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KINDLE THE LIGHT OF LIBERTY: A Jewish Colonial Love Story of the American Revolution
They had no voice. They held no power. Yet they helped decide the fate of a nation.
In the bustling streets of Philadelphia, Rose Wachsman has no time for the rigid expectations of society—and even less for the infuriatingly reserved Nathan Hirsch. She is a woman of the hearth, sharp-witted and fiercely loyal to the cause of liberty; he is a man of business and tradition, seemingly more concerned with ledgers than the fires of revolution.
But as the war moves from a tradesman's chandlery to the parlors of the elite, Rose and Nathan find themselves forced into a dangerous game of intelligence and alliance.
In a world that would rather forget their names, they must overcome their own prejudices to discover that their greatest adversary— might be their only hope.
In the bustling streets of Philadelphia, Rose Wachsman has no time for the rigid expectations of society—and even less for the infuriatingly reserved Nathan Hirsch. She is a woman of the hearth, sharp-witted and fiercely loyal to the cause of liberty; he is a man of business and tradition, seemingly more concerned with ledgers than the fires of revolution.
But as the war moves from a tradesman's chandlery to the parlors of the elite, Rose and Nathan find themselves forced into a dangerous game of intelligence and alliance.
In a world that would rather forget their names, they must overcome their own prejudices to discover that their greatest adversary— might be their only hope.
223 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 4, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
As Americans, it’s easy to take our freedoms for granted. The history of the Revolutionary War, with all its significant dates and events, gets taught in schools, but that doesn’t convey what ordinary families experienced and sacrificed during those tumultuous times. A book like this really brings the rest of the story to life.
This tale stretches from 1775 to 1781 in Philadelphia, presenting the daily life of one particular fictional Jewish household made up of Benjamin Wachsman and his daughter, Rose. Although the emphasis is squarely centered upon Jewish patriotism during those years, Benjamin and Rose interact with and/or hear news of actual historical figures, both Jewish and Gentile, all working toward the common goal of driving the British off their soil. There are also the Loyalists who either have thrived by cooperating with the British or cannot imagine the rebels can possibly succeed. Others are on the fence, a position that eventually becomes impossible to maintain. The symbolism inherent in kindling a small light that cannot be extinguished is a recurrent theme that’s aptly applied throughout.
The narrative follows Rose’s point of view, so the reader learns of political and military developments when she does. (In an era without internet, cell phones, radios, or even telegraphs, this is often weeks after they actually occur.) She has the personality of Pride and Prejudice’s Elizabeth Bennet: fearless, intelligent, opinionated, and quick-witted. She finds Nathan Hirsch infuriating. He is wealthy and arrogant, and his family is firmly entrenched among the Loyalists. As the situation in Philadelphia worsens, he sporadically appears in her father’s candle shop and engages her in conversations that leave her huffing in confusion over his enigmatic statements. Rose herself becomes active in the resistance, moving in the shadows and becoming a conduit of information that needs to be shared regarding developments in New York and Savannah, including extended members of her own family.
Along with providing a satisfying romance, this book engages the reader’s emotions with a steady build of tension. Imagine living in a city filled with enemy soldiers who take whatever they want while you and your neighbors struggle to have access to food. Meanwhile, your covert activities could get you imprisoned or killed. Rose may be a fictional character, but she’s representative of all who struggled to stoke the fire of liberty -- specifically those of Jewish descent.
Well done, Ms. Trupp!
Content is clean.
I received a free copy via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This tale stretches from 1775 to 1781 in Philadelphia, presenting the daily life of one particular fictional Jewish household made up of Benjamin Wachsman and his daughter, Rose. Although the emphasis is squarely centered upon Jewish patriotism during those years, Benjamin and Rose interact with and/or hear news of actual historical figures, both Jewish and Gentile, all working toward the common goal of driving the British off their soil. There are also the Loyalists who either have thrived by cooperating with the British or cannot imagine the rebels can possibly succeed. Others are on the fence, a position that eventually becomes impossible to maintain. The symbolism inherent in kindling a small light that cannot be extinguished is a recurrent theme that’s aptly applied throughout.
