The Patriot's Daughter

Daughters of Liberty #1

by Vanessa Lind

Spies, secrets, and sacrifice…

The American Revolution has begun, but the deadliest threats may lurk in the shadows. For Phoebe Tredwell, the fight for independence is about to become deeply personal as she uncovers a sinister conspiracy that reaches from the shores of Long Island to the heart of General Washington's army.

Aided by a network of brilliant and daring women, Phoebe must use her wit, charm, and courage to navigate a treacherous labyrinth of Loyalist spies, British agents, and a mysterious counterfeit ring. But as she races against time to prevent a devastating plot, she begins to realize that the greatest challenges may lie within her own heart.

A gripping tale of intrigue, romance, and revolution that will keep you turning pages late into the night, The Patriot's Daughter is Book One of the Daughters of Liberty, a vivid new historical series that illuminates the extraordinary sacrifices and triumphs of the unsung heroines who helped give birth to a new nation.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Historical, American Revolution

245 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 10, 2024

About the author

Vanessa Lind loves writing about strong women from the past, especially the ones who’ve got a secret or two. She enjoys heartfelt stories that keep readers turning pages with characters that aren’t easily forgotten.

Vanessa grew up in Illinois but has since migrated to the Pacific Northwest, where she lives near a town rich in history (and breweries). She has a serious book-buying problem, never turns down a cup of tea, and gets her best ideas while walking her boxer dog. Her goal in life, besides writing unforgettable books, is to be a good ancestor.

Reviews

[Deacon Tom (Feeling Better) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Terrific story! In many ways, it is the best of historical fiction by weaving into a true story.

What was extra special about this book that it had a a female lead character. Which would have been mostly uncommon in the revolutionary war days. She was truly a hero and I was following along with her throughout this book.

Like many classic leadership characters, Phoebe collects people to assist. In this case, all women which made the story even more enjoyable.

The book moves along very quickly and was in many ways hard to put down. I can’t wait for the next one.

I highly, highly recommend.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Angie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an interesting story about what women may have done to advance the Patriot cause during the Revolutionary War. It seemed well-researched and brought the times and places to life. I liked how it highlighted the importance of the bonds of friendship and the importance of the bonds between sisters. I had a hard time relating to Phoebe, though. Though she was idealistic and determined, she didn't seem to think things through, and a number of her actions came across as foolhardy. It seems she may have changed and grown by the end of the novel, so hopefully in future books she will not act so rashly. I am interested to read what happens next to Phoebe, her friends, and her family.

Thank you to BookSirens for the early read.

[Holly · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you enjoy reading historical fiction, you’ll love The Patriot’s Daughter! I’ve read both of Vanessa Lind’s previous series and it has been a joy to see how she has developed as an author from the first book in the Secrets of the Blue and Grey series. In her Tidewater Chronicles series, she manages to meld history with present day events in a small Oregon town. Now she takes on the Revolutionary War, and it is a rousing first book in the series.

If you’ve read any of Ms. Lind’s earlier works, you know that she creates strong female characters that are intelligent, brave, honorable, and willing to push the boundaries of what was expected of earlier American women. The Patriot’s Daughter is no different, as we follow the exploits of Phoebe Tredwell, the 20 year old daughter of Samuel Tredwell, a successful businessman and a leader in the work to create a new country in 1776. Phoebe is surrounded by supportive sisters and a couple of good friends. She and her friends want to help the cause – the Declaration of Independence is still being written at the start of the book – and they find ways to do so that will engage you and keep you reading far past your bedtime. As in previous books, Ms. Lind weaves in real people, and you’ll recognize the names as you read on. The story moves along quickly, the dialogue is realistic to the times, and the character development is excellent. I quickly came to care about Phoebe and her family and friends, and even though I know the USA was successful in her battle for independence, we don’t know the fates of the fictional characters in the book.

