Colonial Boston, Nantucket - 1775

Dissatisfied with dirty, dreary London, Alice Cole’s father decides to move his family to Philadelphia, but things go from bad to worse. The ship is blown off-course, and the food supply runs short. There are whispers of mutiny echoing throughout the ship. Even worse, Alice’s mother and brothers die of fever. When land is sighted, it isn’t Philadelphia, but Boston. Still, Alice is prepared to start anew. But there is no smile on her father’s face as he takes Alice’s hand and walks her over to the family to whom she is bound in servitude until her eighteenth birthday. Simeon Cole walks away, and never looks back. Will Alice ever see her father again?

The Morton family takes Alice in, and she becomes a companion to Mr. Morton’s daughter, Nabby. Life is good; Alice is fed, clothed and taught to read. When Nabby marries, Mr. Morton gives Alice to his daughter as her servant. Things change immediately when Verley, Nabby’s new husband, repeatedly rapes and beats Alice. Even worse, Nabby knows what is happening, but does nothing. How can her childhood friend turn a blind eye? Alice, in fear for her life, runs away.

BOUND follows the story of Alice, now fifteen years old, pregnant, alone, and a fugitive. Young and terrified as she is, Alice learns how to survive. Ultimately, she stows aboard a ship, and when the ship docks in Nantucket, she meets Lyddie, a kind and compassionate widow, and her friend, Freeman. Alice learns to listen at doors, snitch food and pennies. Sleeping is fitful, with one eye open, because the fear of rape never leaves Alice’s thoughts. She begins a new life until her past catches up with her. Alice is arrested and is put in jail. She now faces a trial that could result in her hanging. Who will listen to her story, and who will believe her? Who will care?

Sally Gunning weaves a powerful, brooding story. Based on life in 1775, the historical flavor and research done by Ms. Gunning heightens the story, bringing forth the feeling of being there and witnessing Alice’s harsh and bitter life. Alice is a simple girl, yet her struggles and strength will win the reader's heart. This is a difficult story to read, yet once started, it's mesmerizing.

Deborah C Jackson