A story of divided loyalties, The Belle of Chatham follows one family during the tumultuous years of the American Revolution.
The Belle of Chatham by Laura Frantz
Genre/Categories/Setting: Historical Fiction, American Revolution, Colonial America, U.S. History, Christian Fiction, Complicated Family Drama, Sisters, New Jersey and Virginia (Shenandoah Valley)
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My Summary:
Thanks #NetGalley @RevellBooks @RevellFiction for a complimentary eARC of #TheBelleOfChatham upon my request. All opinions are my own.
A family divided…
In 1777 during the American Revolution, two sisters (Maebel and Coralie) housed American officers in their family home. While Mae is a Patriot, Coralie’s sympathies lie with the Loyalists. Mae accepts the attentions of American General Rhys Harlow, and Coralie continues her relationship with her childhood sweetheart, a British officer. Each sister must make difficult and life-threatening choices that strain loyalties.
My Thoughts:
Themes
The Belle of Chatham includes a few powerful themes such as trust, divided loyalties, sisterhood, betrayal, espionage, grief, hardships, faith, reconciliation, and forgiveness.
Pace
The first half of the book is character-driven as we become acquainted with the characters, the setting, and the conflict. As the story progresses, it becomes more plot-driven as the war affects the characters’ relationships and physical safety.
Inspirational
Scripture is quoted throughout the story as characters face difficult situations and seek comfort and hope.
In addition, each chapter begins with an inspiring quote or observation from a variety of different leaders and important people of the time.
Strong Sense of Place
I enjoyed the strong sense of place and vivid descriptions of the conflict and battles, living conditions, and attitudes. All the details provide an excellent idea of what it would have been like to live in 1777 America. I’m always reminded of and impressed by how hard women worked!
Sisters
If you enjoy complicated family drama and stories of sister relationships, you might the relationship here compelling. Mae is a Patriot and Coralie is a Loyalist. But is Coralie also a spy? Should Mae be worried or concerned enough to report her? How dangerous is this situation?
Recommending The Belle of Chatham:
Fans of historical fiction and the American Revolution will appreciate The Belle of Chatham. In her author notes, Laura Frantz states that she “wrote this novel with our nation’s 250th anniversary of independence in mind.” I think you will enjoy her writing style. Frantz is on my “authors to watch” list!
Related: You might also enjoy The Seamstress of Acadie and The Indigo Heiress by the same author.
My Rating: 4 Stars
Meet the Author of The Belle of Chatham, Laura Frantz
Laura Frantz has been writing stories since age seven. She is passionate about all things historical, particularly the 18th-century and her novels often incorporate Scottish themes that reflect her family heritage. She is a direct descendant of George Hume, Wedderburn Castle, Berwickshire, Scotland, who was exiled to the American colonies for his role in the Jacobite Rebellion of 1715, settled in Virginia, and is credited with teaching George Washington surveying in the years 1748-1750. Proud of her heritage, she is also a Daughter of the American Revolution. Though she will always consider Kentucky home, she and her husband live in Washington State. Her bestselling, award-winning novels have been translated into various languages. Visit her website and sign up for her newsletter.
QOTD:
Do you enjoy stories of the American Revolution?
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I’ve read very few books set during the American Revolution, and it’s nice to see one that focuses on family and divided loyalties. It must have been so difficult for families. Great review, Carol.
Relatable to today! 😂