A tense murder mystery where suspicion and grief ripple through a colonial town. When a farmer is found dead and a hired hand vanishes, accusations fall on the wrong people. Catherine Williams must navigate social grudges, dangerous medical accusations, and the fragile place of women in early society to uncover the truth.
Tags: Historical suspense • Social tension • Midwife protagonist • Colonial crimes
Full Synopsis (original)
An old farmer is found dead. Thomas, his young hired hand, is missing, perhaps abducted by Indians who are suspected of killing the old man. Nathaniel, son of Samuel Worthington, a prominent merchant, is distraught. He is engaged to the young man's sister, and has a strong friendship with the man. The magistrates of Newbury send an armed force, led by Nathaniel, in search of Thomas. Massaquoit, who is under suspicion for the murder, tracks Thomas and turns him over to the colonial militia. Meanwhile, Catherine Williams delivers Nathaniel's sister Felicity's baby, against the opposition of her father, who holds a grudge against Catherine. The birth goes well, but Felicity develops a dangerous abscess. Catherine is charged with improper midwifery procedures. Nathaniel is fatally wounded in his tent. Thomas is hurt less severely. Again, Indians are suspected. Nathaniel is buried, and Thomas is banished because Samuel Worthington holds him responsible for Nathaniel's death. Thomasine, Nathaniel's fiancee, arrives, claiming she had already married Nathaniel. She is attacked by men working for Worthington. Catherine treats her and discovers the clue to both murders. And what did the dead dog, missing fangs, have to do with all of this?
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