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The Belle of Chatham
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Expected 20 Jan 26Win a free print copy of this book!
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10 copies available
U.S. only
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 in their home. 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. Torn between her growing love for the general and suspicion that her sister is a British spy, Mae 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.
Proclaimed "wordsmith extraordinaire" by Library Journal, Laura Frantz delivers a stirring tale of divided loyalties, sisterhood, and love.
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. Torn between her growing love for the general and suspicion that her sister is a British spy, Mae 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.
Proclaimed "wordsmith extraordinaire" by Library Journal, Laura Frantz delivers a stirring tale of divided loyalties, sisterhood, and love.
384 pages, Paperback
Expected publication January 20, 2026
2 people are currently reading
2449 people want to read
About the author
Laura Frantz
21 books2,763 followersLaura Frantz is passionate about all things historical, particularly the 18th-century, and writes her manuscripts in longhand first. Her stories often incorporate Scottish themes that reflect her family heritage. She is a direct descendant of George Hume, Wedderburn Castle, Berwickshire, Scotland, who was exiled to the American colonies for his role in the Jacobite Rebellion of 1715, settled in Virginia, and is credited with teaching George Washington surveying in the years 1748-1750. Frantz lives and writes in a log cabin in the heart of Kentucky.According to Publishers Weekly, "Frantz has done her historical homework." With her signature attention to historical detail and emotional depth, she is represented by Janet Kobobel Grant, Literary Agent & Founder, Books & Such Literary Agency of Santa Rosa, California.Readers can find Laura Frantz at www.laurafrantz.net.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
November 25, 2025
Fans of early American inspirational fiction will revel in this tale set during the Revolutionary War.
Starting in 1777, the author brings notable historical figures, real places and events together with well-developed fictional characters, making the history come alive. Terrific writing described the scenes in realistic settings with characters who are caught in the middle of the conflict; it was easy to imagine and empathize with them. Family ties and loyalties are stretched to the breaking point, pushing them to chose what side they would ultimately support. Bitterness and a hardened heart prevent one from seeing the reality of her own folly, putting others in danger. It was difficult to know what would happen to them all in the end.
The romance is a sigh-worthy one, growing between two people with different backgrounds and personalities. It reminded me of people in my own family who fell in love during world wars. They had hardships to face and did it together, growing in faith and supporting each other. Mae was a great example of resilience and faith, overcoming so much in order to support Rhys. He was a larger than life character. a strong leader, tough, yet gentle and so in love. This is definitely one for the romance fans!
Battles take place based on actual events, and the author handles it realistically yet sensitively. Nothing overly graphic, but easy to imagine the intensity of the war. It was interesting to read about General Washington and others, as they strategized, and miraculously won battles despite their lack of resources, trained troops and dismal circumstances. It made me appreciate even more the freedoms we enjoy because of their sacrifices and faith.
Highly recommend to readers who enjoy historical fiction with faith, and clean romance. 5 stars
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
Starting in 1777, the author brings notable historical figures, real places and events together with well-developed fictional characters, making the history come alive. Terrific writing described the scenes in realistic settings with characters who are caught in the middle of the conflict; it was easy to imagine and empathize with them. Family ties and loyalties are stretched to the breaking point, pushing them to chose what side they would ultimately support. Bitterness and a hardened heart prevent one from seeing the reality of her own folly, putting others in danger. It was difficult to know what would happen to them all in the end.
The romance is a sigh-worthy one, growing between two people with different backgrounds and personalities. It reminded me of people in my own family who fell in love during world wars. They had hardships to face and did it together, growing in faith and supporting each other. Mae was a great example of resilience and faith, overcoming so much in order to support Rhys. He was a larger than life character. a strong leader, tough, yet gentle and so in love. This is definitely one for the romance fans!
Battles take place based on actual events, and the author handles it realistically yet sensitively. Nothing overly graphic, but easy to imagine the intensity of the war. It was interesting to read about General Washington and others, as they strategized, and miraculously won battles despite their lack of resources, trained troops and dismal circumstances. It made me appreciate even more the freedoms we enjoy because of their sacrifices and faith.
