Ambition, Arrogance & Pride: Families & Rivals in 18th Century Salem

2023 Goethe Prize Finalist in Late Historical Fiction

“The particular attention-aid to food, fashion and high society of the time ... will satisfy history buffs and historical fiction readers alike.” —IndieReader

“An elaborately detailed period piece packed with intriguing nuggets of history.” —Kirkus

“Wagner-Wright’s prose is both engaging and descriptive, and her attention to detail and passion for the families’ history shines through with every word.” —The BookLife Prize

“Wagner-Wright breathes life into the world through the vernacular of the time and rich descriptions of the dress, table settings, and social decorum, developing a vivid view of Colonial America.” —Chanticleer Book Reviews

“[A] transportive historical novel of Colonial marriage, shipping, and life.” —BookLife by Publishers Weekly

“If you love Jane Austin, you will love Sandra Wagner-Wright.” — Readers’ Favorite

“Sandra Wagner-Wright is an excellent storyteller with a natural flair for historical accuracy and powerful character development.” —Seattle Book Review

In 18th Century Salem, Massachusetts, the ambitious Derby and Crowninshield families vie for power amid a shifting social and political landscape.

After the heartbreaking loss of their first child, Mary Hodges Derby and her husband Captain Richard Derby are blessed with a healthy son named Richard who is soon followed by four brothers and three sisters. All but one of the Derby boys follow their father to sea to secure their fortunes from America’s lucrative but treacherous trade routes to the West Indies and beyond.

When Captain Derby’s oldest son comes of age, he decides to retire from the sea and establish a merchant house. Two of Richard’s brothers follow him as captains of their own ships, but Captain Derby keeps his son Hasket ashore to manage the family’s growing trade network.

George Crowninshield, the youngest of four brothers, sails for the Derby family enterprise and ultimately marries Hasket’s sister Mary. Meanwhile, George’s sister Eliza makes a match with Hasket Derby.

Though the two families are united by wedlock, rivalries, political turmoil, and questionable choices reveal the complex consequences of unchecked ambition, arrogance, and pride.

Set during a pivotal time in Salem's history when Americans broke their colonial ties with Great Britain, this gripping work of historical fiction explores the depth of human relationships through nuanced characters and vivid historical details. Recipes from the era bring the sights and flavors of 18th century Salem to life, while a glossary illuminates the context of the times.

If you enjoy books by John Jakes, you will enjoy reading about the Crowninshield and Derby families in 18thcentury Salem, Massachusetts. Perfect for fans of early American history and atmospheric fiction, this novel offers an intimate look at life in colonial New England.