Customer Reviews

The Hinterlands

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"The Hinterlands", Karen Mercury's first historical novel is brimming with fascinating and irresistible characters who have absolutely kept my heart pounding with anticipation as their lives clash and mesh on their journey into the inner depths of the dark jungles of Nigeria, 1896. Embarking from seeming innocence, the author expertly unfolds a tangled and steamy adventure, discovering bloody truth, intrigue and breathtaking erotic lust, evolving into a beautiful romance and eventual total loss of innocence. This is, without doubt one of this decade's most compelling and beautifully written stories. Historically accurate, her descriptions so vivid, I felt actually "placed" into the scenes, complete with sounds, smells, and the salty taste of sweat. Leaving me satisfied but still wanting more, I am hoping that her next novel will be coming out soon.

I was offered the privilege of reading the first few chapters of "The Hinterlands" before it was published, and I was first of all in awe of the amount of historical content and research that was included in these writings. The majority of us have never even heard about this time and place, and I was intrigued.

Next, it became apparent that the author has a hysterical sense of humor - and some if it is tongue-in-cheek, so you have to pay attention! I imagine she must have had a lot of fun writing this book, and I had a lot of fun reading it - I highly recommend "The Hinterlands" for someone that is looking for something more than the usual.

One words says it all when it comes to Ms. Mercury's story "The Hinterlands" and that is AMAZING! This is a wonderful read that will take the reader on a journey to a time and place seldom visited in historical fiction. Ms. Mercury took great care and effort to research the time and place (Nigeria, Benin City, Edo..etc.) so the reader will truly feel as if they have stepped into 1896 Africa. Rich details, use of local language, and customs all combine with wonderful characters, and a sensual romance that will have readers captivated from the first page.

Elle Bowie is an anthropologist that has traveled to Africa to study the various customs of the native people. She brings with her Rip Bowie who is suppose to be her husband but is instead her friend and photographer. Elle may be looking for one thing but she finds another when she meets Brendan Donivan who is known for his hunting and trading skills with the locals.

Brendan is no fool and when he meets the beautiful but spirited Elle he thinks there is more to her than meets the eye. He's right but now is not the time to ponder the mysteries of Elle. The local government is on the brink of war and there are questions on who can be trusted. Still the attraction these two very strong people feel will not be denied. Amongst the seductive African backdrop and very sensual romance takes shape. Still there is danger and they must watch their backs because a land on the brink of war is not safe for anyone.

Ms. Mercury has penned a very sensual and descriptive read that fans of historic fiction will not want to miss. This story really brought to my mind the movie "African Queen". As a fan of historical fiction I enjoy visiting locations that are new and different. This read surely fit the bill. I highly recommend Ms. Mercury. She is truly author that bears watching in the future.

Official Reviewer for www.romancedesigns.com

this book is hilarious. It is also interesting for the historical information about a little-known part of the world.

Woo Hoo! What a ride! Karen Mercury loves history, all the tiny details, and she richly draws on this to create one special adventure. The Hinterlands is able to suck the reader into exotic locales in Africa. She wields language, local customs and history, to forge strong characters in a rich, sensual adventure that marks her as a talent on the rise.

From her first words she will hook you and won't let you go, as anthropologist Elle Bowie travels to the distant and wild lands of Africa on a trip to study the native peoples. What starts out as a simple journey to discover more of history, lore and way of lives, suddenly change as Elle meets Brendan Donivan. A hunter - in more ways than one, he is well known by the natives and often trades with them.

Brendan his not blinded by Elle's beauty and thinks the lovely lady is up to a bit more than she says. Only romancing the beauty comes at the wrong time. The area is troubled, heading toward war, and it's not safe for either Elle or Brendan.

The adventure is fast paced. The romance steamy at the jungle where it's set. The history and setting is to sigh for (I love detailed research and Mercury has done her homework). But where Mercury really steps "beyond the crowd" of romance writers, it's her strong humour. One gets the feeling she is always laughing at life and its adventures, and that strongly comes through this rousing escapade, show he as a talent to remember. Think of sexy version of King Solomon's Mines, African Queen and The Naked Jungle (minus the ants!) all rolled into one, and liberally sprinkled with a wicked sensual of humour ¯ you have Mercury.

So, if you are tired of the same old same old Regency, her is the perfect antidote!!

Karen Mercury's forthcoming book, "The Hinterlands" is a MUST READ for any history buff; any action/adventure lover; any person who prides themselves on being one of the first to discover new talent.

I've been fortnuate to have read excerpts of this novel in advance, and the final product promises to be an excursion through the Africa of an earlier century--at a full gallop!

Mercury's characters are rich in characterization; her perspective will appeal to both genders. No "bodice-ripper" here. Love scenes are steamy, yet the book stands for itself. Anxiously awaiting the release!

In 1896 the British northeastward from the Niger Coast Protectorate look to colonize the Kingdom of Benin. The plan is to cross the River Niger and bring the Edo people of Benin under the British flag as they have already done for the Ibo of Niger. Trader and renowned hunter Brendan Donivan realizes that the Brits are looking to colonize the kingdom and fears for what will be lost. He struggles to save this ancient African civilization while not jeopardizing his business with the British.

New York anthropologist Elle Bowie arrives in hopes of fulfilling a dream of field work. To achieve her dream, she supports the British's efforts. She is accompanied by her fake "hired" husband Rip McCulloch. Brendan and Ellie quickly realize they are on opposite sides of the White Man's Burden; she believes Britain will bring the benefits of modern civilization while he disdains the destruction of an ancient surviving culture. They know they cannot share anything yet love blossoms between them. As the British begin their assault, they forge a bond that leads to love between Elle and Brendan while trying to save an endangered culture with many expected to die.

THE HINTERLANDS is a fantastic historical tale that brings to life the Kingdom of Benin at the point when Britain begins efforts to colonize the nation using brute force. The romance between the lead couple is deftly handled, but takes a back seat to the astute intense look at the late nineteenth century Guinea Coast. Karen Mercury provides genre fans with a triumphant tale that will send the audience seeking more such reflective works.

Harriet Klausner