Something I liked in the Secrets of the Blue and Grey series was the description about how the Civil War affected everyday people. The Patriot’s Daughter continues that insight into the trials and sacrifices that the people not fighting endured, and how they contributed in their own ways to the success of the struggles. While the particular story in this book is complete (I don’t want to give anything away) clearly it leads to more books as the USA fights for independence from the Crown for too many years past 1776.

I encourage you to read the author’s notes at the end of the book. The fictional characters in her books are often based on real people and she describes that in her notes. Ms. Lind does extensive research before putting pen to paper (or I guess typing to computer these days!) and it shows in the realism of the novels. I can’t wait for Phoebe’s next chapter!

I received an advance review copy of The Patriot’s Daughter for free. I leave this review voluntarily and with great pleasure.

[Brenda Moser · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great start to a new series! The author brings strong characters and takes you back to the American Revolutionary War perfectly with her detailed and descriptive scenes. She shows what women had to do to survive with so little and still be a patriot. It's an interesting story, moves fluidly and is a terrific read. I'm looking forward to the next book.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and are freely given.

[Michelle Subbert · Rating 1 out of 5]

a DNF for me. almost halfway thru and still no spying. wasn't intrigued enough to keep reading

[Jacqueline · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was fortunate to have been sent this book for review by Vanessa Lind and this is my honest opinion. Firstly, I am a huge fan of Vanessa Lind's writing, having read The Tidewater Chronicles and The Secrets of the Gray and Blue - both excellent, intriguing historical series featuring strong, determined young women in eras when women were not supposed to show initiative - and certainly not to give voice to or act on it. From 'Gray and Blue', about a female spy during the American Civil war, this author has gone back over a century to the War of Independence, telling the story of three sisters living in Long Island, daughters of Samuel Tredwell, a member of the Committee of Safety with a brother, Robert supposedly working in the family business in New York but actually working closely with General George Washington's close advisor. With General Howe's ships amassing off the coast, it is a very dangerous time and it is difficult to know who is a secret loyalist posing as a patriot. Both men and one of the sisters, Pheobe, are based on real people of the time, as are some other characters. In fact, in her notes at the end of the book, as interesting as the story itself, the author explains how the inspiration for the character of Pheobe was very possibly her own several times Great Grandmother. Pheobe starts a literary society, based on the real one in Connecticut at the time. A request from Robert to Pheobe leads her to discover more than he imagined and inspires her to take drastic action to discover the truth. After hearing that the lives and property of all the patriots on Long Island are in danger and an even greater and more audacious plot is in motion Pheobe realises only she, with the help of her friends, can stop it in time - again based on an historical story. This is an excellent first book in what promises to be another fascinating series. It's hard to imagine having to find the courage to accuse and testify against one's neighbours - who may be plotting the downfall of the country, but Vanessa Lind has a wonderful talent for writing about just such courageous women - including the women left to carry on alone, caring for numbers of children, trying to keep them fed with no source of income. I am very much looking forward to the next instalment.

[Valeri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Vanessa Lind’s writing, and the instant I am offered a free advanced copy everything else gets set aside. Her books are hard to put down, and it is easy to leave an honest review because I feel like I can’t say enough about them. This new series is no exception. I found this book a heart-pounding glimpse into the day to day realities as well as the world-changing moments of revolutionary history.

Vanessa does a wonderful job creating and building her characters through their interactions, exchanges and choices, giving them a depth of reality that prompts honest responses. Some characters are hard to like, others are easy to love, and all of them are realistically constructed with flaws as well as fortitudes.

Phoebe is a wonderful illustration of the energy and fierce loyalty of someone who jumps to do what she believes needs to be done without a second thought or considering all of the repercussions. In ordinary life it would take a few years for Phoebe to grow up and balance her impetuosity with planning and awareness, but in a dangerous time with quick, harsh consequences she has to learn a lot faster. Again the way Vanessa develops her characters is beautifully done, giving such depth and richness that makes the story live.

I personally am a bird lover so Phoebe having a pet bird made me love her even more.

The hurtful divisions that happen during such times, and very timely for the renewed struggles of the present, make for genuinely heart-breaking moments that remind us of how truly personal world history is.

That is one of the things I love most about Vanessa Lind’s writing: her research is intense and thorough, so her well-developed characters live through history in stories that immerse us in that time, taking us moment by moment through the excitement, the fear, the swell of courage and the determination to hope even against what seem to be impossible odds. I have enjoyed all of her books immensely, but this new series has become my favourite already.

[Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've enjoyed all of Ms. Lind's historical fiction books, and "The Patriot's Daughter" is no exception. I love spy stories, and "The Patriot's Daughter" is about Revolutionary War spies. What enriches the story is the quality research Ms. Lind has woven throughout with the characters and historical facts. . .characters such as George and Martha Washington, Benjamin Tallmadge, Nathan Hale. . .
Phoebe is a young woman interested in doing more for the Patriots, and she's out to prove that she is able, even though she's a woman. As British ships are encroaching and reports of General Howe's fleets planning to invade, she overhears rumors and conversations that enhance her brother's request to keep an eye out for counterfeiters in their community of Oyster Cove. Unfortunately, Phoebe takes matters into her own hands; and, since her brother asked her to keep the matter confidential, she risks her life in dangerous situations. When she's quite possibly inserted herself into a situation that was bigger and deeper than she could ever have imagined, she asks her lady friends of the Oyster Cove Literary Society for assistance. The women prove themselves faithful in their assistance as a plot to murder George Washington is uncovered in the nick of time. Phoebe risks life and limb as she endeavors to fight for her country. After all, men often are careless in what they say around and to women, so why wouldn't they make great spies? I love the various personalities portrayed in Phoebe's friends; each has their own merit and distinctiveness.
I'm looking forward to the next book(s) in this series and reading about more adventures of the ladies of the Oyster Cove Literary Society (& what about the mysterious James Ewing?!?).
I wholeheartedly recommend this clean historical fiction! It held my attention throughout.
I received a complimentary ARC and have voluntarily given my honest opinion in this review.

[TaniaRina Valdespino · Rating 4 out of 5]

A well-researched mash-up of “Johnny Tremain” and “Nancy Drew”
Fighting for freedom of all people – indentured servants, slaves, women. The irony is not lost on me that the men fight against the English for “taxation without representation”, yet shush their females when they wish to offer an opinion about things that affect their lives. I’m surprised the ladies are allowed to express an opinion on ‘the tyranny of petticoats and stays’!
Phoebe’s sleuthing benefits from two things considered to be “handicaps” – she is young and she is female. Since the male adults pay no heed to those they view as beneath their notice, she is able to both discreetly gather relevant intel and to play the scatterbrain in order to get out of scrapes.


Some sage advice from the author:
‘One rarely solves a problem by ignoring it.’
Standing up for something takes more than discussion. Change is a matter of action, not merely values.

Sad but true:
‘There’s always those that think they’re better than the rest. No war will change that.’
Even today, this social ill continues to be a core issue – globally.

Fave concept:
Regardless of the country or the century, ‘there are ways to serve the cause of liberty without donning a uniform’. This can apply to any kind of volunteering or philanthropy. If we are unable or uninterested in helping out one way, we can always get creative in finding others.


The author sprinkles in familiar political, literary, and philosophical references throughout. And don’t miss out on the Author’s Note at the end – it’s chock full of background goodies!

[Andi · Rating 4 out of 5]

"The Patriot's Daughter" follows Phoebe Tredwell as she works to discover the secrets behind a suspected counterfeiting ring in her village. The daughter of a wealthy storeowner and member of the early United States congress, Phoebe is desperate to find a way to make a difference in the American Revolution. Phoebe has strong beliefs, leading her to form a literary society with her close friends and family. It is through this literary society that Phoebe finds the way to make her impact.

I've read several of Vanessa Lind's and have always enjoyed the strong women she writes about. I think Phoebe is a little less developed than some of Lind's other protagonists. She seems very immature, single-minded, and foolish, especially in the beginning of the novel. Some of the things she gets away with seem unrealistic (the confrontations she has with other townspeople). Thankfully, she has ever-steady Alida constantly by her side to save the day.

One thing I most enjoyed about this book was how real-life historical events are woven in. It is so interesting to learn about the action actual people were taking during this time period. Especially of interest are the important roles and contributions of women, which are in general overlooked by history.

I hope that I can read more about Phoebe in upcoming novels. Oh, and Blake! I hope he is included as well!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Angelia · Rating 5 out of 5]

20-year old Phoebe Tredwell is the daughter of successful merchant and patriot, Samuel Tredwell. She and her sisters are holding down the fort at home while her father works with the likes of Thomas Jefferson and John Jay to lead the fight for colonial independence. Phoebe is frustrated because she knows that she could be an asset to the fight, but the closest she gets is sitting at home spinning flax into homespun garments, as a boycott of British goods.

When her brother tells her a rumor he heard about counterfeit money being used to undermine the colonial economy, he asks her to keep an eye out for fake bills and where they come from. Eager to prove herself, Phoebe goes way above and beyond. Launching a full-scale investigation that shows how far those loyal to the British crown will go to stop the rebellion.

The characters in this book come alive on the page. Ms. Lind writes strong, independent, realistic women, and Phoebe is no exception. She’s fierce, smart (most of the time) and brave. As usual, Vanessa Lind has done impeccable research, combining the big picture stories of war and rebellion with the effects these events have on everyday life at home. She deftly weaves real people in with her fictional characters seamlessly, creating a realistic, yet entertaining story. I absolutely loved this book, and I can’t wait for the next one in the series.

I received an advance review copy of this book and am enthusiastically leaving this 5-star review.

[Vivian · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the way Vanessa Lind portrays strong female character in her books, and on this book, the first one on her new series Daughters of Liberty, she does just that in the character of Phoebe Tredwell.
On this book we are transported back in time to a small town in Long Island, New York, during the time just before the American Revolution War started, where we are immersed into the intrigues and actions of the Loyalists, those who supported the English and the king, and the Patriots, those who wish an independent country.
Phoebe, a young woman who believes in the sharing of ideas and education of women by reading books, finds herself in the middle of a conspiracy to kill General Washington and to create chaos thru a ring of counterfeit Continental money. With the help of other women, friends of her, they uncover the conspiracy and managed to save Washington’s life.
The way the author manages to weave fiction with actual personages and situations is flawless and engages the reader completely in the story.
I’m really excited about this new series and can’t wait to read the next book to continue learning more about this historical period and the brave women who helped defend the land and helped the United States to become an independent country.

[W Gallant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Written in the wonderful language of the era, this is an engrossing story of the times prior to the 'official' start of the Revolutionary War and the role a group of intrepid women play in uncovering several plots to disrupt the patriots' efforts against the British. Based loosely on facts and the exploits of names known to history, the author weaves a tale of espionage that is fun to read and hard to put down. It was impossible to tell where facts ended and fiction began, such was the skill of the author.

The florid language and politeness of the times comes through with flying colors. All throughout the book, I wondered to myself what today's society would look like if we still carried ourselves as the characters in this book do.

Read this book and be immersed in the times of old, and with the drama of the young nation coming to grips with the reality of war. I made several notes during my reading about the author's ability to recreate the atmosphere of the times. I could close my eyes and picture everything. A very enjoyable read.

I received an advanced review copy for free, and I'm leaving this review voluntarily.

[Linda Rowe · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Patriot's Daughter by Vanessa Lind is a well researched story that blends historical fiction with a true story.
The story revolves around Phoebe Tredwell who takes a simple request from her brother to keep an eye out for counterfeit bills in their area to something more than he wanted. Phoebe and her literary society use their abilities to hear things as woman and become literal spies and uncover the counterfeit ring that was happening in their town on Long Island.
For me the author's notes at the end of the book were quite informative and helped me understand the history behind the story.
I have not read the Secrets of the Blue and Grey Series, although it is in my library, but I did love the Tidewater Chronicles which mixed present day and history of the area.
I am looking forward to reading more about Phoebe and how her friends help her to help the Patriot cause as the US fights for independence.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you Book Sirens.

[Ruth McDaniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been reading Vanessa Lind's books for quite a while now. When I found out she was starting a new series about women of the Revolutionary war, I was super excited. And I was so honored to receive an ARC of her new story.
This novel is about a woman named Phoebe Tredwell and how she became embroiled in spying and information gathering for the Patriot cause.
She has a couple friends and even her sisters (eventually) that help her along the way in gathering info on a counterfeit ring going on in her New York town of Oyster Cove. As they get further into their endeavors, they discover a more nefarious plot that is underway.
How will things turn out for the women who have been spying and eventually end up in front of General Washington himself? Will he believe them? Will anyone? Read this fantastic story to find out for yourself.
I received an ARC of this book and am leaving my voluntary review.

[Kymm · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm a huge fan of Vanessa Lind. Her books put the spotlight on the strong and brave women of history. "The Patriot's Daughter" takes us back to the Revolutionary War and the beginnings of our nation. To be honest I didn't particularly like Phoebe the female protagonist in the beginning of the book, but by the middle of the story I was happily cheering her on. There's a counterfeiting operation going on in an attempt to downgrade and ruin the faith in the new Congressionally mandated currency and Phoebe's brother who has connections to George Washington's inner circle has asked her to watch for it in town. Little did he know she'd cause an uprising and lead a chase to stop these traitors. This one's very exciting and carries with it some great historical content on the Revolutionary War and it's impact on New York. I'll be patiently waiting for book 2 in this new series. Happy Reading!

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vanessa Lind sent me this and I honestly loved it. I haven't read one of her books that I haven't loved! This historical novel features a strong female lead - in a time when women weren't meant to stick out or encouraged to think about things outside the home. This has gone back to the War of Independence and features a family who believes in Patriotism and are trying to help in whatever way they can. The main character, Phoebe starts a literary society and finds more than she thought possible while helping her brother leading to a treacherous plot. This is an example of how strong women had to be in history to survive and care for their families with limited resources. I highly recommend it!

I would suggest checking out the Tidewater Series (it was fabulous!), and I'm going to check out Secrets of the Blue and Gray!

[Teala Lue · Rating 4 out of 5]

The power and perseverance of women. It’s always nice to read about strong, take charge women.

Phoebe Tredwell wants to make a difference. She wants to assist in the (Revolutionary) war effort, and definitely not by spinning. For a woman, in those days, this was no easy feat. When her brother Robert asks her to keep an eye open for circulating counterfeit money she takes his request to heart and throws everything she has into it. With the help of her friends and sisters she brings to light a life altering plot to bring harm to the Patriots.
In the beginning of the book we see Phoebe as an idealistic, impulsive girl but as the book moves forward we witness her maturing through experience.

Interesting story, good characters, well built. Definitely recommend for historical fiction readers.

Thank you BookSirens for the ARC.

[Margaret Hejmanowski · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love all things Vanessa Lind and this does not disappoint, this is the first book in The Daughter's of Liberty series. This series is to help bring to light the women who helped in the Revolutionary War, that is not well documented. What a wonderful story of Phoebe Tredwell, her sisters and friends. Phoebe Tredwell is twenty years old and the youngest of Samuel Tredwell's daughters. He is a successful businessman, and a true Patriot in the building of a new country. Phoebe just wants to help the cause as the men are doing in 1776. This is before The Declaration of Independence is signed. Love the plot, great setting, and strong intense interesting characters. I can't wait to read the next book in the series!!!

[Joann Hoon Pirko · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm a mood reader. While I am very interested in American Historical novels, I was in the mood for fall cozy reads, so it took me a while to get through this otherwise fast read. That being said. I liked it. It started a bit slow. I found the MC, Pheobe a bit headstrong especially for a woman of that time. Her insistence of doing it herself was a bit unrealistic. There was one particular story thread concerning an interested gentleman that was left totally open and inconclusive. Which leads me to wonder why it was included in the first place...unless there is a sequel? I will definitely read another historical fiction novel from this author. But in the meantime, I'm diving in to some pumpkin spice and spooky reads. I'll save it for 4th of July and America250 celebrations.

[Becky Durstenfeld · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an enjoyable book. I liked the women in the book. The main character does make some mistakes in the beginning, but she and her friends were very courageous. It helps us think about the role of women during the American Revolutionary War. I was a bit miffed at her brother though. If he was so concerned about her safety why did he get her involved to begin with; did he not know her well enough to know she wouldn't put her all into it? The only thing that was not satisfactory at the end is we are left wondering about James. I am presuming and hoping there will be a sequel, so we can find out about him.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Patriot's Daughter" by Vanessa Lind is a historical fiction novel that takes place on the eve of the American Revolution. Among a tale of secrets, conspiracies & traitors, Phoebe Tredwell & her friends show amazing strength, courage and loyalty to each other as well as their country. At a time when men are off fighting the war any way they can, these ladies show that women can be just as brave as their fathers, brothers & spouses. They too can fight for their country with their own quiet strength & be heard loud & clear.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cecilia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don’t know much about American history so I did struggle a bit in the beginning of the book to get into the story. As the story progresses, the plot thickens and you want to know more.

You get to see what it was like being a woman during those times and you realize how difficult and frustrating it must have been.

I have a lot of unanswered questions, so I can’t wait for the next book! This book is a great start to another great series.

I loved the FYI at the end of the book explaining the facts vs fictions.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Terry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fabulous book by Vanessa Lind and the start of another intriguing series by this author. This one takes place during the American Revolution in New York state. The heroine is a strong woman who recruits other intelligent women to help her to spy for the American cause. I was drawn into the story from the first page and it kept me reading late into the night. Looking forward to more adventures with Phoebe and her friends!

I received a copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions in this review are entirely my own.

[Sharmani Jayaram · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phoebe Tradwell a free thinker gets involved in investigating the rivals against the freedom movement and finds out more than what she bargained for. There was a race against time to prevent disaster that was to about to happen and Phoebe and her friends ,brave young woman fight the danger around them by falling into action. An intriguing read which has you spell bound .I received this ARC copy via Booksirens and leave a honest review. I recommend this book to other readers.

[Kara M · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first historical fiction about the Revolutionary War period. It is a stellar story, especially considering the current state of the USA.

My two favorite passages were: “Never know what a woman will do if she sets her mind on something,” and “The greater part of our happiness depends not upon our circumstances but upon how we choose to conduct ourselves under duress.”

I received an advance reader copy for free and am voluntarily leaving this review.

[L KQ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Introducing the Literary Society

This historical fiction story was quite delightful. Phoebe and her literary society were key players into the outcome of the plot stemming from our nations history. I absolutely enjoyed how every event either occurred or was most likely to have. It was definitely a fascinating and enjoyable read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting new historical fiction series by Vanessa Lind. This book does not have the duel timelines that her books usually have and I do admit, I miss that a bit. However, the detail to history is as good as ever. Detailed characters and great setting, I"m looking forward to this new series on the opposite coast!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Virginia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set on Long Island, Phoebe Tredwell forms a Literary Society. Inspired by Thomas Paine's pamphlet, she longs to do something to further the war effort beyond spinning homespun cloth. Her nativetyleads her down a path she never imagined. A stunning and gripping beginning to a new series mixing history with might have happened.

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

The patriots daughter.

Vanessa Lund.

Set in the US at the time of the Civil War.

This is book 1.

I really enjoyed this book set up as a literary club, the young ladies involved introduce themselves, and how they all relate with each other and the other characters

This book is a good start, I will eagerly await the following book 2.