ABIGAIL TRENCH by Randy Overbeck

 4 out of 5 stars

On Amazon (universal link)
On Goodreads

How I discovered this book: it was submitted to Rosie's Book Review Team, of which I am a member.

In a Nutshell: Intrigue and divided loyalities during the American War of Independence

I found this story fascinating, as I knew little about the American War of Independence - good, well-researched novels can add so much to your historical knowledge of the world.  I hadn't realised this war went on for so long!  At all times, the atmosphere was realistic, with many day to day and small details that were clearly well researched.  The pace was just right, the plot well constructed.

Almost without exception, the British military activity was monstrous. I pictured the characters of all ranks with stained waistcoats stretched over portly stomachs, their noses red from drinking, their eyes dead and flat; they were horribly real!  In contrast, Washington's men, and every ragged pick-pocketer on the side of the rebels, had hearts of gold and courage.  But that wasn't a problem; I am sure many Reeves and Hollisters existed at the time, and I loved the character of Jamie (ragged pick-pocketer).  I have read a bit about the prison ships where the British incarcerated rebel prisoners, and the author has not exaggerated a bit.  The treatment of those poor men and boys was horrific.

I was slightly bothered by the English using American words and phrases (only a couple), and expressions too modern for the time, also the use of the word 'black' with a capital letter, whenever a servant was mentioned.  I realise this is a mark of respect for black people and their servitude of those days, but it felt out of place in this novel.

All in all, this is a book well worth reading.  Abigail is a fine heroine who you want to see have a happy ending, and ditto the Monteiths and Molly.  Most of all, though, I loved the detail about Washington's spy ring.