"A real window on to history in an engaging love story. I really enjoyed the attention to detail in this novel, which gave a real sense of place and time to an exciting romp of a love story. It took me to a place in history, about which I previously knew very little, and really set the scene to enjoy the twists in the unfolding story. A good read!"
[McFarlane - Amazon reader]
"History meets Fiction in a seamless blend! Love it! - A feel good story in which we catch up with our old friend John whilst using fiction to redeem one of the biggest injustices in American history. Once again Carol M Mottershead makes history her playground in this amazingly detailed retelling of historical events. C'est Magnifique!"
[Kindle reader]
"Great follow on book, so captivating. Not disappointed, just as an enjoyable read as "Joan put in your happy face". I enjoyed the relationships developing, the historical element made me think and reflect on my understanding. Another fantastic read, I hope there is more to follow."
[LizFev - Amazon 27 July 2023]
"What a nice love story, Carol. A happy ending for all. Medicine woman's drops gave Ann life. Hugh and Elizabeth - John and Ann."
[Tom Edwards - Emailed review]
"A feel good story in which we catch up with our old friend John whilst using fiction to redeem one of the biggest injustices in American history. Once again Carol M Mottershead makes history her playground in this amazingly detailed retelling of historic events. C'est Magnifique!"
[Alun Littlefair - Goodreads 30 Sept 2023]
"Carol, admit it you didn’t write Memories Of..., you summoned it. Because, honestly, what kind of sorcery makes readers feel like they’ve been shipwrecked in 1654, clutching a fever ridden love story while yelling “JOHN, DON’T GO INTO THE FOREST!” at their Kindle like it’s a horror movie? The way you wrote John Punch’s torment torn between love and survival feels so cinematic it deserves its own historical drama series. You didn’t just create a character; you crafted a man who’s both broken and brave, desperate yet devoted. That’s the kind of emotional torment readers beg for while pretending they’re fine. And knowing you, Carol the woman who once blurred the line between herself and her own character Joan (your sons had to literally remind you, “You are not Joan!” ) it makes total sense. You live inside your stories. You research, dream, and probably argue with your characters over breakfast. You don’t write books; you haunt them.
That intensity is why Memories Of... hits so hard. It’s not just historical fiction; it’s an ache disguised as a journey. The smell of sea salt, the pounding of John’s heart, the impossible choice between love and death your storytelling wraps readers in it like fog rolling over Gwynn’s Island. [With slightly unhinged admiration, Donna J Platt 2025]
Author-C.M. Benton
