I live in Northeast Ohio and I was drawn to this book when I first saw it for sale. I am quite familiar with the settling of the Western Reserve here in my area, but was not aware that Marietta, Ohio was the first settlement of the Northwest Territory. I read the first quarter of the book quite slowly but picked up speed after that. It is a compelling read and one that provides much information on this time period. Full of details about settler life, battles with the Natives, and some political intrigue, its one you won't want to miss. Now, I'm planning a trip to that area very soon. Can't wait!