Haven: A Historical Fiction Novel

Abstract

In the 1840s, Transcendentalism was sweeping New England with writers such as Emerson, Hawthorne, and Fuller drawing attention to this spiritual and intellectual movement. While Transcendentalism remains a popular topic, little is known about the experimental utopian communities it inspired. Based on the historic community of Brook Farm, Haven centers around Alice Russell, a young woman who moves to Wood Haven Agricultural and Consciousness Community in 1843. Naïve, hopeful, and determined, Alice makes Wood Haven her home, growing close to members of the community. But, just as Alice begins to flourish, natural disasters and financial struggles threaten the foundation of the once-idyllic community. Set against the natural backdrop of agrarian Massachusetts, this historical fiction novel examines the human condition and how unforeseen circumstances and human fallibility can change the course of lives. Exploring themes of spirituality, religion, feminism, sensuality, ambition, and community, the story follows Alice as she navigates a rapidly changing world. As her community shifts and the country rumbles with debates on equal rights and rumors of inevitable war, Alice must hold tight to her beliefs and learn to stand on her own.