Long Knife: A Novel

by James Alexander Thom

A legend. A warrior. A hero. A classic American epic.Two centuries ago, with the support of the young Revolutionary government, George Rogers Clark led a small but fierce army west from Virginia to conquer all the territory between the Ohio and Mississippi rivers. He battled the British, forged friendships with French and Spanish settlers, and made treaties with many Indian tribes who revered the lanky, red-haired white man and called him Long Knife. He fell in love with the woman of his dreams, the beautiful Spanish maiden Teresa de Leyba. And George Rogers Clark was, in the end, bitterly betrayed by the same government he had so nobly served. Rich in the heroic characters, meticulously researched detail, and grand scale that have become James Alexander Thom’s trademarks, Long Knife, his first historical epic, is simply unforgettable.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction, Westerns, Adventure, American Revolution, American History, Historical

516 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 1979

About the author

James Alexander Thom (born 1933) is an American author, most famous for his works in the Western genre. Born in Gosport, Indiana, he graduated from Butler University and served in the United States Marine Corps. He is a former professor of journalism at Indiana University, and a contributor to the The Saturday Evening Post. His fifth wife, Dark Rain Thom was a member of the Shawnee United Remnant Band until its dissolution; the Thoms presently live in the "Indiana hill country" near Bloomington.

Reviews

[Mary JL · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an excellent, well-written and enjoyable historical novel. It tells of the years from 1777 to 1779, when George Rogers Clark played a pivotal role in defending the norwestern Colonies during the Revolutionary War.

While the battles were going on along the Atlantic Coast, the British were also trying to gain a foothold in the NorthWest Territories. They had forts in Detroit, in Kaskaskia,Illinois and Vincennes, Indiana. Of course, these were not states then--they were all together referred to as the "Northwest Territory". Besides building forts on land claimed by the newly formed United States, they also stirred up trouble, encouraging the Indians to attack American settlers for bounties.

George Rogers Clark, as told in this excellent novel, captured two of the forts--Kaskaskia and Vincennes. The latter was especially diffuclt as it was a winter campaign.

The author has done excellent research. Except for a handful, noted in the author's note at the end, all the letters and proclamations in this novel are genuine.

One scene I particularly liked was describing the Vincennes assault. For over a week, the men marched (only a few packhorse and horses for a scout or two were available) all day. Eating parched corn and strips of dried meat, the would march all day, with cold wind and often drizzle. At night, they could not build a large fire--it might be seen by enemies. Sometimes it was too wet for any kind of fire. They would drop on the ground, wrap themselves in a blanket, fall asleep from exhaustion; get up[ and begin the next day--and the next and the next...

Reminds me of what I had read about Marines in the Pacific---severe weather; scant rations due to supply issues; day to day exhaustion.

This novel really shows the harships our frontiersmen suffered in the Revolutionary times.

Alas, Clark's sucesses came early in his life. All these events occurred before he was 30.

In later life--I found this particularly sad--he was plagued by poverty. During his campaigns, he himself had often borrowed money for supplies for his troops. Yet, the state of Virginia--and later the US Congress--refused to acknowledge these debts. Clark had kept careful records, but it was claimed they had never been received. Finally, in 1812, Virginia granted George Rogers Clark a pension and acknowledged his services. He died six years later. (Oh--and many of the receipts and vouchers Clark had sent WERE found--in 1913!)

Not nearly as well known as his younger brother, William Clark of the 'Lewis and Clark' expedition, this novel introduced me to a fascinating character. After you read this novel, when some says "George Rogers Clark", you'll think--"yes, quite a unique man"and not "Who?""

Historically accurate, exsciting, a bit long--500 pages--but usually well paced, this kept my interest. Recommened for fans of histrocal fiction; especially recommend if the Colonial-Revolutionary War ear is of interest to you. Fans of regular history would probably enjoy this as well.

Edited 12-6-12 to fix typos.

[Harriet · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wonderful book, so much history of early America, now I understand who the Long Knives were, and the amazing Clark family! I read The Red Heart first, so was informed about the area of America's first Northwest Territories. Highly recommend any of James Alexander Thom's books, if you like fact based Native American and early American History.

[Justin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fantastic book. I thoroughly enjoyed it. It's made all the better that the author was scrupulous in sticking to known history. Highly recommended.

[Eileen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This historical novel is based on the life of George Rogers Clark, a soldier and frontiersman during the Revolutionary War (and brother to the Clark of Lewis & Clark fame). What an amazing man George was--principled, courageous, honorable, and devoted to family, friends and country. His physical strength and fortitude, and that of his soldiers, was almost unbelievable. Thom's writing style is engaging and the story is gripping, with plenty of action and fascinating characters. This book really gave me insight into, and appreciation of, the brave men who helped establish and defend our country against incredible odds and often at the expense of their own wellbeing and happiness.

[Jacque · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow! This book took a LONG time to read. It was not one I could read at night to fall asleep without having to reread to know what was happening. It was a very informative book. I had actually never heard of George Rogers Clark, but I should have because he was a brilliant soldier that played a vital role in the American Revolution. The only part of this book that I didn't love was the love affair between Clark and Teresa de Lebya which was the most embellished part of the story. Overall a good book replete with history.

[Polly Ekin · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm a huge J.Thom fan, but this is probably my least favorite of his.

[Meg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully written, exquisitely detailed- historical fiction at its best. This is a side of the American Revolution that I knew little about. The story of George Rogers Clark captivated me. I was awed by this commitment and integrity and passion for defending Virginia and the fledgling colonies against England, as he strove to take over British forts in the Midwest. His efforts to treat the natives with respect and dignity provided were inspiring, Here is a real hero! And he was so young. It gave me new appreciation for the unsung heroes of our country’s not so distant past.

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

I learned that there are so many more poeple in our history than what we learned about in school. George Rogers Clark is the older brother of William Clark of the Lewis and Clark expedition.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fascinating! This is a good read about a very inspiring hero. I had never given much thought to this part of American History. Great fictional love story mixed in with the true stuff too.

[Donn Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mr. Thom is a master at his craft.

Mr. Thom has written a magical story of hardship, loyalty, love and bitter betrayal. He has given us a story to learn from and remember.

[Robert Melton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Covered history

GRC a great soldier so mistreated by government, it could be a story written today. Enjoy some real history now.

[Clifford M.]

My most gracious compliments to Mr. James Alexander Thom. General Clark's story is one of self discipline, courage, leadership, determination, confidence, honor, self-sacrifice, and love of family and country. Being painfully honest, he trusted completely and was trusted completely. A government deeply in his debt sadly betrayed this, the most honorable man of his time. Those darkly jealous of him robbed him of the rewards of happiness he so richly deserved. Mr. Thom brings the past into sharp focus with this historical account of one of our nation's most passionate, devoted, and powerful Revolutionary War heroes. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll swell with pride and grit your teeth in angry empathetic frustration. Our nation's rugged birth is brought back to vital remembrance in this ultimate classic about General George Rogers Clark... Long Knife.

[Paul · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent work of historic fiction. The author can be a bit wordy, but his attention to detail tends to draw the reader in rather than repel them in boredom. Having great material to work with always helps, and the exploits (often forgotten and neglected) of George Rogers Clark and his brave band of men are a story that anyone who wishes to understand the founding days of the United States should study. The incredible leadership of Colonel Clark in leading a small group of men to victory against superiors numbers in multiple battles is impressive enough. The fact that he was able to achieve those triumphs with so little bloodshed and destruction is astounding.

[Brian · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Living in an age in which literature focuses so much on self-indulgence, cynicism, brutality, and weakness of character, I find myself braced and inspired by Clark's story, despite its tragic outcome." That's a quote of James Alexander Thom from the Author's Note that aptly captures my own opinion of this superb work of historical fiction. The sacrifices, determination, fortitude and persistence exhibited by Clark and his men under terrible conditions, and the victories they won in the Revolutionary War, will inspire and remind anyone of real adversity and the capacities we humans have to endure and achieve.

Long Knife is also and excellent work of art.

[Leonard · Rating 4 out of 5]

A long, (499 pages) book about an amazing military genius. Unfortunately being in the west during the revolutionary War, he received no credit at all. I felt that it was too long, because of over stressing the distance and difficulty of operating in the wilderness. I really enjoyed getting acquainted with George Clark, he, again is the right man in the right place for American military leadership. Much research and much diligent discoveries in this book. Well done, with some reservations about length.

[Judith Wrinkle · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books I have ever read..........the only book I have ever read where I shed tears when I finished. Fiction, based on truth............it makes me sad to think of the sacrifices and truths of making this country...........and now where we have come. I have some Native American in my blood and I felt passion, fear, hope and sadness for both sides fighting. A book that I shall keep.

[Bob Ely · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a long book, with a lot of detail. It is the story set in the Revolutionary War and how an American gained land and power in the west. It details many of his exploits and the hardships he and his men went through to defeat the British and the Indians. The premise was good, but it was a hard read.

[Laurie Kazmierczak · Rating 5 out of 5]

George Rogers Clark was great man whose fascinating life has been under the radar for too long. Author Thom has really brought him to life and made me appreciate the pioneer/frontier lands and people. I do not ordinary read historical accounts so this was out of my usual interest, but well worth it.

[Sonia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow! The author's note states that he researched the life of George Rogers Clark and that this fictionalized story of his life is based on facts. If so, what an amazing tale of the hardships he and his fellow soldiers overcame wrestling the Illinois country from the British during the American Revolution.

[KelticKat · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you like American history - this is a great tale told by a great author about an amazing early American hero - whom I don't remember learning that much about in my actual history classes.
I really liked the way the author did his best to stay true to actual history with only minimal fictional additions to make the story flow and fill in a few of the blank spaces.

[Tommy Hayne · Rating 4 out of 5]

While the indian war parts are great, the romance kept me from giving the book a 5 (deciding between a 4 and 5). George Clark was an amazing figure that is perhaps one of the most underappreciated revolutionary war heroes. I recommend Long Knife and learned a lot about an important figure in our history.

[John C. Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing history

James Alexander Thom is a rare gifted author who puts you there in the story as a participant of history. You feel as if you are there as events unfold. This historically accurate account is one in which you can't put down. A great American hero from a great author! Check out his other books, equally fantastic!

[Jane Barry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Never a disappointment

As usual, Thom enables the reader to become a member of George Rogers Clark's Illinois Regiment. Although I detest how Native Americans were treated by Americans, Clark was a patriotic hero who was grossly mistreated by his state and country.

[Dan A. Foster · Rating 4 out of 5]

Long Knife

For the most part, this is a well written and researched account of a great American. The only exception is the fabricated personal romantic interactions. The writing gets long in a number of situations, but worth persevering through.

[Elizabeth Eaken · Rating 3 out of 5]

What a story! This is Historical fiction with a considerable amount of license taken, but George Rogers Clark is such an amazing character. He should be more well-known. Parts of the book were a slog (for both the characters and the reader!), but there were scenes where I gasped and cried!

[Bonita E. Huffman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mr Thom brings history to life. As a midwesterner, I enjoy reading about our areas history. Every school should have his books in their library. What would have happened to this country if Clark hadn’t taken Vincennes?

[Monica G · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully written and historically rich!

[John Pugsley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thom has brought real characters and events to life as he details actual history during the Revolutionary War in the West.
An excellent read.

[Nick Haile · Rating 5 out of 5]

Historic fiction/nonfiction interesting stories and characters.

[Gigi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I truly love everything this author has written and look forward to reading more. This book caught my eye many years ago as many of the events took place in the general area surrounding my hometown.