The Violent Friendship of Esther Johnson

The Violent Friendship of Esther Johnson, by Trudy J. Morgan-Cole is a fictionalized account of a true story. Esther Johnson was the lifelong and closest friend of Jonathan Swift, author of Gulliver's Travels. Some historians believe that they may have been secretly married, but they never lived together. The book isn't action-packed, being an account of an ordinary life, but it is interesting reading. It offers a vivid glimpse into 17th Century life that is fascinating, and also an examination of an unusual and mysterious relationship. And it brings Jonathan Swift to life as a real person.

Many of us are familiar with the story of Jonathan Swift, but few of us have heard of Esther Johnson who played a significant role in his life and success. Trudy J. Morgan-Cole has shined a much-needed light onto her compelling tale of love, friendship betrayal, forgiveness. I was surprised at how much I could relate to a woman of the late 17th century, her desire to explore, her determination to persevere, her rejection of conformity. I'll carry this character with me for a very long time.