’s previous books. I look forward to reading more of Klein’s novels.
October 14, 2010
I'm stunned! This was ABSOLUTELY SPLENDID!!!! I normally quite enjoy Historical Fiction but this time... I mean, come on! This is probably the single one thing in history that I would die to read about, and Lisa Klein does a marvelous job with it. It will always be one of the greatest historical mystery, but now I have an alternate ending that completely satisfied me. I was truly amazed by the way the story flows naturally and provides the reader such vivid insight with the several POVs and letter format. Plus, the poetry was a bonus!
I also enjoyed the fact that the book takes place in both settings: England and the New World. Descriptions were incredibly atmospheric and I felt myself standing in both places. It was absolutely fantastic the way I felt like I traveled to inside the book. I felt I was Catherine, I felt her joy and pain, and the frustration of living in such complicated times and situations.
The writing was delightful, and Catherine's voice was unique and compelling. It's hard to believe she's not as real as the rest. I don't think there is any better way to learn history while enjoying an amazing journey than to read Historical Fiction. It's way too fun to call it studying, but in a way it's exactly what it is. At the begging of the book there's a list of characters that specify which existed and which were made for the story and at the end of the book there's an author's note that explains which parts are true and further readings.
If you've never tried historical fiction, this is an excellent option to start the right way. It's the kind of story that will very much appeal the reluctant readers. On the other hand, if you enjoy the genre already, go out and get this one NOW!! You'll thank me later.
I also enjoyed the fact that the book takes place in both settings: England and the New World. Descriptions were incredibly atmospheric and I felt myself standing in both places. It was absolutely fantastic the way I felt like I traveled to inside the book. I felt I was Catherine, I felt her joy and pain, and the frustration of living in such complicated times and situations.
The writing was delightful, and Catherine's voice was unique and compelling. It's hard to believe she's not as real as the rest. I don't think there is any better way to learn history while enjoying an amazing journey than to read Historical Fiction. It's way too fun to call it studying, but in a way it's exactly what it is. At the begging of the book there's a list of characters that specify which existed and which were made for the story and at the end of the book there's an author's note that explains which parts are true and further readings.
If you've never tried historical fiction, this is an excellent option to start the right way. It's the kind of story that will very much appeal the reluctant readers. On the other hand, if you enjoy the genre already, go out and get this one NOW!! You'll thank me later.
January 26, 2011
I didn't like this much at all, which surprised me as I read and enjoyed this same author's Lady MacBeth's Daughter over a year ago.
Cate is a lady's maid for the very jealous Queen Elizabeth. Thus when Cate begins a romance with Elizabeth's latest crush (And how the heck can you call this a romance??) Elizabeth has a bad reaction and sends Cate to the Tower. Walter (the romance.. hmph) arranges for her to be sent to the new colony in Virginia, something Cate wants. But in Virginia, there is babies born, Indian attacks, and uprisings against the government.
Meanwhile though all this, half of the story is told from Walter's POV, his journals, his letters to his ship people, and oh my word, his bloody poetry. I loathed him and his parts. Again, what kind of romance is this???
Also, a quarter of the book is told from an Indian's POV who was captured and brough to England and has submitted to the English ways. TSTL. I didn't like him much either. I pitied his situation, but he is so gullible..
Thus, a miss for me. By the time the "exciting" things began happening, I was so disgusted with the poetry and how very little of the book is actually about Cate, that I lost interest. I bailed with 30 percent left. I am grateful to the friend who loaned it to me though.
One laugh out loud moment: "I could not get used to sleeping in a room with men. It seemed improper. Moreover, they snored and passed wind all night, making the air noisome and keeping me from sleep."
Cate is a lady's maid for the very jealous Queen Elizabeth. Thus when Cate begins a romance with Elizabeth's latest crush (And how the heck can you call this a romance??) Elizabeth has a bad reaction and sends Cate to the Tower. Walter (the romance.. hmph) arranges for her to be sent to the new colony in Virginia, something Cate wants. But in Virginia, there is babies born, Indian attacks, and uprisings against the government.
Meanwhile though all this, half of the story is told from Walter's POV, his journals, his letters to his ship people, and oh my word, his bloody poetry. I loathed him and his parts. Again, what kind of romance is this???
Also, a quarter of the book is told from an Indian's POV who was captured and brough to England and has submitted to the English ways. TSTL. I didn't like him much either. I pitied his situation, but he is so gullible..
Thus, a miss for me. By the time the "exciting" things began happening, I was so disgusted with the poetry and how very little of the book is actually about Cate, that I lost interest. I bailed with 30 percent left. I am grateful to the friend who loaned it to me though.
One laugh out loud moment: "I could not get used to sleeping in a room with men. It seemed improper. Moreover, they snored and passed wind all night, making the air noisome and keeping me from sleep."
November 20, 2012
Catherine Archer, an orphan has been selected for the chance to be one of Queen Elizabeth’s maids in waiting. It is the chance of a lifetime, as working for the Queen reflects a potential positive change in fortune. Catherine finds love with one of the Queen’s favorites, Sir Walter Raleigh. However, this draws the Queen’s ire. I am sure you can infer from the title what will happen. Think Roanoke, the lost colony! When in Roanoke, Cate finds herself attracted to a native, Manteo. With her heart trapped between two worlds, Cate must make a tough decision.
Read the rest of my review here
Read the rest of my review here
May 7, 2013
Are you, like me, so incredibly fascinated by the Roanoke colony?! I remember reading about it in fifth grade. Mind. Blown. They just don't know where over a hundred people went? And they left a word carved into a log . . . ? Beyond bizarre! And awesome!
Lisa Klein (who in her book OPHELIA, made me actually really like Ophelia!), delves into the mystery of the Roanoke colony with gusto. She also paints an amazing picture of life at Elizabeth I's court, and life in an Algonquin village of that same time period. This is a very richly detailed book, and not to be missed! I wanted more, more, more!
Lisa Klein (who in her book OPHELIA, made me actually really like Ophelia!), delves into the mystery of the Roanoke colony with gusto. She also paints an amazing picture of life at Elizabeth I's court, and life in an Algonquin village of that same time period. This is a very richly detailed book, and not to be missed! I wanted more, more, more!
June 6, 2015
Fictional account of what may have become of the Lost Colony of Roanoke. Slow in places, and I felt the author spent too much time on inner reflection with the main characters. 3 stars
October 6, 2010
Cate of the Lost Colony is a richly, creatively told story that combines fact and fiction in a way that not only has you learn new details about England, Elizabeth, and Roanoke Island but also leaves you breathless to find out more of what happened to the fictional protagonist of Cate.
Cate of the Lost Colony is the story of Lady Catherine, a girl who's nearly hitting rock bottom thanks to the death of her father and the loss of nearly everything she called home. But, as it turns out her luck is soon to change when Queen Elizabeth sends her a personal letter asking Cate to be one of her court maidens. Cate, thrilled at the news, quickly packs her few belongings, and sets off for court in hope of a new and better life. Though, as it turns out court will bring good, as well as bad things. Good being the fact she makes one of the best friends of her life and quickly becomes one of the queen's favorite and bad being the fact that after an illicit romance with Sir Walter Ralegh she's exiled to the colony of Roanoke, providing a struggle bigger than any other Cate has faced before. Will Cate be able to save herself, as well as the other lost colonists? Will Sir Walter Ralegh come back and profess his love, or will Cate find someone else? Only time will tell in this highly addictive tale of court drama, forbidden loves, and one incredible teen girl.
Cate is one of the bravest and strong willed protagonists I've read about in ages, which left me to have nothing but respect and admiration for this young girl, who manages to have everything taken from her and yet rebuild it all more than once. I loved the way Cate would never shy away from speaking her feelings, something most girls in her time wouldn't, and how she was always one to come up with a creative new way to get along with the Indians and unite Roanoke as a colony. One of my favorite parts of Cate of the Lost Colony was the relationships she made throughout. Her friendship with Emme, one of the girls at court, was one of my favorites because it was a fun addition, and their friendship often felt real and not forced. I also loved reading about her connection to Manteo, though I personally would have loved a bit more development to their relationship.
The premise is this is great (I loved the idea of half of the novel taking place at Roanoke and how it dealt with what happened to the colonists that were left there to fend for themselves) and the execution was equally good. I enjoyed the way the story was separated in three different parts, as well as how greatly of detail and accuracy Klein put into this book.
My only complaint about Cate of the Lost Colony would be the way it lagged at times and how some passages sounded a bit like a history book.
While it did have those faults, Cate of the Lost Colony is still a book I highly enjoyed and when I can't help but suggest to all you history buffs and historical fiction fans!
Grade: B
Cate of the Lost Colony is the story of Lady Catherine, a girl who's nearly hitting rock bottom thanks to the death of her father and the loss of nearly everything she called home. But, as it turns out her luck is soon to change when Queen Elizabeth sends her a personal letter asking Cate to be one of her court maidens. Cate, thrilled at the news, quickly packs her few belongings, and sets off for court in hope of a new and better life. Though, as it turns out court will bring good, as well as bad things. Good being the fact she makes one of the best friends of her life and quickly becomes one of the queen's favorite and bad being the fact that after an illicit romance with Sir Walter Ralegh she's exiled to the colony of Roanoke, providing a struggle bigger than any other Cate has faced before. Will Cate be able to save herself, as well as the other lost colonists? Will Sir Walter Ralegh come back and profess his love, or will Cate find someone else? Only time will tell in this highly addictive tale of court drama, forbidden loves, and one incredible teen girl.
Cate is one of the bravest and strong willed protagonists I've read about in ages, which left me to have nothing but respect and admiration for this young girl, who manages to have everything taken from her and yet rebuild it all more than once. I loved the way Cate would never shy away from speaking her feelings, something most girls in her time wouldn't, and how she was always one to come up with a creative new way to get along with the Indians and unite Roanoke as a colony. One of my favorite parts of Cate of the Lost Colony was the relationships she made throughout. Her friendship with Emme, one of the girls at court, was one of my favorites because it was a fun addition, and their friendship often felt real and not forced. I also loved reading about her connection to Manteo, though I personally would have loved a bit more development to their relationship.
The premise is this is great (I loved the idea of half of the novel taking place at Roanoke and how it dealt with what happened to the colonists that were left there to fend for themselves) and the execution was equally good. I enjoyed the way the story was separated in three different parts, as well as how greatly of detail and accuracy Klein put into this book.
My only complaint about Cate of the Lost Colony would be the way it lagged at times and how some passages sounded a bit like a history book.
While it did have those faults, Cate of the Lost Colony is still a book I highly enjoyed and when I can't help but suggest to all you history buffs and historical fiction fans!
Grade: B
August 5, 2010
I had high hopes for this book. A pretty cover, Elizabethan England, the lost colony of Roanoke, romance, and danger makes for a pretty fantastic build up. I was not disappointed. It's a little slow to start, and one charcter annoyed me, but overall I truly loved this book.
The setting was marvelous. I tend to love anything set during Tudor England (particularly King Henry VIII or Elizabeth I). I think the author did a fantastic job with the royal setting and what it might have been like to serve Queen Elizabeth I. I first had the impression that the book was set more in the colonies, but it's actually about half and half. I was impressed with the descriptions of Roanoke. I confess I don't know any more details than the few provided by the history books. I felt this did an accurate job of portraying the life of early colonists.
I loved Cate. She's a head strong character, which is perhaps why Queen Elizabeth banished her. She never seems to know when to hold her tongue. But, in the end, this character flaw is perhaps what saved them all. I confess to never really liking Sir Walter Raleigh. But, I've learned it seems to be a character flaw of the men Queen Elizabeth loved and controlled. I also like Manteo. His contribution both to the fictional story and in real history greatly intrigue me. He's role in the events make the story that much more real knowing he's a real character in the history books.
The story itself is wonderful. I loved the first half set in England. I think it gives a good account of England during that time period. I don't think any characters (including the Queen's) actions differ from any other fiction or nonfiction work set in the same time period. If I thought I loved this first half of the book, it possible I loved the second half even more. I loved watching Cate charge and make friends with the Indian women. I thought it was great that she didn't sit and wait for Sir Walter to come for her. I also thought the ending gave a highly plausible cause and reasoning to what happened to the lost colony of Roanoke. I can't recommend this one enough, and will be looking for the author's other works!
August 31, 2010
The lost colony of Roanoke was something that I always found quite interesting when studying history. What happened to those people? Where did they go? Cate of the Lost Colony provides an intriguing – and quite plausible – explanation: The people were absorbed into the Native American tribes nearby. I know that's not something that ever would have crossed my mind before reading this book, but I'm sure historians and/or scholars have considered this possible outcome. I loved that this story presented this theory, because it was new to me and it makes sense.
Why only three stars? Well, I didn't really like some of the characters, and felt that the details were a bit off. My main problem was with Cate. She started out OK, but by the end of the book she got on my nerves. Not necessarily because there was anything wrong with her, except that she was not a personality I could see thriving in that time period. Plus, she did not sound/feel like a teenager – or even in her early 20s. Her wisdom and thoughts in many situations were those I would expect of someone at least 10 years her senior. Her character just didn't seem to fit with the story.
If you like historical fiction – especially Colonial American – then this is worth a read. It provides a fascinating, and believable, explanation for what possibly could have happened to the colonists who settled in at Roanoke. That alone made me glad I read it.
Why only three stars? Well, I didn't really like some of the characters, and felt that the details were a bit off. My main problem was with Cate. She started out OK, but by the end of the book she got on my nerves. Not necessarily because there was anything wrong with her, except that she was not a personality I could see thriving in that time period. Plus, she did not sound/feel like a teenager – or even in her early 20s. Her wisdom and thoughts in many situations were those I would expect of someone at least 10 years her senior. Her character just didn't seem to fit with the story.
If you like historical fiction – especially Colonial American – then this is worth a read. It provides a fascinating, and believable, explanation for what possibly could have happened to the colonists who settled in at Roanoke. That alone made me glad I read it.
June 14, 2010
Thank you to Bloomsbury for giving me a chance to review this early! I have several of Lisa Klein's other books on my wishlist, and I was thrilled I'd finally have a chance to read her.
This book did not disappoint. She expertly weaves historical fact into a narrative of her own creation. She takes on one of the greatest unsolved mysteries of all time: the lost colonists of the 1587 voyage to Roanoke Island.
She does it well. It was very real and honest: she showed us tastes of the combination of curiosity and cruelty that the Indians probably showed the English, without making it too barbaric for a young adult novel.
Even though Cate is fictional, I'd like to think someone like her existed. A strong, intelligent female willing to communicate with the Indians and able to stand up to her own countrymen to advocate for peace (and common sense).
I highly recommend reading this. It brings a real time in history to life, and highlights the bravery of the original voyagers. I really hope that something like what unfolds in this book really happened!
This book did not disappoint. She expertly weaves historical fact into a narrative of her own creation. She takes on one of the greatest unsolved mysteries of all time: the lost colonists of the 1587 voyage to Roanoke Island.
She does it well. It was very real and honest: she showed us tastes of the combination of curiosity and cruelty that the Indians probably showed the English, without making it too barbaric for a young adult novel.
Even though Cate is fictional, I'd like to think someone like her existed. A strong, intelligent female willing to communicate with the Indians and able to stand up to her own countrymen to advocate for peace (and common sense).
I highly recommend reading this. It brings a real time in history to life, and highlights the bravery of the original voyagers. I really hope that something like what unfolds in this book really happened!
April 9, 2011
This book was absolutely wonderful and one of the best I've read so far this year! Cate is such a wonderfully relatable and fiercely abiding heroine that no matter what she did, I loved her always. I loved the romance, adventure, mystery and history attached to this book. It was very well-written and Lisa Klein's explanation for what happened to the lost colony of Roanoke is very plausible and interesting. I especially enjoyed Cate's acceptance of Manteo before she had even met him. To her he was just a human being like herself. This book will stay with me for a long time and bravo to Lisa Klein - you have finally ensnared me with this one! I tried a couple others and quit, but this one GOT ME!!! :)
February 19, 2019
First sentence: At a young age I learned how quickly one's fortune's can change, a truth that never betrayed me. One day I was the beloved daughter of a Hampshire gentleman who had been chosen to serve the queen. The next, he was killed fighting in the Netherlands, and I was an orphan.
Premise/plot: Catherine Archer becomes a maid in the court of Queen Elizabeth I. She even earns enough favor to receive a nickname--"Cat." But the Queen's favor is a fickle, fickle thing. And when the Queen discovers that Cate is in love with Sir Walter Raleigh, well it's not quite OFF WITH HER HEAD (think Alice in Wonderland) but close enough: TO THE TOWER. But her wrath subsides a tiny bit and she relents that instead of imprisonment in the tower perhaps banishment to the New World might be fitting. Raleigh (spelled Ralegh throughout the novel) has been trying to get permission for exploring and colonizing Virginia for years--this ship ends up landing/settling at Roanoke. If you are at all familiar with history--you can guess that much DANGER lies ahead.
This book has THREE narrators...Kate Archer, Walter Ralegh, and Manteo.
My thoughts: I do love reading historical fiction. I'm not entirely sure how accurate this one is or even tries to be. I'm not sure how I feel about that--do I want a historical novel to be super-accurate or do I want a somewhat happy ending?! (As happy as you can be when treating the subject.)
A few of the characters are historical figures but filtered through the author's imagination. A few characters--like Cate--are completely fictional. In this novel, Ralegh himself joins the "rescue/provision" ships bound for Roanoke.
Premise/plot: Catherine Archer becomes a maid in the court of Queen Elizabeth I. She even earns enough favor to receive a nickname--"Cat." But the Queen's favor is a fickle, fickle thing. And when the Queen discovers that Cate is in love with Sir Walter Raleigh, well it's not quite OFF WITH HER HEAD (think Alice in Wonderland) but close enough: TO THE TOWER. But her wrath subsides a tiny bit and she relents that instead of imprisonment in the tower perhaps banishment to the New World might be fitting. Raleigh (spelled Ralegh throughout the novel) has been trying to get permission for exploring and colonizing Virginia for years--this ship ends up landing/settling at Roanoke. If you are at all familiar with history--you can guess that much DANGER lies ahead.
This book has THREE narrators...Kate Archer, Walter Ralegh, and Manteo.
My thoughts: I do love reading historical fiction. I'm not entirely sure how accurate this one is or even tries to be. I'm not sure how I feel about that--do I want a historical novel to be super-accurate or do I want a somewhat happy ending?! (As happy as you can be when treating the subject.)
A few of the characters are historical figures but filtered through the author's imagination. A few characters--like Cate--are completely fictional. In this novel, Ralegh himself joins the "rescue/provision" ships bound for Roanoke.
October 5, 2010
Book Opening:
"At a young age I learned how quickly one's fortunes can change, a truth that never betrayed me."
Notable Scene:
Her forehead and cheeks were bright red with anger. "You were also nothing until I favored you. But I see you have entirely forgotten that."
"No I have not forgotten," I said forlornly. I could see my good fortune, accrued through years of service, sinking like a wrecked ship. What was left for me to cling to but my pride? So I looked my queen in the eye and said, "But I would gladly be nothing again, and thus be free to choose my own love." -Page 112
What really happened to the colonists at Roanoke?
It is one of the most enduring unsolved mysteries in American history. The "Lost Colony" of 90 men, 17 women and 9 children was founded in 1587 and discovered to be missing in 1590. The colonists set out from England seeking fortune and a better life. But the New World turned out to be a place where food was scarce, nature unpredictable and the natives not always so friendly. The colonists left one clue to their disappearance—the word "Croatan" carved onto a post. Though both the Spanish and English searched for many years, the mystery of Roanoke has never been solved. CATE OF THE LOST COLONY weaves together historical fact and fiction as Lisa Klein imagines her own exciting and highly plausible take on what happened in the New World. The book alternates between the point of view of three protagonists—Catherine "Cate" Archer, the Queen's handmaid, Manteo, a Croatoan warrior and Sir Walter Ralegh himself.
Though I always found Cate to be strong and extremely intelligent, she definitely made some frustratingly poor choices in regards to her romance with Ralegh. But then again, haven't we all erred in judgment at some time or other? What impressed me was the way she held her head up high and remained so strong, especially after falling dangerously out of favor with the Queen. But it wasn't until Cate arrived in the New World that her character really began to blossom and come into her own. The Cate at the end of the book was not the same girl from the beginning. I did often wonder whether Cate was portrayed a bit too mature for someone so young though. But regardless of that, I adored her character. The way she stood up for what was right and began to lead the colonists was incredibly moving. Take this passage for instance—
"This New World is nothing like what we expected. We cannot control the misfortunes that have occurred here," I began. "Perhaps it is time for us to abandon our belief that we are superior in every regard that we were meant to rule and not to submit." My eyes were glistening with tears, and I could see nothing clearly, but the truth that I was trying to express "It may be the that nothing is more fitting than for us, newcomers in this land, to live in common with its native inhabitants." By fellowship we may end the strife between us, so that all may prosper, and none seek to destroy another. One day we may even restore the Eden that we sought in coming here." Page 271
On the other hand, Sir Walter Ralegh was a man hardly worthy of someone like Cate. Ralegh's sole purpose in life seemed to revolve around either gaining Queen Elizabeth's favor or whining about her all the time. The manner in which he postured and preened around the Queen made it hard to root for his character in any way. At times he reminded me of Mr. Collins from Pride & Prejudice. I think it would've been more ideal for the book to alternate between Cate and Manteo only. I do understand that Ralegh's letters and poems help provide insight into what was going on back in England. But every time Ralegh took center stage, I felt like I was being yanked out of the action and I couldn't wait to return back to Cate and Manteo.
Speaking of Manteo, I was riveted. I only wish he had been in more scenes. I enjoyed getting Manteo's perspective on the British and his perception of the events that transpired after their arrival in the New World. When they brought him back to England, I was fascinated by how he tried to assimilate into such a completely different culture. The way he tried to keep the peace between different hostile factions of people was suspenseful and intriguing. Bottom line-- Manteo was definitely a man worthy of Cate. Almost immediately I wanted the two of them to fall for one another.
No one really knows what happened at Roanoke, but Lisa Klein has written a beautiful story, told with complex, well-drawn characters, romantic tension and the constant allure of the dangerous unknown. The ending of CATE OF THE LOST COLONY was simple and beautiful. Even now, days after reading it, it still gives me goose bumps to reflect back upon.
I look forward to reading more of Lisa Klein's books in the future.
NOTE: History buffs will be happy to know that Klein's included a list of characters of historical significance at the front of the book. At the end there is an enjoyable Author's Note which chronicles Klein's research on the mysteries of Roanoke. Visit the author's website for more information on Roanoke and some great pictures if you are interested in learning more.
"At a young age I learned how quickly one's fortunes can change, a truth that never betrayed me."
Notable Scene:
Her forehead and cheeks were bright red with anger. "You were also nothing until I favored you. But I see you have entirely forgotten that."
"No I have not forgotten," I said forlornly. I could see my good fortune, accrued through years of service, sinking like a wrecked ship. What was left for me to cling to but my pride? So I looked my queen in the eye and said, "But I would gladly be nothing again, and thus be free to choose my own love." -Page 112
What really happened to the colonists at Roanoke?
It is one of the most enduring unsolved mysteries in American history. The "Lost Colony" of 90 men, 17 women and 9 children was founded in 1587 and discovered to be missing in 1590. The colonists set out from England seeking fortune and a better life. But the New World turned out to be a place where food was scarce, nature unpredictable and the natives not always so friendly. The colonists left one clue to their disappearance—the word "Croatan" carved onto a post. Though both the Spanish and English searched for many years, the mystery of Roanoke has never been solved. CATE OF THE LOST COLONY weaves together historical fact and fiction as Lisa Klein imagines her own exciting and highly plausible take on what happened in the New World. The book alternates between the point of view of three protagonists—Catherine "Cate" Archer, the Queen's handmaid, Manteo, a Croatoan warrior and Sir Walter Ralegh himself.
Though I always found Cate to be strong and extremely intelligent, she definitely made some frustratingly poor choices in regards to her romance with Ralegh. But then again, haven't we all erred in judgment at some time or other? What impressed me was the way she held her head up high and remained so strong, especially after falling dangerously out of favor with the Queen. But it wasn't until Cate arrived in the New World that her character really began to blossom and come into her own. The Cate at the end of the book was not the same girl from the beginning. I did often wonder whether Cate was portrayed a bit too mature for someone so young though. But regardless of that, I adored her character. The way she stood up for what was right and began to lead the colonists was incredibly moving. Take this passage for instance—
"This New World is nothing like what we expected. We cannot control the misfortunes that have occurred here," I began. "Perhaps it is time for us to abandon our belief that we are superior in every regard that we were meant to rule and not to submit." My eyes were glistening with tears, and I could see nothing clearly, but the truth that I was trying to express "It may be the that nothing is more fitting than for us, newcomers in this land, to live in common with its native inhabitants." By fellowship we may end the strife between us, so that all may prosper, and none seek to destroy another. One day we may even restore the Eden that we sought in coming here." Page 271
On the other hand, Sir Walter Ralegh was a man hardly worthy of someone like Cate. Ralegh's sole purpose in life seemed to revolve around either gaining Queen Elizabeth's favor or whining about her all the time. The manner in which he postured and preened around the Queen made it hard to root for his character in any way. At times he reminded me of Mr. Collins from Pride & Prejudice. I think it would've been more ideal for the book to alternate between Cate and Manteo only. I do understand that Ralegh's letters and poems help provide insight into what was going on back in England. But every time Ralegh took center stage, I felt like I was being yanked out of the action and I couldn't wait to return back to Cate and Manteo.
Speaking of Manteo, I was riveted. I only wish he had been in more scenes. I enjoyed getting Manteo's perspective on the British and his perception of the events that transpired after their arrival in the New World. When they brought him back to England, I was fascinated by how he tried to assimilate into such a completely different culture. The way he tried to keep the peace between different hostile factions of people was suspenseful and intriguing. Bottom line-- Manteo was definitely a man worthy of Cate. Almost immediately I wanted the two of them to fall for one another.
No one really knows what happened at Roanoke, but Lisa Klein has written a beautiful story, told with complex, well-drawn characters, romantic tension and the constant allure of the dangerous unknown. The ending of CATE OF THE LOST COLONY was simple and beautiful. Even now, days after reading it, it still gives me goose bumps to reflect back upon.
I look forward to reading more of Lisa Klein's books in the future.
NOTE: History buffs will be happy to know that Klein's included a list of characters of historical significance at the front of the book. At the end there is an enjoyable Author's Note which chronicles Klein's research on the mysteries of Roanoke. Visit the author's website for more information on Roanoke and some great pictures if you are interested in learning more.
February 21, 2011
I was really excited that I got this book for Christmas because I had been waiting to read it so long so it was the first one I started after Christmas.
In 1583, young fourteen year old Cate is left a penniless orphan when her father is killed in service to the Queen whilst fighting in the Netherlands. Sent to live with her Aunt and Uncle (and her intolerable cousins), she is not welcomed into their household happily as she is an extra burden in already tight financial status. Soon after, her fortunes change for the better when Cate receives a letter from Queen Elizabeth herself inviting her to become one of her ladies in waiting at court. However, despite her glittering new life, Cate soon learns that life at court isn't as simple as it seems and she doesn't know who she can trust. Her independent nature makes it hard for her to put the will of the Queen before her own, even though it might mean risking her favour at court. She learns this all too well when her secret romance behind the scenes with Sir Walter Ralegh is uncovered and she is banished to the New World by the Queen as a punishment. I absolutely love reading about Queen Elizabeth's court so Cate serving there was the perfect setting for me and I like seeing how different authors depict what the Queen was like. Klein's vivid descriptions through the eyes of Cate really brought the court to life and I learnt lots of new things about life there.
The new Roanoke Island colony that she is destined for turns out to be nothing like Cate expected it to be: she dreamed of riches, jewels and exotic plants, instead she and the rest of the colonists are forced to endure much hardship. This is a distinct difference from the extravagant life at court she has experienced for three years, which she is unsure if she will ever know again. Trying to forget the past, she try to help the colony succeed amidst troubles with the natives, sicknesses and hunger.
Cate was a very interesting and complex character who grew and changed a lot throughout the book so that she was a different girl at the end. The development was at a good pace and related to what happened to her, which made it more plausible. She doesn't completely fit in with the other maids of honour at court and is very independent as she likes to make her own choices and stand up for what she believes in. However, she isn't rash or hot headed like characters in other books with similar traits. Her courage in what she goes through in Roanoke is very admirable and I liked how she rose to challenges such as learning the language of the native Indians. All this is done with a heart of gold and I am happy with her ending with the book. The chapters told from her point of view were my favourite as her voice really shined through.
The way Sir Walter Ralegh is portrayed makes him an unlikeable character and it was easy to see that his 'love' for Cate was not genuine. His side of the story was told through letters and documents of his, which although told what was happening back in England were a little dull and made me want to skim through them so I could find out what happened next to Cate and Manteo.
It was hard to get a true picture of his feelings but I still found that it was fascinating to find out more about the famous historical figure.
Manteo, the Indian who came over to London before returning home was really gentle and sweet. I really enjoyed reading about his perception of the British and the choices he has to make about his alliance with them. He always did the best to keep the peace without betraying anyone and I found him very wise yet unpredictable, which was intriguing. I would have loved to see more chapters from his point of view!
The fate of the colonists is a mystery so Lisa M Klein was left to her own imagination but for me, the ending of the book was very believable as to what happened to the Roanoke colonists and I was left very satisfied with the way things were wrapped up. Lisa M Klein clearly did extensive research on the Roanoke Colony and it really paid off for the details included made it very realistic. I liked how she used the original colonist's names and they were listed at the front of the book along with fictional characters so I could tell the difference. Historical fact and fiction was also distinguished between in the author's note at the back and a more detailed historical outline is given.
Lisa M Klein has written an imaginative story about a young girl banished to the colony of Roanoke filled with love, adventure and hardships. At times, it was a little slow moving but I loved finding out more about Roanoke and the mystery surrounding it and I think that both teenagers and adults will too whether they are a historical fiction fan or newbie.If you are participating in the YA Historical Fiction Challenge then this would be a brilliant choice. I have been meaning to read Klein's other books for about a year or more and now I hope I finally will!
In 1583, young fourteen year old Cate is left a penniless orphan when her father is killed in service to the Queen whilst fighting in the Netherlands. Sent to live with her Aunt and Uncle (and her intolerable cousins), she is not welcomed into their household happily as she is an extra burden in already tight financial status. Soon after, her fortunes change for the better when Cate receives a letter from Queen Elizabeth herself inviting her to become one of her ladies in waiting at court. However, despite her glittering new life, Cate soon learns that life at court isn't as simple as it seems and she doesn't know who she can trust. Her independent nature makes it hard for her to put the will of the Queen before her own, even though it might mean risking her favour at court. She learns this all too well when her secret romance behind the scenes with Sir Walter Ralegh is uncovered and she is banished to the New World by the Queen as a punishment. I absolutely love reading about Queen Elizabeth's court so Cate serving there was the perfect setting for me and I like seeing how different authors depict what the Queen was like. Klein's vivid descriptions through the eyes of Cate really brought the court to life and I learnt lots of new things about life there.
The new Roanoke Island colony that she is destined for turns out to be nothing like Cate expected it to be: she dreamed of riches, jewels and exotic plants, instead she and the rest of the colonists are forced to endure much hardship. This is a distinct difference from the extravagant life at court she has experienced for three years, which she is unsure if she will ever know again. Trying to forget the past, she try to help the colony succeed amidst troubles with the natives, sicknesses and hunger.
Cate was a very interesting and complex character who grew and changed a lot throughout the book so that she was a different girl at the end. The development was at a good pace and related to what happened to her, which made it more plausible. She doesn't completely fit in with the other maids of honour at court and is very independent as she likes to make her own choices and stand up for what she believes in. However, she isn't rash or hot headed like characters in other books with similar traits. Her courage in what she goes through in Roanoke is very admirable and I liked how she rose to challenges such as learning the language of the native Indians. All this is done with a heart of gold and I am happy with her ending with the book. The chapters told from her point of view were my favourite as her voice really shined through.
The way Sir Walter Ralegh is portrayed makes him an unlikeable character and it was easy to see that his 'love' for Cate was not genuine. His side of the story was told through letters and documents of his, which although told what was happening back in England were a little dull and made me want to skim through them so I could find out what happened next to Cate and Manteo.
It was hard to get a true picture of his feelings but I still found that it was fascinating to find out more about the famous historical figure.
Manteo, the Indian who came over to London before returning home was really gentle and sweet. I really enjoyed reading about his perception of the British and the choices he has to make about his alliance with them. He always did the best to keep the peace without betraying anyone and I found him very wise yet unpredictable, which was intriguing. I would have loved to see more chapters from his point of view!
The fate of the colonists is a mystery so Lisa M Klein was left to her own imagination but for me, the ending of the book was very believable as to what happened to the Roanoke colonists and I was left very satisfied with the way things were wrapped up. Lisa M Klein clearly did extensive research on the Roanoke Colony and it really paid off for the details included made it very realistic. I liked how she used the original colonist's names and they were listed at the front of the book along with fictional characters so I could tell the difference. Historical fact and fiction was also distinguished between in the author's note at the back and a more detailed historical outline is given.
Lisa M Klein has written an imaginative story about a young girl banished to the colony of Roanoke filled with love, adventure and hardships. At times, it was a little slow moving but I loved finding out more about Roanoke and the mystery surrounding it and I think that both teenagers and adults will too whether they are a historical fiction fan or newbie.If you are participating in the YA Historical Fiction Challenge then this would be a brilliant choice. I have been meaning to read Klein's other books for about a year or more and now I hope I finally will!
December 29, 2016
Its not often I will read a non-romance, historical fiction novel. Even less likely if its young adult. However something about Cate of the Lost Colony made me want to read it. Badly. Told in three parts, we watch Cate go from an anxious lady in waiting to Queen Elizabeth, to a young settler desperately trying to hold onto hope and ultimately a young woman who has found a place for herself.
The novel is told from her first person POV, Manteo's first person POV and through letters, poems and memos of Sir Walter Ralegh's. In this way we get a rather interesting vision of events that occur. In the first part we see how temperamental, jealous, vindictive, vain and uncertain a monarch Elizabeth is. As a ruler she was perfect (or at least better than most), in her persona life Cate views the strain of being the 'Virgin' Queen. She falls in and out of love easily enough (though Klein is careful to keep these 'chaste' romances with no hint of anything untoward happening), but she expects her handmaidens to be pure. They are not allowed to marry--or even love--without her consent in fact.
A matter that Cate does not heed well enough when she is found out to be harboring feelings for Ralegh. And thus we enter the second part! First sent to the Tower and than banished to Virginia, Cate is both afraid of the future and excited. She felt her fortunes could be made in the New World. And she awaited Ralegh. But the New World is not easy and what seems like so much fun on paper turns out to be deadly and dangerous. In the third part, events conspire to shape her into a determined and proud young woman. She realizes what she has wanted all this time, what she has been ignoring for want of her dreams, and embraces it whole-heartedly.
Manteo's chapters reveal a man torn between two worlds himself. Eager to prove his worth to his kinsmen he seeks to help bridge the gap between his people and the settlers. But distrust, unanimity and misunderstandings serve to only make things worse. He struggles to retain his promise to help the settlers survive, but also to show he is not a traitor to his people. He sees the worth in helping the settlers, how they can help and offer so much to his people, but what can he do when just getting two of the tribes' leaders to talk often leads to war?
Interestingly Klein develops a lot of his growth through his people's beliefs. He equates what he is doing as a journey all the 'great heroes' had to undertake to gain power. He continually makes peace and offers different courses of action. However he is a prideful young man himself, certain that the power 'Kwin-lissa-bet' has bestowed upon him is what makes him mighty. What makes him right. Too late he realizes that he made decisions that weren't the right ones at the time. That he tried too hard to straddle the line between worlds and didn't listen hard enough to his heart.
Roanoke Island is considered the first settlement, though its fate is shrouded in mystery and legend. In the end notes Klein describes some of the theories surrounding the Island and its settlers and possibilities that could have occurred. She also describes where she has taken artistic liberty, but I found I didn't care so much that she updated some of Ralegh's (overly flowery and faintly offensive) poetry. The man, if he was anything like the Ralegh in here (who I may add is nothing like the Ralegh from the movie Elizabeth: the Golden Age) was an utter prig. So self-motivated and insincere in his affections (except for fame and fortune) I found myself hoping he'd get scalped (I know he wasn't, but still).
I loved this book. Klein painted a picture that though extremely bleak at times still holds onto hope. These people really wanted to live. They fought and struggled and starved in order to carve a life into the New World. Maybe not the life they expected or thought they'd achieve, but a life they could be proud of. How many can say that nowadays?
The novel is told from her first person POV, Manteo's first person POV and through letters, poems and memos of Sir Walter Ralegh's. In this way we get a rather interesting vision of events that occur. In the first part we see how temperamental, jealous, vindictive, vain and uncertain a monarch Elizabeth is. As a ruler she was perfect (or at least better than most), in her persona life Cate views the strain of being the 'Virgin' Queen. She falls in and out of love easily enough (though Klein is careful to keep these 'chaste' romances with no hint of anything untoward happening), but she expects her handmaidens to be pure. They are not allowed to marry--or even love--without her consent in fact.
A matter that Cate does not heed well enough when she is found out to be harboring feelings for Ralegh. And thus we enter the second part! First sent to the Tower and than banished to Virginia, Cate is both afraid of the future and excited. She felt her fortunes could be made in the New World. And she awaited Ralegh. But the New World is not easy and what seems like so much fun on paper turns out to be deadly and dangerous. In the third part, events conspire to shape her into a determined and proud young woman. She realizes what she has wanted all this time, what she has been ignoring for want of her dreams, and embraces it whole-heartedly.
Manteo's chapters reveal a man torn between two worlds himself. Eager to prove his worth to his kinsmen he seeks to help bridge the gap between his people and the settlers. But distrust, unanimity and misunderstandings serve to only make things worse. He struggles to retain his promise to help the settlers survive, but also to show he is not a traitor to his people. He sees the worth in helping the settlers, how they can help and offer so much to his people, but what can he do when just getting two of the tribes' leaders to talk often leads to war?
Interestingly Klein develops a lot of his growth through his people's beliefs. He equates what he is doing as a journey all the 'great heroes' had to undertake to gain power. He continually makes peace and offers different courses of action. However he is a prideful young man himself, certain that the power 'Kwin-lissa-bet' has bestowed upon him is what makes him mighty. What makes him right. Too late he realizes that he made decisions that weren't the right ones at the time. That he tried too hard to straddle the line between worlds and didn't listen hard enough to his heart.
Roanoke Island is considered the first settlement, though its fate is shrouded in mystery and legend. In the end notes Klein describes some of the theories surrounding the Island and its settlers and possibilities that could have occurred. She also describes where she has taken artistic liberty, but I found I didn't care so much that she updated some of Ralegh's (overly flowery and faintly offensive) poetry. The man, if he was anything like the Ralegh in here (who I may add is nothing like the Ralegh from the movie Elizabeth: the Golden Age) was an utter prig. So self-motivated and insincere in his affections (except for fame and fortune) I found myself hoping he'd get scalped (I know he wasn't, but still).
I loved this book. Klein painted a picture that though extremely bleak at times still holds onto hope. These people really wanted to live. They fought and struggled and starved in order to carve a life into the New World. Maybe not the life they expected or thought they'd achieve, but a life they could be proud of. How many can say that nowadays?
September 2, 2010
Lisa Klein's absorbing fourth novel plunges the reader head-first into the mystery of the lost Roanoke Colony of Virginia. As Klein writes in an afterword, the fate of the 117 men, women, and children who landed on Roanoke Island in 1587 is "perhaps the greatest unsolved mystery in American history."
This new novel represents historical fiction at its best; Klein creates an appealing fictional character, young Cate Archer, and inserts her into the actual events of the time in a historically believable way, and in so doing illuminates a fascinating but little-studied mystery of American history.
Our heroine, young Cate, seems to be blessed in her position as a favorite attendant to Queen Elizabeth; but the Queen's favor is fickle, and when she discovers that her current favorite, Sir Walter Raleigh, and Cate share a mutual romantic attraction, she arrests Cate in a fit of jealousy and then exiles her to Raleigh's new colony in the New World. Unbeknownst to the Queen, Cate craves adventure, and dreams of escaping to a new life. She is fascinated by tales of the New World and the Native Americans who are brought across the ocean to the court as curiosities. These include the handsome young Manteo, a Croatoan Indian who quickly learns English, and narrates parts of the story, alternating with Cate herself and Sir Walter Raleigh.
Klein uses the actual passengers who sailed to Roanoke to populate the rest of her novel, including little Virginia Dare, considered to be the first English baby to be born on American soil. The colonists arrive too late in the summer to successfully plant crops to sustain them through the winter, and Governor White sails back to England to beg for supplies. But life does not go well on Roanoke; the colonists clash with the local Indians, and fight among themselves as well. Cate, in her courageous efforts to make the colony succeed, begins to learn the local language and befriend the native women. Help from England does not arrive...will the colonists survive? Will Sir Walter himself come to save Cate, or should she allow herself to experience a new love in the New World, with Manteo and his tribe?
Since no one knows what really happened to the Roanoke colonists, Klein is free to imagine her own version of events, one which I found perfectly believable and fitting (and which I will not discuss since I don't want to spoil the suspense for any readers!) The author's afterword gives details on her research and her treatment of some of the historical figures in the story, particularly Sir Walter Raleigh.
One element of the novel I particularly enjoyed was the contrast between the wealth and intrigues of life at Queen Elizabeth's court and the hardships of life at the new colony. Klein handles depiction of the native culture in a sensitive way, although she emphasizes that nothing is known about the particulars of Manteo's people. Instead, Klein incorporates Algonkian legends and history to imagine Manteo's personality and mindset. Also, there is a great romantic triangle at work here between Cate, Sir Walter, and Manteo that should have great teen appeal (sorry, better than Bella, Edward, and Jacob!)
This new novel represents historical fiction at its best; Klein creates an appealing fictional character, young Cate Archer, and inserts her into the actual events of the time in a historically believable way, and in so doing illuminates a fascinating but little-studied mystery of American history.
Our heroine, young Cate, seems to be blessed in her position as a favorite attendant to Queen Elizabeth; but the Queen's favor is fickle, and when she discovers that her current favorite, Sir Walter Raleigh, and Cate share a mutual romantic attraction, she arrests Cate in a fit of jealousy and then exiles her to Raleigh's new colony in the New World. Unbeknownst to the Queen, Cate craves adventure, and dreams of escaping to a new life. She is fascinated by tales of the New World and the Native Americans who are brought across the ocean to the court as curiosities. These include the handsome young Manteo, a Croatoan Indian who quickly learns English, and narrates parts of the story, alternating with Cate herself and Sir Walter Raleigh.
Klein uses the actual passengers who sailed to Roanoke to populate the rest of her novel, including little Virginia Dare, considered to be the first English baby to be born on American soil. The colonists arrive too late in the summer to successfully plant crops to sustain them through the winter, and Governor White sails back to England to beg for supplies. But life does not go well on Roanoke; the colonists clash with the local Indians, and fight among themselves as well. Cate, in her courageous efforts to make the colony succeed, begins to learn the local language and befriend the native women. Help from England does not arrive...will the colonists survive? Will Sir Walter himself come to save Cate, or should she allow herself to experience a new love in the New World, with Manteo and his tribe?
Since no one knows what really happened to the Roanoke colonists, Klein is free to imagine her own version of events, one which I found perfectly believable and fitting (and which I will not discuss since I don't want to spoil the suspense for any readers!) The author's afterword gives details on her research and her treatment of some of the historical figures in the story, particularly Sir Walter Raleigh.
One element of the novel I particularly enjoyed was the contrast between the wealth and intrigues of life at Queen Elizabeth's court and the hardships of life at the new colony. Klein handles depiction of the native culture in a sensitive way, although she emphasizes that nothing is known about the particulars of Manteo's people. Instead, Klein incorporates Algonkian legends and history to imagine Manteo's personality and mindset. Also, there is a great romantic triangle at work here between Cate, Sir Walter, and Manteo that should have great teen appeal (sorry, better than Bella, Edward, and Jacob!)
November 4, 2010
How have I not read anything by the amazingness that is Lisa Klein before? Cate of the Lost Colony was an engaging, original, and very well written novel that had me reading late into the night. Historical fiction has always been one of my favorite genres and I've read about a variety of time periods. The lost colony of Roanoke is something that interests me very much, but it's also one of the only parts of American history I haven't read much about!
The main character, Cate Archer, is such a fantastic heroine. She keeps the story moving and adds so much to the novel. Cate is strong willed, determined, and is never afraid to speak her mind. From the time Cate moves into the palace to serve Queen Elizabeth I was drawn into her story. Queen Elizabeth is one of my favorite historical figures, but Lisa definitely presented her in a new light. During this time, the Virgin Queen is no longer as young and beautiful as she normally is presented. Her life is rough and she is dealing with a variety of issues and struggles, but Cate is luckily one of her favorites. Reading about Cate's experience in court was entertaining and I loved Emme, Cate's fellow maid and loving friend from the start.
Unfortunately things take a turn for the worst when Cate is exiled to the new colony of Roanoke after the Queen discovers her hidden romance with Sir Walter Ralegh. The novel was mainly told from Cate's perspective, but a few chapters were told from the point of view of Sir Walter as well as another character, a Native American named Manteo. It was a great way to discover what the other two were feeling and to see the world through the eyes of two very different people.
The plot was fast paced and kept me constantly wanting to know how things were going to turn out for Cate and the other colonists. The emotions and tensions ran high and I practically felt like I was experiencing everything with the Roanoke colonists. Lisa managed to tie in a variety of historical facts without making it dull. I learned a lot more about the time period from this book than I ever did in history class. It was equally interesting to read Lisa's thoughts on what she thought happened to the colonists of Roanoke and I agree that something similar did occur.
Cate of the Lost Colony was not just the story of Cate Archer and Roanoke Island, there was also a love triangle! Reading about Cate's growing relationship with Manteo and Sir Walter Ralegh was one of my favorite aspects of the book. The two men were so different and came from opposite sides of the world, yet Cate still fell in love with each of them. I definitely supported her final decision :)
Overall, Cate of the Lost Colony was an amazing novel that left me eager to read more by Lisa Klein in the future. She is a fantastic writer and deftly weaves historical facts into an original and entertaining story. Cate is a fantastic main character and every reader will like her from the start. I've already gotten my mom to read this book and can't wait to recommend it to more people!
Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
The main character, Cate Archer, is such a fantastic heroine. She keeps the story moving and adds so much to the novel. Cate is strong willed, determined, and is never afraid to speak her mind. From the time Cate moves into the palace to serve Queen Elizabeth I was drawn into her story. Queen Elizabeth is one of my favorite historical figures, but Lisa definitely presented her in a new light. During this time, the Virgin Queen is no longer as young and beautiful as she normally is presented. Her life is rough and she is dealing with a variety of issues and struggles, but Cate is luckily one of her favorites. Reading about Cate's experience in court was entertaining and I loved Emme, Cate's fellow maid and loving friend from the start.
Unfortunately things take a turn for the worst when Cate is exiled to the new colony of Roanoke after the Queen discovers her hidden romance with Sir Walter Ralegh. The novel was mainly told from Cate's perspective, but a few chapters were told from the point of view of Sir Walter as well as another character, a Native American named Manteo. It was a great way to discover what the other two were feeling and to see the world through the eyes of two very different people.
The plot was fast paced and kept me constantly wanting to know how things were going to turn out for Cate and the other colonists. The emotions and tensions ran high and I practically felt like I was experiencing everything with the Roanoke colonists. Lisa managed to tie in a variety of historical facts without making it dull. I learned a lot more about the time period from this book than I ever did in history class. It was equally interesting to read Lisa's thoughts on what she thought happened to the colonists of Roanoke and I agree that something similar did occur.
Cate of the Lost Colony was not just the story of Cate Archer and Roanoke Island, there was also a love triangle! Reading about Cate's growing relationship with Manteo and Sir Walter Ralegh was one of my favorite aspects of the book. The two men were so different and came from opposite sides of the world, yet Cate still fell in love with each of them. I definitely supported her final decision :)
Overall, Cate of the Lost Colony was an amazing novel that left me eager to read more by Lisa Klein in the future. She is a fantastic writer and deftly weaves historical facts into an original and entertaining story. Cate is a fantastic main character and every reader will like her from the start. I've already gotten my mom to read this book and can't wait to recommend it to more people!
Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
October 6, 2010
Cate of the Lost Colony is a rare jewel in the historical fiction world. With fresh prose, an intriguing historical mystery and a sprinkle of romance, this novel can do no wrong. The story takes off at a clip from the very first page, and the pace only increases as Cate navigates her way through the stormy waters of Queen Elizabeth's court. Never fear, before all the noble's mind games become too tiresome, Cate sets sail for Virginia with a heart full of courage and hope.
Catherine Archer is one of my favorite heroines of 2010. She has such spirit, generosity, courage, and open-mindedness. Cate narrates the story perfectly. Her ability to see the truth sets her apart from the others in both Queen Elizabeth's court and Roanoke colony. Cate really goes against the grain with her beliefs. She doesn't go along with the crowd, and she isn't afraid to speak out, and that is saying something for a women in the 1500s. I feel like Cate and I would be really good friends if we lived in the same world, and I hope she would feel the same about me.
Joining Cate is a caste of unforgettable characters, including one Native American named Manteo. Manteo, along with many of the other Croatoan Indians, make the difference between life and death for the colonists. As the Colonists become more and more dependent on the Croatoan, England seems to drift farther and farther away, until their old home is almost forgotten. Cate even begins to forget Sir Walter Ralegh, the man whom she loved and who's apparent affection triggered her banishment. New affections and old become mixed, and Cate must make a choice between England and Virginia and all they hold.
Cate's foray into the world of Queen Elizabeth's court was intriguing, but I have to say that it was her life in Roanoke that really captured my imagination. At first it was quite the opposite, I was so interested and caught up in court life that I didn't want Cate to fall out of favor with the Queen. I would find myself with thoughts like: Please just burn Sir Walter's letters Cate! After all that worrying, I actually enjoyed the story more after Queen Elizabeth banished Cate. I immediately became wrapped up in the lives of the colonists. Their triumphs were my triumphs, their losses and foolishness (which presented itself in abundance) were mine as well.
Lisa Klein has a remarkable ability to weave fiction and history together. I have never read a book quite so satisfying. It has lovely descriptive passages and a plot that moves at a good pace. I have already enthusiastically recommended this book to all of my friends, and I recommended it to all of you as well!
Catherine Archer is one of my favorite heroines of 2010. She has such spirit, generosity, courage, and open-mindedness. Cate narrates the story perfectly. Her ability to see the truth sets her apart from the others in both Queen Elizabeth's court and Roanoke colony. Cate really goes against the grain with her beliefs. She doesn't go along with the crowd, and she isn't afraid to speak out, and that is saying something for a women in the 1500s. I feel like Cate and I would be really good friends if we lived in the same world, and I hope she would feel the same about me.
Joining Cate is a caste of unforgettable characters, including one Native American named Manteo. Manteo, along with many of the other Croatoan Indians, make the difference between life and death for the colonists. As the Colonists become more and more dependent on the Croatoan, England seems to drift farther and farther away, until their old home is almost forgotten. Cate even begins to forget Sir Walter Ralegh, the man whom she loved and who's apparent affection triggered her banishment. New affections and old become mixed, and Cate must make a choice between England and Virginia and all they hold.
Cate's foray into the world of Queen Elizabeth's court was intriguing, but I have to say that it was her life in Roanoke that really captured my imagination. At first it was quite the opposite, I was so interested and caught up in court life that I didn't want Cate to fall out of favor with the Queen. I would find myself with thoughts like: Please just burn Sir Walter's letters Cate! After all that worrying, I actually enjoyed the story more after Queen Elizabeth banished Cate. I immediately became wrapped up in the lives of the colonists. Their triumphs were my triumphs, their losses and foolishness (which presented itself in abundance) were mine as well.
Lisa Klein has a remarkable ability to weave fiction and history together. I have never read a book quite so satisfying. It has lovely descriptive passages and a plot that moves at a good pace. I have already enthusiastically recommended this book to all of my friends, and I recommended it to all of you as well!
August 3, 2010
I have been fascinated by the story of the lost colony of Roanoke since I was a teen so I was excited when I heard about this novel. The story starts out at the court of Queen Elizabeth but I felt that this part of the story moved much more slowly than the part that takes place in Roanoke. Once Cate is banished, the story became more interesting to me even though I enjoy Tudor history. Cate's life in Roanoke is vastly different from the life she enjoyed as a courtier even with all the gossip and backstabbing. The colonists are not really prepared for how hard life will be but Cate adapts pretty quickly. She becomes a leader and a voice of reason even though she is one of the youngest members of the colony. I admired Cate's attitude and the way she wasn't afraid to stand up to some really unpleasant people. The Cate we meet in England and the Cate who lives in Virginia are two very different people but the changes are believable. Cate was already displaying her intelligence and understanding while at court although she wasn't careful enough in her relationship with Ralegh.
The other main characters are Sir Walter Ralegh and Manteo, a Croatoan leader who is also Cate's other love interest. The chapters alternate between their point of view and Cate's. We hear from Sir Walter Ralegh through letters and poems. I did not always like this device because I found Ralegh's poetry annoying. I would rather have read the story from Cate's point of view alone although it was nice to see what was going on in England while the colonists were struggling. It explained the difficulties involved in obtaining supplies and funds to keep the colony going. The fates of courtiers depended on the whims of the monarch and it was very costly for Ralegh to found his colony and then to maintain it. His poems also showed that he still cared for Cate. Manteo's chapters showed the perspective of someone who was trying to avoid war and to bring about peace between the English and the Indians.
There are a lot of real historical figures and although we don't know much about the colonists I think the author did a good job in giving them imagined personalities. I think that Cate was a fantastic character and I was interested in reading about the colonists and the challenges they faced. No one knows what really happens to the lost members of the Roanoke Colony but Lisa Klein has imaginatively created her own version of their story.
Readalikes: Roanoke: The Lost Colony by Angela Elwell Hunt, Jamestown by Angela Elwell Hunt, The Stolen One by Suzanne Crowley, The King's Rose by Alisa Libby, A Sweet Disorder by Jacqueline Kolosov
The other main characters are Sir Walter Ralegh and Manteo, a Croatoan leader who is also Cate's other love interest. The chapters alternate between their point of view and Cate's. We hear from Sir Walter Ralegh through letters and poems. I did not always like this device because I found Ralegh's poetry annoying. I would rather have read the story from Cate's point of view alone although it was nice to see what was going on in England while the colonists were struggling. It explained the difficulties involved in obtaining supplies and funds to keep the colony going. The fates of courtiers depended on the whims of the monarch and it was very costly for Ralegh to found his colony and then to maintain it. His poems also showed that he still cared for Cate. Manteo's chapters showed the perspective of someone who was trying to avoid war and to bring about peace between the English and the Indians.
There are a lot of real historical figures and although we don't know much about the colonists I think the author did a good job in giving them imagined personalities. I think that Cate was a fantastic character and I was interested in reading about the colonists and the challenges they faced. No one knows what really happens to the lost members of the Roanoke Colony but Lisa Klein has imaginatively created her own version of their story.
Readalikes: Roanoke: The Lost Colony by Angela Elwell Hunt, Jamestown by Angela Elwell Hunt, The Stolen One by Suzanne Crowley, The King's Rose by Alisa Libby, A Sweet Disorder by Jacqueline Kolosov
January 13, 2011
When Catherine Archer's father dies and despair descends on the orphaned girl a surprising letter arrives from the queen, asking her to become one of her ladies in waiting. Catherine is thrilled, but when she arrives at court she realizes how little she knows about what goes on within their walls. As courtly intrigue threatens to drown her the dashing Walter Ralegh--a favorite of the queen--may just be the one who pushes her head under water for good.
Catherine is banished to Virginia when the queen discovers Ralegh's affection for her, and Catherine couldn't be more thrilled. Entering a New World as Cate, she doesn't find the Eden she dreamed so often of. As the colonists are increasingly pushed to desperate circumstances it is the Indian ambassador Manteo who proves to be Cate's greatest ally.
Cate of the Lost Colony is a beautifully told story of the "lost colony" of Roanoke Island. The story doesn't rush through, but takes its time lingering on the facts that are recognized by historians and building upon them to create something totally unique. The most intriguing thing about Cate of the Lost Colony is the fact that its story is so possible, describing a possibility that has very little proof against it.
I greatly enjoyed this novel and hated to put it down. Lisa Klein did a wonderful job, obviously pouring a great deal of time, research, and thought into its pages. The pace is a bit slow and may not be the greatest book for those of you who like headlong action, but it is very interesting. If there was anything I would have changed about it, it would be not taking the time to pen in Walter Ralegh's point of view. These sections were often full of information that the reader was tempted to skip over.
The thing about this novel is, to me, it would look better on film. This would definitely be a good idea. For people who are good at conjuring a strong mental picture while reading will see why. The lack of interaction but growing affection between Manteo and Cate would have been much easier to spot in a movie then they are in a book. The same goes for the trials of the colonists. They just don't pack as much of a punch in the novel.
Overall, Cate of the Lost Colony was a wonderful read, but is mostly recommended to people specifically interested in the subject matter and time period.
A special thanks to BloomsburyUSA for sending me a copy to review!
~Review by Arya @ A Sea of Pages
http://seaofpages.blogspot.com <---Check it out!!
Catherine is banished to Virginia when the queen discovers Ralegh's affection for her, and Catherine couldn't be more thrilled. Entering a New World as Cate, she doesn't find the Eden she dreamed so often of. As the colonists are increasingly pushed to desperate circumstances it is the Indian ambassador Manteo who proves to be Cate's greatest ally.
Cate of the Lost Colony is a beautifully told story of the "lost colony" of Roanoke Island. The story doesn't rush through, but takes its time lingering on the facts that are recognized by historians and building upon them to create something totally unique. The most intriguing thing about Cate of the Lost Colony is the fact that its story is so possible, describing a possibility that has very little proof against it.
I greatly enjoyed this novel and hated to put it down. Lisa Klein did a wonderful job, obviously pouring a great deal of time, research, and thought into its pages. The pace is a bit slow and may not be the greatest book for those of you who like headlong action, but it is very interesting. If there was anything I would have changed about it, it would be not taking the time to pen in Walter Ralegh's point of view. These sections were often full of information that the reader was tempted to skip over.
The thing about this novel is, to me, it would look better on film. This would definitely be a good idea. For people who are good at conjuring a strong mental picture while reading will see why. The lack of interaction but growing affection between Manteo and Cate would have been much easier to spot in a movie then they are in a book. The same goes for the trials of the colonists. They just don't pack as much of a punch in the novel.
Overall, Cate of the Lost Colony was a wonderful read, but is mostly recommended to people specifically interested in the subject matter and time period.
A special thanks to BloomsburyUSA for sending me a copy to review!
~Review by Arya @ A Sea of Pages
http://seaofpages.blogspot.com <---Check it out!!
October 22, 2010
Cate Of The Lost Colony, Lisa Klein's newest novel, does not disappoint. From the very first sentence I was drawn into Cate's world and I was captivated. The lost colony of Roanoke is not something that I have ever read about but after reading this I want to know more.
Catherine Archer's life is nothing special until the day she gets a letter from the Queen. The death of her father has left her orphaned and Queen Elizabeth has offered her a place as one of her maids. Things are looking up for Catherine, especially when Walter Ralegh starts showing her attention. Too bad Ralegh is the Queen's favorite and his attention gets Catherine banished to Virginia. There she becomes Cate and nothing is ever the same. Still, can Cate leave behind her first love and her old life?
Cate Of The Lost Colony has three parts to it and each one shows a different side of Cate. In the beginning she was pampered and rather immature but that changed quickly once she got to Virginia. I loved Cate's way with the natives and how she wouldn't let the men rule her. She was stubborn but sweet. The changes in her weren't spontaneous though which made them seem real. Cate was just a very real character that I couldn't help but love.
The book is not all told by Cate though. Ralegh's letters and memos were included and they show what his interactions with Cate don't. I liked him but he was vain and selfish. Manteo, on the other hand, only cared about others. The chapters from his point-of-view were very eye-opening to how the natives actually felt about the English. I also felt like I got a deeper look into their culture and I really enjoyed that. Seeing how the natives were before the English came and started trouble helped me better understand their hostility.
Overall, Cate Of The Lost Colony is a fantastic book that I adored. Lisa Klein is one of my favorite historical authors and this book just proved, once again, why that is. If you haven't read anything by Lisa Klein yet this is a great place to start.
Catherine Archer's life is nothing special until the day she gets a letter from the Queen. The death of her father has left her orphaned and Queen Elizabeth has offered her a place as one of her maids. Things are looking up for Catherine, especially when Walter Ralegh starts showing her attention. Too bad Ralegh is the Queen's favorite and his attention gets Catherine banished to Virginia. There she becomes Cate and nothing is ever the same. Still, can Cate leave behind her first love and her old life?
Cate Of The Lost Colony has three parts to it and each one shows a different side of Cate. In the beginning she was pampered and rather immature but that changed quickly once she got to Virginia. I loved Cate's way with the natives and how she wouldn't let the men rule her. She was stubborn but sweet. The changes in her weren't spontaneous though which made them seem real. Cate was just a very real character that I couldn't help but love.
The book is not all told by Cate though. Ralegh's letters and memos were included and they show what his interactions with Cate don't. I liked him but he was vain and selfish. Manteo, on the other hand, only cared about others. The chapters from his point-of-view were very eye-opening to how the natives actually felt about the English. I also felt like I got a deeper look into their culture and I really enjoyed that. Seeing how the natives were before the English came and started trouble helped me better understand their hostility.
Overall, Cate Of The Lost Colony is a fantastic book that I adored. Lisa Klein is one of my favorite historical authors and this book just proved, once again, why that is. If you haven't read anything by Lisa Klein yet this is a great place to start.
December 18, 2010
There have been quite a few books about the Tudors over the last few years, and they've all told similar stories. Klein's book takes place during Elizabeth I's reign, but the story focuses on Cate, a lady-in-waiting who falls out of favor. She's sent to the new world, and struggles to survive.
I've definitely expressed my love for intelligent, strong female characters in YA fiction. By the end of the book, Cate won me over. She's faces her problems head on, and shows better leadership abilities than the men in the Roanoke colony. She isn't afraid to meet with the Croatoan Indians, and even learns their language so that she's able to communicate with them. She's also open with her opinions. It may have been unwise, but it takes a lot of courage to stand up to the queen. I also thought Klein did a good job switching back and forth between characters. While the story is told mostly through Cate, there are letters and poems from Sir Walter Raleigh, and the native Manteo. While I would have liked a bit more about Manteo from his chapters, I enjoyed the different perspectives.
While I'm a huge fan of historical fiction, I tend to have very high expectations in this category. Some stories focus solely on the facts, and don't provide any depth to the characters (real or fictional). Other books do a good job drawing me into the story, but don't always describe the standard of living, and social rules of the time period. Klein writes in a way that satisfied my need to describe life during Elizabeth's reign, and a compelling story. While she created her ending to the Roanoke colonists, her story did seem plausible. Cate was also the creation of Klein, but it was easy to imagine her as a real attendant to the queen.
Overall, it was a nice mix of historical fiction, adventure, and romance. I'm looking forward to more from Klein.
I've definitely expressed my love for intelligent, strong female characters in YA fiction. By the end of the book, Cate won me over. She's faces her problems head on, and shows better leadership abilities than the men in the Roanoke colony. She isn't afraid to meet with the Croatoan Indians, and even learns their language so that she's able to communicate with them. She's also open with her opinions. It may have been unwise, but it takes a lot of courage to stand up to the queen. I also thought Klein did a good job switching back and forth between characters. While the story is told mostly through Cate, there are letters and poems from Sir Walter Raleigh, and the native Manteo. While I would have liked a bit more about Manteo from his chapters, I enjoyed the different perspectives.
While I'm a huge fan of historical fiction, I tend to have very high expectations in this category. Some stories focus solely on the facts, and don't provide any depth to the characters (real or fictional). Other books do a good job drawing me into the story, but don't always describe the standard of living, and social rules of the time period. Klein writes in a way that satisfied my need to describe life during Elizabeth's reign, and a compelling story. While she created her ending to the Roanoke colonists, her story did seem plausible. Cate was also the creation of Klein, but it was easy to imagine her as a real attendant to the queen.
Overall, it was a nice mix of historical fiction, adventure, and romance. I'm looking forward to more from Klein.
June 29, 2010
Catherine Archer is an orphan who is thrilled to have the opportunity to serve as one of Queen Elizabeth’s ladies. Initially in the Queen’s good graces, Lady Catherine finds herself shunned because she acts upon a forbidden attraction. Cate is fascinated by the “new world” and longs for a life of travel and adventure. Exile to Virginia doesn’t seem like much of a punishment. Faced with difficult challenges in her new home on Roanoke Island, Cate must either give up or persevere.
Author, Lisa Klein, takes an American mystery and adds her own spin. Historical facts embellished with fiction leads to one amazing novel. History buffs will eat this one up. The author creates a plausible answer to what happened to the colonists that disappeared from Roanoke Island. Catherine’s relationships with Sir Walter Ralegh and Croatoan Indian, Manteo, adds a nice romantice element to the book. The author managed to create quite a story, with a fascinating cast of characters. I look forward to reading more of Lisa Klein’s novels in the near future.
Author, Lisa Klein, takes an American mystery and adds her own spin. Historical facts embellished with fiction leads to one amazing novel. History buffs will eat this one up. The author creates a plausible answer to what happened to the colonists that disappeared from Roanoke Island. Catherine’s relationships with Sir Walter Ralegh and Croatoan Indian, Manteo, adds a nice romantice element to the book. The author managed to create quite a story, with a fascinating cast of characters. I look forward to reading more of Lisa Klein’s novels in the near future.
May 25, 2015
Definitely one of my FAVORITES!!! As expected of Lisa Klein! Amazing historical fiction~~
I've always liked these books, which talk about English settlers finding the good side of the Native Americans, and how they used to live. Sort of like Witch Child and Sorceress (I totally recommend Sorceress because it's really similar, but I can't recommend Witch Child YET, because I have YET to read it).
Also, the parts about Queen Elizabeth...I guess I'm still being influenced by The Other Boleyn Girl, because that's what I was using to keep track of the royal going-ons.
I've always liked these books, which talk about English settlers finding the good side of the Native Americans, and how they used to live. Sort of like Witch Child and Sorceress (I totally recommend Sorceress because it's really similar, but I can't recommend Witch Child YET, because I have YET to read it).
Also, the parts about Queen Elizabeth...I guess I'm still being influenced by The Other Boleyn Girl, because that's what I was using to keep track of the royal going-ons.
January 1, 2016
This was a very convincing and very boring account of the lost colony of Roanoke. Actually, it takes over 100 pages before the heroine leaves for Virginia, so it's a convincing and boring account of a couple different things. It follows mainly Cate, who is sententious and stuffy; Ralegh, a fool; Manteo, who might be a little too saintly; and the queen, who fakes a flirty speech defect. I could be making it sound like too much fun. In the acknowledgements Klein says of a play on the same subject, "it sacrifices historical nuance for high drama but is still fun", and let's just say this sister's problem is not lack of historical nuance. At one point, while waiting, I decided to sit quietly near this book instead of reading it. I am satisfied with that decision. It was, dare I say it, educational.
November 17, 2010
The story just pulled me along. The story is told from Cate's point of view and from that of Manteo, the Croatoan native brought to Elizabeth's court to learn English customs and eventually act as go-between. It also shows Ralegh's POV, primarily through letters and poems. Each voice comes across as authentic, but it is Cate's that truly shines.
See my full review at ReadingWorld.
See my full review at ReadingWorld.
July 16, 2012
I loved how this book started out, mainly because I love historical fiction, and then the story took a 180 degree turn. What might have been a romance turned into almost a history lesson. Although well written, I found the history portions to be tedious and that was most likely why I did not enjoy the second half of the book. Even though I love novels set in this period, this one regrettably just did not do it for me.
January 17, 2017
It was amazing! We have long speculated about the fates of the Roanoke colonists. This book offers a pleasing and probable explanation. I loved the characters ; they popped off the page!
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