Virginia Dare: A Romance of the Sixteenth Century

"Virginia Dare: A Romance of the Sixteenth Century" by E. A. B. Shackleford is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The book revolves around the experiences of Virginia Dare, the first English child born in America, and it captures the struggles of early colonizers amid native tribes and the challenges of survival in an unfamiliar land. Key characters include Virginia's mother, Eleanor Dare, and notable settlers like Master Bradford, highlighting themes of faith, community, and the tension between cultures." "The opening of the novel introduces readers to the setting of Roanoke Island, where tension among the colonists is palpable as they discuss the implications of Virginia’s birth and the threat posed by nearby Native American tribes. The narrative kicks off with conversation among settlers, reflecting their anxiety and ambivalence towards their precarious position. Alongside the excitement of Virginia’s arrival, there is a deep sense of foreboding about their future in this new world, as tensions escalate between them and the native populations, highlighted by the internal conflicts among English settlers themselves regarding leadership and safety."