4 Stars
Intriguing bit of history
Having not being familiar with the culture of St. Croix, I definitely scanned the
glossary on the front of the book. When a story provides a glossary, I've learned to read it. The story, calling itself "Fireburn" is a reflection of the history of St. Croix, which did really take place. Gidley tells a great story, weaving the intricacies of history throughout. The characters and characterizations of them bring the reader right in the middle of the story, and feeling the sense of culture. Gidley paints beautiful words to show the story to the reader, and not just tell it.