Highly recommend to readers who enjoy historical fiction with faith, and clean romance. 5 stars
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
November 19, 2025
This is a historical romantic fiction story set during the American Revolution. Each chapter begins with a quote from a Founding Father or a patriot from that era. The book is rich with history, and the author does an amazing job blending fictional characters with real historical figures to give readers a glimpse of what life was like during the war for independence.
I thoroughly enjoyed the storyline. It felt so believable. My heart ached for those who gave everything to be free and for the courage they showed in the cause. I found myself Googling events as I read, which made the experience even more fascinating. The author did a brilliant job, and the ending was both satisfying and sweet.
I was given a copy of this book by the publisher, and this is my honest opinion.
I thoroughly enjoyed the storyline. It felt so believable. My heart ached for those who gave everything to be free and for the courage they showed in the cause. I found myself Googling events as I read, which made the experience even more fascinating. The author did a brilliant job, and the ending was both satisfying and sweet.
I was given a copy of this book by the publisher, and this is my honest opinion.
November 19, 2025
It is quite a rarity to have a book set in my home state of New Jersey, let alone in Chatham, which happens to be the next town over. I enjoyed seeing the Revolutionary War unfold in my backyard, so to speak. We have, of course, visited the multitude of Revolutionary War sites in this area but it was another level of experience to walk through these events in 1777 with the characters in the book. Laura Frantz vividly captured the charged atmosphere where anyone could be a spy for the enemy, the passion and determination of the Continental Army, and the tragedies of war. Rhys was steadfast, loyal, and devoted. Mae was bright, optimistic, and brave.
Though I enjoyed the history behind the book, I could not engage with Mae or Rhys on a deep level. They professed love but did not know each other well enough and things shattered when their love was tested. For such a smart woman, some of Mae’s actions and thought processes did not line up with her intelligence and intuition. I also did not like Mae’s sister Coralie at all. She was supposed to be unlikable, but it would have been nice to see a more layered and multi-dimensional character, even in the selfish, jealous, conniving role she played.
If you enjoy historical romance set during the Revolutionary War, I am sure you will enjoy this book. I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Revell via Interviews and Reviews and NetGalley. I was under no obligation to post a positive comment and all opinions are my own.
Though I enjoyed the history behind the book, I could not engage with Mae or Rhys on a deep level. They professed love but did not know each other well enough and things shattered when their love was tested. For such a smart woman, some of Mae’s actions and thought processes did not line up with her intelligence and intuition. I also did not like Mae’s sister Coralie at all. She was supposed to be unlikable, but it would have been nice to see a more layered and multi-dimensional character, even in the selfish, jealous, conniving role she played.
If you enjoy historical romance set during the Revolutionary War, I am sure you will enjoy this book. I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Revell via Interviews and Reviews and NetGalley. I was under no obligation to post a positive comment and all opinions are my own.
December 8, 2025
I really enjoy Laura Frantz' sweeping writing style, and I always look forward to her latest releases. She is an auto-read author for me and has been for years!
She does not disappoint in The Belle of Chatham. I loved the heroine (she's a bit vain for my taste but that seems to pass quickly), I fell for her hero, and I have long loved the setting of the Revolutionary War. The plot moves swiftly in places yet I felt swept up in the history.
This may be a slight spoiler, but I especially love when the book doesn't end just because the two main characters get married. Especially since these two had a lot to work through! I stayed up late reading that ending. Brava!
She does not disappoint in The Belle of Chatham. I loved the heroine (she's a bit vain for my taste but that seems to pass quickly), I fell for her hero, and I have long loved the setting of the Revolutionary War. The plot moves swiftly in places yet I felt swept up in the history.
This may be a slight spoiler, but I especially love when the book doesn't end just because the two main characters get married. Especially since these two had a lot to work through! I stayed up late reading that ending. Brava!
December 10, 2025
4.5 stars
"Set me as a seal upon thine heart, as a seal upon thine arm: for love is as strong as death. . . " - Song of Solomon
Living along the edges of the increasingly volatile Revolutionary War, Maebel Bohannon and her sister Coralie billet the extra rooms in their large Chatham home to their brother James and two additional Patriot officers, one by the name of General Rhys Harlow, an esteemed commander over an elite group of sharpshooters. Not accustomed to being stirred over the sight of a beautiful woman, Rhys cannot resist his inclinations towards the lovely Mae. She seems as warm and accomplished as her sister appears cold and indifferent. Naturally the timing couldn't be worse, romance is a heady distraction that Rhys cannot afford to embrace.
It's barely a secret that the Bohannon family has one member more inclined towards British loyalty, so that as time and circumstances move towards happiness for one sister, the other remains isolated and heartbroken over the dim prospects for her own. War pushes the entire family in new directions, and when subterfuge is exposed, Mae has to wage a battle on two fronts; for her own safety and the love of a good man.
Breathing life and breath into the already bountiful historical fodder of a time period is what this author does best, capitalizing on nearly unbelievable circumstances to celebrate the courage of the past as a means of inspiring hope for the future. She does so with turbulent grace, reminding both characters and readers, that "I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep; for thou, Lord, makest me dwell in safety".
And just think, it all started in a closet!
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book for Revell through Interviews and Reviews.
"Set me as a seal upon thine heart, as a seal upon thine arm: for love is as strong as death. . . " - Song of Solomon
Living along the edges of the increasingly volatile Revolutionary War, Maebel Bohannon and her sister Coralie billet the extra rooms in their large Chatham home to their brother James and two additional Patriot officers, one by the name of General Rhys Harlow, an esteemed commander over an elite group of sharpshooters. Not accustomed to being stirred over the sight of a beautiful woman, Rhys cannot resist his inclinations towards the lovely Mae. She seems as warm and accomplished as her sister appears cold and indifferent. Naturally the timing couldn't be worse, romance is a heady distraction that Rhys cannot afford to embrace.
It's barely a secret that the Bohannon family has one member more inclined towards British loyalty, so that as time and circumstances move towards happiness for one sister, the other remains isolated and heartbroken over the dim prospects for her own. War pushes the entire family in new directions, and when subterfuge is exposed, Mae has to wage a battle on two fronts; for her own safety and the love of a good man.
Breathing life and breath into the already bountiful historical fodder of a time period is what this author does best, capitalizing on nearly unbelievable circumstances to celebrate the courage of the past as a means of inspiring hope for the future. She does so with turbulent grace, reminding both characters and readers, that "I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep; for thou, Lord, makest me dwell in safety".
And just think, it all started in a closet!
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book for Revell through Interviews and Reviews.
December 21, 2025
If you like novels that are jam-packed with history and laced with inspiration and romance, The Belle of Chatham is perfect for you. Talented author Laura Frantz has penned a story that is rich with historical detail. With a setting in 1777 during the American Revolution, the events are centered around Chatham, New Jersey, as well as sites in New York and Virginia. Frantz has obviously researched the subject deeply, and I enjoyed learning more about this area and historical events during this slice of American history. Combined with her signature flowing writing style, this novel captured my attention and kept me turning pages.
The main characters, Maebel Bohannon and General Rhys Harlow, are well-drawn and engaging. Their courage and determination in the fight for independence were indicative of the spirit and sentiment of that time period, and the author captured that well. The family dynamics in the Bohannon family added to a sense of the ambivalent feelings existing during the war for independence from England and how they could tear families apart. I liked the growth shown in both Maebel and Rhys as they faced trials and had their faith tested. Inspirational elements were seamlessly interwoven into the story and added depth.
I enjoyed the epigraphs at the beginning of the chapter which spotlighted quotes from different people pertaining to the era. The author’s notes at the end of the story were also interesting and informative. Frantz is an expert at building her stories around actual historical events, which is why historical fiction is one of my favorite genres. 4.5 stars
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Revell through Interviews and Reviews. All opinions are my own.
The main characters, Maebel Bohannon and General Rhys Harlow, are well-drawn and engaging. Their courage and determination in the fight for independence were indicative of the spirit and sentiment of that time period, and the author captured that well. The family dynamics in the Bohannon family added to a sense of the ambivalent feelings existing during the war for independence from England and how they could tear families apart. I liked the growth shown in both Maebel and Rhys as they faced trials and had their faith tested. Inspirational elements were seamlessly interwoven into the story and added depth.
