Beneath the Kauri Tree (The Sea of Freedom Trilogy Book 2)

Set in late 1800s, this is a tale of life in New Zealaand against a backdrop of attempts at social reform involving votes for women and Maoris and also the rites of the indigenous population. I feel this book is too long with too much 'telling' and not enough 'showing'. While information (in this case Maori customs) is always welcome, it can be overdone which it is here, I feel. At times the story is just that bit too convenient. Some characters are just abandoned or forgotten. I appreciate this is volume two of a trilogy but a little more detail of the earlier lives of the principals and their interaction would be welcomed. The basic storyline is absorbing but the information sidetracks are distracting

2nd book in the series, that i have read, a real page turner, a great cast of characters. A final woven plot, interesting learning about New Zealand's treatment of the Maoris, withe the government making laws to grab the land from them,Looking forward to the third book in the series, Treat thee sen to these books tha waint be dissapointed.

I couldn't not read this second book after enjoying the first book so much. I was not disappointed and the story continued where it left off. I am currently reading book number three in the saga. I also learnt quite a lot about New Zealand's history. I would recommend this trilogy and will be looking out for more books by this author.

Second in the series. I loved the characters and their entwining. The historical nature of the book was fascinating. I have visited and had the blessing and privilige of staying at Parihaka. I'm not sure the whole story and tone has been provided but it is a novel not a report I guess. In any case this is a must read... fabulous book

I am still reading this book and at the present time I am about half way through it.Just like book one, I am finding the story line to be very interesting and have no hesitation in giving this book top marks. I look forward to completing this book and when book three is released I shall no doubt thoroughly enjoy reading that too.

Was not impressed with the first few chapters but going on could not put this book down. So much history of New Zealand was exposed to me along with all the distasteful conduct imposed on the Maori people.

Gave up half way as it was long drawn out ¬ nearly as good or gripping as the first book..hope I don't end up struggling with the third book

I found this book very intense. If you have connections with New Zealand I am sure you will find it very interesting especially the fight for votes for women.I won't read the third.