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The Last Adieu: Lafayette’s Triumphant Return, the Echoes of Revolution, and the Gratitude of the Republic
“Memories of the Revolution have come back to life…”
In the summer of 1824, the aging Marquis de Lafayette, defeated politically and distraught over the fate of liberty in Europe, set sail one last time from France for America after an absence of forty years.
Across the sea waited a nation transformed: Thirteen colonies were now twenty-four states, stretching from the Atlantic Coast to the Mississippi River. The number of Americans had more than tripled; their industry and creativity had ushered in a new era of individual prosperity and civic improvements. But progress brought worries. Shocks—an economic collapse, a crisis over the westward creep of slavery—foreshadowed a new political age, increasingly democratic and impassioned. The presidential election of 1824 was a precursor to this era. It was fought among four men, and was so bitter and divisive some observers wondered if it heralded the end of the Union. All while the Declaration of Independence neared its fiftieth anniversary and the first generation of Americans passed on, leaving a second to lead their great experiment in liberty into the uncertain future and stirring tender nostalgia for the Revolution and its quickly vanishing stars. Chief among them was Lafayette, the last living major general of the Continental Army.
When he arrived at last in August 1824, the old hero met once more with the young republic. One of the greatest celebrations in American history followed. Citizens put aside their differences and rallied together around the spirit of their Revolution, rejoicing over the return of the “Nation’s Guest,” as Lafayette was called. For thirteen months, Lafayette traveled thousands of miles, reaching every state in the Union and met with parades and delirious crowds. The nation was spellbound by their benefactor. And Lafayette was overjoyed and stunned by the nation’s growth and advances, all made possible by the freedom he had fought for long ago.
The Last Adieu narrates Lafayette’s farewell tour, capturing both its spectacular pageantry and emotional impact—not only from Lafayette’s perspective, but through eyewitness accounts and recollections of the everyday Americans who participated in the great celebration. Co-starring the swarm of fascinating characters Lafayette encountered across the American landscape—elderly founding fathers, populist politicians, idealistic reformers—this is not simply the record of an incredible journey, but a panorama of a rising America and a chronicle of a time when, as Lafayette wrote, memories of its Revolution came back to life, and its citizens were united in gratitude to the men who had won it.
In the summer of 1824, the aging Marquis de Lafayette, defeated politically and distraught over the fate of liberty in Europe, set sail one last time from France for America after an absence of forty years.
Across the sea waited a nation transformed: Thirteen colonies were now twenty-four states, stretching from the Atlantic Coast to the Mississippi River. The number of Americans had more than tripled; their industry and creativity had ushered in a new era of individual prosperity and civic improvements. But progress brought worries. Shocks—an economic collapse, a crisis over the westward creep of slavery—foreshadowed a new political age, increasingly democratic and impassioned. The presidential election of 1824 was a precursor to this era. It was fought among four men, and was so bitter and divisive some observers wondered if it heralded the end of the Union. All while the Declaration of Independence neared its fiftieth anniversary and the first generation of Americans passed on, leaving a second to lead their great experiment in liberty into the uncertain future and stirring tender nostalgia for the Revolution and its quickly vanishing stars. Chief among them was Lafayette, the last living major general of the Continental Army.
When he arrived at last in August 1824, the old hero met once more with the young republic. One of the greatest celebrations in American history followed. Citizens put aside their differences and rallied together around the spirit of their Revolution, rejoicing over the return of the “Nation’s Guest,” as Lafayette was called. For thirteen months, Lafayette traveled thousands of miles, reaching every state in the Union and met with parades and delirious crowds. The nation was spellbound by their benefactor. And Lafayette was overjoyed and stunned by the nation’s growth and advances, all made possible by the freedom he had fought for long ago.
The Last Adieu narrates Lafayette’s farewell tour, capturing both its spectacular pageantry and emotional impact—not only from Lafayette’s perspective, but through eyewitness accounts and recollections of the everyday Americans who participated in the great celebration. Co-starring the swarm of fascinating characters Lafayette encountered across the American landscape—elderly founding fathers, populist politicians, idealistic reformers—this is not simply the record of an incredible journey, but a panorama of a rising America and a chronicle of a time when, as Lafayette wrote, memories of its Revolution came back to life, and its citizens were united in gratitude to the men who had won it.
464 pages, Hardcover
First published September 16, 2025
22 people are currently reading
211 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
September 18, 2025
Admittedly, I am probably not a great reviewer for Ryan Cole's The Last Adieu. Not because I don't find the Marquis de Lafayette fascinating, but because I am a Lafayette superfan. As such, there wasn't going to be much that I didn't already know. It's not a flex (ok, it's a little bit of a nerd flex). It's just that this piece of information is important to you, dear reader, to decide whether or not the rest of this review applies to you.
Cole is focusing mostly on the Marquis's return to the U.S. decades after the American Revolution. For the uninitiated, this tour of the U.S. was a national celebration on steroids that were on more steroids. Lafayette was as close to universally beloved (in the U.S., France not so much) and his visit was an event wherever he stepped foot.
Cole writes well and I can't really criticize anything in the narrative by itself. I would say that the book is just a tad long. At around 400 pages, there is a lot of room for tangents. Also, all the background for Lafayette and the state of the U.S. at this time takes up the first 100 pages. If you don't know Lafayette's life, it will seem like a lot of interesting stuff is zipped through to get to the tour. While epic, 300 pages for his travels starts to drag a bit as more and more people are quickly introduced and then will inevitably disappear from the narrative. This is just the nature of this particular story, and I think Cole handles is as well as can be expected.
(This book was provided as an advance copy by NetGalley and Harper Horizon.)
Cole is focusing mostly on the Marquis's return to the U.S. decades after the American Revolution. For the uninitiated, this tour of the U.S. was a national celebration on steroids that were on more steroids. Lafayette was as close to universally beloved (in the U.S., France not so much) and his visit was an event wherever he stepped foot.
Cole writes well and I can't really criticize anything in the narrative by itself. I would say that the book is just a tad long. At around 400 pages, there is a lot of room for tangents. Also, all the background for Lafayette and the state of the U.S. at this time takes up the first 100 pages. If you don't know Lafayette's life, it will seem like a lot of interesting stuff is zipped through to get to the tour. While epic, 300 pages for his travels starts to drag a bit as more and more people are quickly introduced and then will inevitably disappear from the narrative. This is just the nature of this particular story, and I think Cole handles is as well as can be expected.
(This book was provided as an advance copy by NetGalley and Harper Horizon.)
September 17, 2025
The Last Adieu: Lafayette’s Triumphant Return, the Echoes of Revolution, and the Gratitude of the Republic by Ryan Cole is a great nonfiction that takes us along on a stateside journey.
I have always had this thing for Lafayette. I dont know why, or when, it started but I have read several history and historical fiction on the infamous man. He is just fascinating.
I really enjoyed this book that focussed mostly on his “last hurrah” and curtain-call tour of the much-changed United States in 1824. I am impressed with the detail, the research, and knowledge that was acquired to present this novel, is stunning. I personally couldn’t get enough, but for those that are new to the wonderfully packed life of Lafayette, this is a perfect opportunity to take a glance into the infamous man himself. Hopefully it will encourage newbies to learn more.
4.5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Harper Horizon for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 9/16/25.
I have always had this thing for Lafayette. I dont know why, or when, it started but I have read several history and historical fiction on the infamous man. He is just fascinating.
I really enjoyed this book that focussed mostly on his “last hurrah” and curtain-call tour of the much-changed United States in 1824. I am impressed with the detail, the research, and knowledge that was acquired to present this novel, is stunning. I personally couldn’t get enough, but for those that are new to the wonderfully packed life of Lafayette, this is a perfect opportunity to take a glance into the infamous man himself. Hopefully it will encourage newbies to learn more.
4.5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Harper Horizon for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 9/16/25.
November 24, 2025
Oh to live a life you’re proud of and to see the fruits of your labor! I'm inspired to work for our country's future and grateful for all the sacrifices that make it possible. I could not believe how far he went around the country (IL, Skaneateles, etc.) without losing an inch of gallantry as he worried about women who waited up to see him pass!! While he was imperfect, I'm glad he had a satisfying return to the US after all his struggles. Sometimes real life beats fiction.
“[S]eventy little girls, dressed in white and with garlands on their heads, threw roses from the baskets under their arms, creating a carpet for Lafayette as he walked past. "The scene so overcame the old veteran that the tear started under the smile of pleasure it gave his feelings, that an infant generation should, half a century after his achievements, come to welcome him with their grateful little hearts…" 375
It ends with the best quote, reminding me of the Canticle of Simeon and Tolkien's Theoden saying you shall live to see these times renewed: He "in the most touching strain spoke of the spring-time of his youth when visions of hope were strong, and which in age he had the singular felicity of seeing realized." 389
“[S]eventy little girls, dressed in white and with garlands on their heads, threw roses from the baskets under their arms, creating a carpet for Lafayette as he walked past. "The scene so overcame the old veteran that the tear started under the smile of pleasure it gave his feelings, that an infant generation should, half a century after his achievements, come to welcome him with their grateful little hearts…" 375
It ends with the best quote, reminding me of the Canticle of Simeon and Tolkien's Theoden saying you shall live to see these times renewed: He "in the most touching strain spoke of the spring-time of his youth when visions of hope were strong, and which in age he had the singular felicity of seeing realized." 389
December 29, 2025
The Last Adieu attempts to document one of the most significant and spectacular cultural events in United States history, the return and farewell tour of Lafayette. At a time of partisan political division the inspiring presence of “the Nation’s Guest,” a sincere and warm champion of democracy and humanistic values evoked an outpouring of pride in the then fifty year old revolution and gratitude for its embodiment in Lafayette. The displays and celebrations as Lafayette toured all of the then 24 states for over a year in 1824-25 were a wonder. But in attempting completeness, the book partially fails in its purpose. It is inexcusable that given the incredible wealth of contemporaneous memorabilia and visual documentation the book is devoid of pictures. Given the length and scope of the book the absence of an index is also inexcusable. Perhaps these defects can be attributed to the publisher which perhaps is also to be faulted for a lack of editorial guidance that would have tightened the narrative and the unnecessary over reliance on quotations. For history buffs the book is loaded with interesting anecdotes and background which would have shown better in a tighter work.
