Ghost of the White Nights

L. E. Modesitt, Jr. is one of my favorite authors and I was excited to discover a new set of novels in an alternate reality where the Dutch have more influence in the settling of the New World. The attraction for me was not just in the story, but also in the music and meals. As a musciian finding an author who recognizes how much work goes into a performance was wonderful. As a cook finding someone who could describe the meals was delectable. In other words Modesitt allows us to form a picture of the characters as they go through the day, they're not just shadows to push the plot but their skills are integral to the story.