The Seekers

In this smoothly written historical novel, the author departs from her usual settings in Ireland and Italy to trace the journey of five Yorkshire villagers to the New World. Life in Plymouth Colony in 1632 will be a familiar subject, but this account is fresh in its limpid style and in showing two unadventurous teens: Edward, who tells the story, and Rebecca, whom he loves. The middle-aged members of the party exhibit the true colonial spirit, changing in surprising and positive ways. Though the story lacks a strong emotional focus (tEdward and Rebecca's love affair grows curiously placid), it provides a convincing, engaging portrait of the period. Miles Standish and others appear in cameo roles. (1014)