I enjoyed the epigraphs at the beginning of the chapter which spotlighted quotes from different people pertaining to the era. The author’s notes at the end of the story were also interesting and informative. Frantz is an expert at building her stories around actual historical events, which is why historical fiction is one of my favorite genres. 4.5 stars
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Revell through Interviews and Reviews. All opinions are my own.
November 23, 2025
In true Laura Frantz fashion, The Belle of Chatham portrays the realistic nuances of everyday life during the Revolutionary War resulting in an experience that is truly immersive. Laura Frantz never rushes to tell a story, and in that she somehow captures the realness of life as we experience it, making her novels even more relatable.
I liked many things about this book, the steady and sure romance, the peek into life during the volatile and tense American Revolution, the reminder of just what it took to establish our country, even the honesty of conflict, misunderstanding, and bruised feelings in a good marriage.
Because there were some times I had difficulty following what was happening, and a pivotal conflict that I felt was handled out of character, I debated whether to rate 4 or 5 stars. But ultimately, I feel the book was very well written and enjoyable, thoroughly researched and interesting. And although I found the aforementioned conflict to be somewhat out of character for one party, it was also plausible. I decided on 5 stars, and recommend it without hesitation either way. Never pass a Laura Frantz book by!
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Revell via Interviews & Reviews. I was under no obligation to post a positive comment, and all opinions are my own.
I liked many things about this book, the steady and sure romance, the peek into life during the volatile and tense American Revolution, the reminder of just what it took to establish our country, even the honesty of conflict, misunderstanding, and bruised feelings in a good marriage.
Because there were some times I had difficulty following what was happening, and a pivotal conflict that I felt was handled out of character, I debated whether to rate 4 or 5 stars. But ultimately, I feel the book was very well written and enjoyable, thoroughly researched and interesting. And although I found the aforementioned conflict to be somewhat out of character for one party, it was also plausible. I decided on 5 stars, and recommend it without hesitation either way. Never pass a Laura Frantz book by!
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Revell via Interviews & Reviews. I was under no obligation to post a positive comment, and all opinions are my own.
November 25, 2025
If you love books set in the American Revolution, here is another novel to add to your collection. :) Laura Frantz always sets the most amazing stage for her stories. I was able to clearly visualize everything in my mind as I read.
The book is almost a tale of two sisters. Maebel and Coralie really represent the struggle of the young nation. Maebel with her quiet confidence and Coralie in her arrogance. To be honest the longer the book went the more I strongly disliked Coralie.
Unlike some books, this one has a lot of time in New Jersey in their hometown (very much a patriot supporting town) as they house members of Washington's army including their brother. Then it has them moving to a fort in New York.
I liked Rhys's character and how he grows and changes and allows himself to love. And I was highly perturbed at how he gets treated at the end and I really wished Coralie had a more...well. I would have given her a bit more of an ending. But at the same time, I did like how the author shares how Coralie was always a step behind Mae through no fault of either of them.
As usual Laura keeps faith a big part of the characters lives. While it wasn't my favorite of her novels, I still enjoyed it.
4 stars
*Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for my ARC of this novel. All opinions are 100% my own.
The book is almost a tale of two sisters. Maebel and Coralie really represent the struggle of the young nation. Maebel with her quiet confidence and Coralie in her arrogance. To be honest the longer the book went the more I strongly disliked Coralie.
Unlike some books, this one has a lot of time in New Jersey in their hometown (very much a patriot supporting town) as they house members of Washington's army including their brother. Then it has them moving to a fort in New York.
I liked Rhys's character and how he grows and changes and allows himself to love. And I was highly perturbed at how he gets treated at the end and I really wished Coralie had a more...well. I would have given her a bit more of an ending. But at the same time, I did like how the author shares how Coralie was always a step behind Mae through no fault of either of them.
As usual Laura keeps faith a big part of the characters lives. While it wasn't my favorite of her novels, I still enjoyed it.
4 stars
*Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for my ARC of this novel. All opinions are 100% my own.
November 25, 2025
This is an amazing historical fiction book! It takes place during the Revolutionary War. There's so much more than war going on though. Deception, spies, shortages of food, death and more. A love story emerges and at one point becomes a battle itself.
