BLOOD FOR PEARLS

Editorial Reviews

Reviewed by Keana Sackett-Moomey for Readers' Favorite
Blood for Pearls: The First American Genocide by Peter Von Perle uncovers the grim history behind the beguiling Pearl Coast, pioneered by Christopher Columbus in 1498 during his third voyage. Set on Cubagua Island, this riveting historical thriller tracks the entwined journeys of Charaima, a Native American, and Dembe, an African slave. The European exploiters and invaders view Charaima's tribe as collateral damage and Dembe's people as mere tools to obtain their much-coveted pearls. At the center of this story lies a concealed pearl collection, which serves as an emblem of hope amidst the horrific enslavement and maltreatment encountered by the island's inhabitants. To find out if Charaima and Dembe escape the clutches of their oppressors and set their loved ones free, pick up this book.

Peter Von Perle's Blood for Pearls convincingly delves into a poignant chapter in world history. The narrative unfolds during the discovery of the Americas and vividly highlights the terrifying atrocities committed in the name of wealth, corruption, and power. The book is well-researched, has a fascinating storyline, and offers an intriguing look at the events that transpired during this harrowing historical period. Peter Von Perle skillfully explores the impact of Columbus' travels on the indigenous tribes, African slaves, and the natural surroundings of the Pearl Coast. Blood for Pearls is best suited to readers who enjoy historical fiction centered around Indigenous cultures and the ramifications of European invaders in the Americas. Von Perle's zeal for the subject matter is noticeable throughout this book, making it a particularly enlightening read for history buffs.