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Tales from a Revolution
The Tree: New-Hampshire
Planting the Tree of Liberty is Never Easy
Abe is haunted by the sudden loss of both of his parents. Left to manage a New-Hampshire land grant and its troublesome Royal Navy mast trees, with only his eccentric aunt to guide him, he finds comfort in a new friendship with Betty, a decidedly odd neighbor. Defying the Royal Governor’s crackdowns and his aunt’s commands, Abe makes choices that put him on a collision course with both. With rebellion in the air, Abe must escape detection by the Governor’s agents and solve the puzzle
of Betty’s past in order to secure his future.
The Tree is Hedbor’s standalone novel set in New-Hampshire from his Tales From a Revolution series, in which he examines the American War of Independence as it unfolded in each of the
colonies. If you like enthralling stories of familiar events from unfamiliar viewpoints, you’ll love The Tree.
Grab your copy of The Tree today, and experience the American Revolution as a personal journey of discovery.
219 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 14, 2019
8 people are currently reading
40 people want to read
About the author
Lars D.H. Hedbor
25 books59 followersWhat made the American Colonists turn their back on their King, and fight for independence? How were they different from us–and how were their hopes and fears familiar to our own hearts?
These are the sorts of questions that I think are important to ask in examining the American Revolution, and in the pages of my novels, I suggest some possible answers.
I am an amateur historian, linguist, cuckoo clock restorer, brewer, fiddler, astronomer and baker. Professionally, I am a technologist, marketer, writer and father of six.
My love of history drives me to share the excitement of understanding the events of long ago, and how those events touch us still today.
These are the sorts of questions that I think are important to ask in examining the American Revolution, and in the pages of my novels, I suggest some possible answers.
I am an amateur historian, linguist, cuckoo clock restorer, brewer, fiddler, astronomer and baker. Professionally, I am a technologist, marketer, writer and father of six.
My love of history drives me to share the excitement of understanding the events of long ago, and how those events touch us still today.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
May 13, 2019
This and other reviews and content can be found at Before the Second Sleep
Having previously read almost every Hedbor book written, it was a delight to see this author’s latest, The Tree: Tales From a Revolution — New-Hampshire, recently peeping from my postbox. That right there should give readers an immediate heads up that opening a new tab for book buying is in order. I enjoy Hedbor’s characters, the diversity of which is impressive indeed—diversity not being used for its own sake. It speaks to his research capabilities and creative skills that the author could come up with the individuals and backgrounds he has, and realistically reflects our history and why those who populated it perceived events as they did. A Spanish sailor, breakaway loyalists, Quaker congregation, freed slave, grownups and youth, male and female—the list goes on, but one thing they all have in common is their ordinariness. Through Hedbor’s storytelling charms, we see not only victors, nor just the elite: we see us.
Trees are symbolic of much in our histories and spiritual intellect, not least of which is the ideal of life and liberty, both growing entities requiring nourishment. Abe’s father, a lumber cutter, realizes both ideals as he embarks upon a career providing lumber for London housebuilding, though the king’s mast laws regulate which pines he may use, despite them standing on Sawyer’s own property. Not unlike medieval forest laws, violations are punishable by jail or, preferable to the government, fines, which are little more than veiled taxes. Unrest is growing over this oppression, and when Abe is suddenly orphaned, he must take over the management duties against this backdrop as he navigates his auntie’s negative personality and a strange new friendship with Betty and her ever-present raven companion.
As always, Hedbor’s people occupy a skillfully managed narrative in which historical remoteness dissolves and we witness their daily lives amidst this growing upheaval. One we are unsure is trustworthy, another a milquetoast with dreams of a thieving bird in service to the king, and still another an outsider with a mysterious past. The author does, however, leave plenty of space for the development and distribution of secrets and intrigue, and the tension builds as each person’s character arc, to varying degrees, flowers in the pursuit of the liberty to be. This occurs in various forms, most notably the acquisition of a skill that nourishes liberty, a circumstance that in turn reflects the reality of life paired with death and the ongoing sacrifices required for it to flourish. It is a sober set of thoughts for people whose lives will soon be lived amidst the fire of war as they uproot and are uprooted while they simultaneously plant the tree of liberty still referenced by Americans today.
One thing I like best about these tales is the inclusion of food, and Hedbor has a knack for fitting it into the narrative without ruffling the fabric of the story. Abe’s spinster Aunt Rosanna, for example, makes her way partly by selling eggs, even through the bitter months:
She pointed to a barrel in the corner of the kitchen. “Since we’re coming into the winter season, the chickens won’t lay as much until spring. Some have already slowed down, because of their molt. We need to put eggs away for the winter, and they go in that barrel. Once there are enough to make a layer, we’ll cover them with the slaked lime I’ll keep in the pitcher beside it. Preserves them all through the winter, so it’s worth the expense.”
Also utilizing his linguistics background, Hedbor portrays a woman whose no-nonsense perspective is reflected in the words she omits as much as those she chooses. Economic sentences, often harshly delivered, stand opposite those of Abe’s earnest and unsophisticated nature. Like the raven, who seems to show up around every corner these days, however, he is observant, and asks himself questions even if he doesn’t always verbalize them. This facilitates his friendship with Betty, as Hedbor seamlessly weaves together these and other elements of a story that provides both a broad understanding of how and why the New Hampshire colonists took one step closer to revolution, and a closer view of the individuals of that colony, who, without these Tales From a Revolution, would remain hidden within the shadows of history.
One of the most gripping of all Hedbor’s Tales, I was unable to put this book down and read it in one sitting. As readers proceed through events in the novel, especially knowing many are drawn from the documented history of New Hampshire’s 1772 Pine Tree Riot, we grow a better understanding of the colonists’ grievances and why they acted as they did. Once again Hedbor restores humanity to figures who were real, living people as opposed to those who existed in a distant and vague era. We grow to care about them both as characters as well as the ancestors of ours that they are. Thought-provoking to say the least, this is a rewarding read that will remain with readers long after the last page is turned.
Having previously read almost every Hedbor book written, it was a delight to see this author’s latest, The Tree: Tales From a Revolution — New-Hampshire, recently peeping from my postbox. That right there should give readers an immediate heads up that opening a new tab for book buying is in order. I enjoy Hedbor’s characters, the diversity of which is impressive indeed—diversity not being used for its own sake. It speaks to his research capabilities and creative skills that the author could come up with the individuals and backgrounds he has, and realistically reflects our history and why those who populated it perceived events as they did. A Spanish sailor, breakaway loyalists, Quaker congregation, freed slave, grownups and youth, male and female—the list goes on, but one thing they all have in common is their ordinariness. Through Hedbor’s storytelling charms, we see not only victors, nor just the elite: we see us.
Trees are symbolic of much in our histories and spiritual intellect, not least of which is the ideal of life and liberty, both growing entities requiring nourishment. Abe’s father, a lumber cutter, realizes both ideals as he embarks upon a career providing lumber for London housebuilding, though the king’s mast laws regulate which pines he may use, despite them standing on Sawyer’s own property. Not unlike medieval forest laws, violations are punishable by jail or, preferable to the government, fines, which are little more than veiled taxes. Unrest is growing over this oppression, and when Abe is suddenly orphaned, he must take over the management duties against this backdrop as he navigates his auntie’s negative personality and a strange new friendship with Betty and her ever-present raven companion.
As always, Hedbor’s people occupy a skillfully managed narrative in which historical remoteness dissolves and we witness their daily lives amidst this growing upheaval. One we are unsure is trustworthy, another a milquetoast with dreams of a thieving bird in service to the king, and still another an outsider with a mysterious past. The author does, however, leave plenty of space for the development and distribution of secrets and intrigue, and the tension builds as each person’s character arc, to varying degrees, flowers in the pursuit of the liberty to be. This occurs in various forms, most notably the acquisition of a skill that nourishes liberty, a circumstance that in turn reflects the reality of life paired with death and the ongoing sacrifices required for it to flourish. It is a sober set of thoughts for people whose lives will soon be lived amidst the fire of war as they uproot and are uprooted while they simultaneously plant the tree of liberty still referenced by Americans today.
One thing I like best about these tales is the inclusion of food, and Hedbor has a knack for fitting it into the narrative without ruffling the fabric of the story. Abe’s spinster Aunt Rosanna, for example, makes her way partly by selling eggs, even through the bitter months:
She pointed to a barrel in the corner of the kitchen. “Since we’re coming into the winter season, the chickens won’t lay as much until spring. Some have already slowed down, because of their molt. We need to put eggs away for the winter, and they go in that barrel. Once there are enough to make a layer, we’ll cover them with the slaked lime I’ll keep in the pitcher beside it. Preserves them all through the winter, so it’s worth the expense.”
Also utilizing his linguistics background, Hedbor portrays a woman whose no-nonsense perspective is reflected in the words she omits as much as those she chooses. Economic sentences, often harshly delivered, stand opposite those of Abe’s earnest and unsophisticated nature. Like the raven, who seems to show up around every corner these days, however, he is observant, and asks himself questions even if he doesn’t always verbalize them. This facilitates his friendship with Betty, as Hedbor seamlessly weaves together these and other elements of a story that provides both a broad understanding of how and why the New Hampshire colonists took one step closer to revolution, and a closer view of the individuals of that colony, who, without these Tales From a Revolution, would remain hidden within the shadows of history.
One of the most gripping of all Hedbor’s Tales, I was unable to put this book down and read it in one sitting. As readers proceed through events in the novel, especially knowing many are drawn from the documented history of New Hampshire’s 1772 Pine Tree Riot, we grow a better understanding of the colonists’ grievances and why they acted as they did. Once again Hedbor restores humanity to figures who were real, living people as opposed to those who existed in a distant and vague era. We grow to care about them both as characters as well as the ancestors of ours that they are. Thought-provoking to say the least, this is a rewarding read that will remain with readers long after the last page is turned.
May 30, 2019
Duration: 5 hrs 11 mins.
The Tree, Tales from a Revolution: New-Hampshire by Lars D. Hedbor is a coming-of-age story, not only of an orphaned boy but of his country. With rebellion and revolution spreading, Abe must find a way to balance his living and his loyalties in this stand-alone tale. With only his eccentric aunt and odd neighbour to help guide him, Abe's future is as uncertain as America's...
Audible summary: Planting the tree of liberty is never easy.
Abe is haunted by the sudden loss of both parents. Left to manage a New-Hampshire land grant and its troublesome Royal Navy mast trees with only his eccentric aunt to guide him, he finds comfort in a new friendship with Betty, a decidedly odd neighbor. Defying the Royal Governor’s crackdowns and his aunt’s commands, Abe makes choices that put him on a collision course with both. With rebellion in the air, Abe must escape detection by the Governor’s agents and solve the puzzle of Betty’s past in order to secure his future.
Growing up in a port town and proud Naval city gave me a particular interest in learning more about the impact of the Crown's restrictions regarding the Royal Navy's mast trees. Living mere miles from Portsmouth's Historic Dockyard and the familiar sight of our most famous historic warships, I've trodden boards purportedly reclaimed from siezed French ships, and followed the recent search for timbers in Aberdeenshire to ensure that Victory's ongoing restoration can continue.
Despite this, I'd read very little about the American mast trees that were commandeered for Royal Navy ships prior to the revolution. Although a fictionalised tale, I knew from my previous experience of the Tales From a Revolution series that Lars Hedbor's books have been well researched and are deeply rooted into the context of the time. The historical notes at the end help to clarify the creative license taken regarding the sequence of events, but in general the books seem to give an authentic sense of the era. Hedbor uses the stories of the ordinary people caught up in the Revolution to introduce the broader political climate, and as such the books are a good way to become a little more familiar with the history. As with The Freedman (which I reviewed earlier this year) I found myself a little ashamed of just how limited my knowledge of American history actually is. I don't remember learning much about it at school and European history has dominated my reading ever since. There's such a wealth of history close to home that I fear I have neglected much of that which took place farther afield. I've enjoyed this series because it makes the subject so accessible, and breaks down the extended timeline of the Revolution into manageable, personal reflections of specific turning-points within the War of Independence.
At the beginning of the story the young, orphaned Abe was, in many ways, as ignorant of the wider political machinations as I was myself. His naivety paves the way for his elders to explain the unrest and injustice, which in turn educates the listener without feeling like there is any unnecessary exposition.
As Abe begins to understand the implications he comes to realise that he must make some hard choices. His growing friendship and blossoming romance with mysterious orphan Betty tests the young man further, dividing his loyalties personally as well as patriotically. As Abe's interests clash with those of the Crown, he must take charge of his father's Land Grant; and of the consequences for defying the Governor's orders.
The description of Portsmouth, New Hampshire toward the end of the book was especially welcome, given the parallels between it and my own home, but the whole story evoked the burgeoning tensions between the people and the Crown and the widening divisions between the 'old' country and the new.
Narrator Shamaan Casey did an excellent job with this book, just as he did with The Freedman. The richness and depth of his voice was a pleasure to listen to, and lent these historical tales a timeless gravitas that echoed throughout the centuries spanning then and now. It feet as if I really was listening to a voice from America's Revolutionary past.
I'd recommend this book to anyone with an interest in the American Revolution, and those who enjoy books that tell the stories which are often forgotten by mainstream historical records. Hedbor's books shine a light into the dusty corners of history, and introduce us to the people on the fringes of the Revolution's key events.
*I received this audiobook free of charge in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
If you liked this review then please join me for more!
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The Tree, Tales from a Revolution: New-Hampshire by Lars D. Hedbor is a coming-of-age story, not only of an orphaned boy but of his country. With rebellion and revolution spreading, Abe must find a way to balance his living and his loyalties in this stand-alone tale. With only his eccentric aunt and odd neighbour to help guide him, Abe's future is as uncertain as America's...
Audible summary: Planting the tree of liberty is never easy.
Abe is haunted by the sudden loss of both parents. Left to manage a New-Hampshire land grant and its troublesome Royal Navy mast trees with only his eccentric aunt to guide him, he finds comfort in a new friendship with Betty, a decidedly odd neighbor. Defying the Royal Governor’s crackdowns and his aunt’s commands, Abe makes choices that put him on a collision course with both. With rebellion in the air, Abe must escape detection by the Governor’s agents and solve the puzzle of Betty’s past in order to secure his future.
Growing up in a port town and proud Naval city gave me a particular interest in learning more about the impact of the Crown's restrictions regarding the Royal Navy's mast trees. Living mere miles from Portsmouth's Historic Dockyard and the familiar sight of our most famous historic warships, I've trodden boards purportedly reclaimed from siezed French ships, and followed the recent search for timbers in Aberdeenshire to ensure that Victory's ongoing restoration can continue.
Despite this, I'd read very little about the American mast trees that were commandeered for Royal Navy ships prior to the revolution. Although a fictionalised tale, I knew from my previous experience of the Tales From a Revolution series that Lars Hedbor's books have been well researched and are deeply rooted into the context of the time. The historical notes at the end help to clarify the creative license taken regarding the sequence of events, but in general the books seem to give an authentic sense of the era. Hedbor uses the stories of the ordinary people caught up in the Revolution to introduce the broader political climate, and as such the books are a good way to become a little more familiar with the history. As with The Freedman (which I reviewed earlier this year) I found myself a little ashamed of just how limited my knowledge of American history actually is. I don't remember learning much about it at school and European history has dominated my reading ever since. There's such a wealth of history close to home that I fear I have neglected much of that which took place farther afield. I've enjoyed this series because it makes the subject so accessible, and breaks down the extended timeline of the Revolution into manageable, personal reflections of specific turning-points within the War of Independence.
At the beginning of the story the young, orphaned Abe was, in many ways, as ignorant of the wider political machinations as I was myself. His naivety paves the way for his elders to explain the unrest and injustice, which in turn educates the listener without feeling like there is any unnecessary exposition.
As Abe begins to understand the implications he comes to realise that he must make some hard choices. His growing friendship and blossoming romance with mysterious orphan Betty tests the young man further, dividing his loyalties personally as well as patriotically. As Abe's interests clash with those of the Crown, he must take charge of his father's Land Grant; and of the consequences for defying the Governor's orders.
The description of Portsmouth, New Hampshire toward the end of the book was especially welcome, given the parallels between it and my own home, but the whole story evoked the burgeoning tensions between the people and the Crown and the widening divisions between the 'old' country and the new.
Narrator Shamaan Casey did an excellent job with this book, just as he did with The Freedman. The richness and depth of his voice was a pleasure to listen to, and lent these historical tales a timeless gravitas that echoed throughout the centuries spanning then and now. It feet as if I really was listening to a voice from America's Revolutionary past.
I'd recommend this book to anyone with an interest in the American Revolution, and those who enjoy books that tell the stories which are often forgotten by mainstream historical records. Hedbor's books shine a light into the dusty corners of history, and introduce us to the people on the fringes of the Revolution's key events.
*I received this audiobook free of charge in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
If you liked this review then please join me for more!
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August 21, 2020
Engrossing and Inspiring
With genuine and hearty enthusiasm I thank Mr. Hedbor for the rich and rewarding experience his narrative bestows. Wonderful character and plot development supported by historical authenticity. A unique approach to history, a manageable nugget of time to ponder and expand upon.
With genuine and hearty enthusiasm I thank Mr. Hedbor for the rich and rewarding experience his narrative bestows. Wonderful character and plot development supported by historical authenticity. A unique approach to history, a manageable nugget of time to ponder and expand upon.
May 28, 2019
“The Tree” is another historic stand-alone piece of fiction from the well-written and well-narrated “Tales from a Revolution” series. At the time of this review, there are currently five audiobooks available in the series on Audible. This story takes the reader a bit farther north from others that occured mostly in the southern states. Here the listener is dropped off somewhere in the state of New Hampshire around the time of the revolution. This is the second book in the series which I have reviewed, and I can say that both books were quite enjoyable even though historical fiction is not one of my favored genres. Of the audiobooks available, each is passionately and well researched by Lars D. H. Hedbor and for me, that is what brought it to life. I quite like his story telling and many of the moral situations the characters faced as the book progressed. Similarly, this audiobook is narrated by Shamaan Casey. His performance during this story is done professionally and with emotion. From my school days (quite some time ago), I would say history never was one of my strong subjects. Often it was presented as a bunch of important but unconnected facts. It was often difficult for me to piece it together the information and make it feel real. What I like most about this series is that it brings to life not only the actual locations and situations, but in some circumstances, the people who lived them. I would say that if you are a person who enjoys historical fiction, you will enjoy this series of books. However, if you are like me, and history was not your thing, I think you will not only enjoy these books, but you will come away with a better appreciation for history itself. I found myself actually learning and liking it. That is not to say these books are educational only, but I could see them being used by schools to educate listeners with better retention than simply rote facts.
As with the previous book I listened too, you come away from this one seeing just how harsh and difficult it can be growing up at this time. War, disease, and survival was center to all who were alive at the time of the Revolution. Add to that living in one of the more northern colonies in New England and life just got much more difficult with harsh winters and lack of food; always. On top of this, our main character, Abe has lost both his parents and is now being raised by his peculiar aunt with an interest in his newly inherited land harvested for its timber. As the colonies expanded, this trade would bring a large sum of money to him. However, the battle for what is yours and what is claimed as the King’s lumber to make ship masts causes a fair amount of tension. Add in a rather unique neighbor and her pet and the story take you on a journey that you would not have expected.
The author did an excellent job of painting a picture of what it would be like to live during this time. You feel an active observer watching the characters along with the scenery they are placed; which is quite vibrant. Mr. Hedbor is a good storyteller keeping the pace of the story moving while also adding depth and emotion by way of revealing who the characters are and what motivates them. I also felt he did a good job of including elements we struggle with today. There are matters of deep prejudice and we are shown just how difficult it can be to overcome such. There were aspects of suspense and mystery from start to finish. I can say that after listening, I was not hungry for eggs for quite some time. You eat what is available and sometimes that is the same thing over and over without complaint. Remember that kids.
Narration by Mr. Casey was rich, bold, and clear. The audiobook’s narration was solid. I do not recall hearing any artifacts while listening such as swallows, page turns, or background noises. I like the narrator’s intonation and the many characters felt different and unique. Volume was also consistent. The recording was professional, and the audiobook’s narration gives life to the people and places covered in the book.
Parents and younger readers, I do not recall any vulgar language used throughout the book. The writing style I believe would be appropriate for readers of around 6th grade and above, yet it is not so simple that an adult could not enjoy it. There are some difficult subjects covered and at times the writing may be complex for very younger readers to comprehend. But I liked that the author did not simply write to a specific age group. Nothing overly graphic and only some light romance along with bits of witchcraft and some minimum alcohol use were thrown in this tale.
In summary, this book felt different from the first I listened to in the series, and I think that is a good thing. The style and writing were the same, but the locations, people and even the internal struggles were different. Even though the stories take place during the same period of time, I found them unique enough. They are a bit shorter, at around five hours, but it is well worth the time spend and you might even learn something as a take away. I quite enjoyed the last chapter where the author provides details or changes, he needed to make for continuity in his story. That really made things come to life for me along with the great narration. If it sounds interesting, pick up the book and give it a listen.
As with the previous book I listened too, you come away from this one seeing just how harsh and difficult it can be growing up at this time. War, disease, and survival was center to all who were alive at the time of the Revolution. Add to that living in one of the more northern colonies in New England and life just got much more difficult with harsh winters and lack of food; always. On top of this, our main character, Abe has lost both his parents and is now being raised by his peculiar aunt with an interest in his newly inherited land harvested for its timber. As the colonies expanded, this trade would bring a large sum of money to him. However, the battle for what is yours and what is claimed as the King’s lumber to make ship masts causes a fair amount of tension. Add in a rather unique neighbor and her pet and the story take you on a journey that you would not have expected.
The author did an excellent job of painting a picture of what it would be like to live during this time. You feel an active observer watching the characters along with the scenery they are placed; which is quite vibrant. Mr. Hedbor is a good storyteller keeping the pace of the story moving while also adding depth and emotion by way of revealing who the characters are and what motivates them. I also felt he did a good job of including elements we struggle with today. There are matters of deep prejudice and we are shown just how difficult it can be to overcome such. There were aspects of suspense and mystery from start to finish. I can say that after listening, I was not hungry for eggs for quite some time. You eat what is available and sometimes that is the same thing over and over without complaint. Remember that kids.
Narration by Mr. Casey was rich, bold, and clear. The audiobook’s narration was solid. I do not recall hearing any artifacts while listening such as swallows, page turns, or background noises. I like the narrator’s intonation and the many characters felt different and unique. Volume was also consistent. The recording was professional, and the audiobook’s narration gives life to the people and places covered in the book.
Parents and younger readers, I do not recall any vulgar language used throughout the book. The writing style I believe would be appropriate for readers of around 6th grade and above, yet it is not so simple that an adult could not enjoy it. There are some difficult subjects covered and at times the writing may be complex for very younger readers to comprehend. But I liked that the author did not simply write to a specific age group. Nothing overly graphic and only some light romance along with bits of witchcraft and some minimum alcohol use were thrown in this tale.
In summary, this book felt different from the first I listened to in the series, and I think that is a good thing. The style and writing were the same, but the locations, people and even the internal struggles were different. Even though the stories take place during the same period of time, I found them unique enough. They are a bit shorter, at around five hours, but it is well worth the time spend and you might even learn something as a take away. I quite enjoyed the last chapter where the author provides details or changes, he needed to make for continuity in his story. That really made things come to life for me along with the great narration. If it sounds interesting, pick up the book and give it a listen.
June 7, 2019
I have read a few of the books out of this series and have enjoyed them all... this one continues in the Revolutionary War era with another fun and exciting story with a romance entwined in the tale. This story takes place in New Hampshire and tells of the hardships that the wood mills and suppliers had to deal with from the crown. As this deals around the war there is one particularly graphic scene with a mob of people fighting against a few that represented the crown. I mention this to give parents a heads up... it's a very clean, well written story that does a fantastic job of describing the characters, and all around that I could vividly picture it all. I have middle school kids and I would feel completely comfortable letting them listen to this book but will be ready to talk to them about that one scene. War and the events that lead up to it can be ugly but I think it is so important to understand and through books like this get to experience it to get a better grasp of what the Revolution was all about and how many different people it affected.
As for the narration, it was wonderful. Shamaan Casey has a voice that is reminiscent of James Earl Jones with a similar deep richness that is simply a lot of fun to listen to.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
As for the narration, it was wonderful. Shamaan Casey has a voice that is reminiscent of James Earl Jones with a similar deep richness that is simply a lot of fun to listen to.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
May 5, 2019
Life was quite different in the mid eighteenth century and it was also in the beginning of a major upheaval. The Tree refers to the English royal edict regarding the status of tall straight trees dedicated to become masts for Royal Navy vessels. This was a practice in England and her colonies, but especially onerous to the American colonists. This book covers a year in the life of a young man in New Hampshire who loses both his parents in rapid succession and becomes the heir to a land grant which includes some of these trees. He learns a lot in this year, including how to read and scribe. An excellent immersion into life before the other events leading to the Boston Tea Party and later the Declaration of Independence.
Shamaan Casey is the fantastic narrator for the audiobook.
I entered and won this one in a giveaway without expectations.
Shamaan Casey is the fantastic narrator for the audiobook.
I entered and won this one in a giveaway without expectations.
March 29, 2021
Sweet Historical Romance
While this story is short on romance, it's rich in history!
This is my first story by this author, and I haven't figured out if there's an order to this series or not, but the description of this book actually stated that it was a stand alone. I received free audiobooks of many in this series from Free Audiobook Codes. Thank you!
I enjoyed the narrator's deep voice, and my only criticism is there's a lack of distinction between a few of the lesser characters. Their voices might be different, but their cadence and nuances were the same.
I'll definitely be listening to more in this series about our country on the brink of the American Revolution!
While this story is short on romance, it's rich in history!
This is my first story by this author, and I haven't figured out if there's an order to this series or not, but the description of this book actually stated that it was a stand alone. I received free audiobooks of many in this series from Free Audiobook Codes. Thank you!
I enjoyed the narrator's deep voice, and my only criticism is there's a lack of distinction between a few of the lesser characters. Their voices might be different, but their cadence and nuances were the same.
I'll definitely be listening to more in this series about our country on the brink of the American Revolution!
August 12, 2023
This is the second of Lars Hedbor's novels that I have read. I enjoyed The Mine more than this one. The Tree has a more young adult vibe to it, but was still an enjoyable tale. The story is set in the years before the revolution and explores the growing discontent of the colonists and the corrupt powers in the region. It is interesting to consider the enormous questions of right and wrong, liberty and oppression, against the backdrop of ordinary life. The author gives a very thoughtful description of everyday life in colonial times. His books give me a better understanding of the history of the places I visit.
February 9, 2023
Got off to a slow start, until the trip to Portsmouth and back. Would have been more interesting had there been additional details during the time in Portsmouth and the trip there and back home. I enjoyed the old terms used by the characters and the description of foods, clothing and daily life. The love twist was sweet. I enjoyed it overall but in retrospect, the slow start and hurried and abrupt ending were disappointing. I may try two more - The Convention: Massachusetts, and The Will: Pennsylvania and will see how those go.
May 10, 2019
•audiobook•
Tales of the Revolution is an extraordinary series. Life in the US leading to and sometimes including the Revolutionary War.
I had a fascinating teacher in high school who brought Ancient History alive with tidbits of stories and obscure facts that were intriguing and made the lessons fun and lead to riveting discussions - in a non-nerd like way.
Lars weaves the same magic with these historical fiction tales.
I strongly encourage readers and listeners to try this. You don’t have to love - or even like - history or America to enjoy them.
I’m equally pleased Shamaan Casey narrates the books. He has a strong and mesmerizing voice that complements the series.
"I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review."
Tales of the Revolution is an extraordinary series. Life in the US leading to and sometimes including the Revolutionary War.
I had a fascinating teacher in high school who brought Ancient History alive with tidbits of stories and obscure facts that were intriguing and made the lessons fun and lead to riveting discussions - in a non-nerd like way.
Lars weaves the same magic with these historical fiction tales.
I strongly encourage readers and listeners to try this. You don’t have to love - or even like - history or America to enjoy them.
I’m equally pleased Shamaan Casey narrates the books. He has a strong and mesmerizing voice that complements the series.
"I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review."
June 12, 2019
Excellent story of family in a small town in New Hampshire in the early days of America.After losing his parents,Abe goes to live with his Aunt.He isn't sure he can trust her with his fathers land trust,or his future,but he isn't an adult yet and has to keep cool for a few more years. Shamaan Casey has a wonderful voice for narrating this book. I was given this book by the narrator,author or publisher free for an honest review.
January 14, 2020
Young Abe seeing the revolution and rebellion, and who is there to guide him. Betty a friend for Abe, who by others say is unusual and a eccentric aunt, As he bucks the commands of those in authority, his world seems out of control . A good story Dealing with the American War of Independence .
Given audio for my voluntary review and my honest opinion
Given audio for my voluntary review and my honest opinion
October 2, 2022
I found this a charming tale or historical fiction. The author provides readers with a strong sense of how it felt for the average person to live in the decade preceding the American Revolution through interesting, well developed characters dealing with the corruption of colonial officials and just trying to make a living in the new world.
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November 22, 2025Purchased at a local writers book fair. Quite enjoyable. Looking forward to reading another of his books.
December 26, 2019
I think the series might be an interesting take on the local actions in each state that led to the Revolution. I'd like more information and more depth of plot, but still it is a series I'll explore further.
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