In 1610, John Guy arrived in Cupids Cove, Newfoundland to create a new settlement there. Two years later he returned with supplies, animals, and sixteen women, whose names were never recorded. In "A Roll of the Bones," Trudy J. Morgan-Cole imagines the lives of those women and the other settlers, from their fears to their hopes and dreams.

This is an incredibly well-researched and well-written novel that I could not put down. The book begins in Bristol with the three main characters, Nancy, Kathryn, and Ned, making the decision (or having the decision made for them) to move to Newfoundland. We then follow them over the next few years as they adapt to their new life overseas.

I was rooting for Nancy, Kathryn, and Ned throughout, from Kathryn's growth as a leader, to Nancy's sarcasm and commitment to her own happiness, to Ned's search for adventure. I cannot wait to continue their stories in the sequel!

It is, of course, difficult to write a book that looks upon colonial invasions in a glamorous or kind way. I found that this book focused on the very human emotions surrounding a great life change, but would spare a warning to anyone who might be sensitive to anti-Indigenous sentiment: the English characters do refer to the Beothuk as s*v*ges. However, the author addresses this difficult history throughout the book and in the afterword. On that note, I encourage you to research the current violence and threats facing Mi'kmaw fishers in Nova Scotia who are acting upon their right to a moderate livelihood fishery. Click the link in my bio for ways to help.

ID: A Roll of the Bones lies face-up on wooden stairs beside some pumpkins and gourds.