First published 2003
The chess game of the American Revolution reaches its climax as Washington maneuvers his forces toward Yorktown in October 1781. British General Clinton's poor leadership has left Cornwallis trapped, while Lafayette burns with military ambition and Nathanael Greene transforms even defeats into strategic victories. Benedict Arnold seethes with vengeful fury against his former countrymen. French allies coordinate with American troops as Hessian mercenaries prepare for what may be their final stand. The fate of a struggling nation hangs on this single encounter. Through diaries, letters, and firsthand accounts, Hallahan places readers alongside generals and common soldiers as they fight tooth and nail battles that will determine whether America wins its independence. When the smoke clears at Yorktown, news of England's surrender spreads city by city from Philadelphia to New York to Boston, then across the ocean to London and Paris. A young nation celebrates its hard-won freedom and takes its first uncertain steps toward an unknown future.
Genres: historical-fiction, war, military-fiction, american-history
Vibes: emotional, fast-paced, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found-family
Setting: Boston, London, New York, Paris, Philadelphia, Yorktown
Period: 1781, 19 October 1781
304 pages · Hardcover · Wiley