Escape: Book One of The Unchained Trilogy

Family secrets...why are they hidden, how are they discovered, what do they cost? Escape, part one of a dramatic and explosive historical fiction trilogy that opens a compelling American family saga of love, deceit, emotional destruction and in the end, forgiveness...

"Maria McKenzie has tackled a powerful theme for this ambitious [trilogy]." - Stephen Birmingham, New York Times bestselling novelist

"Can't stress how much I love this book. The story is so captivating and realistic that I stayed up all night reading it. Can't wait for book 2..."- Adelaide, United Kingdom

"...the book is a joy to read. What warms the heart is Daniel and Lori's simple love for each other and their strong trust in God. It literally shines through Maria's writing...A very simple, compelling and historically authentic read." Maria Mohan, Maria's Book Blog

"...the author had a good plot and strong characters...I do see definite potential for [her] to be one of the brilliant authors of our time..." -Desere Steenberg, Historical Romance Reviews

"Maria McKenzie's gift in the use of dialogue creates a novel which cannot be put aside until the end. It is almost as if one is literally watching a panoramic movie..." Michele Prell, Amazon Review

"For those who enjoy love stories filled with fantasy and gratuitous sex, ESCAPE may leave you wanting. But for real love, love that weathers and conquers society's propensity to marginalize that which is not mainstream, a more compelling story will be hard to find." E.W. Hughes, Amazon Review

Daniel and Lori love each other, yet to live as one in 1856, they must escape from the unyielding society that imprisons them. Lori was born a slave in North Carolina, yet by chance was raised alongside Daniel in a wealthy abolitionist household.

The sudden death of Daniel's mother catapults Lori back into bondage. Relegated to chattel on a rice plantation, Lori lives in constant fear under the tormenting scrutiny of Daniel's wretched aunt.

After Daniel fails to convince his relatives to free Lori, he is compelled to devise a daring escape. Although a life threatening endeavor for both of them, Lori's freedom is priceless to Daniel, and he's willing to pay such a price for her love.