These are the stories of nine white women who were taken captive between 1806 and 1874 by the Māori of New Zealand. Elizabeth Guard and Betsy Broughton both witnessed the slaughter and consumption of family members. Two other women, about to meet the same fate, were saved by Māori women of mana who threw their mats over them, thus making them tapu. Captives Mary Bell and Caroline Perrett eventually chose to remain permanently with the Māori people.

Tauranga author Trevor Bentley has conducted outstanding research in order to uncover these stories and also to separate truth from fiction. Unfortunately there is no first-hand record of the women’s experience but their courage and resilience in the face of sometimes terrifying ordeals shines through. Included is a cross-section of women from the time, including those from convict; whaling; trading; missionary and farming backgrounds. This is an excellent, thought provoking book that brings previously unpublished New Zealand stories to the fore and provides an insight into both Māori and Pakeha culture in 19th century New Zealand. ( )