New York by Edward Rutherfurd

The book begins in the 17th century with a tiny Indian fishing village on the forested island of Manna hata, with a Dutch family of Van Dyck and continues through next generations. It is a time, when Dutch traders arrive here to make their fortunes and giving the island a new name of New Amsterdam. 

When English fight for the control of the colonies and take over the city, they rename it to New York. The English oppression and taxation makes them unpopular, which leads to rebellion. Sons of Liberty fight for their independence from England. Father and son of Van Dyck find themselves on opposite sides. One remains Loyalist, the other becomes Patriot.

When the immigrants are woven into the story, they add a lot of flavor, particularly Mary O’Donnell and her friend Gretchen Keller. Later Italian family of Caruso immigrates through Ellis Island to NYC, making their new home at Little Italy. The story is even further enriched with Jewish family of Adler.

The story touches upon history of American Revolution, Civil War, Draft Riots, as well as the American West and the Wall Street corruption.

If you read one book by Edward Rutherfurd and liked it, them you most likely will like all his books. He is a very consistent writer with the same style of writing and interesting stories and fascinating characters.

@FB/BestHistoricalFiction