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Cape Menace: A Cape May Historical Mystery
The year is 1714. Two years have passed since Ruth Hanover vanished into the wilderness of the New Jersey colony without a trace, leaving behind her husband, William, and their daughter, Sarah. Though William and Sarah have never stopped hoping that Ruth will return, as time goes by it becomes less and less likely they will ever see her again.
Now William is acting strangely. He won’t tell Sarah why he’s conducting business with a mysterious stranger in the middle of the night, he won’t explain the sudden increase in his income, and he won’t share with her what people in town are
saying about her mother’s disappearance.
When the time comes for Sarah to face her father’s secrets and figure out why her mother never came home that December day in 1712, what she learns will shock her tiny community on the New Jersey cape and leave her fighting for her life.
Now William is acting strangely. He won’t tell Sarah why he’s conducting business with a mysterious stranger in the middle of the night, he won’t explain the sudden increase in his income, and he won’t share with her what people in town are
saying about her mother’s disappearance.
When the time comes for Sarah to face her father’s secrets and figure out why her mother never came home that December day in 1712, what she learns will shock her tiny community on the New Jersey cape and leave her fighting for her life.
- GenresHistorical Fiction
274 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 2, 2020
28 people are currently reading
100 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
June 12, 2020
“Cape Menace” by Amy M. Reade is an historical mystery which takes place in the 1700s. It’s a page-turner filled with surprises.
Sarah Hanover’s mother disappeared and two years have gone by. Her life and that of her father have changed in ways they hadn’t imagined. No clue was ever found as to what happened to Sarah’s mother, although father and daughter never really stopped looking.
Sarah’s father has begun acting differently, too. As the man who runs the apothecary in town, his life should be fairly well-defined, but he’s become secretive, and she can’t break through the wall he’s put up.
Sarah’s life is turned upside down when her father suddenly dies, and she has to deal with life and its problems on her own.
I truly enjoyed this historical mystery and I couldn’t put it down, thanks to Amy M. Reade. I highly recommend it because I don’t think other readers will want to put it down, either. There’s more to Sarah’s story than meets the eye.
Sarah Hanover’s mother disappeared and two years have gone by. Her life and that of her father have changed in ways they hadn’t imagined. No clue was ever found as to what happened to Sarah’s mother, although father and daughter never really stopped looking.
Sarah’s father has begun acting differently, too. As the man who runs the apothecary in town, his life should be fairly well-defined, but he’s become secretive, and she can’t break through the wall he’s put up.
Sarah’s life is turned upside down when her father suddenly dies, and she has to deal with life and its problems on her own.
I truly enjoyed this historical mystery and I couldn’t put it down, thanks to Amy M. Reade. I highly recommend it because I don’t think other readers will want to put it down, either. There’s more to Sarah’s story than meets the eye.
June 13, 2020
Cape Menace: A Cape May Historical Mystery By Amy Reade is a page-turner that takes American history and draws you into a time where wolves run wild and some are more vicious and deadly than others.
In the first chapter you meet the main character Sarah, a young woman with loving parents whose father runs the local apothecary. He is an herbalist who holds knowledge, diagnoses ailments and creates medicinal remedies like a doctor would without the formal, university education.
Considering how dangerous Cape Menace is, wolves, bears, pirates and the like…someone such as Sarah’s father would be extremely important in any society. It’s amazing that anyone could survive the extremes even with a talented person like him to help with fever, stab wounds from pirate swords and infection.
The era also reflects on the great divide between a woman’s role and a man’s role in a traditional society during the 1700s. There is a constant worry about how a young lady would be portrayed to others if she was seen alone with a man, had a man in her house or even read a book while she ate supper. (The horror!) It seems one more “menace” could be construed as petty gossip and wagging tongues. Literacy, the ability to count money and run a business are all considered to be out of the range of female capability, but Sarah’s parents are change makers and they teach their daughter to read and offer her many important skills necessary to survive on her own.
Well-researched details make the novel historically accurate and also makes me feel fortunate to not have these same limitations put on me now. The language was a breath of fresh air, as it was modernized on purpose solely for the reader’s enjoyment.
I grew up on a farm and enjoyed the realism of early mornings in the barn spent milking cows even on snow days and eggs collected daily for the table.
The mystery unfolds after a terrible tragedy, as more salty characters arrived to stir up trouble and make you wonder what really happened to Sarah’s mother? There are dark secrets and not everyone in this conservative settlement is how they seem.
When you find out what really happened to Ruth you would be shocked at the sheer brutality and the bizarre reasoning behind it. What a twist! I don’t ever do spoilers, so you will have to read. I had an enormous crush on Richard, as I am sure many readers like me will find him dashing and a romantic trope that I never tire of.
If you are interested in American history, you love a good mystery and enjoy complex characters who grow and change…this one will keep you entertained and reading late into the night.
A line in the book I truly enjoyed as it showed old school, versus modern day thinking. Oh the mountains we must climb…
(Mistress Reeves speaking to Sarah.) “ ‘First my father, and then my husband, have always been able to teach me everything I need to know,’ Mistress said. I thought that rather sad, but did not say anything.”
Sarah was a feminist and independent thinker in a time when it could get you in even more trouble than it does now. Just sayin.’
In the first chapter you meet the main character Sarah, a young woman with loving parents whose father runs the local apothecary. He is an herbalist who holds knowledge, diagnoses ailments and creates medicinal remedies like a doctor would without the formal, university education.
Considering how dangerous Cape Menace is, wolves, bears, pirates and the like…someone such as Sarah’s father would be extremely important in any society. It’s amazing that anyone could survive the extremes even with a talented person like him to help with fever, stab wounds from pirate swords and infection.
The era also reflects on the great divide between a woman’s role and a man’s role in a traditional society during the 1700s. There is a constant worry about how a young lady would be portrayed to others if she was seen alone with a man, had a man in her house or even read a book while she ate supper. (The horror!) It seems one more “menace” could be construed as petty gossip and wagging tongues. Literacy, the ability to count money and run a business are all considered to be out of the range of female capability, but Sarah’s parents are change makers and they teach their daughter to read and offer her many important skills necessary to survive on her own.
Well-researched details make the novel historically accurate and also makes me feel fortunate to not have these same limitations put on me now. The language was a breath of fresh air, as it was modernized on purpose solely for the reader’s enjoyment.
I grew up on a farm and enjoyed the realism of early mornings in the barn spent milking cows even on snow days and eggs collected daily for the table.
The mystery unfolds after a terrible tragedy, as more salty characters arrived to stir up trouble and make you wonder what really happened to Sarah’s mother? There are dark secrets and not everyone in this conservative settlement is how they seem.
When you find out what really happened to Ruth you would be shocked at the sheer brutality and the bizarre reasoning behind it. What a twist! I don’t ever do spoilers, so you will have to read. I had an enormous crush on Richard, as I am sure many readers like me will find him dashing and a romantic trope that I never tire of.
If you are interested in American history, you love a good mystery and enjoy complex characters who grow and change…this one will keep you entertained and reading late into the night.
A line in the book I truly enjoyed as it showed old school, versus modern day thinking. Oh the mountains we must climb…
(Mistress Reeves speaking to Sarah.) “ ‘First my father, and then my husband, have always been able to teach me everything I need to know,’ Mistress said. I thought that rather sad, but did not say anything.”
Sarah was a feminist and independent thinker in a time when it could get you in even more trouble than it does now. Just sayin.’
August 4, 2020
The unexplained disappearance of her mother two years earlier has turned young Sarah Hanover's life upside down when we're introduced to her in 1714 colonial New Jersey.
The tragedy has left Sarah without the guidance and love of her mother and also responsible for the domestic welfare of her father, the village apothecary. A dutiful daughter, Sarah's days are filled with household and farm duties in addition to serving as her father's apprentice. But there isn't a quiet time when she isn't plagued by the question of what happened to her mother. This concern is heightened by rumors overheard in the village which lead to suspicions it may not have been an accident or an attack by wolves as she'd earlier believed.
An apothecary in this time period is both a dispenser of drugs and a healer, thus both respected and feared for powers over life and death. Sarah is an avid student and hones her own skills, combining what she previously learned about plants and herbs from her mother with her father's instructions. As she works with him she discovers her father is keeping secrets and holding late-night meetings with a young man Sarah doesn't know. What is he involved in, and does it pose a danger to their lives?
Sarah has two close friends--Patience, a girl with whom she shares all her secrets, and Arthur, a boy who wishes to be closer than a mere friend. They console her now, but eventually Arthur will pose a dilemma. As she gets to know Richard, the young man who had been conducting secretive business with her father, she finds herself attracted to him despite concerns about his way of life.
When sudden illness strikes and claims her father, Sarah is left to face life on her own. The lessons she's learned from her father enable her to save lives in the village and gain respect, but she's also the target of worrisome threats and fears heightened by someone following her.
Amy Reade has crafted a gripping historical mystery with realistic characters, and engaging plot and enough twists and turns to satisfy the discerning reader.
It isn't easy to write a novel set in a time period so different from your own. Reade has provided sufficient detail to transport us to another time without engaging in those information dumps so often employed and which take us out of the story rather than getting us involved. If you like historical mysteries, this is one I highly recommend.
The tragedy has left Sarah without the guidance and love of her mother and also responsible for the domestic welfare of her father, the village apothecary. A dutiful daughter, Sarah's days are filled with household and farm duties in addition to serving as her father's apprentice. But there isn't a quiet time when she isn't plagued by the question of what happened to her mother. This concern is heightened by rumors overheard in the village which lead to suspicions it may not have been an accident or an attack by wolves as she'd earlier believed.
An apothecary in this time period is both a dispenser of drugs and a healer, thus both respected and feared for powers over life and death. Sarah is an avid student and hones her own skills, combining what she previously learned about plants and herbs from her mother with her father's instructions. As she works with him she discovers her father is keeping secrets and holding late-night meetings with a young man Sarah doesn't know. What is he involved in, and does it pose a danger to their lives?
Sarah has two close friends--Patience, a girl with whom she shares all her secrets, and Arthur, a boy who wishes to be closer than a mere friend. They console her now, but eventually Arthur will pose a dilemma. As she gets to know Richard, the young man who had been conducting secretive business with her father, she finds herself attracted to him despite concerns about his way of life.
When sudden illness strikes and claims her father, Sarah is left to face life on her own. The lessons she's learned from her father enable her to save lives in the village and gain respect, but she's also the target of worrisome threats and fears heightened by someone following her.
Amy Reade has crafted a gripping historical mystery with realistic characters, and engaging plot and enough twists and turns to satisfy the discerning reader.
It isn't easy to write a novel set in a time period so different from your own. Reade has provided sufficient detail to transport us to another time without engaging in those information dumps so often employed and which take us out of the story rather than getting us involved. If you like historical mysteries, this is one I highly recommend.
June 9, 2020
Cape Menace is the first in a series of historical mysteries set in Cape May, and before the story starts the author explains how Cape May got its name and of its links with pirates. From that point on, I was hooked.
It's 1714 and two years have passed since Sarah's mother, Ruth, disappeared. Then, the whole community was out looking for her, but to no avail, and her disappearance was deemed permanent, probably as a result of a wolf attack. Now, Sarah and her father, the apothecary, have adjusted to life without Ruth, but the mystery of her disappearance is still uppermost in their minds. The lack of visible clues, clothing, shoes, or even limbs, makes Sarah doubt the wolf attack hypothesis.
Sarah continues in her mother's footsteps, helping her father in house and with his apothecary business, as well as teaching her best friend, Patience, to read. She is curious about a late night visitor, but her father is a closed book, and refuses to discuss the details with her. It is only when her father falls ill and eventually dies that Sarah has to face head-on those very details. Added to that, he pleads with her to find out what happened to her mother too.
Now, orphaned and ever more determined, Sarah sets out to learn the truth about her mother's disappearance while also taking on her father's business. She proves to be a worthy successor, and her help is sought by many in the community. Here, the author excels in bringing the story to life with pertinent details as to how illness and injury were handled in those times. From the use of herbs to the letting of blood, from midwifery to slathering honey on the wounds of a drunken lout, Sarah rises to every challenge.
Other historical delights are woven into the story to depict the beliefs and traditions of the period, including the rituals of propriety, unrequited marriage proposals, pirates in the bay, and more ...
Cape Menace proved to be a gently-paced story that held my interest. I enjoyed seeing Sarah grow into the young woman her mother would have wanted her to be, into the adept apothecary of whom her father would be so proud. The pace intensified with moments of high intrigue and fear of what might happen to Sarah, as it then slowed so we could appreciate her thoughts and wonderment for the future. The revelation of the fate which befell her mother was deftly delivered, a sublime and unexpected twist.
Overall, this story crosses many genres - it is a coming-of-age story with romantic undertones, layered up with mystery and suspense, and sprinkled with beautiful historical elements. Here's to the next in the series
It's 1714 and two years have passed since Sarah's mother, Ruth, disappeared. Then, the whole community was out looking for her, but to no avail, and her disappearance was deemed permanent, probably as a result of a wolf attack. Now, Sarah and her father, the apothecary, have adjusted to life without Ruth, but the mystery of her disappearance is still uppermost in their minds. The lack of visible clues, clothing, shoes, or even limbs, makes Sarah doubt the wolf attack hypothesis.
Sarah continues in her mother's footsteps, helping her father in house and with his apothecary business, as well as teaching her best friend, Patience, to read. She is curious about a late night visitor, but her father is a closed book, and refuses to discuss the details with her. It is only when her father falls ill and eventually dies that Sarah has to face head-on those very details. Added to that, he pleads with her to find out what happened to her mother too.
Now, orphaned and ever more determined, Sarah sets out to learn the truth about her mother's disappearance while also taking on her father's business. She proves to be a worthy successor, and her help is sought by many in the community. Here, the author excels in bringing the story to life with pertinent details as to how illness and injury were handled in those times. From the use of herbs to the letting of blood, from midwifery to slathering honey on the wounds of a drunken lout, Sarah rises to every challenge.
Other historical delights are woven into the story to depict the beliefs and traditions of the period, including the rituals of propriety, unrequited marriage proposals, pirates in the bay, and more ...
Cape Menace proved to be a gently-paced story that held my interest. I enjoyed seeing Sarah grow into the young woman her mother would have wanted her to be, into the adept apothecary of whom her father would be so proud. The pace intensified with moments of high intrigue and fear of what might happen to Sarah, as it then slowed so we could appreciate her thoughts and wonderment for the future. The revelation of the fate which befell her mother was deftly delivered, a sublime and unexpected twist.
Overall, this story crosses many genres - it is a coming-of-age story with romantic undertones, layered up with mystery and suspense, and sprinkled with beautiful historical elements. Here's to the next in the series
August 26, 2020
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Cape Menace is a new release from bestselling author Amy M. Reade! This historical mystery is steeped in meticulous research and few artistic liberties. The premise is intriguing, Sarah Hanover's mother disappears without a trace and her father begins acting strangely. This colonial era mystery is laced with intrigue and hints of 18th century romance. Sarah's mother helped with the sick in the town, but when she disappears, Sarah takes up the mantle. Not quite a healer, not quite a doctor, Sarah is skilled with herbs and other remedies. The narrative follows Sarah as she navigates life without her mother and her increasingly suspicious father.
I picked up quickly that the author had done extensive research into not only the time period, but also the specific setting of Cape May. Sarah is a well-defined and well-crafted character that I thoroughly enjoyed reading! Other characters like William Hanover, Mistress Reeves, Richard, Captain Eli, and other townspeople interact with Sarah and their surroundings in a very realistic way.
The pacing of the book was very good and it has such an exciting conclusion! Clocking in around 250 pages, this novel was easy to read in one or two settings and does not have a dull moment! I haven't read anything by Amy M. Reade, but I really enjoyed this novel! Her back catalog is extensive and something I am excited to dive into in the future! I would like to extend a sincere thank you to the author for sending me a copy of Cape Menace. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Cape Menace is a new release from bestselling author Amy M. Reade! This historical mystery is steeped in meticulous research and few artistic liberties. The premise is intriguing, Sarah Hanover's mother disappears without a trace and her father begins acting strangely. This colonial era mystery is laced with intrigue and hints of 18th century romance. Sarah's mother helped with the sick in the town, but when she disappears, Sarah takes up the mantle. Not quite a healer, not quite a doctor, Sarah is skilled with herbs and other remedies. The narrative follows Sarah as she navigates life without her mother and her increasingly suspicious father.
I picked up quickly that the author had done extensive research into not only the time period, but also the specific setting of Cape May. Sarah is a well-defined and well-crafted character that I thoroughly enjoyed reading! Other characters like William Hanover, Mistress Reeves, Richard, Captain Eli, and other townspeople interact with Sarah and their surroundings in a very realistic way.
The pacing of the book was very good and it has such an exciting conclusion! Clocking in around 250 pages, this novel was easy to read in one or two settings and does not have a dull moment! I haven't read anything by Amy M. Reade, but I really enjoyed this novel! Her back catalog is extensive and something I am excited to dive into in the future! I would like to extend a sincere thank you to the author for sending me a copy of Cape Menace. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 2, 2020
In the first book of the Cape May series, we are transported back to the year 1714, two years after the disappearance of Sarah’s mother, Ruth, under mysterious circumstances.
Sarah and her father have learned to cope with Ruth’s absence, but have never stopped trying to determine how, or at whose hands, she vanished. When Sarah’s father succumbs to a sudden illness, his deathbed wish to Sarah is that she find out what had befallen Ruth.
It seems incongruous to describe a mystery involving sudden disappearance as a gentle story, yet that is exactly the feeling I had while reading A.M. Reade’s latest work. I fell in love with Sarah almost immediately, and found myself transported back in time to New England’s colonial era.
Reade made me care about what would happen to Sarah, left alone after the disappearance of one parent and the death of the other. I felt as though I was walking next to her as she carried out her daily chores, shared confidences with her friend, and fell in love. I shuddered with her when she was frightened, and I delighted in her romantic awakening.
Cape Menace is more romance than mystery. It is beautifully written, with characters you will care about, and the setting has an authentic feel, both in terms of time and of place. Reade has outdone herself, and I look forward to the next book in this series.
Sarah and her father have learned to cope with Ruth’s absence, but have never stopped trying to determine how, or at whose hands, she vanished. When Sarah’s father succumbs to a sudden illness, his deathbed wish to Sarah is that she find out what had befallen Ruth.
It seems incongruous to describe a mystery involving sudden disappearance as a gentle story, yet that is exactly the feeling I had while reading A.M. Reade’s latest work. I fell in love with Sarah almost immediately, and found myself transported back in time to New England’s colonial era.
Reade made me care about what would happen to Sarah, left alone after the disappearance of one parent and the death of the other. I felt as though I was walking next to her as she carried out her daily chores, shared confidences with her friend, and fell in love. I shuddered with her when she was frightened, and I delighted in her romantic awakening.
Cape Menace is more romance than mystery. It is beautifully written, with characters you will care about, and the setting has an authentic feel, both in terms of time and of place. Reade has outdone herself, and I look forward to the next book in this series.
July 14, 2020
This mystery begins in 1711 in Cape May, New Jersey, a small settlement in the new world. Sarah Hanover’s mother disappears, and despite their grief, she and her father, the local apothecary continue on. But the question of what happened to Ruth Hanover never goes away and Sarah is determined to discover what happened.
I like historical fiction and the richness that a particular time period adds to a story. In this case, the beliefs about healing are fascinating – a reliance on blood-letting, drawing out a burn with hot metal, and shaving a head to cure a fever, to name a few.
The entire tale is tole in Sarah’s first-person pov. She’s a great character, kind and obedient to her father, but endowed with a well of inner strength, resilience, and independence. She’s also a bit of a snoop, which is highly improper, and about which she feels guilty. Secondary characters are also wonderfully developed, particularly Sarah’s father.
The mystery aspect of the story is well done with a weave of red herrings and parallel running plots. Despite all my guessing, I wasn’t able to guess the ending until it came. The book isn’t particularly bloody or scary though there is plenty of tension at certain points. The writing is polished and beautifully edited. Highly recommended for readers of historical fiction and cozy mysteries. Appropriate for YA and adult audiences.
I like historical fiction and the richness that a particular time period adds to a story. In this case, the beliefs about healing are fascinating – a reliance on blood-letting, drawing out a burn with hot metal, and shaving a head to cure a fever, to name a few.
The entire tale is tole in Sarah’s first-person pov. She’s a great character, kind and obedient to her father, but endowed with a well of inner strength, resilience, and independence. She’s also a bit of a snoop, which is highly improper, and about which she feels guilty. Secondary characters are also wonderfully developed, particularly Sarah’s father.
The mystery aspect of the story is well done with a weave of red herrings and parallel running plots. Despite all my guessing, I wasn’t able to guess the ending until it came. The book isn’t particularly bloody or scary though there is plenty of tension at certain points. The writing is polished and beautifully edited. Highly recommended for readers of historical fiction and cozy mysteries. Appropriate for YA and adult audiences.
July 15, 2020
For Sarah, the sudden disappearance of her mamma jarred her world. The searches found no trace or clues, leaving her father and her with an emptiness that is hard to fill. As the years pass, Sarah and her Pappa go on with their lives, caring for their farm and treating the ills of the community with their remedies from their apothecary. The lingering questions of Mamma’s vanishing remain and rumors still swirl–were wolves or a seedy sea captain involved?
Romance is on the mind of one of Sarah’s friends, but is she ready, or willing to commit? A mysterious stranger visits her father during the late evening hours, Sarah wonders who he might be and what is going on between them–is her father hiding a dark secret? When tragedy strikes again, Sarah is determined to get to the truth–but will her inquiries trigger more foul play?
Author Reade takes on us a mysterious journey with a young woman coming into her own, transporting us back in time to her New World settlement. The descriptions and history tie-ins were cleverly revealed. This is the first of a new collection I very much look forward to reading! A #HistFic whodunit–highly recommended!
Romance is on the mind of one of Sarah’s friends, but is she ready, or willing to commit? A mysterious stranger visits her father during the late evening hours, Sarah wonders who he might be and what is going on between them–is her father hiding a dark secret? When tragedy strikes again, Sarah is determined to get to the truth–but will her inquiries trigger more foul play?
Author Reade takes on us a mysterious journey with a young woman coming into her own, transporting us back in time to her New World settlement. The descriptions and history tie-ins were cleverly revealed. This is the first of a new collection I very much look forward to reading! A #HistFic whodunit–highly recommended!
June 13, 2020
I enjoyed this book more than I may have words to say! I love reading about life in young America. It has been a favorite time for me since I was a child enchanted by the Little House on the Prairie series. I can remember reading it and begging the librarian for more stories in the 1600-1800 range.
I was intrigued when I saw the cover of the book posted in a Facebook reading group. The title and cover suggested a mystery, perhaps a thriller. I may have an addiction when it comes to those genres. I looked it up and was immediately drawn to the time period. I commented about it on the post. Imagine my surprise when the author offered to let me read it. Just read it. She made no mention of a review. She just new I had fallen in love with the cover and was intrigued. I am not certain she knows this is my favorite time period. I am grateful for her gift of the book. I have been celebrating reading this year by giving away books every month to people I know and to strangers. It was lovely to receive one back. My review though is based on the book and how I felt.
First off, I totally was taken away to Cape May, to the Town. The author chose to use modern language for the ease of the reader. This did not disturb my flight to the Town at all. It probably helped as sometimes the archaic language can be distracting as you may need to translate words and meanings. I had no problem picturing the house where most of the story takes place nor the Town when it was mentioned. The story gripped my from the opening chapter when we meet Sarah and her mother as they come across a wolf. It continued to hold me with the disappearance of Sarah’s mother. Sarah is the narrator of this book. I hope if this book goes to audio the author chooses someone with a light British accent to be Sarah. Much of the story is of Sarah’s life. Her father runs an apothecary, her mother also knew of healing and so Sarah had much knowledge. She was also taught to read, something that wasn’t encouraged in a girl at that time. We meet her father, her friends Patience and Arthur. We know her heartache at not knowing what happened to her mother. We see her move on but never fully leaving the mysterious disappearance behind. There are other people we meet. A few who raised my suspicions as knowing more than they said about the mystery. The story picks up speed after a second tragedy happens and a promise is made. I was surprised at the reveal.
After the story the author asks the reader to consider leaving a review and to help those who aren’t sure what to write she leaves questions they may or may use. I think it’s a good way to help new review writers think about writing one. I will give a nod to the author and answer one of the questions here. I learned to make a drink from that time period. I am planning to try it using beverages that I believe are close to those back then. I have no “flip-dog” so I will heat and whisk on the stove.
I do recommend this book, especially to those who enjoy mysteries and that time period. I voluntarily reviewed this book because I loved it so much. It is a book I would read again even though I know what happened. It’s one I would definitely love to listen to on audio.
I was intrigued when I saw the cover of the book posted in a Facebook reading group. The title and cover suggested a mystery, perhaps a thriller. I may have an addiction when it comes to those genres. I looked it up and was immediately drawn to the time period. I commented about it on the post. Imagine my surprise when the author offered to let me read it. Just read it. She made no mention of a review. She just new I had fallen in love with the cover and was intrigued. I am not certain she knows this is my favorite time period. I am grateful for her gift of the book. I have been celebrating reading this year by giving away books every month to people I know and to strangers. It was lovely to receive one back. My review though is based on the book and how I felt.
First off, I totally was taken away to Cape May, to the Town. The author chose to use modern language for the ease of the reader. This did not disturb my flight to the Town at all. It probably helped as sometimes the archaic language can be distracting as you may need to translate words and meanings. I had no problem picturing the house where most of the story takes place nor the Town when it was mentioned. The story gripped my from the opening chapter when we meet Sarah and her mother as they come across a wolf. It continued to hold me with the disappearance of Sarah’s mother. Sarah is the narrator of this book. I hope if this book goes to audio the author chooses someone with a light British accent to be Sarah. Much of the story is of Sarah’s life. Her father runs an apothecary, her mother also knew of healing and so Sarah had much knowledge. She was also taught to read, something that wasn’t encouraged in a girl at that time. We meet her father, her friends Patience and Arthur. We know her heartache at not knowing what happened to her mother. We see her move on but never fully leaving the mysterious disappearance behind. There are other people we meet. A few who raised my suspicions as knowing more than they said about the mystery. The story picks up speed after a second tragedy happens and a promise is made. I was surprised at the reveal.
After the story the author asks the reader to consider leaving a review and to help those who aren’t sure what to write she leaves questions they may or may use. I think it’s a good way to help new review writers think about writing one. I will give a nod to the author and answer one of the questions here. I learned to make a drink from that time period. I am planning to try it using beverages that I believe are close to those back then. I have no “flip-dog” so I will heat and whisk on the stove.
I do recommend this book, especially to those who enjoy mysteries and that time period. I voluntarily reviewed this book because I loved it so much. It is a book I would read again even though I know what happened. It’s one I would definitely love to listen to on audio.
April 9, 2022
This is an intriguing historical mystery dated back to the 1700’s which kept me totally engrossed in the story. The first page was gripping with a tale of the main protagonist’s mother’s disappearance. The author kept the mystery going right up until the shocking ending.
Life during those times was demonstrated by the hardships everyone had to endure in order to support their families and stay healthy with little medical help. The main protagonist, Sarah, works with her father and mother who are apothecaries, skilled in dealing with herbs and oils that are used in healing ailments. Sarah learns to become proficient by observation and helping her parents heal the other inhabitants of their town, Cape May.
The mystery that runs through this delightful and well-written tale is what happened to Sarah’s mother? Is she dead by the prowling wolves or did she get kidnapped? Sarah tries to find out the truth with the help of a pirate who she is smitten over. He feels the same towards her but doesn’t let on right away.
This was an enjoyable story that I highly recommend.
Life during those times was demonstrated by the hardships everyone had to endure in order to support their families and stay healthy with little medical help. The main protagonist, Sarah, works with her father and mother who are apothecaries, skilled in dealing with herbs and oils that are used in healing ailments. Sarah learns to become proficient by observation and helping her parents heal the other inhabitants of their town, Cape May.
The mystery that runs through this delightful and well-written tale is what happened to Sarah’s mother? Is she dead by the prowling wolves or did she get kidnapped? Sarah tries to find out the truth with the help of a pirate who she is smitten over. He feels the same towards her but doesn’t let on right away.
This was an enjoyable story that I highly recommend.
June 14, 2020
"Cape Menace" by Amy M. Reade is a fantastic historical mystery. From the first sentence in Chapter I, "I was afraid of wolves even before I journeyed to America," I was transported to Cape May, New Jersey in the year 1714 and, until the very end of the book, I felt as if I were really there, seeing life through the main character's eyes and as eager as she was to solve the mystery of her mother's disappearance.
I highly recommend this book!
I highly recommend this book!
July 7, 2020
I enjoyed Cape Menace, by Amy Reade immensely! I found it a very well-researched historical piece about a small town in 18th century New Jersey, with both compelling and believable characters. While the town in the book, Cape May, is real—the story is a well written piece of fiction, even though it reads like truth.
Living in the modern times of today, I seldom ponder the struggles that my ancestors must have endured just surviving in centuries past ... especially the women.
When we first meet Sarah Hanover, she is a young woman of fifteen or sixteen, living at home with two loving parents, who eek out a marginal existence running the town’s apothecary shop. When Sarah’s Mother disappears without a trace, she must grow up quickly, taking on many of the responsibilities of her mother, helping her father run the business and caring for his needs and all the other daily chores.
I loved this character! She is so strong, and brave in the face of all that befalls her. She becomes a most independent woman, in a time where wolves roam freely through the woods, and women are thought to be the inferior gender, not allowed in the same room alone with a man if they care about their reputation, and certainly not thought capable of earning their own way in the world or running a business.
After turning down a proposal of marriage from the pastor’s son, a surprise to all including, Patience, her best friend, tragedy strikes again and Sarah is forced to come to terms with what she plans to do with her future.
Her only other friend, Richard, who has secretly been helping her find the answers to her mother’s disappearance, whether she vanished from an attack of wolves while gathering herbs in the forest—or if something more sinister is at play in Cape May ... suggests she become the town’s new apothecary, telling her she’s strong and smart enough to handle it.
In an age where women have no respect or power, Ms. Reade’s amazing character, Sarah, just eighteen by the story’s end, makes an exemplary example for all of us! I would recommend this book to anyone and if I had a teenage daughter, would want her to read it, to see anything is possible when we believe in ourselves. Not only is this story extremely entertaining and full of surprises, it sends an important message.
C. M. Turner
Living in the modern times of today, I seldom ponder the struggles that my ancestors must have endured just surviving in centuries past ... especially the women.
When we first meet Sarah Hanover, she is a young woman of fifteen or sixteen, living at home with two loving parents, who eek out a marginal existence running the town’s apothecary shop. When Sarah’s Mother disappears without a trace, she must grow up quickly, taking on many of the responsibilities of her mother, helping her father run the business and caring for his needs and all the other daily chores.
I loved this character! She is so strong, and brave in the face of all that befalls her. She becomes a most independent woman, in a time where wolves roam freely through the woods, and women are thought to be the inferior gender, not allowed in the same room alone with a man if they care about their reputation, and certainly not thought capable of earning their own way in the world or running a business.
After turning down a proposal of marriage from the pastor’s son, a surprise to all including, Patience, her best friend, tragedy strikes again and Sarah is forced to come to terms with what she plans to do with her future.
Her only other friend, Richard, who has secretly been helping her find the answers to her mother’s disappearance, whether she vanished from an attack of wolves while gathering herbs in the forest—or if something more sinister is at play in Cape May ... suggests she become the town’s new apothecary, telling her she’s strong and smart enough to handle it.
In an age where women have no respect or power, Ms. Reade’s amazing character, Sarah, just eighteen by the story’s end, makes an exemplary example for all of us! I would recommend this book to anyone and if I had a teenage daughter, would want her to read it, to see anything is possible when we believe in ourselves. Not only is this story extremely entertaining and full of surprises, it sends an important message.
C. M. Turner
November 4, 2020
I thought this book, set in 1712 and 1714, was engaging and intriguing. Sarah's mother goes missing in the first two chapters. Chapter 3 starts the period 2 years later, with no sign of her missing mother. Sarah and her father are still grieving the loss of her mother but they have needed to do the multitude of daily activities to stay alive in a small, but widespread community. And the father owns a small apothecary business, where Sarah is also knowledgable.
When Sarah's father starts acting strangely, the story gets really interesting. Sarah is left to deal with the household and other issues that arise. She is a very accomplished young woman, although she has doubts about how she handles these situations.
It's obvious that the author has done her research and she provides a preface that describes the 1714 area that is now known as the Cape May area in NJ. She also provides a brief glossary, which I found useful.
I think this book can be read and enjoyed by young adults and any other reader who enjoys historical novels.
NOTE: I do want to mention that there is a 2 star review on Amazon that contains spoilers. For a mystery and book of intrigue, reading this review would interfere with your enjoyment of the book.
When Sarah's father starts acting strangely, the story gets really interesting. Sarah is left to deal with the household and other issues that arise. She is a very accomplished young woman, although she has doubts about how she handles these situations.
It's obvious that the author has done her research and she provides a preface that describes the 1714 area that is now known as the Cape May area in NJ. She also provides a brief glossary, which I found useful.
I think this book can be read and enjoyed by young adults and any other reader who enjoys historical novels.
NOTE: I do want to mention that there is a 2 star review on Amazon that contains spoilers. For a mystery and book of intrigue, reading this review would interfere with your enjoyment of the book.
July 25, 2020
It's 1714, and Sarah's mother disappeared two years before from the New Jersey harbor community of Town Bank. Sarah works hard to keep the small family farm going while she apprentices to her father, the village apothecary. At furst, Sarah believes her mother was attacked by wolves (not uncommon in the nearby woods), but soon Sarah learns that one unsavory man had been obsessed over Sarah's mother and had even threatened her. Sadly, the evil lout has transferred his nefarious attentions to Sarah.
Author Amy Reade has internalized her excellent research so well that she writes about life and struggle in 1714 Cape May as if she lived there herself. Sarah and her world captivated me from page one until the unexpected but satisfying resolution of the mystery. A bonus to the enthralling mystery was a sweet hint that Sarah might find not only a murderer, but also the heroic love of her life. No offensive material.
This would be suitable even for middle grade students of American history, and adults will love it, too. Highly recommended! I will be looking forward to future books in the Cape May Historical Mystery Collection by Amy M. Reade
Author Amy Reade has internalized her excellent research so well that she writes about life and struggle in 1714 Cape May as if she lived there herself. Sarah and her world captivated me from page one until the unexpected but satisfying resolution of the mystery. A bonus to the enthralling mystery was a sweet hint that Sarah might find not only a murderer, but also the heroic love of her life. No offensive material.
This would be suitable even for middle grade students of American history, and adults will love it, too. Highly recommended! I will be looking forward to future books in the Cape May Historical Mystery Collection by Amy M. Reade
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 29, 2020
As a reader, I enjoy a good piece of historical fiction every so often to offer some variety in my suspense/paranormal- heavy reading pile. This time around, I was delighted by my choice of author Amy Reade's "Cape Menace".
One of the things I like about historical fiction is the opportunity to learn facts along the way. This particular story, set a against the back-drop of an apothecary in the early 1700's, delivered knowledge in a way that was simultaneously interesting and important to the plot. I was fascinated by the beliefs of early healers and the various remedies that they depended on. At many points, I was reading just as much out of personal curiosity as I was to move further in the plot. For me, that's what historical fiction is all about.
The mystery aspect of "Cape Menace" is well executed and definitely the main reason I was first drawn to read this book. Fans of that genre will not be disappointed, as the mystery aspect weaves beautifully in and out of the pages depicting the everyday life of the main character, Sarah. I truly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more in the Cape May Series.
One of the things I like about historical fiction is the opportunity to learn facts along the way. This particular story, set a against the back-drop of an apothecary in the early 1700's, delivered knowledge in a way that was simultaneously interesting and important to the plot. I was fascinated by the beliefs of early healers and the various remedies that they depended on. At many points, I was reading just as much out of personal curiosity as I was to move further in the plot. For me, that's what historical fiction is all about.
The mystery aspect of "Cape Menace" is well executed and definitely the main reason I was first drawn to read this book. Fans of that genre will not be disappointed, as the mystery aspect weaves beautifully in and out of the pages depicting the everyday life of the main character, Sarah. I truly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more in the Cape May Series.
June 16, 2020
Amy Reade has written a wonderful, warm (yet page-turning and educational) historical mystery that kept me engaged from page 1. The point of view of the main character - Sarah - is spot on. Reade uses some of the language of the 1700s in Cape May to make the characters' voices authentic, but not enough to turn off a contemporary reader. Sarah's voice moves the story along while also placing the reader in Sarah's present - Cape May, NJ in the early 1700s. I learned so much from Sarah - a young woman who loses her mother in ways unknown (that's the mystery) while she learns the apothecary practice from her father. She's a woman ahead of her time as she battles the challenges of living in a difficult time. We all can learn lessons from her - I know I did. And added to that, a sweet sense of romance as well. Five thumbs up for this wonderful novel.
June 25, 2020
As a lover of history and mystery, I couldn't wait to start reading Cape Menace. I wasn't disappointed. Sarah Hanover is an artful mix of a young Colonial girl living within the demands of her station and a maturing woman of intellect, ingenuity, and independence. The pall of her mother's unsolved disappearance never dissipates as bits and pieces of information surface over time. I enjoyed the scenes of both Sarah and her father acting as apothecary for the settlement, as well as the daily life of early 18th century colonists and the layers of society that exist even in the newest communities. Sarah's perseverance in discovering what happened to her mother is rewarded in the end with a satisfying, and yet poignant, realization. I look forward to the other books in the Cape May Historical Mystery series.
December 31, 2020
It's 1714, and Sarah Hanover is the daughter of an apothecary living in a small New Jersey colony. After her mother disappears without a trace, enough time passes to make it clear she will never come home. Did wolves attack and kill her, or did something else happen? Sarah is independent, resourceful, and determined to find answers, even after a new tragedy strikes.
This was a well-researched and entertaining story that kept my attention throughout. Highly recommended for readers who enjoy mysteries, a touch of romance, and appreciate learning more about early American life.
This was a well-researched and entertaining story that kept my attention throughout. Highly recommended for readers who enjoy mysteries, a touch of romance, and appreciate learning more about early American life.
January 11, 2023
There's so much going on here- starting with an amazingly well researched historical setting taking place in the early 1700's. This time period allows elements of religion, superstition, pirates and more to create a read that is full of page turning suspense. I seriously could not put this book down! The mystery and characters were realistic, haunting and amazingly well written! I can't wait for more from this author!
June 12, 2020
Engrossing historical mystery
A compelling heroine, evocative setting, and gripping mystery make for a great read. I hope there's another book set in this world.
A compelling heroine, evocative setting, and gripping mystery make for a great read. I hope there's another book set in this world.
July 16, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Suspenseful and surprising to the end. I will enjoy another book by Ms. Reade again.
March 22, 2023
I LOVED THIS BOOK! Cape Menace is a wonderful historical novel, with a compelling voice and intriguing story. A mother has gone missing in Colonial Cape Mey (now Cape May), New Jersey. Her daughter Sarah refuses to give up until she finds out what happened. Sarah's voice rings true as she continues to help her father in their apothecary making medicines to help their neighbors while she searches for the truth. Amy Reade, the author, expertly guides us along Sarah's quest, and presents several possible suspects, all authentic. The author transports us to the early 1700s effortlessly to everyday life in an Early Colonial town. The story grows and develops the townsfolk relationships during uncertain times when there may be a killer in their midst. Suspense and tensions can only intensify until the mystery can be solved. Ms. Reade has researched well, the language used is apropos to the times, and I found the details of the apothecary and herbal medicines fascinating. Sarah, in searching for answers about what became of her mother, and in helping others, finds herself, her love and her destiny. A beautiful and compelling story.
July 22, 2022
The preface drew me into the history of the settlement of Cape May County, New Jersey. It sets the description and tone to the history of the past. Sarah Hanover begins the storytelling on an evening in 1711. On this night Sarah and her mother shared a harrowing experience on their walk home. Sarah’s mother knew what to do and quickly explained it to Sarah. In that moment Sarah didn’t realize how the experience and lesson would haunt her in the following years.
The father’s apothecary practice in this early time period is fascinating and intertwines seamlessly with the mystery creating a compelling story. Within the weave of the storyline is a father’s love for his daughter, a daughter’s love for her father, of friendship, of courage in the face of adversity, of resilience, of perseverance, the endurance of judgmental moments by neighbors to the moments when judgements are set aside to help one another, and following one’s heart. Each scene is rich with the setting’s atmosphere and I could have easily spent more time with Sarah.
The father’s apothecary practice in this early time period is fascinating and intertwines seamlessly with the mystery creating a compelling story. Within the weave of the storyline is a father’s love for his daughter, a daughter’s love for her father, of friendship, of courage in the face of adversity, of resilience, of perseverance, the endurance of judgmental moments by neighbors to the moments when judgements are set aside to help one another, and following one’s heart. Each scene is rich with the setting’s atmosphere and I could have easily spent more time with Sarah.
February 25, 2024
It is hard to rate this book in that the author is very good at attention to detail and setting the story in the year 1714 in what would become Cape May New Jersey. The story is meant to be one of mystery about the disappearance of Ruth, wife of William and mother of Sarah. Was she eaten by wolves? Did she run away at sea or was she kidnapped? The mystery is obviously intended to draw you in so that the time and place and history could have a story to bind it together. However, it didn't keep my interest nor did the story flow as a good mystery story should. It was all setting and no mystery or mystery I quit caring about long before the question was answered. The whole mystery never felt plausible to me and I can't say more without spoilers. I will just say that the resolution was also intended to be a part of the setting and time and place and tenor of the times.
May 30, 2024
I have been looking for a historical fiction novel about South Jersey for some time. I hope the author writes more historical fiction about the area. A 5 star from me.
I found this mystery to be a page turner. There wear some unexpected twists in the story. I enjoyed learning what life in Cape May was like during the early 1700’s. I found the glossary at the front of the book helpful. Also, I liked the author’s note at the end. It was an entertaining read. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in learning about Cape May.
I found this mystery to be a page turner. There wear some unexpected twists in the story. I enjoyed learning what life in Cape May was like during the early 1700’s. I found the glossary at the front of the book helpful. Also, I liked the author’s note at the end. It was an entertaining read. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in learning about Cape May.
February 16, 2024
Well written, brilliantly researched, drenched in historical veracity. The characters are marvelous, the plot well thought out, and I enjoyed every moment of it. I only wish it was a true series, following the heroine in her new life.
I read it in one day, and that very VERY rarely happens with me.
I read it in one day, and that very VERY rarely happens with me.
December 14, 2024
I found myself quickly enveloped in this story. The characters were believable and well developed. I read it in only 2 evenings during a busy time of the year...... I had a long to do list, so that will tell you it was a good read!
October 28, 2022
Interesting story/mystery set in 1700's Cape May, NJ.
January 18, 2023
She tricked me again! I feel like I’m most mysteries I know the ending and finish them to prove myself right. I got tricked again! I highly recommend this one.
September 6, 2024
Very sweet book.
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