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Native Patriot

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A sweeping historical romance set against the authentic backdrop of the Revolutionary War’s Pennsylvania campaign.

More than just blacksmith, Lenni Lenape Mark Running Bear was raised in a Quaker household since the age of ten. His loyalty was to the pacifist community that took him in until the battle brewing around him robbed him of his last link to the past. Mark must make a decision while surrounded by the chaos of a war he never wanted.

Left by her mother with the camp followers of Major General Nathanael Greene, Grace soon learns that danger and hungry eyes follow her even outside of the backstreets of Philadelphia. She trusts no man and never has, but the young Quaker blacksmith helps her several times without asking for anything in return.

As the savage battles of Brandywine, White Horse Tavern, Paoli, and Germantown rage around them, Grace struggles trust and to survive in the world of the military camp while Mark faces an impossible choice: honor his Quaker upbringing of nonviolence, or embrace the warrior heritage flowing through his veins.

In the crucible of America’s fight for independence, two souls must decide if love is worth fighting for—or if the divisions between their worlds are too great to overcome.

323 pages, ebook

Published May 5, 2026

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About the author

Pegg Thomas

31 books638 followers
Pegg Thomas lives in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula with Murphy and Clancy, her spoiled rotten dogs. She creates American stories with real history and fictional characters inspired by her ancestors who immigrated here in the early 1600s.

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5 stars
117 (73%)
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33 (20%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
Profile Image for Staci.
2,400 reviews694 followers
May 5, 2026
1777 Pennsylvania

Through the eyes of a young woman (Grace) with dubious parentage and a young Quaker/Indian (Mark), readers step back into time. Native Patriot is not only an opportunity to be immersed in the Revolutionary War, but also to better understand other historical details of the time.

Mark shows it was possible to be an instrumental part of a war without fighting. Grace learns to trust. In particular, I loved Mistress Geyer with her kind ways and guiding words. She lived out loving others and seeing the good in them.

Another engaging historical romance novel by the talented Pegg Thomas. Highly recommended!

My gratitude to the author for a complimentary copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Nashelle.
118 reviews
June 27, 2026
Loved:
♥ the MMC Mark
♥ the uncommon focus on the experience of the camp followers
♥ the information about the Lenni Lenape
♥ the faith
♥ the respectful romance
♥ Mrs. Geyser

If you're looking for an American Revolutionary War era story that isn't your typical fare, this is an enjoyable option.
Profile Image for Bethany Meadows.
192 reviews41 followers
June 11, 2026


What a perfect book to read for America250. Rich historical detail and captivating characters had me IMMERSED in this.

As a Quaker with Native American heritage, blacksmith Mark Running Bear is caught between being a warrior or a peacekeeper during the American Revolution. When the war marches into his village, he’s moved to make a choice.

Hoping to find a better position in life than her Mother ever had, Grace has joined the women following the Continental Army camp. Shame from her past threatens to push her away from the camp, but a budding relationship with Mark teaches her the truth about how God sees them both.

What I loved
🦌Mark (Maxkok) a favorite MMC now.
🦌the well-researched historical details
🦌BEAUTIFUL forgiveness arc
🦌 being a part of the Continental Army
🦌 the way the romantic relationship develops
🦌 VERY strong faith
🦌 Ahotasu 🥹🥹

I absolutely loved this! I learned so much about the American Revolution, life with the women following the military camp, the Lenni Lenape tribe, Quakers, and Major General Nathaniel Greene. Now I want to do more research into all of these topics! The faith message and theme of forgiveness was so beautiful and convicting. It touched my heart in a special way. I have already ordered my next book by this author!








Initial thoughts** This was fantastic. The faith journey is beautiful! A strong forgiveness arc. I’m going to use this for the Red, White, and June Readathon prompt “Faith That Endures”. I’ll have a more in depth review soon. It’s obvious the author is well versed in the revolutionary era and/or did a lot of research. The characters were unique, the plot intriguing. I loved it!
Profile Image for Tina Lowery.
368 reviews
June 29, 2026
Written by Pegg Thomas, Native Patriot began as Grace and Mark Running Bear met during the Revolutionary War. One minute they were in front of a panther, one that was crouched silently as it eyed it's prey. Yet, the next minute, they returned to the location of the camp followers where she temporarily belonged. Mark was a Quaker, with Native American heritage from the Lenape tribe. Grace had been born to an unwed mother in questionable circumstances. Throughout this story drawn from history, details were given about what the life of a camp follower would be. How other roles were as important as the role of a general, soldier, doctor or scout. As the story had flowed from beginning to end, it was definitely created through a lens of love and knowledge. Conceptually, Native Patriot provided a vision of the history provided for people to become aware that these United States of America were earned through the blood, sweat and tears of people from all walks of life. I gave this story 5 out of 5 stars for the words, the emotions, the history and story created.
73 reviews4 followers
May 11, 2026
Love and life during the Revolutionary War

