Mr. Nathans is brilliant at reconstructing Mary Walker's life and her relationship with Peter and Susan Lesley.

WSJ: Book Review: To Free a Family

The only impediment to Walker's running away had been lifted: "No matter what happened she would lose her children, " Mr. Nathans writes.

WSJ: Book Review: To Free a Family

Mr. Nathans creates a vibrant and subtle portrait of the Lesleys, enabling readers to decide for themselves how trusting Mary Walker's relationship with them became.

WSJ: Book Review: To Free a Family