As an Californian, I can’t say that I have ever dreamed of reading the history of early Nova Scotia. But I was absolutely astonished to see the connections between the story of the Acadians and the development of American history. This book is thorough, engaging, and gives tremendous insight into the events in eastern North America, as well as places like “Cajun” Louisiana, in the mid-18th century – the exact time when revolutionary fervor was beginning to form in the United States. The Acadians’ refusal to take up arms in often spurious British wars eventually led to their cruel removal. But how relevant that is to a similar sentiment among the American colonials! Neutrality may be a noble end, but it often comes with a heavy price. The only small criticism I might make is the author’s implication that average New Englanders wanted the removal. It is important to remember that in 1755 they were not Americans yet, and had absolutely no say in this operation, which originated in London.