This is one of those books that stays with you long after you put it down. One reason is because it presents the stark realities of the sacrifices and the limitations of the Revolutionary War on the Patriots. Second it has twists in it that bring some of the deepest hurts in people's lives to the surface to be dealt with by both them and the people who care for them. Third it points to the amazing forgiveness in our lives from our heavenly Father and the need to extend it to others.
The story itself is a love story about Mark, a Indian and a Quaker, and Grace, a woman with no last name whose mother wanted her far away from her strumpet lifestyle in Philadelphia. These two meet up in the followers camp, which is the camp that follows the army providing medical care, food, laundry and other supplies. Their story is wrought with looking at the past and looking at their future. It is a story you will enjoy. In addition the author includes so much historical information that it gives true insight to the Revolutionary War. At the end of the book, she includes historical information of different people and events that are mentioned in the story.
Profile Image for Susan Sloan.
205 reviews17 followers
June 19, 2026
This may be the best book Pegg Thomas has written, which is saying a lot. She has included a variety of aspects among the characters: Native American, Quaker, native-born patriots of European descent, and recent immigrants, plus the class divisions that persisted due to ingrained prejudices. Readers become acutely aware of the clashing loyalties in the primary male character, a true Native American who has adopted the Quaker way. His counterpart is a young woman who is fiercely aware of her illegitimate birth and an upbringing that included no knowledge of his God. When the early battles of war throw the two together, will their assigned identities keep them from finding a united future?
37 reviews
July 6, 2026
How appropriate that I should finish this book on 7/4/2026, the 250th birthday of our country. I always marvel at the historical accuracy of Pegg’s writing and it entices me to dig deeper. The blending of the culture, characters and history helps me to understand the context of the time and events. For me, I can always visualize just what the characters look like and the setting. I’ve learned and understand more history now than I ever learned in school. Thank you again for yet another well written book. Kudos!
360 reviews
May 7, 2026
Do you ever just read a book slowly because it is so rich with details and descriptions? This is one of those books. It makes you appreciate so much more what our forefathers went through to free ourselves from Britain during the Revolutionary War. The story line is wonderful, patiently showing the transformation of the main character’s lives throughout the story. I highly recommend this book. I will definitely reread it again!
41 reviews
June 26, 2026
One of my favorite time periods to read about is American Colonial/American Revolution. As usual, Ms. Thomas didn't disappoint. I enjoyed reading about Mark's struggle to find a balance between his Indian heritage and his Quaker upbringing and enjoyed Grace's struggle to be looked at for herself and not just her background. I also liked the descriptions of what it was like living in an army camp and the historical notes at the end. It was like getting a miniature history lesson.
60 reviews
May 8, 2026
Great read

I really enjoyed reading Mark and Grace's story, especially against the backdrop of the American Revolutionary War. It is such a tender love story. Historical fiction is not a genre I usually read, but this was recommended to me and I thoroughly enjoyed it. So I highly recommend it to you.
Profile Image for Judy.
442 reviews8 followers
May 24, 2026
History lesson in Dispare

Early history was brutal and difficult for most, especially if of less than desirable lineage. The struggles and divisions tore many apart and led to a grievous future. This story was full of emotion and the definite leaning on God for direction. Beautifully written.
242 reviews1 follower
May 27, 2026
Excellent

I really enjoyed this story and the themes of seeing all people as created in the image of God, forgiveness, etc. While Mark and Grace work through their own perceptions and prejudices that they discover in each other's past, they also seek God's will for their growing relationship. It was a sweet story.
Profile Image for Mary Johns.
Author 6 books271 followers
June 16, 2026
I've enjoyed all of Pegg Thomas's novels and Native Patriot is another winner. Love her writing style and the way she doesn't sugarcoat early American history. Loved the "Indian Quaker" angle--she made it real, believable, and let Mark's unusual heritage unfold into a lovely story. An interesting, fun read. Looking forward to her next book.
Profile Image for Linda.
Author 12 books37 followers
May 25, 2026
Beautiful Story

As we are celebrating 250 years as a nation, it is good to remember how our ancestors fought for freedom. For them. For us. Thank you for such a beautiful telling of it, Penn Thomas.

90 reviews
June 23, 2026
Very enjoyable story about learning to accept yourself as God created you. I also learned a lot about the Quakers and their beliefs. Applying it to the setting of the Revolutionary War was icing on the cake!
125 reviews
June 2, 2026
This is another wonderful, faith-filled historical read. Pegg Thomas not only writes an entertaining story she also ties in so much history. I love her author notes at the end. I highly recommend this book, and anything she writes!
1 review
June 2, 2026
Love the story Pegg spins up! I tried to slow down with this book, but it was hard to do. I love the fact that God uses broken pots. Both Mark and Gtace have broken backgrounds and God uses them in this story for good. Thank you Pegg for another good read!
Profile Image for Trisha.
461 reviews46 followers
June 25, 2026
Wonderful!

