The main characters William and Bess are so interesting and lively that readers will be able to find a little bit of Will or Bess in themselves. Will is from a notable family. However, he is not satisfied with his life, especially because his father and older brother constantly remind him that he is the misfit of the family. Bess, on the other hand, was born with nothing. Since her parents were murdered by the redcoats, she has been taking care of herself. Just like her father once was, she is also a highwayman who aids the poor and the weak.

Book-smart and sympathetic Will and street-smart and feisty Bess make a fantastic team. They encounter dangers and moral dilemmas. I was very pleased with the character developments of Will and Bess. Independent and stubborn Bess is slowly but surely showing her soft and tender side, and Will transforms from a cowardly boy to a brave young man.

The easy-to-understand plot is very exciting, and the words and expressions that the author Nicola Morgan uses are imaginative and descriptive. Several times, I paused to close my eyes and imagined the landscape of wild Yorkshire moors and the scenes that Will and Bess were facing.

Before you check this book, I highly recommend you to read Alfred Noyes’ poem “The Highwayman”, which is the basis and the inspiration of The Highwayman’s Footsteps. Conveniently, the poem is featured at the end of the book.

This is a tale packed with glory, moral lessons and adventures. Adults and both teen boys and girls who are interested in history or adventure, will enjoy this book. I cannot wait to read the sequel, The Highwayman's Curse.

-Pat Trabi has been a writer for Shakefire.com since 2007.

Talk About This Article on our MESSAGE BOARDS or submit your COMMENTS below: