About the Book:
In 1777, caught in the crossroads of the American Revolution, sisters Maebel and Coralie Bohannon's quaint New Jersey village becomes a battleground as they house American officers. Rebellion ripples through their family as members take opposing sides--Patriots and Loyalists--causing a deep chasm that fractures their once-unbreakable bond.
As Mae's friendship grows with the American general Rhys Harlow, Coralie continues her liaison with her childhood sweetheart, a British officer stationed in New York. Mae, torn between her deepening love for the general and suspicion that her sister is a British spy, leaves the only home she's ever known for the New York frontier. When betrayal strikes in the heart of the wilderness, she's forced to take a perilous journey that tests her very survival and those she loves, all in the name of liberty.
On the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Laura Frantz offers a stirring friends-to-lovers historical romance of divided loyalties, patriotism, sacrifice, sisterhood, and love set during the American Revolution.
My Thoughts:
The Belle of Chatham by Laura Frantz highlighted the Patriot struggle in America’s War for Independence which made it an appropriate read as the United States celebrates its 250th year in 2026. The plight of the characters, though fictional, reflected what people of that time may have experienced: financial loss, death of loved ones, physical injuries, families torn apart, and other war-related trauma. The Belle of Chatham included those realities without feeling too dark and heavy. This story reminded me of the bravery, stoutheartedness, and devotion the Patriots held to freedom, though I wished that same freedom had been extended to all genders and races in the new nation. Each chapter began with a quote from a historical figure which I enjoyed reading.
The Belle of Chatham held more romance than some of Laura Frantz’s other novels. I loved the tension and swoony moments between Mae and Rhys, but their relationship went deeper than attraction and chemistry to a union of hearts and ideals. Sadly, the book’s ending wrapped up hurriedly, and I wished that season of their relationship had been fleshed out more.
The Belle of Chatham by Laura Frantz also touched on the price of elevating political beliefs over personal relationships, the beautiful and not-so-beautiful sides of sisterhood, and the importance of living honestly. This standalone novel provided plenty of romance, history, and intrigue that held my attention. 4.5 Stars!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.
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