I enjoyed reading this story, from the first chapter to the very last word. Author Pegg Thomas brought history to vibrant life within the pages of this book, through the dynamic characters and lush details. I simply couldn’t get enough!
43 reviews
May 29, 2026
Pegg Thomas has become one of my favorite authors, and this Revolutionary War story is one of my favorites of hers. Mark and Grace’s story kept me turning pages until the satisfying end.
Profile Image for Carolyn Bryant.
1,018 reviews79 followers
April 18, 2026
Native Patriot is a touching Revolutionary War saga rich in history and emotion, steeped in faith. Immersive storytelling, with well-placed twists, compelling characters, and a touch of sweet romance hooked me from the start and kept me reading eagerly to the satisfying end. Thanks to a vividly painted setting, I felt like I was there in Pennsylvania walking alongside the brave American Patriots and devoted camp followers. I love main characters Grace and Mark whose lives are both impacted by societal prejudice. Their journey to find a place to belong, a faith to sustain them, and a fulfilling future together is heartfelt and captivating. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.
I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Jeanne Alfveby Crea.
1,057 reviews110 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 14, 2026
Another beautiful faith-filled historical fiction by Pegg Thomas! I couldn't put it down. I read it in less than 24 hours! This is a great story to read in light of the upcoming 250th anniversary of our country.

Right off the bat, Grace takes a walk and encounters a panther. A man with hair as black as midnight, very lithe and quiet on his feet, tells her to walk backward. 'Do not turn and run, only walk backwards.' As they back away from danger she meets Mark Running Bear, a blacksmith, a Quaker, and an Indian. In the evening hours, she just sees and hears his quaker clothes and manner of speaking.

This was such an interesting story about the army camp followers trailing George Washington's revolutionary army. They cooked meals for the army, did laundry and mending, and helped tend to the wounded. The author did a beautiful job making the reader feel like they were right there. Eventually as the weather turns, they start looking for a place to winter north of Philadelphia. We visited Valley Forge a few years ago, and this book really gave me an appreciation for the wives, and people who accompanied the army.

Grace's mother did not want Grace to follow in her footsteps as a strumpet, so she drops off this beautiful young adult daughter to help the women in the camp, where learns many skills and has an older Swedish woman friend take her under her wing. Because of where she grew up, she does not trust men. Both Grace and Mark feel as though they don't have a place where they belong. It is physically demanding journey, and it is also a spiritual journey.

I highly recommend this beautiful book! If you love historical fiction, you will love this! I did!

Thank you to the author for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Cindy Huff.
Author 11 books55 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 3, 2026
Native Patriot was a joy to read. The historical research shone through as I found myself in the follower's camp of the patriots during the Revolutionary War. The characters are original, and the plot twists wrapped around actual events as the patriots struggle to break the shackles of the British. Mark is an Indian who embraced Quaker ways. Grace has no last name because illegitimate children whose fathers didn't claim them or were unknown must go through life without one. So sad. Both Grace and Mark must find their place in the followers' camp after being displaced from their homes when the British invade.
We meet some historical characters in Native Patriot, such as General Nathaniel Greene, nicknamed the 'Fighting Quaker.' Thomas digs deep into the characters' spiritual and identity struggles. Each feeling unworthy of the other. No man would want a bride born to an unmarried woman. No white woman wants an Indian husband. Yet, all the clever twists in the plot draw out their inner sorrows and bring healing and a happily-ever-after.
Pegg Thomas uses family research to craft a wonderful story that makes you sigh with contentment as you read the last page. Redemption, forgiveness, and surrendering to God's guidance are themes sprinkled throughout the story. I love the well-crafted you-are-there feel. This story gave me a deeper understanding of those who supported the ragtag group of patriots who fought for America's freedom.

Profile Image for Kimberly Russell.
Author 3 books288 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 21, 2026
Review of Advanced Copy from Author

In Pegg Thomas’ latest, we meet a timid young woman named Grace who has experienced anything but during her young life.

Abandoned by a mother who actually only had her best interests at heart, Grace finds herself traveling with camp followers during the Revolutionary War’s Pennsylvania Campaign.

She prays no one discovers her secret, sordid past that could devastate her present as she struggles to find her place in a strange new world.

Also part of the war effort is Mark, who has been on his own dark journey. From being raised in an Indian tribe to adulthood as a Quaker, his worlds often collide as he is torn between the two.

Mark and Grace struggle with insecurity that God could love the likes of them and find solace in one another while trying to keep the past in the past and find the good in their present. Not an easy feat.

The court of public opinion plagues them and brings destruction from lack of information, preconceived notions, and the prejudicial attitude of the day. Their potential future is threatened as a tangled web of deceit, lies, and astonishing but painful truths is revealed.

