Abbie Spence,
Philosophy-Lit Major
Time Travel and
Changing History
The Robinson Crusoe
Connection
About the Author and
his Next Book
All content ©2000
Arch Grove Press
ISLAND WOMAN: WHAT READERS SAY
JMN on Amazon.Com—
"This is a well-written page turner which combines philosophy, anthropology, history and adventure…It reminds the reader of the best work of Jean Auel, Robert Heinlein, Diana Gabaldon…But it is not only adventure. It is a thought-provoking examination of the modern human whose philosophies may not always agree with current reality, but finds that an opportunity to change that reality bears significant responsibilities and burdens. The author exhibits a talent for story-telling and captivating the reader."
The Oregonian—
"Abbie has some shipboard adventures—you better believe she does…Sessions has a good imagination…An appealing yarn with a nice historical twist and a strong heroine."
Library Journal—
"…Abbie's adjustments to strange, unfriendly cultures are interesting…it is easy to be caught up in [this]…story."
Booknews, The Poisoned Pen—
"Time travel, fantasy, adventure, and real and imagined history blend in an unusual, lively, informed read. The astute reader will recognize Selkirk by another name."
Publishers Marketing Assn., B. Franklin Awards Reviewers—
"[Sessions] wrote from a unique perspective…[and] has a gift for weaving an intriguing story. History buffs…will find it fascinating."
"Completely enjoyable novel. The blend of modern time and that of 300 years ago was done well. The idea of time travel in this fashion is unique."
California HISTORIAN—
"Sessions does a great job of inventing a situation in which a bright and attractive modern-day woman goes [to 1704]. How she is to get back … makes a good story. We learn quite a bit about the history of the west coasts of both North and South America. We also learn what might have happened had it not been for the rigorous efforts of the Spanish fleet."
Science Fiction Chronicle—
"An interesting historical novel set inside the fantastic frame."
Robyn Parnell, author of "People Like You" and other short stories—
"[Sessions has] created an authentic voice for Abbie—a young woman possessing both a great deal of education and spirit…I got very much 'into' Abbie's adventures; in fact, the epilogue made me want a sequel."
Alan Caruba, Editor of Bookviews, and Charter Member of the National Book Critics Circle—
"A novel for historical fiction lovers and nautical buffs…this tale…is an intellectual as well as entertaining story and would make a terrific movie."
Anne Mavor, author of Strong Hearts, Inspired Minds—
"Island Woman took me on a rollicking journey…Sessions has combined the best of adventure, romance, mystery, sci-fi, and historical fiction…[The] story is both fun and serious."
Salem Statesman Journal—
"…Meticulously researched…Its premise allows for contemplation of historical and moral history…Its re-creation of the Pacific coast in the early 1700s is evocative and compelling."
Herbert K. Beals, Marine Historian—
"[The] historical setting has been painstakingly researched, leaving the reader with a solid feeling of authenticity…[The] story line keeps the reader turning the pages…[There are] provocative philosophical nuggets…One is treated to a special kind of magic that convincingly transports the reader into an entirely different time and some very unusual places."
Bess Christensen, Reed College '38—
"I've just read Island Woman with much enjoyment, and compliment you on your fancy as well as on your extensive research. I'm a graduate of Reed College and have lived for the last 26 years in Chumash Country on California's Central Coast…thank you for writing a fine story and I'll look forward to reading your next book."
Nancy Lastreto, Reader—
"I appreciate all the research and study that went into such a project. I found I couldn't put it down. [The] imagery was perfect and I felt at times I was Abbie. What a great and enriching experience it was to read."
