A Dream of Empire; Or, The House of Blennerhassett

"A Dream of Empire; Or, The House of Blennerhassett" by William Henry Venable is a historical fiction piece that plunges into the lives of the Blennerhassett family on the early American frontier, primarily spotlighting the unique Harman Blennerhassett. Set in the early 1800s, the story uses a backdrop of expansion, political drama, and personal desires painted against the vivid scenery of early America to highlight the intricacies of life during this era. Readers are introduced to Peter Taylor, the overseer on Blennerhassett Island, in the opening scenes as he watches over his enslaved workforce amidst a stunning spring landscape. A curious fellow, Plutarch Byle, then enters the picture, causing amusing and interesting encounters as he is acquainted with Peter and Harman Blennerhassett individually. The introduction highlights character relationships building and foreshadows problems of their lives and the repercussions of their aspirations in a civilization in fast transition. The writing style is detailed and gives a lively image of life along the Ohio River during a transforming point in the history of America.