The Hinterlands

by Karen Mercury

The year is 1896. In the vast network of the Niger Delta waterways, where palm oil and blood flow from the hinterlands, the ancient Kingdom of Benin is under siege. Legendary trader and leopard hunter... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1932815112
• ISBN13: 9781932815115
• Release Date: March 2005
• Publisher: Medallion Press
• Length: 389 Pages
• Weight: 0.85 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.3" x 5.0" x 8.1"

Customer Reviews

goofy and fun historical romance

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

Applause! Applause!

"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.

Humor Combined With Vast Knowledge of an Exotic Place

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the first few chapters of "The Hinterlands" before it was published, and I was first of all in awe of the amount of historical content and research that was included in these writings.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.

A Wonderful, Rich, And Sensual Read!!!

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

Mercury writes with a richness unparalelled

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!