Trana Mathews’ historical novel “The Mathews Family” offers readers an immersive journey into late 18th-century America through the eyes of Dr. Increase Mathews, a multifaceted protagonist whose life spans pivotal moments in the nation’s early history. The story begins with young Increase’s earliest memory—the reading of the Declaration of Independence in 1776—and follows his coming-of-age during the Revolutionary War and its aftermath.
What distinguishes this novel is its meticulous historical detail and authentic portrayal of everyday life during this transformative period. Mathews skillfully depicts the hardships of war as experienced by those left behind: shortages of essential goods like sugar and whale oil, the struggle to maintain a farm without the men, and the constant anxiety for loved ones fighting far from home. The author’s attention to period-specific details—from clothing and food preparation to social customs and medical practices is clear, creating a richly textured world that feels lived-in and genuine.
The family dynamics form the emotional core of the story. Increase’s relationships with his brothers (particularly John and Elisha), his deeply religious mother Huldah, and his stern father Daniel are portrayed with nuance and complexity. These relationships evolve believably as Increase matures from a curious child to a thoughtful young man pursuing medical studies. The patriarch Daniel is particularly well-drawn—a harsh, sometimes cold man whose behavior reflects both the parenting norms of the era and his own personal struggles following his military service. His character reveals the psychological toll of war without modern psychological terminology or anachronistic sensibilities.
Beyond the immediate family, Mathews skillfully incorporates significant historical events into the narrative. The coverage of Shays’ Rebellion provides insight into the economic turmoil following the Revolutionary War and the debates that influenced the drafting of the Constitution. The novel also explores the violent conflicts between settlers and Native Americans in the Ohio Territory, presenting the harsh realities of frontier expansion without imposing contemporary moral judgments on historical figures. Letters from family members who have moved west serve to connect these broader historical currents to the Mathews’ family story.
The author excels at showing how national events impact individual lives, whether through militia service, economic hardship, or the opportunities and dangers presented by westward expansion. Medical practices of the period are depicted with unflinching realism, from brutal but necessary surgeries to the primitive understanding of disease and limited treatment options available. The scenes of Elisha’s foot amputation are particularly harrowing and effective in conveying the depressing medical realities of the era.
The novel’s educational value extends beyond major historical events to include insights into daily life. Readers learn about the strict social hierarchies, religious practices, gender roles, educational opportunities, and economic systems of rural Massachusetts. The descriptions of how families managed practical matters like food preservation, clothing production, and medical care provide valuable context for those studying the period. One criticism might be that the book is too slow and pacing occasionally slows during detailed historical explanations, but at the same time these sections provide valuable context that enriches the overall narrative. Some readers might find the formal dialogue and rigid social customs of the period initially challenging, but they contribute significantly to the novel’s authenticity. In addition, the extensive cast of characters can sometimes be difficult to track, though the family genealogies included in the book provide helpful reference.
Overall, the “The Mathews Family” is particularly remarkable for being based on the author’s own ancestry. Drawing from family records, letters, and diaries, Mathews blends documented history with thoughtful speculation to create a compelling story that honors her heritage while engaging modern readers. The included historical documents and author’s note detailing her research process add another layer of interest for history enthusiasts.
This novel will appeal to readers who appreciate meticulously researched historical fiction that doesn’t shy away from depicting the harsh realities of early American life. It offers valuable perspectives on how ordinary families experienced extraordinary times—the birth of a nation, economic crises, and the complex ethical questions surrounding westward expansion. As the first book in a saga, it effectively sets the stage for continuing Increase’s story as he ventures to the Ohio frontier, leaving readers eager to follow his journey westward in the promised sequel.
You can buy “The Matthews Family by Trana Matthews here!