Can they hang on to fledgling faith and trust God to bring them through? Read Native Patriot and find out.
Profile Image for Christin.
842 reviews23 followers
June 23, 2026
good setting

I enjoyed the historical setting of this novel; I could tell the author spent time getting the history correct. I wish there had been more about the battles and strategy and maneuvering of the armies; that’s where it really shined. It all came alive! But it fell so woefully short in its Christian theology and fell into the character trap of “he went here. He thought this. This made him feel that.”

I would challenge a lot of the religious beliefs here as unbiblical (recognizing God as creator doesn’t mean all religions are the same). Definitely some Syncretism going on and a sort of mysticism. God has to give you words and miraculously answer your prayers for you to be a Christian? Portrayal of salvation was iffy too. No mention of believing in Christ as our savior who paid the penalty for our sins on the cross, giving us access to God. It’s so much simpler and even more glorious than all the steps here. The Light of Christ indeed! The Holy Spirit illumines our minds so we recognize our sins and how richly and greatly the Father loves us sinner that he sent his only son Jesus to atone for us. Good news!
Profile Image for Sunnie.
1,026 reviews51 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 8, 2026
This was a great read. I felt I learned so much about history in this Revolutionary War period. It comes at such a historical year for our country as well! So a perfect book for us at this time. The historical facts and events were so well incorporated into the romance of Mark Running Bear and Grace. Although you could see their attraction, things were not perfect for Mark whose past life events caused him to think about the direction he should follow. Such a well written book and not a dull moment found in the entire book. In my profession as a genealogist I remembered many people looking for their Hessian soldiers in Pennsylvania, many of whom did not return to their home. So that was really an interesting historical read for me as well as the Oneida tribe which plays a part in this book. It was a Christian book showing faith and following God's plan for us.
It was excellent and I highly recommend this book. I received an ARC copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Betti.
1,451 reviews36 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 27, 2026
First believe - with God all things are possible.

This wonderful historical taught me much more about the Revolutionary War, prejudice and what life was like at that time. Mark Running Bear, a Lenni Lenape, a Quaker, a scout and a blacksmith. His non-resistant beliefs would not allow him to shoot to kill, but he certainly could help in other areas.

The role of camp followers was very important for medical help and more. Grace was an illegitimate young lady who was dropped off by her mother in hopes that she would not follow her mother’s choice of career. For Grace, trust in any man was a huge issue. Could she learn to trust a man of principles and believe that God has a plan for her life?

This story of faith, forgiveness, lots of history and a little romance was received through Spinner of Yarns Publishing, LLC and BookFunnel. These thoughts are my own and were in no way solicited.
Profile Image for Robin Willson.
721 reviews25 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 24, 2026
I need 10 stars for this. Excellently good book. A Lenni Lenape Indian who is a Quaker and an illegitimate girl are part of a camp following in Pennsylvania during the Revolutionary war. Each are not fully accepted by the community yet earn their way through hard work and their nature. Interesting and realistic days in their lives as the war progresses and they have to deal with so much to both survive and fit in, even their own personal prejudices. Their journey of faith also grows as the story progresses. Enriching journey to immerse yourself and travel along with. Fulfilling read.

I received this book free from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

#NativePatriot #PeggThomas #BooksYouCanFeelGoodAbout #SpinnerOfYarns #ChristianHistoricalRomance
Profile Image for Pegg.
Author 31 books638 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 26, 2026
I started writing this book in April 2019. The idea was to create a multi-author series with four other writers. We pitched it to our agent, she pitched it to publishers, and ... it went nowhere. So I stopped at about 30k words, and it remained on my computer, ignored and growing lonely.

Then came 2025, and the nation's semiquincentennial (250th) anniversary the very next year. Native Patriot, which had niggled at my thoughts for years, is set during the Pennsylvania campaign of the Revolutionary War. Perfect! Getting back into a story that had slumbered for 6 years, however, was more work than I thought it'd be!

Mark and Grace's story was worth finishing. I love these characters, both societal misfits in their own way, who overcome their circumstances. Isn't that the quintessential American story?
586 reviews20 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 19, 2026
Pegg has a wonderful gift of writing revolutionary stories. This one is filled with battles and suspense.
It is definitely faith filled. With God nothing is impossible.
And the romance is woven well into the story, not the main point.
I am grateful for an early rrad and gladly recommend it.
Profile Image for Margaret Nelson.
1,779 reviews
May 11, 2026
I enjoyed this book focusing on a short period in the Revolutionary War not long before the winter at Valley Forge. Two young people from backgrounds looked down upon by most of society learn to see themselves and others through Christ's viewpoint, learn how to forgive, and how to trust God and each other. If you want a good look at every day life in the 1770s, this one is excellent.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews