Good day!
Aside from the usual 18th
century news we would like to expand the blog to cover a broad range of topics.
One of those topics is a good old book review! Now do keep in mind I am average
Joe history buff and not a scholarly critic…but I will do my best to explore
this book and present my findings.
Today’s blog entry is a book review
of “The Fort,” (2010) a fascinating and forgotten subject brought back to life
by renown historical fiction author Bernard Cornwell.
This novel stood out for me for a
multitude of reasons. After having read
the Richard Sharpe series I was expecting a hero, a villain, and a triumphant
victory…not that there is anything wrong with that normal story plot! This book took a road less traveled. Never before had I even heard about the
Penobscot expedition and I considered myself well versed in the Revolutionary
war. This little known invasion caused
much stir in the relatively quiet northern theater in 1779 and caused a massive
counter thrust by the Americans, the like of which had never been seen before. Have you ever heard of New Ireland?
Bernard Cornwell’s excellent
character development led to a whole new light being shed on some well know and
lesser known figures. What struck me as really fascinating was Sir
John Moore…or should I say Lt. John Moore?
I knew of his fame at Corunna (1809) and had heard of his great
leadership (and death!) but had no idea he fought in the American
Revolution…let alone at this most interesting and forgotten battle. Cornwell’s
description of Lt. Moore fits in with his style of the young officer he
portrays so well in the Sharpe series.
When reading this I wasn’t sure what roll he would play and was very
pleased with Moore’s outcome.
Paul Revere: Everyone knows his name and knows his
midnight ride, but how many know he was in charge of the Massachusetts State
Artillery? I sure didn’t. This was a very shocking part of the book for
me. While yes this is historical fiction, you really get the feeling
Cornwell has done this right. The facts point to it, and gosh does it change
the way you think about Paul Revere.
I very much enjoyed this book. I
was disappointed but not in the writing or quality of book, but rather with the
history. After every page I figured the
next would bring great news after fierce battle…and while the battle was fierce,
there wasn’t such great news. The fact most of the fighting was between Militia
and Redcoat (with a handful of ever useful Marines,) made for an interesting
story that DID add an extra element of surprise.
Overall, I would recommend this
book to anyone who is a fan of Bernard Cornwell, and to any history buff trying
to broaden their horizon with the tale of a lesser known event. This book is a great way to introduce someone
into American Revolutionary history as well.
Always enjoyable, always engaging, I cannot wait to see what Bernard
Cornwell has in store for us next!
-Private Christophani
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