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Crow Hollow
In 1676, an unlikely pair—a young Puritan widow and an English spy—journeys across a land where greed and treachery abound.
Prudence Cotton has recently lost her husband and is desperate to find her daughter, captured by the Nipmuk tribe during King Philip’s war. She’s convinced her daughter is alive but cannot track her into the wilderness alone. Help arrives in the form of James Bailey, an agent of the crown sent to Boston to investigate the murder of Prudence’s husband and to covertly cause a disturbance that would give the king just cause to install royal governors. After his partner is murdered, James needs help too. He strikes a deal with Prudence, and together they traverse the forbidding New England landscape looking for clues. What they confront in the wilderness—and what they discover about each other—could forever change their allegiances and alter their destinies.
Prudence Cotton has recently lost her husband and is desperate to find her daughter, captured by the Nipmuk tribe during King Philip’s war. She’s convinced her daughter is alive but cannot track her into the wilderness alone. Help arrives in the form of James Bailey, an agent of the crown sent to Boston to investigate the murder of Prudence’s husband and to covertly cause a disturbance that would give the king just cause to install royal governors. After his partner is murdered, James needs help too. He strikes a deal with Prudence, and together they traverse the forbidding New England landscape looking for clues. What they confront in the wilderness—and what they discover about each other—could forever change their allegiances and alter their destinies.
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First published June 1, 2015
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Michael Wallace
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Michael also welcomes email from readers at m.wallace23(at)yahoo(dot)com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 613 reviews
July 13, 2015
I had high hopes for this book, because I love the setting and the plot sounded really interesting. Unfortunately, it's one of those surface-level, rather vapid books that offer very little beyond basic entertainment (which is fine, but I like a bit more to sink my teeth into) and there were just too many moments that made me roll my eyes to take it seriously. The characters were flat and I JUST DIDN'T CARE about their developing romantic feelings which seemed to always supersede the rest of the (obvious) plot. In fact, I felt like I was reading a cheesy romance novel (admittedly a very tame one) most of the time. I can see the cover very easily, actually...with a tagline like "Passion unleashed in a savage, virgin land!" and a picture of Prudence's heaving bosom barely contained in her Puritan-ish dress and James holding her close and looking dangerous and brooding. Alternatively, I imagine that it would make a great Lifetime movie if the network ever feels like dabbling in Historical Fiction.
May 5, 2015
Set in the late 1670s in Puritan New England, Michael Wallace has produced a well written, adventurous tale that includes a mystery, a bit of romance, and a conspiracy that leads to murder, betrayal, and unimaginable heartache.
The historical details surrounding the Massachusetts Bay Colony depict many of the religious customs of the Puritan settlers in Boston. Also brought to life are the devastating effects resulting from King Philip’s War. Wallace easily kept me invested as James Bailey, an agent of the crown, along with the tenacious widow, Prudence Cotton join forces and embark on a perilous journey deep within colonial America’s wilderness; each seeking their own agenda.
Danger, treachery, and intrigue result in many action packed moments. Wallace’s inclusion of a clever heroine added greatly to the enjoyment of the story. And while the devastating horrors of war are portrayed, it’s balanced with moments of humor and tenderness along with budding periods of hope and happiness making this a very pleasurable read.
The historical details surrounding the Massachusetts Bay Colony depict many of the religious customs of the Puritan settlers in Boston. Also brought to life are the devastating effects resulting from King Philip’s War. Wallace easily kept me invested as James Bailey, an agent of the crown, along with the tenacious widow, Prudence Cotton join forces and embark on a perilous journey deep within colonial America’s wilderness; each seeking their own agenda.
Danger, treachery, and intrigue result in many action packed moments. Wallace’s inclusion of a clever heroine added greatly to the enjoyment of the story. And while the devastating horrors of war are portrayed, it’s balanced with moments of humor and tenderness along with budding periods of hope and happiness making this a very pleasurable read.
February 22, 2020
What cheer!
I like reading history books but so far mainly focussed on English books in Henry VIII times and around. This is something different. In 1676, an unlikely pair - a young puritan widow Prudence and an English spy/ agent of the English Crown James, journeys from Boston harbour across a land where greed and treachery abound. They travel into Indian territories to find out more on the murder of Prudence's husband and searching for her daughter Mary, who is supposed to be taken into an Indian tribe, the Nipmuk.... This is the setting of this book, which I found highly entertaining, fasted fasted, and gives a great view into those times and the New England territories.
Thanks to my goodreads friend Ivonne for asking me to buddyread which happened sort of partly as I received this book later here in Holland. A joy to read, recommended for those who like history books of this category!
I like reading history books but so far mainly focussed on English books in Henry VIII times and around. This is something different. In 1676, an unlikely pair - a young puritan widow Prudence and an English spy/ agent of the English Crown James, journeys from Boston harbour across a land where greed and treachery abound. They travel into Indian territories to find out more on the murder of Prudence's husband and searching for her daughter Mary, who is supposed to be taken into an Indian tribe, the Nipmuk.... This is the setting of this book, which I found highly entertaining, fasted fasted, and gives a great view into those times and the New England territories.
Thanks to my goodreads friend Ivonne for asking me to buddyread which happened sort of partly as I received this book later here in Holland. A joy to read, recommended for those who like history books of this category!
July 6, 2015
In 17th century New England, Puritan widow Prudence Cotton lost her husband Sir Benjamin in King Philip’s War and was herself held captive. Nine months after her rescue, Prudence — despite her family’s insistence — knows her daughter Mary, now 3, is still alive, although still in the clutches of the same Nipmuk Indians who burned so many villages, tortured many, and kidnapped Prudence. Desperate, the young widow sees a way to find her daughter — a long shot and only at great peril.
Prudence’s hope comes in the form of James Bailey, an agent of King Charles II, who sails into Boston in December 1676 when the city was still an isolated backwater. Accompanied by a Quaker Indian, Peter Church, Bailey has his own reasons for looking into the death of Sir Benjamin Cotton (who was also an agent of the Crown) during an Indian raid at Winton, Massachusetts. Bailey and Prudence soon make common cause, and this odd couple, a pious Puritan widow and a worldly, scheming agent of the Crown, journey together to discover what really happened at the spot where the Indian war began: Crow Hollow. What they find will shock them both and change their lives — and those of the Boston colony — forever.
Crow Hollow works both as a fast-paced murder mystery and as a glimpse into the dour, harsh existence of 17th century English settlers. Author Michael Wallace’s historical insights never bogs down the story and provides a real education on Puritan life in the New World. I can only hope he’s working on a sequel so we can hear more from Prudence Cotton and James Bailey.
Prudence’s hope comes in the form of James Bailey, an agent of King Charles II, who sails into Boston in December 1676 when the city was still an isolated backwater. Accompanied by a Quaker Indian, Peter Church, Bailey has his own reasons for looking into the death of Sir Benjamin Cotton (who was also an agent of the Crown) during an Indian raid at Winton, Massachusetts. Bailey and Prudence soon make common cause, and this odd couple, a pious Puritan widow and a worldly, scheming agent of the Crown, journey together to discover what really happened at the spot where the Indian war began: Crow Hollow. What they find will shock them both and change their lives — and those of the Boston colony — forever.
Crow Hollow works both as a fast-paced murder mystery and as a glimpse into the dour, harsh existence of 17th century English settlers. Author Michael Wallace’s historical insights never bogs down the story and provides a real education on Puritan life in the New World. I can only hope he’s working on a sequel so we can hear more from Prudence Cotton and James Bailey.
May 14, 2015
This book is a dramatic, poignant look at Colonial life in early New England. I was completely enthralled from start to finish.
First, the author's research is impeccable. He clearly knows his facts. I grew up in Massachusetts, where early English settlements and Puritan life is something of a backdrop to our existence. Rarely, though, did that history feel more alive than it did here. The author uses his knowledge and understanding of Puritan times to build a believable plot, played out by characters with emotional depth.
The author's handling of setting might be my favorite part of this book. Puritan New England was an unforgiving place, where people made a point of knowing their neighbors' business. It was also a fearful place, with a vengeful God and untamed land full of warring Indians. The people, though, were often a study in contrasts. Being born into Puritanism did not erase all that makes us human. Michael Wallace captures all of this and brings it to life.
The plot moves at a good pace, vacillating between James's and Prudence's points of view. We have suspense and intrigue, along with drama and a dash of romance. We're taken into the heart of war, with Indians fighting to hold on to their land, religion, and lifestyle, while the English are determined to take it all away. Wallace shows us both sides with unflinching honesty.
Then we have the characters, who are, perhaps, the epitome of our early settlers. James is unquestionably loyal to England, though his patriotism is often challenged by what he sees and feels within New England. Prudence is English, but knows only Puritan life. Her loyalties are divided between her home country and her heritage. She is conflicted not only by this, but also by the harsh religion that often dictates a behavior opposite that of which she feels.
Michael Wallace's attention to detail and his storytelling ability combine here to bring us an unforgettable journey.
First, the author's research is impeccable. He clearly knows his facts. I grew up in Massachusetts, where early English settlements and Puritan life is something of a backdrop to our existence. Rarely, though, did that history feel more alive than it did here. The author uses his knowledge and understanding of Puritan times to build a believable plot, played out by characters with emotional depth.
The author's handling of setting might be my favorite part of this book. Puritan New England was an unforgiving place, where people made a point of knowing their neighbors' business. It was also a fearful place, with a vengeful God and untamed land full of warring Indians. The people, though, were often a study in contrasts. Being born into Puritanism did not erase all that makes us human. Michael Wallace captures all of this and brings it to life.
The plot moves at a good pace, vacillating between James's and Prudence's points of view. We have suspense and intrigue, along with drama and a dash of romance. We're taken into the heart of war, with Indians fighting to hold on to their land, religion, and lifestyle, while the English are determined to take it all away. Wallace shows us both sides with unflinching honesty.
Then we have the characters, who are, perhaps, the epitome of our early settlers. James is unquestionably loyal to England, though his patriotism is often challenged by what he sees and feels within New England. Prudence is English, but knows only Puritan life. Her loyalties are divided between her home country and her heritage. She is conflicted not only by this, but also by the harsh religion that often dictates a behavior opposite that of which she feels.
Michael Wallace's attention to detail and his storytelling ability combine here to bring us an unforgettable journey.
June 26, 2015
This was largely a waste of my time.
A story with potential, but poorly executed. The characters have no real depth, the writing at a high school level, the descriptive phrases are cliches and hackneyed.
And for an author who is reputed to research his subject there are errors which are evidence to the contrary. For example at one point the protagonist and her companions are described as hiding behind "bales of hay". There were no bales of hay in 17th century New England. Baling hay became an agricultural practice in the 20th century.
A story with potential, but poorly executed. The characters have no real depth, the writing at a high school level, the descriptive phrases are cliches and hackneyed.
And for an author who is reputed to research his subject there are errors which are evidence to the contrary. For example at one point the protagonist and her companions are described as hiding behind "bales of hay". There were no bales of hay in 17th century New England. Baling hay became an agricultural practice in the 20th century.
May 6, 2015
I got this book through Kindle First. I am a fan of historical fiction, and this seemed like an interesting take on the pre-Revolutionary time in America. I enjoyed the overall story, though I found the main male lead to be hard to connect with. I understand patriotism, but his seemed to have very little basis. I felt that the female protagonist was inconsistent - she's puritanical, but not all the time? It was hard to believe.
So, again, overall interesting read, but just ok.
So, again, overall interesting read, but just ok.
abandoned
May 12, 2016Note to self: I should stop reading books about Puritans because I DO NOT get them. It's just too much religion for me.
Besides that, in the 20-ish% that I read, James Bailey seduced a servant, let his companion be abused to achieve his own ends, and creepily came on to Prudence. Basically he was just an all around skeevy ass and I couldn't stand him. On top of that, I think the audiobook narrator somehow made him seem even worse and her voices were not very good. (Why would you have a woman narrate a book with predominately male characters??)
Nothing else in the book grabbed me attention and I just couldn't be bothered to put in the extra effort to finish a book I was enjoying.
Besides that, in the 20-ish% that I read, James Bailey seduced a servant, let his companion be abused to achieve his own ends, and creepily came on to Prudence. Basically he was just an all around skeevy ass and I couldn't stand him. On top of that, I think the audiobook narrator somehow made him seem even worse and her voices were not very good. (Why would you have a woman narrate a book with predominately male characters??)
Nothing else in the book grabbed me attention and I just couldn't be bothered to put in the extra effort to finish a book I was enjoying.
May 20, 2015
I think my rating of this book comes down to the characters. I didn't like them. He's a womanizer. She's a prude. That being said, I believe that Wallace captured the emotions and flavor of the New England colonies one hundred years before Revolution. The plot was interesting as well, but a bit slow in spots (again I blame my dislike for the main characters). And a bit predictable. I mean, you know from the beginning that these two are going to wind up together. And that never becomes believable to me.
May 1, 2015
Crow Hollow by Michael Wallace takes a searing and insightful look at the new world of the American colonies in the 1670s, harsh and realistic not only in its portrayal of the period and the people who populated the story but also the savage and treacherous conditions which surround them. Like any good book, it is an exploration of a new world with which few of us are accustomed to, yet visited by a feeling of familiarity only made possible by Michael Wallace’s fine writing.
Few books I have read in recent times captured my imagination as much as Crow Hollow did. The viciousness of the period, the most gruelling conditions of the colonizers, and the noxious and aggressive Native Americans are well-researched by the author and portrayed in such an authentic and believable manner.
In Crow Hollow, Wallace will transport you a hundred years before the colonies declared independence where the Puritan conventions are as rigid as the sharpness of the native’s spear. Wallace beautifully weaves the story of Prudence Cotton, her three-year-old daughter and British agent James Bailey. The main thread of the story follows Prudence and James Bailey who are on a desperate quest to free Prudence’s daughter who was still in the captivity of the Nipmuk tribe from whom Prudence managed to escape. Their mission will lead them to a trail of murder and treachery.
Michael Wallace painted a stark picture of the period which will leave you amazed with the immense courage and perseverance of those who first settled in the colonies. The characters are superbly imagined and well-developed. Crow Hollow will leave begging for more from the author.
Few books I have read in recent times captured my imagination as much as Crow Hollow did. The viciousness of the period, the most gruelling conditions of the colonizers, and the noxious and aggressive Native Americans are well-researched by the author and portrayed in such an authentic and believable manner.
In Crow Hollow, Wallace will transport you a hundred years before the colonies declared independence where the Puritan conventions are as rigid as the sharpness of the native’s spear. Wallace beautifully weaves the story of Prudence Cotton, her three-year-old daughter and British agent James Bailey. The main thread of the story follows Prudence and James Bailey who are on a desperate quest to free Prudence’s daughter who was still in the captivity of the Nipmuk tribe from whom Prudence managed to escape. Their mission will lead them to a trail of murder and treachery.
Michael Wallace painted a stark picture of the period which will leave you amazed with the immense courage and perseverance of those who first settled in the colonies. The characters are superbly imagined and well-developed. Crow Hollow will leave begging for more from the author.
Read
July 13, 2015I was disappointed with this story, it had potential but in my opinion didn't deliver. I chose this as a Prime First selection on Amazon and then added the whispersync narration and listened to the audiobook.
The writing was not horrible but the dialog was not good, it was often stiff and stilted, unfortunately there's a lot of dialog. Sometimes a great reader performance can compensate for a book that might be a little lacking on the two dimensional page. In this case I'm afraid the reader wasn't able to overcome the awkward writing with an inspired performance. Her reading was sometimes unpleasant to listen to, though it was difficult to tell how much was the writing and how much was the reading.
I didn't warm to the characters at all, James Bailey, the male protagonist is a bit of a dog, which I thought I liked at first but it turns out I didn't. The female protagonist, Prudence Cotton, didn't stir my sympathies despite the horrible ordeal she endured.
There's more telling than showing and certain events weren't believable, these are always pet peeves for me. I found it more than a little annoying when the country girl from the wilds of America would offer the spy from London, in service to the King of England, pointers, excuses and cover stories.
I had my doubts about sticking it out with this audiobook but finally threw in the towel when James behaves in a way completely lacking good manners. He didn't do something that I think anyone in his position certainly would have done. Despite his dog-like tendencies he should have behaved like a gentleman and when he didn't I could read the writing on the wall. We were heading down a path I didn't want to travel.
I hate having to throw away the time invested in listening to nearly half of this story. But better that then investing more just to say I finished it. Life is too short and I am too old to waste my time with pleasure reading that isn't pleasurable.
The writing was not horrible but the dialog was not good, it was often stiff and stilted, unfortunately there's a lot of dialog. Sometimes a great reader performance can compensate for a book that might be a little lacking on the two dimensional page. In this case I'm afraid the reader wasn't able to overcome the awkward writing with an inspired performance. Her reading was sometimes unpleasant to listen to, though it was difficult to tell how much was the writing and how much was the reading.
I didn't warm to the characters at all, James Bailey, the male protagonist is a bit of a dog, which I thought I liked at first but it turns out I didn't. The female protagonist, Prudence Cotton, didn't stir my sympathies despite the horrible ordeal she endured.
There's more telling than showing and certain events weren't believable, these are always pet peeves for me. I found it more than a little annoying when the country girl from the wilds of America would offer the spy from London, in service to the King of England, pointers, excuses and cover stories.
I had my doubts about sticking it out with this audiobook but finally threw in the towel when James behaves in a way completely lacking good manners. He didn't do something that I think anyone in his position certainly would have done. Despite his dog-like tendencies he should have behaved like a gentleman and when he didn't I could read the writing on the wall. We were heading down a path I didn't want to travel.
I hate having to throw away the time invested in listening to nearly half of this story. But better that then investing more just to say I finished it. Life is too short and I am too old to waste my time with pleasure reading that isn't pleasurable.
May 9, 2015
I always find a peek into the early history of this young country thought provoking. So often overlooked the struggles of the early settlers bear testimony of mankind’s vicious side as well as the perils and hardship of life in primitive and often cruel conditions unimaginable in the comforts of today. Seldom considered the reality that even today living conditions in some parts of the world are not far removed from those described. In this tale of survival of the fittest or in some cases the victories of the more advanced, as firearms trumped more primitive weapons. But no debate here regarding the treatment or mistreatment of Native Americans. No debate on regarding the fervent religious life of early settlers. A well told story reflecting on the qualities of humans, greed, corruption, love, homicidal, conniving, and so on and so forth. Not much different than mankind of today. The early era of life in the Colonies and enter the characters weaving them into a story sure to hold the reader bound to the pages, anticipating the next page until the end, and then hoping for a sequel. I have read twenty two books by this author covering a diverse range of subjects and each book or short series was a winner. This book is another five star home run.
May 3, 2015
Outstanding.
I received this one of the free monthly books offered to Amazon Prime members but I am very glad I selected it. I am a history lover and my favorite era is Colonial/Revolutionary War America but this was a little before my normal reading.
A bit of a thriller, bit of a mystery and a bit of a rollicking adventure, this book delves into the religiously oppressive culture of Puritan New England. I knew a little of this period but this book really adds a great deal of depth to the era and the people that lived there. Do not think this as a negative thing as the book is wonderful and filled with adventure, indians, highwaymen, turncoats, poor maidens in need of rescue, and brave women that rise to the occasion and literally save the day. It picks up speed with every page turned and by the end you will be on the edge of your seat.
I read this in a little over a single day, pulled away only by family duties and the need for sleep at 2am with still another third of the book remaining.
Thus far this year, the best book I have read.
I received this one of the free monthly books offered to Amazon Prime members but I am very glad I selected it. I am a history lover and my favorite era is Colonial/Revolutionary War America but this was a little before my normal reading.
A bit of a thriller, bit of a mystery and a bit of a rollicking adventure, this book delves into the religiously oppressive culture of Puritan New England. I knew a little of this period but this book really adds a great deal of depth to the era and the people that lived there. Do not think this as a negative thing as the book is wonderful and filled with adventure, indians, highwaymen, turncoats, poor maidens in need of rescue, and brave women that rise to the occasion and literally save the day. It picks up speed with every page turned and by the end you will be on the edge of your seat.
I read this in a little over a single day, pulled away only by family duties and the need for sleep at 2am with still another third of the book remaining.
Thus far this year, the best book I have read.
January 23, 2016
I won, Crow Hollow by Michael Wallace, in a GoodReads giveaway. I received a trade paperback of efficient, independent design, consisting of 335 pages of typical paperbook quality, and a serifed font with generous margins. Easier-to-read than smaller fonts, with breathing-space for the eyes..
Crow Hollow is set in colonial New England in the late seventeenth century and contains two main characters.
Prudence Cotton is a Puritan who has lost her husband Sir Benjamin in King Phillip's war, in which she herself was held captive, and in which her daughter remains lost. Prudence is certain her daughter is still alive and is desperate to retrieve her from the Nipmuc Indians that once held her captive.
James Bailey is an agent of the King, Charles II. James Bailey is on a mission from the King and has his own motivations for investigating the death of Prudence Cotton's husband
When James' partner is murdered he and Prudence form an unlikely alliance and set out together to get to the bottom of Sir Benjamin's murder, to find Prudence's daughter and prevent Sean Bean from stealing the Declaration of Independence.
Because in all seriousness what should be an original and intriguing plot quickly boils out into a cliched and 2-dimensional quasi-romance novel. The characters are a bit unbelievable in their embodiment of contradicting characteristics and somewhat unlikable in their most base and predictable presentation. Their progression across the story-arch feels both predictable and forced and the outcome seems as unlikely and unrealistic as it was expected. The historical setting so richly flourished experiences disjoined moments of modern-feeling dialog and circumstance and description.
Reviews online for Crow Hollow fall distinctly into two well-defined camps: those that found it to be a roller-coaster ride of adventure through a rich historical back-drop, and those that found it a picture-perfect example of a 2-dimensional cliche' and wanna-be romance novel. And I think I can sort it out for the rest of you coming in fresh for the first time:
Crow Hollow is recommended as a good read for people who liked the movie National Treasure with Nicolas Cage and recommended it to all their friends. The rest of you should keep on moving and look for something else to read.
Crow Hollow is set in colonial New England in the late seventeenth century and contains two main characters.
Prudence Cotton is a Puritan who has lost her husband Sir Benjamin in King Phillip's war, in which she herself was held captive, and in which her daughter remains lost. Prudence is certain her daughter is still alive and is desperate to retrieve her from the Nipmuc Indians that once held her captive.
James Bailey is an agent of the King, Charles II. James Bailey is on a mission from the King and has his own motivations for investigating the death of Prudence Cotton's husband
When James' partner is murdered he and Prudence form an unlikely alliance and set out together to get to the bottom of Sir Benjamin's murder, to find Prudence's daughter and prevent Sean Bean from stealing the Declaration of Independence.
Because in all seriousness what should be an original and intriguing plot quickly boils out into a cliched and 2-dimensional quasi-romance novel. The characters are a bit unbelievable in their embodiment of contradicting characteristics and somewhat unlikable in their most base and predictable presentation. Their progression across the story-arch feels both predictable and forced and the outcome seems as unlikely and unrealistic as it was expected. The historical setting so richly flourished experiences disjoined moments of modern-feeling dialog and circumstance and description.
Reviews online for Crow Hollow fall distinctly into two well-defined camps: those that found it to be a roller-coaster ride of adventure through a rich historical back-drop, and those that found it a picture-perfect example of a 2-dimensional cliche' and wanna-be romance novel. And I think I can sort it out for the rest of you coming in fresh for the first time:
Crow Hollow is recommended as a good read for people who liked the movie National Treasure with Nicolas Cage and recommended it to all their friends. The rest of you should keep on moving and look for something else to read.
April 5, 2015
They say good books open up new worlds, and that’s exactly what Michael Wallace does, in Crow Hollow. He takes us to the new world of the American colonies, where wilderness is the backyard, where Puritan conventions and punishments are almost as cruel as the conditions and where once friendly Native American neighbors are almost extinct after a bloody war.
Every time I read a Wallace book, it takes me a couple days to return to normal after traveling to the worlds he creates which are always transformative and tangible in their realism. This time, one hundred years before the colonies will declare their independence, we are in Boston, a small community where church attendance is mandatory, where men guard the walls around the clock and where everyone has fresh memories of war with neighboring Indians.
Prudence Cotton, now free after having been a prisoner of the Nipmuk tribe, desperately wants her daughter back, a three year-old still in the clutches of her captors. James Bailey, an agent of the crown, is on a different mission, but Prudence manages to enlist his help in her quest. Together they search for her daughter while uncovering a conspiracy that leads to murder and betrayal.
Crow Hollow starts a little slow, but that’s simply due to the deliberate immersion it takes to get the reader into the realm of Puritans, new world colonies, British rule and the rough country that is the setting for this tale. Wallace continually reminds us of the wilderness surrounding these small communities and the bravery the colonists must have had to face it. At one point, John Bailey comments that it will take one thousand years to fill the vast space. We know it took far less than that, but the fortitude it must have taken to confront such a task is well demonstrated in characters like Prudence Cotton.
Crow Hollow is yet another example of why I’m a huge Wallace fan. He entertains, he educates and he humanizes historic times that otherwise would be forgotten or overlooked. I’d love to see the continuing story of Prudence Cotton and James Bailey. They’re fantastically drawn, three-dimensional, deeply intriguing characters. They’re bound to get embroiled in some other adventure and when they do, I’d like to go along for the ride.
Every time I read a Wallace book, it takes me a couple days to return to normal after traveling to the worlds he creates which are always transformative and tangible in their realism. This time, one hundred years before the colonies will declare their independence, we are in Boston, a small community where church attendance is mandatory, where men guard the walls around the clock and where everyone has fresh memories of war with neighboring Indians.
Prudence Cotton, now free after having been a prisoner of the Nipmuk tribe, desperately wants her daughter back, a three year-old still in the clutches of her captors. James Bailey, an agent of the crown, is on a different mission, but Prudence manages to enlist his help in her quest. Together they search for her daughter while uncovering a conspiracy that leads to murder and betrayal.
Crow Hollow starts a little slow, but that’s simply due to the deliberate immersion it takes to get the reader into the realm of Puritans, new world colonies, British rule and the rough country that is the setting for this tale. Wallace continually reminds us of the wilderness surrounding these small communities and the bravery the colonists must have had to face it. At one point, John Bailey comments that it will take one thousand years to fill the vast space. We know it took far less than that, but the fortitude it must have taken to confront such a task is well demonstrated in characters like Prudence Cotton.
Crow Hollow is yet another example of why I’m a huge Wallace fan. He entertains, he educates and he humanizes historic times that otherwise would be forgotten or overlooked. I’d love to see the continuing story of Prudence Cotton and James Bailey. They’re fantastically drawn, three-dimensional, deeply intriguing characters. They’re bound to get embroiled in some other adventure and when they do, I’d like to go along for the ride.
May 15, 2015
One of my friends asked why all the books I rate on "Goodreads" are a 4 or 5 star. I haven't been on "Goodreads" in a while because I only come here to rate books I have fallen in love with. So if I take the time to write a review on a book, you can bet I loved it, fell in love with the characters, the story and hoped the reading would take longer so it wouldn't end and then mourned the ending of it. And of course, for me, they all have to have happy endings.
"Cross Hollow" is one of those books. The plot is fairly predictable but that didn't stop me from enjoying being on this sometimes harrowing, exciting and absorbing journey with the characters. I know this may sound sexist, but I hesitated reading it because it was a male author and I wondered if he would be able to build the great relationships I love to read about. But Michael Wallace did a wonderful job of expressing emotions and building the relationship between Prudence and James as well as taking us on an incredible and heart rending journey. Loved. loved it!!
"Cross Hollow" is one of those books. The plot is fairly predictable but that didn't stop me from enjoying being on this sometimes harrowing, exciting and absorbing journey with the characters. I know this may sound sexist, but I hesitated reading it because it was a male author and I wondered if he would be able to build the great relationships I love to read about. But Michael Wallace did a wonderful job of expressing emotions and building the relationship between Prudence and James as well as taking us on an incredible and heart rending journey. Loved. loved it!!
March 23, 2017
I picked up Crow Hollow because it was cheap at .99, and it sounded interesting. The book centers on James Bailey, an agent of the British Crown, as he arrives in Boston in 1676 to investigate the murder of another agent, Benjamin Cotton. He has a Native American partner with him, to help him question the Nipmuc tribe, the tribe responsible for the murder of Cotton and most of Crow Hollow. His partner is killed, and he winds up teaming with a Puritan widow (the widow of Cotton, incidentally) who was once held captive by the Nipmucs; helpfully she's picked up their language. Her daughter was with her when she was captured; she was released, but her daughter is still a captive, and she wants Bailey's help getting her back.
The author seems to have done his research for the book, at least on the surface. The Nipmucs were indeed indigenous to that area and did join Metacomet's rebellion. (If you don't know what that is, I suggest reading a history book once in awhile. I mean, really, how ignorant can you be.)
The author seems to have done his research for the book, at least on the surface. The Nipmucs were indeed indigenous to that area and did join Metacomet's rebellion. (If you don't know what that is, I suggest reading a history book once in awhile. I mean, really, how ignorant can you be.)
June 13, 2015
At first, I wasn't sure I'd like the story but once I started reading, I found it to be a gripping period piece full of adventure, intrigue and a touch of romance. The characters were engaging and the story had a steady, even pace. The descriptions of New England life during the 1600s highlighted the cruelty endured both by the settlers and by the native Americans whom they displaced. It also showed the greed and treachery that was visited upon Native Americans and settlers alike in the quest for easy money.
The writing was crisp and clean and there was never a time when I felt like flipping ahead. If you like mystery, intrigue and a little bit of history to go along with it, you're going to enjoy this book!
Be warned, there are some very violent descriptions, so if you're squeamish, it might not be for you - but the violence is not the main focal point of the story and happens infrequently. It is a necessary component to the story.
The writing was crisp and clean and there was never a time when I felt like flipping ahead. If you like mystery, intrigue and a little bit of history to go along with it, you're going to enjoy this book!
Be warned, there are some very violent descriptions, so if you're squeamish, it might not be for you - but the violence is not the main focal point of the story and happens infrequently. It is a necessary component to the story.
August 25, 2018
Meh. I can tell a lot of research went into this one, and it was honest for the time period as far as the characters' views on Puritans versus Quakers versus Native Americans versus everyone who isn't exactly like them. The mystery part was fairly well done. The romance part felt tacked on just to get a sex scene that felt completely out of place and out of character. I just wasn't buying that part; it felt like a contemporary romance trying to cram itself inside a historical mystery.
The narrator does a fairly decent job with the material and was easy to listen to and follow along, though her overall tone and reading pace (and I was listening at 1.25 times) was kind of sedate. I don't know if that added to the overall meh-ness or not, but it certainly didn't help.
This is probably one of the better Amazon Kindle First books I've read, which sadly isn't saying much.
The narrator does a fairly decent job with the material and was easy to listen to and follow along, though her overall tone and reading pace (and I was listening at 1.25 times) was kind of sedate. I don't know if that added to the overall meh-ness or not, but it certainly didn't help.
This is probably one of the better Amazon Kindle First books I've read, which sadly isn't saying much.
May 24, 2015
I can't believe this was written by an established author with nearly (or could be more by now) 2 dozen books published. It read like a first timer. It was melodramatic most of the way through, the characters were pretty shallow and it never had me on the edge of my seat. The synopsis made me think it would be suspenseful and gripping. No, none of that. And scenes that could have been intriguing were so stunted, nothing was properly fleshed out and over quickly. Every thought or action from a character was like a bad firecracker. It just quickly sparked and then died out. Mix that with the melodrama and it's annoying.
July 31, 2015
I found the setting of this book to be extremely interesting as the war with the Indians is not something I have ever read much about in either fiction or non-fiction.
I also found the character of Prudence to be extremely interesting with her experiences with being an Indian captive.
I also appreciated that Wallace did not gloss over any of the 'brutal' nature of not only the crimes but also the justice system from time period.
Overall definitely an enjoyable adventure story with a dash of romance.
Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for providing me with a copy to review.
I also found the character of Prudence to be extremely interesting with her experiences with being an Indian captive.
I also appreciated that Wallace did not gloss over any of the 'brutal' nature of not only the crimes but also the justice system from time period.
Overall definitely an enjoyable adventure story with a dash of romance.
Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for providing me with a copy to review.
June 18, 2015
I enjoyed this book in the most part and I particularly liked the lead up to the end chapters in its thrilling pace. Although I'm not a fan of brutality, I think we could have had a more complex emotional connection if we had had a more native American perspective. This could have been an amazing novel if the same detail and emotion experienced in the hangings, had been expressed throughout. A talented author and I would be happy to read any of his other novels.
March 8, 2017
This was quite a satisfying historical fiction novel. Puritan Boston/New England has always fascinated me ever since, years ago, I studied the history and artwork of some of the first cemeteries in eastern Massachusetts. Most easily accessible narration about the time period, however, is based around the Salem witch trials, of which I'm quite tired. This is the story of Englishman James Bailey who, in December 1676, is emissary for England's King Charles, who has come to Boston to find out why Benjamin Cotton, the King's man in charge of Boston, has been killed in Indian uprisings. Here he encounters Prudence Cotton, widow of Benjamin Cotton, who has written an account of her capture and imprisonment by the Nipmuc Indian tribe and has some questions of her own. The story kept me interested throughout, and I learned quite a bit about the time, place, and history of the time.
June 1, 2015
ahhhhhh I really loved this book & was sad when it was over. I love books where you care about the characters so much that you find yourself thinking about them at odd times when you're not even reading the book.
This was a work of historical fiction that was great from beginning (well, after forcing myself through the first couple of chapters while I got used to the language of colonial New England) to end. Often, the ending of a great book will disappoint, but this felt as good as much of the story along the way, wasn't too cheesy/romantic/easily resolved and didn't feel rushed or hastily put together.
Each chapter ends on a tiny little cliffhanger, which I love, so instead of ending a chapter and saying "argh finally done with that chapter," you automatically start reading the next chapter before you even realize you are doing it.
I also learned (or was reminded of) things about colonial New England, the Puritan and Indian cultures that were interesting, and being fairly familiar with Boston, I enjoyed the references to the Commons, High Street, and the harbor, having been to each of those places several times. I really could picture the scenes as I was reading.
Great, great book. I hope there is a sequel, because these characters are too good to say goodbye to.
This was a work of historical fiction that was great from beginning (well, after forcing myself through the first couple of chapters while I got used to the language of colonial New England) to end. Often, the ending of a great book will disappoint, but this felt as good as much of the story along the way, wasn't too cheesy/romantic/easily resolved and didn't feel rushed or hastily put together.
Each chapter ends on a tiny little cliffhanger, which I love, so instead of ending a chapter and saying "argh finally done with that chapter," you automatically start reading the next chapter before you even realize you are doing it.
I also learned (or was reminded of) things about colonial New England, the Puritan and Indian cultures that were interesting, and being fairly familiar with Boston, I enjoyed the references to the Commons, High Street, and the harbor, having been to each of those places several times. I really could picture the scenes as I was reading.
Great, great book. I hope there is a sequel, because these characters are too good to say goodbye to.
August 23, 2015
Rosemary Benson is one of the best Audiobook Narrators working today. This is another treasure of Michael Wallace's she has brought to our ears.
This tale of 1676 New England is historic in its landscape and its social descriptions of the time. The religious control of the population and fear of a far off King Philip sets up a story of treachery and deception.
Prudence Cotton has lost her husband and believes her child was taken by the Nipmuk tribe. Others say the child was dead, but a mother knows. As she continues to try and find her child a stranger and his partner come to town.
James Bailey is an Agent of King Philip who has come to Boston to investigate The death of Prudence Cotton's husband. When his partner is killed James and Prudence become an unlikely pair that run to the wilderness to hide from those trying to kill him and get answers for the crown.
The unlikely duo of an unmarried man and a widow women in 1676 New England have more than just killers in front of them they have the scorn of the righteous to contend with as well.
This book is an amazing story and was a history lesson for me. It really describes and led me to feel the emotion of 17th century New England.
This is a great experience that Rosemary and Michael have gifted us listeners with once again.
This tale of 1676 New England is historic in its landscape and its social descriptions of the time. The religious control of the population and fear of a far off King Philip sets up a story of treachery and deception.
Prudence Cotton has lost her husband and believes her child was taken by the Nipmuk tribe. Others say the child was dead, but a mother knows. As she continues to try and find her child a stranger and his partner come to town.
James Bailey is an Agent of King Philip who has come to Boston to investigate The death of Prudence Cotton's husband. When his partner is killed James and Prudence become an unlikely pair that run to the wilderness to hide from those trying to kill him and get answers for the crown.
The unlikely duo of an unmarried man and a widow women in 1676 New England have more than just killers in front of them they have the scorn of the righteous to contend with as well.
This book is an amazing story and was a history lesson for me. It really describes and led me to feel the emotion of 17th century New England.
This is a great experience that Rosemary and Michael have gifted us listeners with once again.
May 11, 2015
Bringing Life to History
If only American history teachers in school would have added interesting, detailed human stories to their litany of boring names of events and chosen heroes, I may have developed a great interest in history.
Only as a much older senior adult have I finally discovered a personal connection to history and it's people through historical novels, such as Crow Hollow by Michael Wallace.
I cared about his characters, and experienced the suffering, the joys, the culture, and deep challenges of all groups of people struggling to survive and understand the meaning to their lives - as we continue to do in present times. I'm in awe of the talent of writers who are able to weave together real historical facts and fictional characters to transport readers on a journey to experience another time and land.
If only American history teachers in school would have added interesting, detailed human stories to their litany of boring names of events and chosen heroes, I may have developed a great interest in history.
Only as a much older senior adult have I finally discovered a personal connection to history and it's people through historical novels, such as Crow Hollow by Michael Wallace.
I cared about his characters, and experienced the suffering, the joys, the culture, and deep challenges of all groups of people struggling to survive and understand the meaning to their lives - as we continue to do in present times. I'm in awe of the talent of writers who are able to weave together real historical facts and fictional characters to transport readers on a journey to experience another time and land.
July 6, 2015
I am so glad that I decided to read this book despite some of the reviews I read. This book contained all of the things I love in a good novel. It had adventure, history, intrigue, amazing characters and a great ending.
I admit that I don't read a lot of male writers and I tend to stick to the females for the most part. I might have to change my tune and branch out a little more after reading Michael Wallace's work.
For reference, the first third of the book I struggled a little getting to know the characters. I finished the rest within a day. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical, suspense filled novels. I will look for more from this author in the future.
I admit that I don't read a lot of male writers and I tend to stick to the females for the most part. I might have to change my tune and branch out a little more after reading Michael Wallace's work.
For reference, the first third of the book I struggled a little getting to know the characters. I finished the rest within a day. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical, suspense filled novels. I will look for more from this author in the future.
May 5, 2015
James is an agent of King Charles II. He has been sent to Boston to look into the death of another agent of the king as well as a secret mission. Prudence has endured an abduction by Indians and the loss of her daughter. She is brought back to her family but believes her daughter is still alive and out in the wilderness. These two characters come together in order to achieve both of their goals.
I am a huge fan of historical fiction. This was a good read but was lacking that spark that makes a book truly addicting.
I am a huge fan of historical fiction. This was a good read but was lacking that spark that makes a book truly addicting.
July 21, 2015
This book tried to be both a historical fiction novel and a tame bodice ripper. It was very very tame in terms of explicit content but kept a sexual tension the whole time, which felt awkward.
The historical novel part of the book fared much better in my opinion, with an extremely interesting premise, time period and conflict. But the villain was obvious and the details weren't compelling. It read like someone's first novel, to be honest. Shallow main characters (the preacher's wife, Anne, was actually my favorite character and she was only in 10% of the book).
The historical novel part of the book fared much better in my opinion, with an extremely interesting premise, time period and conflict. But the villain was obvious and the details weren't compelling. It read like someone's first novel, to be honest. Shallow main characters (the preacher's wife, Anne, was actually my favorite character and she was only in 10% of the book).
September 16, 2019
Hooked by the mystery, but beware adult content
Historical fiction about the British colony of Boston and a mystery about a massacre of Puritan settlers and Native Americans that causes a spy for the British Crown to investigate. Lots of interesting details about life during that period. The search for the truth is what hooked me. However, be aware of some adult content, including descriptions of intimate relations, gruesome fighting, and hangings.
Historical fiction about the British colony of Boston and a mystery about a massacre of Puritan settlers and Native Americans that causes a spy for the British Crown to investigate. Lots of interesting details about life during that period. The search for the truth is what hooked me. However, be aware of some adult content, including descriptions of intimate relations, gruesome fighting, and hangings.
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