Mary deals with multiple deep themes. These include witnessing to those of a culture other than one's own, accepting non-Christians' way of life as one is witnessing and modeling Christianity through doing life together, being true to one's beliefs, and forgiveness. The book gives an honest portrayal of Native customs relating to coming-of-age, courtship, and marriage, including the use of abortifacient herbs. While McNear does not write explicit scenes, neither does she shy away from reality, a reality that in many ways was not so different from our current society's. While historians do not know exactly what became of the Lost Colony of Roanoke, McNear uses the information that is known to create a plausible tale of the colonists and the Croatoan tribe developing a friendly and mutually supportive community, which began with the colonists receiving the greater degree of support.

In her first book in this series McNear focused on Elinor, the real daughter of Governor John White. In this second book the focus is on Mushaniq, the fictional daughter of Manteo, the real Native who had earlier accompanied a group of Englishmen back to England. Mushaniq's story involves the merging of the two people groups through the Native's acceptance of Christ and the intermarriage between the groups.

I enjoyed reading this book, and recommend it to fans of historical fiction. I do suggest reading Elinor prior to reading Mary for achieving the best comprehension and enjoyment. I would not recommend the book for readers under the age of sixteen. I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of Mary from Barbour Publishing via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.

Mary is a follow-up story to Elinor which begins the story of the lost colony at Roanoke along the Outer Banks of North Carolina. I enjoyed the book in general and the writing ad research were excellent. The English and some tribes have agreed to live together to become one village in order to protect each other from tribes that may want to attack or kidnap their members. Many of the Natives have accepted and follow Christianity at this point. I found some of the names of the Natives who also go by more than one name a bit confusing. Also, who belongs to which tribe. It took me longer than usual to read this book. I give this book 4 of 5 stars.
I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

This was the first book in this series that I read, but I enjoyed it anyway. I liked the references to Elinor and it made me want to read that book (and any others in the series) also. I loved Mary’s dad. I love this part of history (and I enjoyed the author’s note about staying authentic to the past even when it’s not politically correct) and while I don’t agree with all the opinions and values that were spoken back then, I also don’t agree with all the opinions and values flying around today. It’s called life and imperfect people, and sin in the world. I appreciated the author keeping things real and seeing life through the eyes of another. Again, I loved Mary’s dad and his relationship with God being so authentic and then coming back and sharing it with the rest of his people. This was a great book and anyone who loves historical books will truly appreciate all the time and effort put into making this book authentic, heartwarming, and realistic.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit but was not under any obligation to write a review. All opinions are strictly mine.

This was a truly incredible read! I was enthralled reading Elinore, but had no idea there would be a sequel…and now I know I can look forward to a third book as well!

More than a historical romance, McNear weaves together the angst of coming of age both physically and spiritually. I love how Georgie and Mary each examine their own culture’s standards and practices before choosing their personal life path. They didn’t take the easiest way, but their choices led to the solidarity of the fused community. And what a treat to catch up on Elinore’s story! Her wisdom and courage grows over the space of both books. She is a true “mother in Israel.”

Impeccable research and sensitivity make this easily a 5-star book. I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and was not required to post a review.

I really liked liked this beautiful “what if” story of an English boy and a Native American girl and their personal journey of friendship, faith and love as well as the complex relationship between the English settlers and Native Americans as a whole. The story is full of interesting Native American culture and customs and a nice mix of fictional and real life characters. It took me several chapters to settle in to the book because of all the unfamiliar words and names that I struggled with trying to “pronounce” as I read, but it was well worth the effort. I have not read book one in this series Elinor but I plan to now.
Thanks to NetGalley and Barbour for the chance to read for my honest review.

After reading Elinor, I was really looking forward to reading Mary. The Lost Colony of Roanoke has always intrigued me, as it has many other people. What really happened to those colonists who disappeared seemingly without a trace? In this series, Shannon McNear has woven a story about what may have happened. Not only is this historical fiction, it is also very much a coming-of-age story, involving two cultures.
Mushaniq was only nine when her father Manteo returned from England with the Inqutish settlers. She was intrigued by them and soon learned to like one of the boys, especially. When the Inqutish and the Kurawoten started living together, she and Georgie became close friends. After Mushaniq became a woman, she decided she wanted to marry Georgie. His people would not allow the marriage, however, unless Mushaniq, who wanted to take the name Mary, was baptised. Her people would not allowed them to marry unless Georgie went through their ceremony of becoming a man which their own boys did.
Meanwhile, Elinor had been kidnapped by Indians, along with a number of the other English people, and Mushaniq took over the care of Eleanor’s baby, Virginia. Mushaniq constantly struggled with the question of why her father was so changed, so different from the other Indian man, and whether she could really believe in and trust the Kryst he talked about. Without truly believing in the Kryst for herself, she did not want to be baptised like so many people around her had been, but she could tell that something had really happened to them. How could she resolve this tension between two ways of life?
I really enjoyed that main thrust of Mary, as the author tried to show  how two very different cultures can come together as one in Christ. I liked the way the Kuraworen thought through their new beliefs and how to change their old customs to glorify God instead of placating spirits. On the other hand, I did not like the many times the story talked about the young, unmarried Indian boys and girls “playing“ with each other. I was glad to read the author’s note at the end that, that she had not made this up, but the descriptions of the relationship between Georgie and Mushaniq was, in my opinion, to sensual. I kept hoping that the people involved would realize that their relationship was sinful and repent, but that never happened. There is another scene that also felt much too sensual to me. I was disappointed to find some of these scenes in a Christian book, and I’m not sure yet whether or not I’ll read the third book in the series.
I received a review copy of this book from NetGalley, and these are my honest thoughts about it.

Mary, Daughters of the Lost Colony #2 is another incredible “what if” historical novel by Shannon McNear. Once again at Roanoke this is a story of different cultures and people seeking peace who have suddenly found themselves together. However, not all are happy about this and clashes have happened. How do the younger members work through all of this.

Mushaniq, daughter of Manteo, and Georgie Howe, whose father was murdered once the English landed are two such characters. What a story seeing this time through their eyes. Is friendship possible, with some even more? Of course, trust, doubts, acceptance, and unity are at the heart of this story. Along the way is trouble, a building of community and a sharing of beliefs.

More of Elinor’s story is also part of this story so it is actually a continuing of tale started in the first book. The Lost Colony of Roanoke has never been so intriguing or as exciting as the fictional historical telling by Shannon McNear. I highly recommend Mary, Daughters of the Lost Colony #2.

The publisher through Net Galley provided a digital ARC. I have voluntarily decided to read and review, giving my personal opinions and thoughts.

Historical fiction fans will love this beautiful story with details bringing early American history to life. McNear did a wonderful job portraying the benefits and struggles of two very different groups of people learning to live together. While unity is desired, it involved communication and hard work. These characters struggled through such adverse circumstances from their enemies as well as dealing with the forces of nature. They grew in their faith when faced with the decision whether or not they truly believed and trusted God. The community learned about the meaning of true love and what it involved. Also there were great resources including character lists and historical terms which aided my reading. This community continues to grow on me and I can’t wait for the next book in the series. I was given a copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Shannon McNear’s Daughters of the Lost Colony series is one that has completely enthralled me. As one who loves history, I jumped at the chance to read her latest, Mary. Taking up right where her previous novel, Elinor, left off, readers continue the story of the Roanoke survivors. And what I loved about this book, is that we gain a greater glimpse into the native people and their perspectives/customs of the times. The interplay between the natives and English seemed so authentic and truly brought the story to life. I felt as if I were within the book’s pages, learning to forgive, to fight, and to survive a time far removed from my own.

I am greatly anticipating the following book in this series. McNear is an author I plan to follow!

Mary, Daughters of the Lost Colony, is one of the best books I have read. The story and the quality of the writing drew me in so that I couldn’t put it down. The characterization is such that these were real people and I was living alongside them. Their hopes, fears, wonder, and all their emotions became mine too. I wished I could just somehow crawl into the story and be with them, because reading the books in this series has given me a profound respect for Native American culture and people.

This book, even more so than Eleanor, presented a very plausible theory of what happened to the “lost” settlers of Roanoke. It gave me hope that they were not slaughtered, but rather assimilated with the native people who helped them.

I enjoyed the author’s switching regularly and often between characters. It kept the story moving along rapidly.

Shannon McNear has a truly Christian outlook, following the spirit of the law, rather than the letter of the law. With compassion, and not judgement, she described the various ways her characters viewed religion. Their attitudes ranged from humility to pride, but all of them grew in their faith. And as for the native people, one could feel their sense of awe at their burgeoning understanding of Christianity.

I truly loved this book (and Book one as well). I cannot wait for Book 3 to come out. This is a remarkably well written and important series.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

#Mary #NetGalley

What a wonderful read! This is book two of The Daughters of the Lost Colony series and it tells Mary's story. The author did a wonderful job of weaving fact with fiction to make this story a page-turner that stays with you long after you've read the last page. It's a beautifully written faith filled book that I highly recommend.
I received a complimentary copy from Barbour Publishing and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

A sequel to Elinor, this second book in the Daughters of the Lost Colony series focuses on the Native people's view of events and fills in more of Manteo's story. His daughter, Mary (Mushaniq) is the star of the tale, as she grows into a young woman in an intercultural community. The storyline overlaps book one, and continues on from there. It is a tumultuous time as they face continuing threats from outside forces, bad weather, and spiritual battles within.

Mary (Mushaniq) is a complex, passionate, strong young woman with a genuine love for her family and friends. She felt so very real with her emotions and spiritual struggles. I loved how she and Manteo related and their talks as they walked together. He is a great leader, yet so patient and loving with his daughter, cherishing her.

I like how the author uses the characters to show honest spiritual struggles as they face big decisions concerning their faith, and in their relationships. The story is full of spiritual themes, with deep questions of faith, and a clear message of redemption. The spiritual battle is very real, especially affecting Mary and Georgie. It was a treat to have Sees Far and Elinor in the story again--both amazing characters--and follow more of their story.

There is a lot of sexual tension and discussion of sexuality in the story, as the author warns in the beginning, but it was appropriate given the situations. Nothing too detailed or offensive. Anyone who has raised a teenager will be able to relate.

Recommend to readers who enjoy a more serious historical read with complex characters, spiritual struggles, and romance. The author includes a helpful index with Native language and research notes for further reading. 4.5 stars

Shannon McNear's 'Mary' shows a deep respect for and love of researching the people in this often overlooked section of American History. However, the story didn't really advance at a good pace and didn't have specific events to bring the reader along with Mary's life. You can tell that the historical research took center stage over a compelling fictional story and that's commendable, but not so much for what I assume is her target audience. As a side effect, finishing this book became a chore instead of a delight for me.

I usually love Shannon McNear's books but this one just wasn't my favorite of her woks.

Shannon McNear pens a unique story of a young girl's journey of faith. With impeccable research and rich detail, McNear skillfully intertwines the POV of several characters to create a fascinating story. Taking the traditions and culture of the native peoples in early America and blending it with that of the newly arrived English colonists, she pens a possible theory of what happened to the missing Roanoke colonists in the 1580's. I found her portrayal of the early fear and intolerance felt by both cultures as they strove to live together compelling.

I heartily recommend this book for fans of early American historical fiction. While it is not necessary, I would suggest readers read book one in the series first. These are stories to be enjoyed but at times are realistic and raw. Filled with both historical and fictional characters, their story will remain with you long after the last page has been read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

I am an avid fan of historical Christian fiction and I have read many books in different time periods! There are a few characteristics that really make me LOVE a book in this genre and want me to read more by the author- interesting setting, creativity in storytelling, realism and multifaced characters, who wrestle with an authentic faith....oh, and a romance that is dynamic, true to life and not shying away from attraction and passion...and Shannon McNear in this book navigates all of this beautifully! You can tell she really did her research into Native American customs and the creativity and deftness in which she interweaves the story of the English settlers and the Native people is really a feat. The romances featured in this story were well done and full of chemistry between the two sets of leads.. I haven't read Elinor, but I agree with her author's note, that having the backstory is important to understanding the nuances of this story. However, I am planning to circle back to Elinor's story and looking forward if she decides to write Emme's story, which seems to be where she is heading. Highly recommend Mary to anyone who loves a stellar historical christian fiction novel!
Thank you to #NetGalley and Barbour Publishing for the ARC.

A very well written historical novel. Very good plot and character dynamics. If you enjoy historical fiction I definitely recommend this book.

This second book in the Daughters of the Lost Colony series was an excellent story about the blending of cultures and cultural expectations in the Lost Colony of Roanoke. You really need to read Elinor (book 1) to appreciate and understand what is happening in this novel. It’s pretty intense and it really took me awhile to get used to the native American language scattered throughout the book. Sometimes I wished for a cheat sheet (or the English word) right on the page! I think that slowed me down in the reading. I found the story fascinating and would recommend it as long as you read book one before starting this one.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

In this second book of her Daughters of the Lost Colony series, Ms. McNear engulfs us in another fascinating “what if” tale of the Lost Colony of Roanoke. Set in the 1590s, the English colonists continue to establish themselves in the New World and learn to live peaceably with the Native Americans they encounter there. I enjoyed the continuation of Elinor and Sees Far’s story and experiencing Mushaniq (Mary) and Georgie’s story as well. I like that the story is not slanted toward just one people group, but that both groups are given a “voice”. I appreciate the strong, inspiring faith element which becomes the moral compass in conflicting situations between the people groups. The history on which the story is based is amazingly well-researched. Wonderfully crafted historical and fictional characters are seamlessly blended together to make a captivating read. The story explores Native American customs especially those related to premarital physical relationships, pregnancy, and childbirth in a tasteful and interesting way The author’s historical notes, cast of characters, and dictionary at the end of the book are helpful in navigating the Native language and keeping track of the characters. There is enough background information provided in the story so that the reader is not “lost” by reading the book as a standalone. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and recommend it especially for American history buffs.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley with now obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

This book is a compe tale from the beginning until the end. I couldn't put it down! I was glad of the disclosure in the beginning that told the reader of some things that were historically accurate but not suitable for all readers. I didn't have any issue with what was presented in the book, although I wouldn't want my tween daughter to read about the sensitive topics just yet. As we live in eastern NC, this was a treat to have another take on our history and our coastal people groups in such a dramatic and engaging way. This author totally nails her research, and provides a bibliography for further reading if you'd like. I immediately bought the first book in this series, and I can't wait to get caught up!

Fantastic Book 2 in the Daughters of the Lost Colony series. A completely engaging historical fiction "what if" story. I couldn't stop turning pages! I've long been intrigued by the mystery of The Lost Colony of Roanoke. The immense amount of research and the talented pen of Author Shannon McNear takes the reader on a journey you won't soon forget. "Mary" is a continuation of the story in the book "Elinor". This compelling tale is of English settlers and the native peoples who try their hand at living in the same community. Manteo is the native who has bridged the gap between the English and his people. In part, it is the story of his daughter's coming of age, it also picks up where we left off with Elinor and "Sees Far" who risked everything to help her, and we get to know Georgie Howe better. His father was brutally murdered when they arrived three years ago, and it is Georgie's coming of age story too.

With so many differing beliefs and customs, the elders have many joint discussions, between the people of the land, and the English. Manteo is a recent convert to the Christian faith, and he helps both sides to try to understand each other better. In great part this is the young people's journey to discover who they are, and what they believe, and how that fits in with both cultures. But most importantly, do they trust the God who loves them and is with them through every hardship?

I highly recommend Mary and Elinor, and I cannot wait for the next tale in this series!

Thank you to the author and publisher for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.