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Bloodroot
IPNE (Independent Publishers of New England) 2022 FICTION BOOK OF THE YEAR!
2022 NEW YORK BIG BOOK DISTINGUISHED FAVORITE in AMERICAN HISTORY
The beauty and the horrors of Jamestown 1609
A gripping account of survival in America's earliest settlement, Jamestown, Virginia.
Virginia, 1622. Powhatan warriors prepare war paint from the sacred juice of the bloodroot plant, but Nehiegh, The English son-in-law of Chief Ochawintan has sworn never to kill again. He must leave before the massacre.
England 1609. Matthew did not trust his friend, Richard's stories of Paradise in the Jamestown settlement, but nothing could have equipped him for the violence and privation that awaited him in this savage land.
Once ashore in the fledging settlement, Matthew experiences the unimaginable beauty of this pristine land and learns the meaning of hope, but it all turns into a nightmare as gold mania infests the community and Indians become an increasing threat. The nightmare only gets worse as the harsh winter brings on "the starving time" and all the grizzly horrors of a desperate and dying community that come with it.
Driven to the depths of despair by the guilt of his sins against Richard and his lust for that man's wife, Matthew seeks death.
In that moment of crisis, when he chooses death over a life of depravity, he unexpectedly finds new life among his sworn enemy, the Powhatan Indians.
What will this new life mean for Matthew, and will he survive?
2022 NEW YORK BIG BOOK DISTINGUISHED FAVORITE in AMERICAN HISTORY
The beauty and the horrors of Jamestown 1609
A gripping account of survival in America's earliest settlement, Jamestown, Virginia.
Virginia, 1622. Powhatan warriors prepare war paint from the sacred juice of the bloodroot plant, but Nehiegh, The English son-in-law of Chief Ochawintan has sworn never to kill again. He must leave before the massacre.
England 1609. Matthew did not trust his friend, Richard's stories of Paradise in the Jamestown settlement, but nothing could have equipped him for the violence and privation that awaited him in this savage land.
Once ashore in the fledging settlement, Matthew experiences the unimaginable beauty of this pristine land and learns the meaning of hope, but it all turns into a nightmare as gold mania infests the community and Indians become an increasing threat. The nightmare only gets worse as the harsh winter brings on "the starving time" and all the grizzly horrors of a desperate and dying community that come with it.
Driven to the depths of despair by the guilt of his sins against Richard and his lust for that man's wife, Matthew seeks death.
In that moment of crisis, when he chooses death over a life of depravity, he unexpectedly finds new life among his sworn enemy, the Powhatan Indians.
What will this new life mean for Matthew, and will he survive?
376 pages, Paperback
Published August 1, 2021
14 people are currently reading
2352 people want to read
About the author
Daniel V. Meier Jr.
6 books208 followersA retired Aviation Safety Inspector for the FAA, Daniel V. Meier, Jr. has always had a passion for writing. During his college years, he studied History at The University of North Carolina Wilmington and American Literature at The University of Maryland Graduate School. In 1980 he was published by Leisure Books under the pen name of Vice Daniels. He also worked briefly for the Washington Business Journal as a journalist and has been a contributing writer/editor for several aviation magazines.
Dan and his wife live in Owings, Maryland, about twenty miles south of Annapolis and when he's not writing, they spend their summers sailing on the Chesapeake Bay.
Dan and his wife live in Owings, Maryland, about twenty miles south of Annapolis and when he's not writing, they spend their summers sailing on the Chesapeake Bay.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
April 21, 2021
Meier returns with a stunning story about a man caught in the grip of treachery, passion, and the unescapable flow of history.
England 1609. After a minor scuffle with his master, the young Matthew, an apprentice carpenter, finds himself running away from the law, joining his best friend Richard on an excursion to early British settlement of Jamestown, Virginia. But what begins as a journey to a promising land soon turns into a nightmare of impossible proportions, with hunger and savagery testing the limits of humanity. With his lust for Richard’s wife, Anne, Matthew soon embarks on a path of sin and treachery. But guilt soon takes over, and living becomes a burden.
Meier’s eye for detail is immaculate, whether it is the evocation of the rugged, unforgivable landscape of Virginia or the portrayal of the grizzly horrors of a desperate and dying community. He ably interweaves scenes of settlers’ everyday life along with the fantastical world of the native American culture and their legends and beliefs into the affecting narrative.
The characters are universally human in their emotion, be it the honest, morally upright Richard or troubled Anne. Matthew is a triumph; he has loose morals and integrity is not something he values much, but Meier depicts him with humanity and compassion, making him thoroughly humane.
The narrative moves at a swift pace, building to shocking revelations as fate intertwines and Matthew eventually finds meaning in life.
Meier's skillful manipulation of interlocking plot strands, keen insight, and entertaining storytelling make it a page-turner.
England 1609. After a minor scuffle with his master, the young Matthew, an apprentice carpenter, finds himself running away from the law, joining his best friend Richard on an excursion to early British settlement of Jamestown, Virginia. But what begins as a journey to a promising land soon turns into a nightmare of impossible proportions, with hunger and savagery testing the limits of humanity. With his lust for Richard’s wife, Anne, Matthew soon embarks on a path of sin and treachery. But guilt soon takes over, and living becomes a burden.
Meier’s eye for detail is immaculate, whether it is the evocation of the rugged, unforgivable landscape of Virginia or the portrayal of the grizzly horrors of a desperate and dying community. He ably interweaves scenes of settlers’ everyday life along with the fantastical world of the native American culture and their legends and beliefs into the affecting narrative.
The characters are universally human in their emotion, be it the honest, morally upright Richard or troubled Anne. Matthew is a triumph; he has loose morals and integrity is not something he values much, but Meier depicts him with humanity and compassion, making him thoroughly humane.
The narrative moves at a swift pace, building to shocking revelations as fate intertwines and Matthew eventually finds meaning in life.
Meier's skillful manipulation of interlocking plot strands, keen insight, and entertaining storytelling make it a page-turner.
September 14, 2021
❓QOTD: Have you ever read a historical fiction ?
🌌Name – Bloodroot
🌌Author - Daniel V. Meier Jr.
🌌Genre – Historical Fiction
🌌Age Rating – 8+
🌌Rating - ⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌌Pages - 350 (Kindle Edition)
.................................................
☺First of all thanks to @tlr_review_projects and @dvmeierjr for giving me this chance to read this beautiful historic fiction
🔪A gripping account of survival in America's earliest settlement, Jamestown, Virginia.
💓This was the first time I am reading a historical fiction and I have to say , this book made me a damn big fan of historic fictions. I am stunned by the writing of this book .
The book focusesmainly on Matthew , a young apprentice carpenter who ran away from his master carpenter of Exeter and reaches the land of Jamestown which was established in 1609
This book focuses slightly a bit on his friend Richard as well .
He ran away because of the stories he heard of the land of Virginia which turns into a big big nightmare because of the Powhatan Indians who soon become a threat to them
The writing style of author took my heart away , it was set as 3rd person perspective where it focused mainly on protagonist Matthew and a lil bit on Richard, his friend
This historical fiction is also in my mind for suggesting because this had everything a reader needs,
This book had friendship , then it had a lotta love then it had betrayals and it also had a character called Anna , whom I just hate because (nah I won’t give spoilers hahaha)
This book was written not just for the reader to read , but to feel and I can feel this thing in my heart while reading
I will highly suggest this book to any Historicall Fiction Lover or someone who is planning to start reading Historicall fiction as the writing is too easy .
Obviously it’s not a one time read so would be reading this one again
💕I personally enjoyed reading this book very much
💕THANKS💕
🌌Name – Bloodroot
🌌Author - Daniel V. Meier Jr.
🌌Genre – Historical Fiction
🌌Age Rating – 8+
🌌Rating - ⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌌Pages - 350 (Kindle Edition)
.................................................
☺First of all thanks to @tlr_review_projects and @dvmeierjr for giving me this chance to read this beautiful historic fiction
🔪A gripping account of survival in America's earliest settlement, Jamestown, Virginia.
💓This was the first time I am reading a historical fiction and I have to say , this book made me a damn big fan of historic fictions. I am stunned by the writing of this book .
The book focusesmainly on Matthew , a young apprentice carpenter who ran away from his master carpenter of Exeter and reaches the land of Jamestown which was established in 1609
This book focuses slightly a bit on his friend Richard as well .
He ran away because of the stories he heard of the land of Virginia which turns into a big big nightmare because of the Powhatan Indians who soon become a threat to them
The writing style of author took my heart away , it was set as 3rd person perspective where it focused mainly on protagonist Matthew and a lil bit on Richard, his friend
This historical fiction is also in my mind for suggesting because this had everything a reader needs,
This book had friendship , then it had a lotta love then it had betrayals and it also had a character called Anna , whom I just hate because (nah I won’t give spoilers hahaha)
This book was written not just for the reader to read , but to feel and I can feel this thing in my heart while reading
I will highly suggest this book to any Historicall Fiction Lover or someone who is planning to start reading Historicall fiction as the writing is too easy .
Obviously it’s not a one time read so would be reading this one again
💕I personally enjoyed reading this book very much
💕THANKS💕
September 1, 2021
Bloodroot by Daniel Meier Jr is a beautiful historical fiction set in the seventeenth century, Virginia. It's an honest,raw portrayal of the colonial era.
The protagonist, Matthew was an apprentice carpenter to a master carpenter of Exeter for four years. He runs away from him to a new promised land of Virginia along with his childhood friend,Richard.What seemed like a 'new Canaan', a dream land of goodness and charity turns to be a land of bloodshed ,violence and savagery. Also, Matthew develops lustful feelings for Anne, Richard's beautiful wife. What will happen next?
'Bloodroot' is brutal, honest and beautiful. It's one of the novels which can make you hooked till the end. It will keep you at the edge of your seat. What I loved the most was the way the characterisation was done. He didn't paint them perfect.They were imperfect,troubled characters with flaws and desires. Especially, it is commendable how he analysed the psychology and complexity of a woman, being a man. The character of Anne is well-portrayed with subtle details. Also, Matthew 's character transformation was beautifully traced.Richard was my favorite character. I felt pity for him. Meier has given importance to even the microscopic details and it added to the beauty of the story.
The narrative is fast paced and the language is lucid and charming.Meier brilliantly traces the horrors, the way of living of the people in Jamestown, Virginia four hundred years ago and it's something that makes your heart beat faster every time you think about it. Iam not sure, if I can get over the dark,haunting descriptions for a while. Definitely not for the tender hearted. But, I can promise you reading this novel is a different and new experience altogether.
Recommended to the fans of historical fiction.
The protagonist, Matthew was an apprentice carpenter to a master carpenter of Exeter for four years. He runs away from him to a new promised land of Virginia along with his childhood friend,Richard.What seemed like a 'new Canaan', a dream land of goodness and charity turns to be a land of bloodshed ,violence and savagery. Also, Matthew develops lustful feelings for Anne, Richard's beautiful wife. What will happen next?
'Bloodroot' is brutal, honest and beautiful. It's one of the novels which can make you hooked till the end. It will keep you at the edge of your seat. What I loved the most was the way the characterisation was done. He didn't paint them perfect.They were imperfect,troubled characters with flaws and desires. Especially, it is commendable how he analysed the psychology and complexity of a woman, being a man. The character of Anne is well-portrayed with subtle details. Also, Matthew 's character transformation was beautifully traced.Richard was my favorite character. I felt pity for him. Meier has given importance to even the microscopic details and it added to the beauty of the story.
The narrative is fast paced and the language is lucid and charming.Meier brilliantly traces the horrors, the way of living of the people in Jamestown, Virginia four hundred years ago and it's something that makes your heart beat faster every time you think about it. Iam not sure, if I can get over the dark,haunting descriptions for a while. Definitely not for the tender hearted. But, I can promise you reading this novel is a different and new experience altogether.
Recommended to the fans of historical fiction.
August 19, 2024
Set in the 1600s as our lead, a carpenter apprentice in England finds himself running from the law after a fight with his master carpenter. Confiding his acts in a longtime friend, Matthew decides to join Richard on his voyage to Virginia. Skeptical of the paradise Jamestown is rumored to be, but with little other options the voyage proves challenging. Upon their arrival to the new world, they become educated in the savages, the governance, the hardships, and the realities. Under Captain John Smith’s helm many seek riches and gold, while others such as Richard seek to study the native savages and show them the ways of Christianity.
The social hierarchies of gentlemen and laborers, servants, and soldiers present amidst “Bloodroot” lends well to the times, giving readers a sense of social standing, colony life, and American history. Author Daniel V. Meier Jr.’s work takes a realistic dive into Native American literature as the range he displays with the pen are extraordinary. Off the heels of having read his thrilling mystery “Guidance to Death,” “Bloodroot” introduces readers to Meier’s work within an entirely different genre, done astonishingly well and with particular attention to historical accuracies.
Through Meier’s lens, readers experience Jamestown, Virginia, and the native savages in a new light. Shown through the eyes of an ordinary Englishman, apprentice carpenter, and lovestruck young man, Matthew experiences countless ups and downs as he settles into this new world.
With a bit of romance, and a whole lot of tragedy, “Bloodroot” explores the intricacies and fragilities of European colonization on Native American lands. Heaped with empathy, anger, frustration, and sadness, Meier has an exceptional ability for invoking a myriad of emotions during a pivotal period in American history.
The social hierarchies of gentlemen and laborers, servants, and soldiers present amidst “Bloodroot” lends well to the times, giving readers a sense of social standing, colony life, and American history. Author Daniel V. Meier Jr.’s work takes a realistic dive into Native American literature as the range he displays with the pen are extraordinary. Off the heels of having read his thrilling mystery “Guidance to Death,” “Bloodroot” introduces readers to Meier’s work within an entirely different genre, done astonishingly well and with particular attention to historical accuracies.
Through Meier’s lens, readers experience Jamestown, Virginia, and the native savages in a new light. Shown through the eyes of an ordinary Englishman, apprentice carpenter, and lovestruck young man, Matthew experiences countless ups and downs as he settles into this new world.
With a bit of romance, and a whole lot of tragedy, “Bloodroot” explores the intricacies and fragilities of European colonization on Native American lands. Heaped with empathy, anger, frustration, and sadness, Meier has an exceptional ability for invoking a myriad of emotions during a pivotal period in American history.
September 12, 2021
( 3.5/5 )
Bloodroot by Daniel.V.Meier.Jr is a historical fiction story based in Jamestown, Old Virginia of sixteen century.
The story revolves around Matthew, a British carpenter running from his country after a mishap with his employer. He and his friend Richard set sail to Virginia, both in hope for establishing a new life in a far land. But the life in the colonies wasn't as he hoped. The constant greed of men and their lust for finding gold in this unknown land started to drove them crazy. As Matthew tried to resist the temptations and find a place for himself there, an unfortunate event change the life of the inhabitants of Jamestown and Matthew forever.
The story talks about the human nature and how ruthless the survival instinct can be in the gruesome environment. Author has managed to paint a gruesome yet realistic potrait of survival in those colonies in that time. I liked the author choice of writing this book in first person narrative. It's gave a clear and realistic picture of life in Jamestown. I loved how raw and authentic every character was in the story. The tussle between life and death, fighting with enemies, struggling with mortality and finding a new way of life.
The language is pretty lucid and hint of Old English can be found throughout the book. The book also has Indians language and their characteristics and tradition details which can be a little difficult to read and pronounce. I would have loved a little more to know about the Indians and their struggle to keep the outsiders at bay too as they were an integral part of the story. All in a good historical fiction which will keep you on edge and gets intriguing with each chapter.
Bloodroot by Daniel.V.Meier.Jr is a historical fiction story based in Jamestown, Old Virginia of sixteen century.
The story revolves around Matthew, a British carpenter running from his country after a mishap with his employer. He and his friend Richard set sail to Virginia, both in hope for establishing a new life in a far land. But the life in the colonies wasn't as he hoped. The constant greed of men and their lust for finding gold in this unknown land started to drove them crazy. As Matthew tried to resist the temptations and find a place for himself there, an unfortunate event change the life of the inhabitants of Jamestown and Matthew forever.
The story talks about the human nature and how ruthless the survival instinct can be in the gruesome environment. Author has managed to paint a gruesome yet realistic potrait of survival in those colonies in that time. I liked the author choice of writing this book in first person narrative. It's gave a clear and realistic picture of life in Jamestown. I loved how raw and authentic every character was in the story. The tussle between life and death, fighting with enemies, struggling with mortality and finding a new way of life.
The language is pretty lucid and hint of Old English can be found throughout the book. The book also has Indians language and their characteristics and tradition details which can be a little difficult to read and pronounce. I would have loved a little more to know about the Indians and their struggle to keep the outsiders at bay too as they were an integral part of the story. All in a good historical fiction which will keep you on edge and gets intriguing with each chapter.
September 14, 2021
𝐁𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐝𝐫𝐨𝐨𝐭
by 𝐃𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐞𝐥 𝐕. 𝐌𝐞𝐢𝐞𝐫 𝐉𝐫.
🍃This is a historical fiction revolving around the main protagonist, Matthew, a British apprentice carpenter and little bit around his dearest friend, Richard.
🍃Matthew, after a disagreement with his employer at work fled to the land of Jamestown, Virginia about which he had heard all these beautiful things. But the colonial reality of Virginia speaks otherwise and was just far from their dreamy hopes.
🍃The story focusses on the colonial brutality, the ruthless inhuman behaviour and their survival instincts. The fight for finding a shelter to live, food to eat and clothes to cover their bare skin really pushed them off their edge. The storyline portrays the desperate acts of cruelty and harshness of people very much close to the realities.
❤️My take on the story -
🕊️The narration is affinitive that it almost paints a picture of the colonial realities of Virginia in front of us.
The plot has some interesting insights to sweep you in its flow.
The characters are portrayed so inquisitively with small detailings to their personality.
The plot twists also took me by surprise like the Anna incident.
🕊️As a overall perspective, I would say this book narrates a historical fiction as its best.
To be very honest, the cover of the book didn't excited me much at the beginning and thus I wasn't expecting much from the plot as well.
But to my utter surprise, this book has completely blown my assumptions off, and proved it as one of the bests.
🎀Rating - 5/5⭐
by 𝐃𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐞𝐥 𝐕. 𝐌𝐞𝐢𝐞𝐫 𝐉𝐫.
🍃This is a historical fiction revolving around the main protagonist, Matthew, a British apprentice carpenter and little bit around his dearest friend, Richard.
🍃Matthew, after a disagreement with his employer at work fled to the land of Jamestown, Virginia about which he had heard all these beautiful things. But the colonial reality of Virginia speaks otherwise and was just far from their dreamy hopes.
🍃The story focusses on the colonial brutality, the ruthless inhuman behaviour and their survival instincts. The fight for finding a shelter to live, food to eat and clothes to cover their bare skin really pushed them off their edge. The storyline portrays the desperate acts of cruelty and harshness of people very much close to the realities.
❤️My take on the story -
🕊️The narration is affinitive that it almost paints a picture of the colonial realities of Virginia in front of us.
The plot has some interesting insights to sweep you in its flow.
The characters are portrayed so inquisitively with small detailings to their personality.
The plot twists also took me by surprise like the Anna incident.
🕊️As a overall perspective, I would say this book narrates a historical fiction as its best.
To be very honest, the cover of the book didn't excited me much at the beginning and thus I wasn't expecting much from the plot as well.
But to my utter surprise, this book has completely blown my assumptions off, and proved it as one of the bests.
🎀Rating - 5/5⭐
September 14, 2021
Matthew just fought with his employer and now his only option to live with honour and not being chased by goons ,is to move to the 1609s new American Settlement ,Virginia with his friend ,Richard.
While his friend promises a garden of prosperity and hope ,The imperial England is raking the soil of new found America to lay hands on Gold mines and take down the Red Indian tribes in Virginia called Powhatans.
'These people are no more savage than we. We call them savages because they are not Christian, but I tell you most truthfully that there are many in England that are savage and we call them gentlemen.'
The Novel ,BLOODROOT by Daniel V Meier is set in the era of 1622 Jamestown,Virginia .
This is a historical work of fiction based on the English colonial period, when there was a madrush for gold and wealth.
The harsh reality ,horror and cruelty are well picturised with the struggle and sufferings of the people caught in the wind and time of greed,the struggle to survive on the savage land.
The author's commendable narration makes BLOODROOT one of the my favorite historical fiction novel .
The narration runs fluently with the immaculate detailing of the era ,springing the imaginations to life with a vividness that will take you right into the forests of Virginia.
The characters are so well penned and human psyche is presented in a compelling manner encompassing various emotions of passion ,guilt and anger.
I highly recommend historical fiction booklovers to read Bloodroot by Daniel V Meier .
While his friend promises a garden of prosperity and hope ,The imperial England is raking the soil of new found America to lay hands on Gold mines and take down the Red Indian tribes in Virginia called Powhatans.
'These people are no more savage than we. We call them savages because they are not Christian, but I tell you most truthfully that there are many in England that are savage and we call them gentlemen.'
The Novel ,BLOODROOT by Daniel V Meier is set in the era of 1622 Jamestown,Virginia .
This is a historical work of fiction based on the English colonial period, when there was a madrush for gold and wealth.
The harsh reality ,horror and cruelty are well picturised with the struggle and sufferings of the people caught in the wind and time of greed,the struggle to survive on the savage land.
The author's commendable narration makes BLOODROOT one of the my favorite historical fiction novel .
The narration runs fluently with the immaculate detailing of the era ,springing the imaginations to life with a vividness that will take you right into the forests of Virginia.
The characters are so well penned and human psyche is presented in a compelling manner encompassing various emotions of passion ,guilt and anger.
I highly recommend historical fiction booklovers to read Bloodroot by Daniel V Meier .
September 11, 2021
The book introduces readers to colonial reality and hardships of seventeenth century, Virginia. This is the story of a young apprentice carpenter, Matthew, who runs away from his master carpenter of Exeter and arrives in newly established Jamestown, in the spring of 1609, along with his childhood friend Richard. Despite best efforts, they're equipped to deal with the brutality, the cunning of it all. The story is about so much more than the brutal side of colonial life, which it first appears about.
The storytelling here was top-notch, as I truly did feel like I was being transported back to that time and place, living through the events as the story unfolds. Each character is narrated in an intriguing way and as the story unfolds it'll blow your mind. The best part of the story is, it's so uncertain, you just don't get things until the book ends and page after page new things come into the story which makes it more interesting to read. The characters mentioned in the story are all very real and flawed. Everything was in a pretty good pace and it truly kept me hooked till the end. So Overall it's a historical fiction at its finest.
The storytelling here was top-notch, as I truly did feel like I was being transported back to that time and place, living through the events as the story unfolds. Each character is narrated in an intriguing way and as the story unfolds it'll blow your mind. The best part of the story is, it's so uncertain, you just don't get things until the book ends and page after page new things come into the story which makes it more interesting to read. The characters mentioned in the story are all very real and flawed. Everything was in a pretty good pace and it truly kept me hooked till the end. So Overall it's a historical fiction at its finest.
September 14, 2021
Matthew after having an argument with his master runs away and wants to go to Virginia. He had heard all these great things about Virginia. He along with his friend Richard board a ship leaving for Virginia. But as soon as they reach there, they brutal reality strucks them. All the great news that they heard about Virginia was a lie, and all they saw was a nightmare infront of their eyes.
.
The story has many characters, all with their own personality, they all being grey. The book has marvelously portrayed the struggle in building a community out of nothing. The struggle for finding food, for shelter, for protection from the savage Indians. This book is brutal and at time made me cringe with the thought of how close to reality it could be. All the troubles that these people faced for building a community, alongside their own personal problem is something unimaginable in present day.
.
I loved the writing style, it was not tok difficult to read or get a hold if the story. At times I did feel it to be stretchy, but over all the plot was very engaging with proper narration.
.
I would definitely recommend this historical fiction.
.
The story has many characters, all with their own personality, they all being grey. The book has marvelously portrayed the struggle in building a community out of nothing. The struggle for finding food, for shelter, for protection from the savage Indians. This book is brutal and at time made me cringe with the thought of how close to reality it could be. All the troubles that these people faced for building a community, alongside their own personal problem is something unimaginable in present day.
.
I loved the writing style, it was not tok difficult to read or get a hold if the story. At times I did feel it to be stretchy, but over all the plot was very engaging with proper narration.
.
I would definitely recommend this historical fiction.
July 26, 2021
"I had the uneasy feeling that Captain Smith’s implications were true and between our Atlantic and Captain Drake’s western ocean lay a vast and wild land that could easily swallow us up without a trace."
Meier brings to vivid life the horrendous struggle for survival in the ill-fated British settlement of Jamestown in seventeenth-century Virginia. The historical tale focuses upon a love triangle between two friends, Richard and Matthew, and Anne, the woman beloved by both, in an affair commencing in the heady months of construction before the devastating winter of 1609-10. As with many other immigrants, Matthew and Anne would prefer not to have chosen the uncertainties and deprivations of life in the New World, but their circumstances as an apprentice on the lam (Matthew) and an indentured servant to a wealthy couple (Anne) make their emigration not only desirable but expedient . . .
Read more at The US Review of Books -
https://www.theusreview.com/reviews-1...
Meier brings to vivid life the horrendous struggle for survival in the ill-fated British settlement of Jamestown in seventeenth-century Virginia. The historical tale focuses upon a love triangle between two friends, Richard and Matthew, and Anne, the woman beloved by both, in an affair commencing in the heady months of construction before the devastating winter of 1609-10. As with many other immigrants, Matthew and Anne would prefer not to have chosen the uncertainties and deprivations of life in the New World, but their circumstances as an apprentice on the lam (Matthew) and an indentured servant to a wealthy couple (Anne) make their emigration not only desirable but expedient . . .
Read more at The US Review of Books -
https://www.theusreview.com/reviews-1...
September 12, 2021
Bloodroot is a tale about survival in earliest America's settlement , Jamestown Virginia .
Matthew had heard about the beauty of the undefiled land Virginia, and due to certain circumstances he had to move there along with his friend Richard.
Once on the land of Jamestown, Virginia all the stories he had heard had turned into a nightmare, the Powhatan Indians has become an threat and soon the winter turned it all into a starving time making it all worse.
The story has been told as a third person narration and it mainly focuses on Matthew and slightly on Richard, I love the pictorial writing style of the author , there is action , there is friendship,there is love,there is friendship, there is Betrayal which makes the story appealing. I didn't like Anna much if she didn't love Richard she shouldn't have married him 🙄 she made it worse for both Richard and matthew. nevertheless, I enjoyed reading the book , it is beautiful,normal paced and well researched 🦋
Recommended to all historical fiction readers..🦋
Matthew had heard about the beauty of the undefiled land Virginia, and due to certain circumstances he had to move there along with his friend Richard.
Once on the land of Jamestown, Virginia all the stories he had heard had turned into a nightmare, the Powhatan Indians has become an threat and soon the winter turned it all into a starving time making it all worse.
The story has been told as a third person narration and it mainly focuses on Matthew and slightly on Richard, I love the pictorial writing style of the author , there is action , there is friendship,there is love,there is friendship, there is Betrayal which makes the story appealing. I didn't like Anna much if she didn't love Richard she shouldn't have married him 🙄 she made it worse for both Richard and matthew. nevertheless, I enjoyed reading the book , it is beautiful,normal paced and well researched 🦋
Recommended to all historical fiction readers..🦋
September 14, 2021
Bloodroot is a historical fiction novel set in the seventeenth century around 1622.
The novel starts with a group of individuals from England aboard a ship that is going to Jamestown, Virginia. The people migrating are going there in the hope of greener pastures, not knowing that Virginia is quite contrary to their expectations.
The protagonist of this novel is a carpenter named Mattew and his close friend Richard. Mattew is the narrator of this story.
After reaching Virginia the migrants had to face the Powhattan Indians who were the locals of the region, also referred to as savages.
The book is mainly a description of the incidents that occurred between the English and the Powhattan Indians. There are a lot of mentions and vivid explanations of violence and gore.
I recommend this book to lovers of historical fiction. I do not recommend it to those looking for a light read. Besides those interested in this specific niche genre, the book is pretty difficult to read for other readers.
The novel starts with a group of individuals from England aboard a ship that is going to Jamestown, Virginia. The people migrating are going there in the hope of greener pastures, not knowing that Virginia is quite contrary to their expectations.
The protagonist of this novel is a carpenter named Mattew and his close friend Richard. Mattew is the narrator of this story.
After reaching Virginia the migrants had to face the Powhattan Indians who were the locals of the region, also referred to as savages.
The book is mainly a description of the incidents that occurred between the English and the Powhattan Indians. There are a lot of mentions and vivid explanations of violence and gore.
I recommend this book to lovers of historical fiction. I do not recommend it to those looking for a light read. Besides those interested in this specific niche genre, the book is pretty difficult to read for other readers.
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September 16, 2021The protagonist of this ebook is Mathew, who had heard approximately the splendor of the undefiled land Virginia, and due to a few reasons needed to pass there with Richard, his pal.
Many human beings were journeying to Virginia hoping of greener lands and higher method to hold their livelihoods but to their sheer disappointment, it turns to be distinctly opposite to what that that they had expected.
In Virginia, the dominant humans had been usually Powhattan indians, the local community of Virginia who were cunning and occured in colonies all round Virginia.
They fall prey to finding meals, secure haven and safety from the savages. The issues that the English human beings had to face have been immoderate in conjunction with their already prevailing private problems in life.
This ebook specializes in the colonialism and it's far brutality on the much less dominated human beings. It turned into a tremendous look at general. Turned out to be better than I predicted.
Many human beings were journeying to Virginia hoping of greener lands and higher method to hold their livelihoods but to their sheer disappointment, it turns to be distinctly opposite to what that that they had expected.
In Virginia, the dominant humans had been usually Powhattan indians, the local community of Virginia who were cunning and occured in colonies all round Virginia.
They fall prey to finding meals, secure haven and safety from the savages. The issues that the English human beings had to face have been immoderate in conjunction with their already prevailing private problems in life.
This ebook specializes in the colonialism and it's far brutality on the much less dominated human beings. It turned into a tremendous look at general. Turned out to be better than I predicted.
January 8, 2022
When I started reading Dan Meier’s novel, Bloodroot, it reminded me that I had “studied” the history of the Jamestown colony back in grade school. I remember John Smith and Pocahontas and that something happened and the colony didn’t actually survive. We didn’t spend too much time on it – the Pilgrims got a lot more of our attention.
Bloodroot brings the Jamestown story to life. And death. From the harrowing ocean-crossing to the perilous efforts to build a colony in a new world, Meier’s attention to the small details across a broad range of subjects from seacraft to armaments to 17th century homebuilding brings this story alive.
A heartbreaking study of sacrifice, faith, hubris and folly. Meier delivers a spellbinding story that is also a harsh history lesson. Highly recommended.
Bloodroot brings the Jamestown story to life. And death. From the harrowing ocean-crossing to the perilous efforts to build a colony in a new world, Meier’s attention to the small details across a broad range of subjects from seacraft to armaments to 17th century homebuilding brings this story alive.
A heartbreaking study of sacrifice, faith, hubris and folly. Meier delivers a spellbinding story that is also a harsh history lesson. Highly recommended.
July 21, 2022
Brutal and gripping from start to finish. It's an incredibly realistic and detailed depiction of a flawed man's journey through the Jamestown colony. Meier does a great job establishing a sense of wonder and grave danger in the 'New World'. The colonist's morality is juxtaposed well with the Native's. The point is driven home that is there is no one right or wrong people, just individuals doing their best to survive.
A touch fast paced towards the end but it makes sense as the pacing of the book is steadily ramped up throughout.
My only wish is that there was more.
A touch fast paced towards the end but it makes sense as the pacing of the book is steadily ramped up throughout.
My only wish is that there was more.
September 30, 2021
This was very rich in history but also characterization. I was drawn in by Matthew and his life from the beginning and really never quit wanting to follow his journey. There are ups and downs, it's got a great backdrop and the author is great about writing in a descriptive way that paints a picture in the readers head. It's a deep book, it makes you think, it's not rainbows and flowers. It's real life and historical.
June 21, 2025
A gripping and emotionally charged tale set in 1609 Jamestown, this story follows Matthew, an Englishman whose search for paradise turns into a brutal fight for survival. As greed, guilt, and starvation tear the colony apart, Matthew finds unexpected salvation among the very people he was taught to fear. Rich in historical detail and human depth, this is a powerful exploration of identity, resilience, and transformation.
October 3, 2021
Bloodroot by Daniel.V.Meier.Jr is a fascinating historical fiction story that left me breathless. The presentation of the setting was amazing (it is set in Jamestown, sixteenth century) I was impressed by the characters and the way the author developed them. Also, the plot was compelling, brutal at times, and one that drew me in from the beginning. I absolutely recommend the book!
October 24, 2021
This historical fiction is about the settlement of Jamestown, Virginia. The main character, Matthew, leaves England to start a new life only to be met with the need to survive the wilderness and the Powhatan warriors. Well written, intense, graphic. Thank you, Netgalley, for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review. 4 Stars
October 4, 2021
Impeccably written, relentlessly engaging, this is a wonderful tale that is where the reader wants and needs to be.
It's crazy how different the issues are from our lives these days. Enlightening and compelling.
The historical aspect is so very well done.
It's crazy how different the issues are from our lives these days. Enlightening and compelling.
The historical aspect is so very well done.
November 10, 2024
Not the best, not the worst. Something was sort of odd about the stilted, stylized first person narrative voice. It made me wonder multiple times where this story was going and when it would get there. The final part was rather rushed.
September 10, 2025
4.0 - some of the ladies were there only as items of interest for our main man and it felt a little weird. Though it was the 1600s in early colonial America ... so the attitude is probably accurate to the times. Action was intense, and the setting is given a real fair portrayal.
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