This books starts excellently. A perfect blend of historical facts and fictional characters. As the generations pass, it is more difficult to keep track of who everyone is and from who they came. A family tree updated at the beginning/end of each era would be helpful. If you are going to read this book, I recommend you keeping your own family tree tracking to keep up with what's going on. The book should have stopped in the 60's. After that, not as much depth and less of a historical feel than a sitcom. Plus no resolution for Master's Native American descendants and their connection to his white family. Hi hopes but disappointing in the end.