Writes Historical Fiction

Ambition, Arrogance and Pride

Families & Rivals in 18th Century
Salem Salem Stories Book 1

Three Weddings — Two Rival Families

Richard Derby, a young man of modest prospects, made his living at sea until he retired to establish a merchant house. With one exception, his sons followed in his footsteps. Hasket Derby remained in Salem learning the business.

Richard’s daughter Mary married George Crowninshield; his son Hasket married George’s sister Eliza. Against the backdrop of tensions between Great Britain and her American colonies, George and Hasket built their trading empires. After Americans gained independence in 1783, their sons sailed everywhere trade took place from the West Indies to the Baltic Sea, from Isle de France to Batavia, India, and China.

Inspired by true events, this is the story of two rival families who made their fortunes in the new United States of America.

BOOK SAMPLE

“Sandra Wagner-Wright is an excellent storyteller with a natural flair for historical accuracy and powerful character development.”
– SEATTLE BOOK REVIEW

“If you love Jane Austin, you will love Sandra Wagner-Wright”
– READER’S FAVORITE

“Wagner-Wright’s prose is both engaging and descriptive, and her attention to detail and passion for the families’ history shines through with every word.”
– THE BOOKLIFE PRIZE

“Wagner-Wright breathes life into the world through the vernacular of the time and rich descriptions of the dress, table settings, and social decorum, developing a vivid view of Colonial America.”
– CHANTICLEER BOOK REVIEWS WWW.CHANTIREVIEWS.COM

“[A] transportive historical novel of Colonial marriage, shipping, and life.”
– BOOKLIFE

“An elaborately detailed period piece packed with intriguing nuggets of history.”
– KIRKUS

“The particular attention paid to food, fashion, and high society of the time … will satisfy history buffs and historical fiction readers alike.”
– INDIE READER

Audiobook Review

“This audio version of Ambition, Arrogance and Pride shines as the well-crafted story unfolds through a reading that deeply understands it. Fans of historical fiction, Americana, and Revolutionary narratives alike will be gripped with interest throughout this book. A must-have for Wagner-Wright fans and readers who want a great listen on long walks, commutes, or road trips.”
Five Stars —Chanticleer Book Reviews.

More About Narrator Christa Lewis.