October 8, 2025
This is well written and researched and a really interesting snapshot of one year in American history. I was expecting it to be more of an overall biography of the Marquis but enjoyed it nonetheless. I’d say it’s probably going to be most appealing to the American history nerds who are already well versed in Revolutionary players and politics.
October 12, 2025
A rushing stream of progress had pushed America into a new era. There were twenty-four states now, and people traveled by steam. Sleepy crossroads had burst into bustling cities. There were few monuments to the generation that had fought for Independence.
Fifty years after the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the building we know as Independence Hall was slated for demo. The city of Philadelphia purchased it and it became famous for Peale’s natural history museum on the second floor.
It would also be where the city held its reception for the return of the Marquis de Lafayette, aged 66, heroic general of the Revolution, who had left his home in France to pledge his service and wealth to the patriot cause.
It had been forty years since he last visited, when America was a refuge from the French Revolution that threatened his life. And fifty years since Bunker Hill. The men who had lead the Revolution, were old. Thomas Jefferson and John Adams were ailing, George Washington was in his disintegrating mausoleum, James Madison and James Monroe’s time as president in the past. John Quincy Adams was narrowly elected president over Andrew Jackson, both next generation leaders.
Lafayette was invited to return to America, and in spite of his age, happily agreed, even paying for his own ship of passage. He was feted everywhere, the last of the great Revolutionary generals alive. He had tearful and heartfelt reunions with the Founding Fathers, aging soldiers of the Revolution coming to grasp his hand and share memories. People still remembered what Lafayette had done for America.
After visiting the East Coast cities and the famous men he had served with, Lafayette visited the entirely of the country, celebrations and parades and speeches held at every stop. It was an amazing feat of endurance at a time when roads were rough and carriages bounced and shook violently, and steamboats regularly exploded.
…Lafayette would travel 2,655 miles overland, 2,610 on water–a total of 5,265; the trip would take ninety-nine days and cross into fifteen states. from The Last Adieu by Ryan Cole
Lafayette didn’t get involved with the election or politics, but as a lifelong proponent of emancipation he spoke about it with his compatriots and greeted African Americans as equals. His party also were feted by Native Americans: a Creek expressed his joy in greeting a man who “in his affection for the inhabitants of America, had never made distinctions by blood or color.”
Lafayette’s courage and valor were integral to his being. When their steamship hit a snag and went down, Lafayette was unwillingly forced into a lifeboat while his son stayed on board to vacate the ship.
It was exciting to read about Lafayette’s route taking him to places I have been, in and around Philadelphia, but also the Erie Canal locks at Lockport and Niagara Falls.
Back in France, Lafayette did not retire but returned to service at age seventy-three, taking command of the National Guard as the people brought an end to the Bourbon monarchy.
Frankly, I did not to expect to find this book as interesting as I did. I kept thinking, now it will get boring, but I enjoyed it to the end, caught up in the nostalgia and positive energy of the tour, and appreciating it as a travelogue of America in 1824.
Thanks to the publisher for a free book through LibraryThing Early Readers.
Fifty years after the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the building we know as Independence Hall was slated for demo. The city of Philadelphia purchased it and it became famous for Peale’s natural history museum on the second floor.
It would also be where the city held its reception for the return of the Marquis de Lafayette, aged 66, heroic general of the Revolution, who had left his home in France to pledge his service and wealth to the patriot cause.
It had been forty years since he last visited, when America was a refuge from the French Revolution that threatened his life. And fifty years since Bunker Hill. The men who had lead the Revolution, were old. Thomas Jefferson and John Adams were ailing, George Washington was in his disintegrating mausoleum, James Madison and James Monroe’s time as president in the past. John Quincy Adams was narrowly elected president over Andrew Jackson, both next generation leaders.
Lafayette was invited to return to America, and in spite of his age, happily agreed, even paying for his own ship of passage. He was feted everywhere, the last of the great Revolutionary generals alive. He had tearful and heartfelt reunions with the Founding Fathers, aging soldiers of the Revolution coming to grasp his hand and share memories. People still remembered what Lafayette had done for America.
After visiting the East Coast cities and the famous men he had served with, Lafayette visited the entirely of the country, celebrations and parades and speeches held at every stop. It was an amazing feat of endurance at a time when roads were rough and carriages bounced and shook violently, and steamboats regularly exploded.
…Lafayette would travel 2,655 miles overland, 2,610 on water–a total of 5,265; the trip would take ninety-nine days and cross into fifteen states. from The Last Adieu by Ryan Cole
Lafayette didn’t get involved with the election or politics, but as a lifelong proponent of emancipation he spoke about it with his compatriots and greeted African Americans as equals. His party also were feted by Native Americans: a Creek expressed his joy in greeting a man who “in his affection for the inhabitants of America, had never made distinctions by blood or color.”
Lafayette’s courage and valor were integral to his being. When their steamship hit a snag and went down, Lafayette was unwillingly forced into a lifeboat while his son stayed on board to vacate the ship.
It was exciting to read about Lafayette’s route taking him to places I have been, in and around Philadelphia, but also the Erie Canal locks at Lockport and Niagara Falls.
Back in France, Lafayette did not retire but returned to service at age seventy-three, taking command of the National Guard as the people brought an end to the Bourbon monarchy.
Frankly, I did not to expect to find this book as interesting as I did. I kept thinking, now it will get boring, but I enjoyed it to the end, caught up in the nostalgia and positive energy of the tour, and appreciating it as a travelogue of America in 1824.
Thanks to the publisher for a free book through LibraryThing Early Readers.
October 5, 2025
Picked this up due to the buzz of the America 250 celebrations. While I had heard pieces of Lafayette’s return to the US, I had not read the whole story. I was pleasantly surprised by the extent of US ardor for Lafayette and the story that was recovered about his visit.
Unlike some critics, I found the background information very useful and added to the story as a whole. It’s hard to sell inflection points without understanding how they are inflection points. I thought Cole did a thorough job of informing the reader by providing context to such matters.
The nature of the story - Lafayette’s extended visit/ tour of the US - lends itself to ODTAA (one darn thing after another). Such is the tale. Cole takes control and guides the reader through the story with a deft hand.
The surprise is that the authenticity of the warm adulation of the American people for Lafayette and his own ardor for them shines through the recounting of events. The aged general (the last living one from the war) embraced his role as the connecting tissue to the foundation of the American nation. Old soldiers and patriots, and children of old soldiers and patriots, united to greet the ‘National Friend’ as he toured the 24 states of the Union.
Cole entertains his readers while dropping some knowledge on them. What more could we ask of an author?
Unlike some critics, I found the background information very useful and added to the story as a whole. It’s hard to sell inflection points without understanding how they are inflection points. I thought Cole did a thorough job of informing the reader by providing context to such matters.
The nature of the story - Lafayette’s extended visit/ tour of the US - lends itself to ODTAA (one darn thing after another). Such is the tale. Cole takes control and guides the reader through the story with a deft hand.
The surprise is that the authenticity of the warm adulation of the American people for Lafayette and his own ardor for them shines through the recounting of events. The aged general (the last living one from the war) embraced his role as the connecting tissue to the foundation of the American nation. Old soldiers and patriots, and children of old soldiers and patriots, united to greet the ‘National Friend’ as he toured the 24 states of the Union.
Cole entertains his readers while dropping some knowledge on them. What more could we ask of an author?
July 21, 2025
A long, meandering travelogue of Lafayette's journey to America, 50 years after he first left. I felt that there were parts that could be left out to speed the narrative. I got the point quiet early, every town turned out with a parade, and old Revolutionary veterans greeted him but the narrative seemed much too long and the asides into the politics of the day including the election of 1824 seemed to seemed to make this book go on much to long. While i found the story interesting it was lost in the details of every town he visited.
December 8, 2025
Ryan is a gifted writer and this story on Lafayette truly emphasizes that. This book brings readers on an incredible journey of the man's life and how loved and respected Lafayette was in a number of ways. Ryan is able to bring to life such a true showcase of Lafayette and what he meant to America. Lafayette's story is one every American should know about and you can start easily with this book. Well done Ryan and I can't wait for your next work!
October 22, 2025
An excellent brief history of the American Revolution, the French Revolution, and the man who played major roles in both.
While focused on Lafayette’s final tour around the United States, Cole does a wonderful job giving the reader context on all the people, places, and events that played a role the Marquis’ busy life.
While focused on Lafayette’s final tour around the United States, Cole does a wonderful job giving the reader context on all the people, places, and events that played a role the Marquis’ busy life.
December 3, 2025
Beautifully written. Timely historic reading.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews