Subject
American loyalists -- Fiction Books
Best books
Frederick Forest
Iron Hand, Chief of the Tory League; or, The Double Face
"Iron Hand, Chief of the Tory League; or, The Double Face" by Frederick Forest is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story is set during the American Revolutionary War and follows Captain Edgar Sherwood, a young aristocrat of English descent who, feeling wronged by his homeland, joins the colonial cause against British rule. As tensions rise, the narrative unfolds around Sherwood's quarreling with his betrothed's Tory father and his subsequent heroic actions against the Tory League, a group led by the nefarious Iron Hand. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Sherwood's beliefs and convictions as he debates enlisting in the Continental army with his fiancée's father, Thomas Lear. Their heated argument leads to a severance of their relationship, propelling Sherwood into action. Soon after, he is positioned with his regiment at Fort Ann, receiving news of an impending attack from the Tory League. As the soldiers prepare for battle, Sherwood's loyalties and personal struggles are highlighted, particularly as he contemplates the dangers of love and war. The opening sets up an emotionally charged atmosphere that blends themes of duty, betrayal, and the fight for freedom, laying the groundwork for a tale of valor and conflict.
William R. (William Reynolds) Eyster
Wild Nat, the Trooper; or, The Cedar Swamp Brigade
"Wild Nat, the Trooper; or, The Cedar Swamp Brigade" by William R. Eyster is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story takes place during the American Revolutionary War, focusing on the struggles of patriotism and the complexities of character amidst the turbulence of war. The central characters, Nathaniel "Wild Nat" Ernshaw and John Vale, embody the youthful determination to fight for their country, while Catherine Vale adds a layer of personal conflict regarding love and loyalty." "At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to the somber backdrop of despair during a critical time in American history, filled with doubts about the revolution's success. The story shares the intimate dynamics between Catherine Vale, her mother, and their discussions about the questionable character of Nat Ernshaw, who is a friend to the family but holds a notorious reputation in their community. As the tale unfolds, Ernshaw rallies support for the American cause, while suspicions of betrayal loom in the air, hinting at conflicts that will arise in future chapters. The scene sets the stage for both personal and wartime struggles, hinting at escalating tensions and adventures that await the characters."
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