Discord and Light
A Connecticut Colony Novel
Published on 20. July 2024
Book
Paperback/Softback
268 pages
979-8-218-47947-3 (ISBN)
Description
Discord and Light: A Connecticut Colony Novel is a work of historical fiction set in mid-1700s pre-revolutionary Connecticut. This era was marked by discord, challenges, and change, as the colonies grappled with experimental self-governance and new religious philosophies.
Setting: Central Connecticut, a region flourishing with farming and transport, caught between the religious and political tensions of the time. The story unfolds against the backdrop of the Great Awakening and the Wallingford Controversy, as well as the economic and territorial disputes of the era.
Main Characters:
- John Ainsworth: A Boston-born surveyor and scientist who relocates to Connecticut.
- Catherine Carmichael Osborne: The brilliant, well-educated wife of the current minister.
- Doctor Daniel Hutton: A respected community leader, doctor, and inventor.
- Reverend James Osborne: Catherine's husband and the controversial minister at the center of the Wallingford Controversy.
Plot Overview: John Ainsworth arrives in Connecticut to survey properties and investigate ore mining. He forms an unlikely partnership with Catherine Osborne, leading to a complex romantic entanglement. Their relationship is tested by natural disasters, community tensions, and Reverend Osborne's jealousy. Ainsworth's discovery of a rich ore vein is overshadowed when he contracts a deadly fungal disease. Dr. Hutton saves his life through innovative surgery, leaving Ainsworth scarred but alive. As Ainsworth prepares to leave for a new life, an unexpected twist offers a potential new beginning with Catherine.
The Future: While recuperating, Ainsworth networks and connects with former colleagues in the Chesapeake Bay area. Intrigued by a Jesuit's stories, he considers a new life where his deformity can be hidden. As Ainsworth prepares to depart, saying goodbyes from his wagon, he suddenly reins in the horses. A figure in men's work clothing steps into the drive. "Hello, there!" he hails. Slowly, the figure turns. It's Catherine, hinting at an unexpected new chapter in their story.
This novel blends historical accuracy with compelling fiction, exploring themes of religious conflict, scientific discovery, and personal transformation in colonial America. It sets the stage for future adventures, leaving readers intrigued about the potential paths for Ainsworth and Catherine.
More details
Series
Language
English
Product notice
Paperback (trade)
Unsewn / adhesive bound
Dimensions
Height: 229 mm
Width: 152 mm
Thickness: 15 mm
Weight
393 gr
ISBN-13
979-8-218-47947-3 (9798218479473)
Copyright in bibliographic data and cover images is held by Nielsen Book Services Limited or by the publishers or by their respective licensors: all rights reserved.
Schweitzer Classification
Person
Born in Connecticut, Bonnie Lee Rabe developed a love of the area from an early age. Bonnie's love of learning began with her playing "teacher" as a child and continued throughout her career as a public-school science teacher and administrator, professor and teacher of teachers, consultant, and author. Geologically and meteorologically, Connecticut provided a wealth of scientific models. As Bonnie absorbed the richness of her community and environment, she attended local schools and later became certified to teach through one of the State UniversitiesBonnie began a career as a science teacher in her hometown of Meriden, where she had grown up with urban myths about the black dog who roamed the Hanging Hills. For years she collected stories and brought tales to school. They became exciting parts of her classes. She taught courses in a range of sciences from public kindergarten through middle and high school. Bonnie received many awards in teaching and worked with new teachers, so it was natural for her to train to teach future teachers. After serving as a public-school administrator and raising three sons she returned to learning, earning a PhD in Educational Administration. Dr. Rabe transitioned into higher education and became a teacher of teachers. She developed programs and taught undergraduate, graduate, and doctorate level courses. She served as a professor, dean, and consultant to universities. Dr. Rabe encouraged her future teachers under her care to plan interactive and analytic experiences using All these experiences, knowledge, and interests coalesced into what, after several additional years of research, would become Discord and Light: A Connecticut Colony Novel.A survivor of a rare autoimmune condition, Seronegative Autoimmune Encephalitis, and Endometrial Cancer which triggered the condition; Bonnie continues to thrive with her sons, Jeremiah and Geoffrey, their families, and her Great Pyrenees, Alfred and Sia.