Subject
New York (State) -- History -- Revolution, 1775-1783 -- Fiction Books
Best books
James Fenimore Cooper
The Spy
"The Spy" by James Fenimore Cooper is a novel published in 1821. Set during the American Revolution, the story unfolds in the neutral ground between British and Continental forces in New York. When a mysterious stranger seeks shelter at a Loyalist family's home, a web of secrets, disguises, and divided loyalties emerges. At the center is Harvey Birch, a peddler suspected of espionage, whose true allegiance remains hidden. Romance, duty, and deception collide as characters navigate the dangerous landscape between warring sides.
Robert W. (Robert William) Chambers
Cardigan
"Cardigan" by Robert W. Chambers is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story is set in the colonial period of America, specifically around the year 1774, and follows the life and adventures of a young boy named Michael Cardigan. As he navigates his coming of age in a world filled with conflict and early American pioneer life, themes of loyalty, ambition, and personal identity unfold throughout the narrative. At the start of the novel, Michael is portrayed as a rebellious and willful boy at the cusp of adulthood, feeling tethered by the constraints of his schooling and the expectations set by his guardian, Sir William Johnson. The opening chapters provide a glimpse into Michael's struggles with authority, his desire for independence, and his yearning for escapism through fishing. His relationship with Silver Heels, a spirited girl who is equally determined, is central to the narrative, illustrating childhood conflicts and camaraderie. The arrival of a new schoolmaster and the backdrop of impending conflicts add tension and anticipation for Michael's journey towards self-discovery and historical significance, setting the stage for a tale rich with adventure and character development.
Robert W. (Robert William) Chambers
The Reckoning
"The Reckoning" by Robert W. Chambers is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative delves into the tumultuous period of the American Revolutionary War, focusing particularly on the experiences of prominent families in northern New York. The story features the protagonist, Carus Renault, as he navigates the challenges of being a spy amidst the intricacies of loyalty and betrayal in a divided nation. The opening of the novel introduces a complex world filled with espionage and the emotional toll it takes on those involved. Carus Renault, serving as the secretary to a loyalist, grapples with his dual identity: while outwardly blending into British society, he covertly assists the revolutionary cause. This tension is heightened by his interactions with friends and acquaintances who are unaware of his true allegiance. The narrative sets the stage for Carus's internal conflicts and introduces themes of honor, duty, and the painful consequences of war, as he reflects on his circumstances with a mix of determination and self-loathing. Through engaging prose, Chambers crafts an atmosphere rich with historical detail and personal stakes, drawing readers into Carus's secret life and the looming threats of the era.
Robert W. (Robert William) Chambers
The Little Red Foot
"The Little Red Foot" by Robert W. Chambers is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. This engaging narrative is set in colonial America during a crucial time leading up to the Revolutionary War, focusing on the life and legacy of Sir William Johnson, an influential figure known for his relationships with Native Americans and his role in the British colonies. The book introduces themes of loyalty, honor, and the complex intersections of colonial politics, which are embodied in the lives of its characters, including Sir William's son, Sir John Johnson. At the start of the story, Sir William Johnson's passing is depicted as a monumental event, marking the end of an era. The opening chapters provide insight into his significance as a leader who sought to maintain peace between colonists and Indigenous tribes amid the brewing tensions that signal the coming revolutionary conflict. Following his death, key characters, including his son Sir John and various members of colonial society, are shown navigating their grief while also grappling with the ominous political landscape. The story hints at personal conflicts and broader societal shifts, layered with the tensions between loyalty to the Crown and emerging revolutionary sentiments among the colonists.
Robert W. (Robert William) Chambers
The Maid-At-Arms: A Novel
"The Maid-At-Arms: A Novel" by Robert W. Chambers is a historical novel written during the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of a great war, it follows the protagonist, George Ormond, as he navigates the complexities of family ties, allegiances, and personal honor in the politically charged atmosphere of colonial America. The narrative hints at the tumultuous relationships among various families, including the Varicks and Butlers, interwoven with themes of loyalty, conflict, and the harsh realities of war. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to George Ormond, who is on his way to Varicks' Manor, where he hopes to connect with his northern relatives. The opening portion presents his encounter with Jack Mount, a candid and imposing figure who foreshadows the chaotic family dynamics that lie ahead. As George approaches the manor, he experiences a sense of unfamiliarity and homesickness for his southern roots. The narrative sets the stage for a series of interactions with his eccentric relatives, particularly his cousin Dorothy Varick, hinting at the wild nature of their household, and revealing the mounting tensions surrounding the ongoing war. Through vivid descriptions and dialogues, Chambers establishes the conflict between personal relationships and the broader historical implications of loyalty during wartime, drawing readers into a richly detailed world filled with intrigue and emotional depth.
James Fenimore Cooper
The Chainbearer; Or, The Littlepage Manuscripts
"The Chainbearer; Or, The Littlepage Manuscripts" by James Fenimore Cooper is a novel published in 1845. The second book in the Littlepage trilogy, it explores land ownership and the displacement of American Indians during westward expansion. Through the figure of the chainbearer—a surveyor who measures land—Cooper examines the cultural divide between European and Native American concepts of property. The novel critiques the growing corruption of civilization and America's treatment of indigenous peoples as the nation expands.
James Fenimore Cooper
The Spy: Condensed for use in schools
"The Spy: Condensed for use in schools" by James Fenimore Cooper is a novel published in 1821. Set during the American Revolution, it unfolds in the neutral ground between British and Continental forces. When a mysterious stranger named Mr. Harper seeks shelter at a Loyalist family's home, a web of intrigue begins involving a suspected spy, disguised officers, and dangerous loyalties. The peddler Harvey Birch becomes central to questions of patriotism and deception, while romance and duty collide amid the chaos of war.
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.
James Fenimore Cooper
Wyandotté; Or, The Hutted Knoll: A Tale
"Wyandotté; Or, The Hutted Knoll: A Tale" by James Fenimore Cooper is a historical novel published in 1843. Set in New York during the American Revolution, the story centers on "Saucy Nick," also known as Wyandotté, an Indian character who defies conventional Native American stereotypes. Cooper draws from regional oral histories and firsthand soldier accounts to challenge established narratives of the New York-Canada border war, creating what critics have called one of his more successful works.
Robert Neilson Stephens
The Continental Dragoon A Love Story of Philipse Manor-House in 1778
"The Continental Dragoon" by Robert Neilson Stephens is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. Set during the American Revolutionary War, specifically in the year 1778, the story revolves around Elizabeth Philipse, a young woman navigating the dangers of war as she embarks on a journey to the family manor house. Joined by Major John Colden and her young black servant Cuff, the characters must confront the perils that come with their quest for safety and familiarity in a war-torn landscape. The opening of the novel introduces the main characters as they travel northward along the Albany post-road in an autumn setting filled with tension and uncertainty. Elizabeth, defying her family's wishes, is determined to reach the manor, showcasing her strong will and independence. Major Colden, displaying a moody discontent, shadows her out of a mix of duty and affection, highlighting the dynamics of their relationship. As they ride, historical context is woven into the narrative, painting a vivid picture of the precarious situation in New York and the surrounding areas, where dangers from British forces and loyalist raiders loom. The initial chapter sets the stage for both the character-driven narrative and the broader themes of love, loyalty, and survival amidst the backdrop of an evolving nation.
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