Once on This Island

By Gloria Whelan

Book #1 in the Island Trilogy series

In 1812, a young girl defends her home amidst war's chaos.

3.8/5 Goodreads · 693 ratings

192 pages

$9.99Save 4%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

In 1812, war shatters the peace of Mackinac Island, leaving young Mary O'Shea to manage the family farm with her sister. As British troops occupy their home, Mary's father joins the American army, and her best friend returns to his tribe. With courage and wit, Mary navigates harsh winters and enemy soldiers, clinging to the hope of reuniting her family. Can she keep her promise to protect their land and see her father again? Discover a tale of resilience and hope amidst the chaos of war.

From the publisher

It is the summer if 1812 and war has erupted between England and the United States, casting its dark shadow as far as remote, beautiful Mackinac Island. There, young Mary O’Shea suffers many loses. British troops conquer the isalnd. Her beloved father joins the American army on the mainland. And her best friend Gavin, an Indian orphan raised by white settlers, leaves his adoptive home to return to his tribe.Left only with her sister Angelique, Mary wonders how she will keep her promise to her father to protect the farm in his absence. But with courage and nimble ingenuity, the sisters outsmart British soldiers, endure two harsh winters, and keep their farm intact. Most important, they nurture the dream of a family reunited—until the war ends and their most cherished dream comes true.

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