The narrative follows Rose’s point of view, so the reader learns of political and military developments when she does. (In an era without internet, cell phones, radios, or even telegraphs, this is often weeks after they actually occur.) She has the personality of Pride and Prejudice’s Elizabeth Bennet: fearless, intelligent, opinionated, and quick-witted. She finds Nathan Hirsch infuriating. He is wealthy and arrogant, and his family is firmly entrenched among the Loyalists. As the situation in Philadelphia worsens, he sporadically appears in her father’s candle shop and engages her in conversations that leave her huffing in confusion over his enigmatic statements. Rose herself becomes active in the resistance, moving in the shadows and becoming a conduit of information that needs to be shared regarding developments in New York and Savannah, including extended members of her own family.
Along with providing a satisfying romance, this book engages the reader’s emotions with a steady build of tension. Imagine living in a city filled with enemy soldiers who take whatever they want while you and your neighbors struggle to have access to food. Meanwhile, your covert activities could get you imprisoned or killed. Rose may be a fictional character, but she’s representative of all who struggled to stoke the fire of liberty -- specifically those of Jewish descent.
Well done, Ms. Trupp!
Content is clean.
I received a free copy via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
As a lifelong 'Pride and Prejudice' reader, I am always a little cautious when an author cites Austen as an inspiration. Too often, the result is either a scene-for-scene retelling or a story that borrows familiar names without capturing the spirit of the original. 'Kindle the Light of Liberty' does neither. Instead, Trupp takes the qualities I love most about Austen—witty observations, complex family relationships, social expectations, and a romance built on misunderstanding and mutual respect—and places them in Revolutionary Philadelphia...with Jewish patriots to boot! The result feels both familiar and entirely fresh.
Rose Wachsman immediately won me over. Intelligent, independent, and deeply devoted to both family and principle, she reminded me of Elizabeth Bennet in all the best ways. Her growing relationship with Nathan Hirsch unfolds at a wonderfully measured pace. Their early encounters are filled with uncertainty, crossed signals, and assumptions about one another's loyalties, making every conversation matter. One of my favorite moments comes when Nathan quietly defends Rose against a social slight, observing that, "A chandler provides light where there is none. Whether that light is refined enough for this parlor... is perhaps less important than the fact that it allows one to see what is standing directly before one's eyes." Austen readers will immediately recognize the significance of a gentleman who sees more than he initially says.
I was equally captivated by Rose's friendship with Betsy Ross. Their conversations about faith, belonging, sacrifice, and liberty add warmth and emotional depth to the story while grounding the larger historical events in the lives of ordinary women. Trupp's Betsy is practical, courageous, and wonderfully human, and the friendship between the two women became one of my favorite aspects of the novel.
Rich in historical detail, filled with memorable characters, and anchored by a beautifully developed romance, 'Kindle the Light of Liberty' is a thoughtful and engaging novel that will appeal to readers of historical fiction, Austen-inspired fiction, and anyone who enjoys watching two intelligent people slowly discover one another's worth amid extraordinary times.
My thanks to the author for this ARC.
Rose Wachsman immediately won me over. Intelligent, independent, and deeply devoted to both family and principle, she reminded me of Elizabeth Bennet in all the best ways. Her growing relationship with Nathan Hirsch unfolds at a wonderfully measured pace. Their early encounters are filled with uncertainty, crossed signals, and assumptions about one another's loyalties, making every conversation matter. One of my favorite moments comes when Nathan quietly defends Rose against a social slight, observing that, "A chandler provides light where there is none. Whether that light is refined enough for this parlor... is perhaps less important than the fact that it allows one to see what is standing directly before one's eyes." Austen readers will immediately recognize the significance of a gentleman who sees more than he initially says.
I was equally captivated by Rose's friendship with Betsy Ross. Their conversations about faith, belonging, sacrifice, and liberty add warmth and emotional depth to the story while grounding the larger historical events in the lives of ordinary women. Trupp's Betsy is practical, courageous, and wonderfully human, and the friendship between the two women became one of my favorite aspects of the novel.
Rich in historical detail, filled with memorable characters, and anchored by a beautifully developed romance, 'Kindle the Light of Liberty' is a thoughtful and engaging novel that will appeal to readers of historical fiction, Austen-inspired fiction, and anyone who enjoys watching two intelligent people slowly discover one another's worth amid extraordinary times.
My thanks to the author for this ARC.
Did Not Finish
August 16, 2026I found that I could not immerse myself sufficiently in this to fully appreciate it (I have loved her other works that I've read over the years). But the American Revolution, in context of current events is just deeply ironic and in context of its time hypocritical in so many respects. I just couldn't stay in the story long enough to appreciate the writing or the Austenesque aspects of the story. And I feel badly about that.
July 28, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️My review: I always judge historical fiction books by what I learn, what I have to look up to check, and how deeply I feel immersed in the story. Based on these ideas I highly recommend Kindle the Light of Liberty.
It was fascinating to read about the Jewish colonists in Philadelphia and how they worked to support the fight for freedom. Trupp created a story that is historically factual and fictionally intriguing. Seeing Rose, her father, Nathan and their fellow citizens interact with Washington, Madison, Arnold and other real humans of the time was fascinating. Rose's slow realization that Nathan was a man to be trusted and believed was a slow move towards a relationship. (I was rooting for them!)
The book is written in language that takes some getting used to, but once I delved in, I was hooked. So proper, so biting, and so precise!
The historical notes and information at the end of the book were much appreciated. I learned so much thanks to this tale of history, freedom, and liberty.
(Thank you to the author for a digital copy to review!)
It was fascinating to read about the Jewish colonists in Philadelphia and how they worked to support the fight for freedom. Trupp created a story that is historically factual and fictionally intriguing. Seeing Rose, her father, Nathan and their fellow citizens interact with Washington, Madison, Arnold and other real humans of the time was fascinating. Rose's slow realization that Nathan was a man to be trusted and believed was a slow move towards a relationship. (I was rooting for them!)
The book is written in language that takes some getting used to, but once I delved in, I was hooked. So proper, so biting, and so precise!
The historical notes and information at the end of the book were much appreciated. I learned so much thanks to this tale of history, freedom, and liberty.
(Thank you to the author for a digital copy to review!)
July 10, 2026
I absolutely loved this look at what life was/might have been like during the revolutionary war for Jewish citizens of Philadelphia. We often focus on the frontline historical figures, and forget about those behind the scenes and a lot of time Jews are relegated to that area. Also the sweet, slow, inevitable romance was beautifully written.
July 11, 2026
Highly recommend Kindle the Light of Liberty. Once I began, I was compelled to keep reading. Trupp’s language and use of language to describe the people, places and culture brought me into their world with an eye to their experiences. I am grateful for her research and insight into the time in general and especially into their Jewish lives. I have longed to continue to learn about Jewish lives through our history; especially in Philadelphia my grandparents immigrant destination.Trupp presents us with the gift of her novel to bring us into their world.
July 20, 2026
Review of advanced copy provided by author
KINDLE THE LIGHT OF LIBERTY by Mirta Ines Trupp
A Radiant and Deeply Researched Jewish Perspective on the American Revolution
Kindle the Light of Liberty is a beautifully written, atmospheric piece of historical fiction that shines a much-needed light on the Jewish experience during the American Revolution. Set primarily in Revolutionary-era Philadelphia, the story follows Rose (Raizel) Wachsman, a sharp-witted chandler’s daughter who moves from being a silent witness to a courageous participant in the fight for independence
The author masterfully weaves a fictional romance with real-life historical figures like Haym Salomon, the Sheftall family, and David Salisbury Franks. The dynamic between Rose and Nathan Hirsch is particularly compelling; styled after Jane Austen’s Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy, their journey from mutual suspicion to shared purpose is both romantic and intellectually satisfying.
What I found most striking was the central metaphor of making light. As Rose and her father manufacture candles, they are also literal and metaphorical brokers in light, keeping the spirit of liberty burning even as they face war, occupation, and financial ruin.
The book doesn’t shy away from the complexities of the era, including the internal conflicts within the Jewish community regarding loyalty to the Crown versus the hope for a new world where they could finally be citizens rather than mere subjects.
This is more than just a love story; it’s a tribute to the citizen-soldiers and quiet patriots whose names are often missing from the history books but whose sacrifices were essential to the birth of a nation.
If you enjoy meticulously researched historical fiction with a strong, witty female lead and a touch of Austen-esque social insight, I highly recommend this book. And now, I’m excited to read more by the author.
KINDLE THE LIGHT OF LIBERTY by Mirta Ines Trupp
A Radiant and Deeply Researched Jewish Perspective on the American Revolution
Kindle the Light of Liberty is a beautifully written, atmospheric piece of historical fiction that shines a much-needed light on the Jewish experience during the American Revolution. Set primarily in Revolutionary-era Philadelphia, the story follows Rose (Raizel) Wachsman, a sharp-witted chandler’s daughter who moves from being a silent witness to a courageous participant in the fight for independence
The author masterfully weaves a fictional romance with real-life historical figures like Haym Salomon, the Sheftall family, and David Salisbury Franks. The dynamic between Rose and Nathan Hirsch is particularly compelling; styled after Jane Austen’s Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy, their journey from mutual suspicion to shared purpose is both romantic and intellectually satisfying.
What I found most striking was the central metaphor of making light. As Rose and her father manufacture candles, they are also literal and metaphorical brokers in light, keeping the spirit of liberty burning even as they face war, occupation, and financial ruin.
The book doesn’t shy away from the complexities of the era, including the internal conflicts within the Jewish community regarding loyalty to the Crown versus the hope for a new world where they could finally be citizens rather than mere subjects.
This is more than just a love story; it’s a tribute to the citizen-soldiers and quiet patriots whose names are often missing from the history books but whose sacrifices were essential to the birth of a nation.
If you enjoy meticulously researched historical fiction with a strong, witty female lead and a touch of Austen-esque social insight, I highly recommend this book. And now, I’m excited to read more by the author.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC (Advance Reading Copy):
"Trupp has done it again! As America prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, I can think of no better book to begin the festivities than "Kindle the Light of Liberty."
As a history buff, an Austen fan, and a proud American Jew, this novel checked all the boxes for me. The Revolutionary-era setting is fascinating, and the author brings to life a side of American history that many readers may not know much about—the experiences of Jewish colonists as they navigated the promises and uncertainties of a nation being born.
What I especially enjoyed was the way Trupp drew inspiration from Pride and Prejudice while making the story entirely her own. Austen readers will recognize familiar themes, character dynamics, and a few delightful echoes of the original, but this is much more than a retelling. The Revolutionary War setting gives the story a fresh energy, and the Jewish perspective adds depth and originality.
The historical details are seamlessly woven into the narrative, never slowing the story down. I found myself completely invested in the characters and their choices as they balanced family, faith, love, and loyalty during a turbulent period in history. The Jewish elements feel authentic and meaningful without ever overwhelming the plot.
Perhaps what stayed with me most was the reminder that Jewish Americans were part of the nation's story from the very beginning. At a time when we are reflecting on 250 years of American history, that message feels especially timely.
Thoughtful, engaging, and thoroughly enjoyable, "Kindle the Light of Liberty" is a wonderful addition to Trupp's growing collection of Jewish historical fiction. Five stars from me!"
"Trupp has done it again! As America prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, I can think of no better book to begin the festivities than "Kindle the Light of Liberty."
As a history buff, an Austen fan, and a proud American Jew, this novel checked all the boxes for me. The Revolutionary-era setting is fascinating, and the author brings to life a side of American history that many readers may not know much about—the experiences of Jewish colonists as they navigated the promises and uncertainties of a nation being born.
What I especially enjoyed was the way Trupp drew inspiration from Pride and Prejudice while making the story entirely her own. Austen readers will recognize familiar themes, character dynamics, and a few delightful echoes of the original, but this is much more than a retelling. The Revolutionary War setting gives the story a fresh energy, and the Jewish perspective adds depth and originality.
The historical details are seamlessly woven into the narrative, never slowing the story down. I found myself completely invested in the characters and their choices as they balanced family, faith, love, and loyalty during a turbulent period in history. The Jewish elements feel authentic and meaningful without ever overwhelming the plot.
Perhaps what stayed with me most was the reminder that Jewish Americans were part of the nation's story from the very beginning. At a time when we are reflecting on 250 years of American history, that message feels especially timely.
Thoughtful, engaging, and thoroughly enjoyable, "Kindle the Light of Liberty" is a wonderful addition to Trupp's growing collection of Jewish historical fiction. Five stars from me!"
August 20, 2026
KINDLE THE LIGHT OF LIBERTY: A Jewish Colonial Love Story of the American Revolution by Mirta Ines Trupp offers an engaging combination of historical romance, Jewish American history, revolution, and a story of two people whose personal struggles become intertwined with the larger fight for liberty.
At the center of the story are Rose Wachsman and Nathan Hirsch, two very different personalities brought together during a period of extraordinary political and social upheaval. Rose is fiercely loyal to the cause of liberty, while Nathan is more reserved and grounded in business and tradition. Their differences create an interesting foundation for a relationship that develops against the uncertainty and danger of the American Revolution.
One of the book's most compelling elements is its focus on Jewish characters during the Revolutionary era. Rose and Nathan are not simply observers of the conflict. Their involvement in intelligence, alliances, and the revolutionary cause places them directly within the dangerous political environment surrounding them. The story also explores how personal prejudices and differences can change when people are forced to confront circumstances larger than themselves.
Readers who enjoy historical romance, American Revolution fiction, Jewish historical fiction, colonial America, and stories that combine romance with political intrigue should find KINDLE THE LIGHT OF LIBERTY particularly appealing. Its focus on characters whose contributions could easily be overlooked by traditional accounts of the Revolution gives the story a distinctive historical perspective.
At the center of the story are Rose Wachsman and Nathan Hirsch, two very different personalities brought together during a period of extraordinary political and social upheaval. Rose is fiercely loyal to the cause of liberty, while Nathan is more reserved and grounded in business and tradition. Their differences create an interesting foundation for a relationship that develops against the uncertainty and danger of the American Revolution.
One of the book's most compelling elements is its focus on Jewish characters during the Revolutionary era. Rose and Nathan are not simply observers of the conflict. Their involvement in intelligence, alliances, and the revolutionary cause places them directly within the dangerous political environment surrounding them. The story also explores how personal prejudices and differences can change when people are forced to confront circumstances larger than themselves.
Readers who enjoy historical romance, American Revolution fiction, Jewish historical fiction, colonial America, and stories that combine romance with political intrigue should find KINDLE THE LIGHT OF LIBERTY particularly appealing. Its focus on characters whose contributions could easily be overlooked by traditional accounts of the Revolution gives the story a distinctive historical perspective.
Review of advance copy received from Author
**EDITORIAL REVIEWS**
"This book is a beautifully written portrayal of life in Philadelphia during the American revolutionary war, as seen through the eyes of a young Jewish woman. From the first sentence to the last, it is a gripping tale of quiet rebellion against tyranny, and deep devotion to family and tradition. Mirta Trupp’s meticulous research brings the streets of Philadelphia in the 1770s to life, laced with the cadences of Jewish life in a nation struggling to define itself. I cannot recommend this book highly enough."
Rabbi Jennifer Singer
𝗥𝗮𝗯𝗯𝗶 𝗘𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗮 𝗼𝗳 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗿𝗲𝗴𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗞𝗼𝗹 𝗛𝗮𝗡𝗲𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗺𝗮
𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗘𝗻𝗴𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝘁 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗝𝗲𝘄𝗶𝘀𝗵 𝗙𝗲𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗦𝗮𝗿𝗮𝘀𝗼𝘁𝗮-𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗲
*-*-*-*-*-
"Mirta Ines Trupp has written a timely book, a delightful way to commemorate the 250th anniversary of our nation’s history. Set during the American Revolution in Philadelphia, it focuses on a Jewish family, exploring the issues that presented for this ethnic group during this period when families were often divided in their loyalties, some favoring the Crown and some devoted to the ideal of independence. Rose, the heroine, struggles to establish a clear view of what she believes and how she can best help her family and her cause. The novel is also a love story. It evokes Jane Austen, a contemporary of the period. Though Austen’s life was a world away from Rose Wachsman’s, her perspective permeates the novel both in the nature of its romantic plot and its general concern for discernment and deliberation in judging others."
Paula Marantz Cohen,
Professor of English and Dean Emerita of the Pennoni Honors College at Drexel University
Author of Jane Austen in Boca
"This book is a beautifully written portrayal of life in Philadelphia during the American revolutionary war, as seen through the eyes of a young Jewish woman. From the first sentence to the last, it is a gripping tale of quiet rebellion against tyranny, and deep devotion to family and tradition. Mirta Trupp’s meticulous research brings the streets of Philadelphia in the 1770s to life, laced with the cadences of Jewish life in a nation struggling to define itself. I cannot recommend this book highly enough."
Rabbi Jennifer Singer
𝗥𝗮𝗯𝗯𝗶 𝗘𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗮 𝗼𝗳 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗿𝗲𝗴𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗞𝗼𝗹 𝗛𝗮𝗡𝗲𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗺𝗮
𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗘𝗻𝗴𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝘁 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗝𝗲𝘄𝗶𝘀𝗵 𝗙𝗲𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗦𝗮𝗿𝗮𝘀𝗼𝘁𝗮-𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗲
*-*-*-*-*-
"Mirta Ines Trupp has written a timely book, a delightful way to commemorate the 250th anniversary of our nation’s history. Set during the American Revolution in Philadelphia, it focuses on a Jewish family, exploring the issues that presented for this ethnic group during this period when families were often divided in their loyalties, some favoring the Crown and some devoted to the ideal of independence. Rose, the heroine, struggles to establish a clear view of what she believes and how she can best help her family and her cause. The novel is also a love story. It evokes Jane Austen, a contemporary of the period. Though Austen’s life was a world away from Rose Wachsman’s, her perspective permeates the novel both in the nature of its romantic plot and its general concern for discernment and deliberation in judging others."
Paula Marantz Cohen,
Professor of English and Dean Emerita of the Pennoni Honors College at Drexel University
Author of Jane Austen in Boca
Review of advance copy received from Author
Years ago, I discovered Mirta Trupp and quickly learned to expect two things from her books: she will teach me something new, and she will do so through characters who feel entirely real. "Kindle the Light of Liberty" is no exception. As America approaches its 250th anniversary, there seems no better time to remember that Jewish patriots were present at the nation's founding—not standing on the sidelines, but helping to shape the course of events. Through Rose Wachsman and her family, Trupp brings to life a fascinating and often-overlooked chapter of Revolutionary America, weaving Jewish history, faith, patriotism, and community seamlessly into the larger story. The history never feels like a lesson; it grows naturally from the lives of characters whose hopes, fears, and loyalties kept me turning pages.
Trupp has a gift for illuminating neglected corners of history, and she does so here with warmth, intelligence, and grace. Thoughtful, engaging, thoroughly enjoyable, and so timely, "Kindle the Light of Liberty" is a wonderful addition to her growing body of historical fiction and a book I would happily recommend to lovers of J.A.F.F., Jewish fiction, American history, and compelling historical novels alike. *I received an ARC from the author*
Trupp has a gift for illuminating neglected corners of history, and she does so here with warmth, intelligence, and grace. Thoughtful, engaging, thoroughly enjoyable, and so timely, "Kindle the Light of Liberty" is a wonderful addition to her growing body of historical fiction and a book I would happily recommend to lovers of J.A.F.F., Jewish fiction, American history, and compelling historical novels alike. *I received an ARC from the author*
July 15, 2026
This is a fascinating deep-dive into colonial Philadelphia through the eyes of a young Jewish women named Rose Wachsman. As Jews, Rose and her father already have a somewhat precarious -- though stable -- standing in their community, but when they get involved in spying on the British, things get really complicated. Fans of historical fiction -- and Hamilton! -- will love it, as well as those who like reading about communities of people who don't always make it into history books.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews