This is really a rather remarkable novel about the battle of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania – probably the most famous battle of the Civil War. The Southern Armies, under General Lee, decided to invade the North in order to strike a blow that would "hit home" and make the Northerners wish to end the war. North and South met in the small farming town of Gettysburg in Pennsylvania and engaged in bloody battle for three days. The cost in human life was devastating to both sides.

The thrilling true story of fourteen-year-old Madeleine de Verchères, who in 1692 defended her family's seigneury (a type of fortress) and its occupants from the fierce Mohawk Indians for an entire week with only the aid of her two younger brothers, an elderly servant, one faithful full-grown man and two cowardly soldiers who were of little help. Although the basic outline of the story is well-documented, this story fills in all of the interesting (and likely) details surrounding this event that is still commemorated near Montreal with a statue of this young heroine.

This is quite simply a great story. Even at almost 300 pages, it's surprisingly quick, enjoyable and a worthwhile read.

It is the year 1200, and England is ruled by the wicked and greedy King John (of Robin Hood fame). When the baron Eric disppears from his castle under mysterious circumstances and is presumed dead, his wife and daughter must learn to live with the baron's legal heir and distant relative – the new baron, Basil – who is gloomy and unpleasant.