Escaping the violence of the Spanish Inquisition in the 1600s, Catalyntje Trico follows an unexpected path to the Dutch Colony of New Netherland. Creating a life in the New World tests her resolve to protect her family from the challenges they face in this isolated land that is their home. As her family faces war, weather, and death, Catalyntje must remain strong to guard against forces that could overcome them. Her life opens a window to New Netherland, and as Catalyntje’s story unfolds, it becomes apparent that she was the only European to witness every day the colony existed. Catalyntje’s poignant story is a tapestry woven with courage, determination, and love. It is a powerful reminder of the profound impact our individual lives can have on others, even for generations to come. "I am biased because I am related to Catalyntje Trico. I have read Island at the Center of the World by Russell Shorto, but this historical fiction account of the settlement of New Amsterdam (New York) by Lana Holden is so descriptive and yet still fact-based. It would be great for any student of U.S. history to read it in order to better understand the challenges of our early colonizers, their relationships to the Native Americans, and their amazing strengths. Thank you, Lana, for writing this wonderful book! I'm so grateful." "I read your book and enjoyed it very much. It is clear that you did an enormous amount of research, and the result is that you recreated the world of New Amsterdam/New Netherland most vividly. I learned so much. I loved the way you brought in so many details including the way people dealt with creating a new life in a wild and difficult land, the Kieft Wars, the relations with the Native Americans, the arrival of the British, and so on. I came to like Catalyntje very much." "I loved this book! Catalyntje's story is so full of bravery and persistence!! Ms. Holden brought her alive to me with her writing which I really appreciate. The story of Fort Orange, New Amsterdam and New Netherlands is important to the history our country. I recognized a lot of information from historical records. A book about a strong woman by a strong woman is important for all of us." "I really love this book, but it's not something I would've normally read." "It was wonderful learning about Catalyntje Trico and about life in New Amsterdam in the 17th century. In a simple writing style, the author truly brought the period to life and included so many interesting and important historical details that are generally not well known. A charming book." Lana Waite Holden is an educator residing in the Pacific Northwest. She teaches history and English to junior high students and has recently published her first historical fiction novel. In her leisure time, Lana and her husband enjoy wandering through the forests of the Cascade Mountains with their black lab. Lana also enjoys reading books and old journals, tending her garden, visiting cemeteries, and discovering interesting historical facts wherever she can find them.