The cast of characters is extraordinary! Mae is incredible! She is a giver, not only of her time, but her resources as well. She's loyal to her family and the patriots. Rhys is hunkalicious! He is a wonderful general. He's a protector, loyal and trustworthy. My favorite character is Bronwyn! She brings Mae into the family without hesitation. She becomes a true friend. Lucy also is remarkable! She and Petey are heroes!
My favorite quote is: "Remember officers and soldiers, that you are Freemen, fighting for the blessings of Liberty." I am so thankful for those who fought and are still fighting for our freedoms!
I was provided a complimentary copy of the book from Revell through NetGalley via Interviews and Reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The cast of characters is extraordinary! Mae is incredible! She is a giver, not only of her time, but her resources as well. She's loyal to her family and the patriots. Rhys is hunkalicious! He is a wonderful general. He's a protector, loyal and trustworthy. My favorite character is Bronwyn! She brings Mae into the family without hesitation. She becomes a true friend. Lucy also is remarkable! She and Petey are heroes!
My favorite quote is: "Remember officers and soldiers, that you are Freemen, fighting for the blessings of Liberty." I am so thankful for those who fought and are still fighting for our freedoms!
I was provided a complimentary copy of the book from Revell through NetGalley via Interviews and Reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 3, 2025
1777 New Jersey, caught in the American Revolution.
Laura captures both sides, the Loyalist and the Patriot within one family, as well as one who was fighting the war and one who was left at home. Raw emotion, secrets, love and faith. Beautifully told and so very hard to put down. Make extra time for this one. George Washington and his troops went from near defeat to victory against the world’s foremost fighting force at the time. Patriots were considered traitors, until they won the war - then certain loyalists who fought or spied were considered traitors. So many lives were lost in this fight. Our country wouldn't be what it is, and we wouldn't be free without their commitment. Informative, realistic, honest, heartbreaking and romantic.
I received this book free from the author and NetGalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
#TheBelleofChatham #NetGalley #LauraFrantz #ChristianHistoricalFiction #Revell #BooksYouCanFeelGoodAbout
Laura captures both sides, the Loyalist and the Patriot within one family, as well as one who was fighting the war and one who was left at home. Raw emotion, secrets, love and faith. Beautifully told and so very hard to put down. Make extra time for this one. George Washington and his troops went from near defeat to victory against the world’s foremost fighting force at the time. Patriots were considered traitors, until they won the war - then certain loyalists who fought or spied were considered traitors. So many lives were lost in this fight. Our country wouldn't be what it is, and we wouldn't be free without their commitment. Informative, realistic, honest, heartbreaking and romantic.
I received this book free from the author and NetGalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
#TheBelleofChatham #NetGalley #LauraFrantz #ChristianHistoricalFiction #Revell #BooksYouCanFeelGoodAbout
December 15, 2025
I have been enjoying Laura Frantz’s books for several years now. She has been writing books set in the early part of America’s history. She has taught me many things about our history I didn’t know. The same is true about The Belle of Chatham. She tells the story of the Bohannan family. They are one of many families that not only volunteered their time for the battle, but many also sacrificed their lives and lively hoods to the cause.
I loved this book because of the human side of the story. Frantz reminds us that not everyone agreed with the fight for independence which caused divides in families that just couldn’t be repaired after the war.
If you are looking for a good book to immerse yourself in during the year of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence this is a very good one to start with.
I loved this book because of the human side of the story. Frantz reminds us that not everyone agreed with the fight for independence which caused divides in families that just couldn’t be repaired after the war.
If you are looking for a good book to immerse yourself in during the year of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence this is a very good one to start with.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
So. So. Good! I mean, It’s Laura Frantz, her books are ALWAYS amazing. The history and story always pull me in. This book had so much heart. The entire relationship between Mae and Rhys was fantastic. So emotional and real. The heartache and pull between war and family and loyalties and truth. The whole story was so fantastic.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Belle of Chatham may be my new favorite story from Laura Frantz. Her writing is always impeccable. The history in her books always intricate and well-researched. And the heart of her tales always pointing the reader to God’s faithfulness and grace. I loved this book and I believe you will love it too!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. The opinions expressed are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. The opinions expressed are completely my own.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews