Saratoga Letters

In Pursuit of Liberty and Love #1

by Elaine Marie Cooper

It is 1777. The Battle of Saratoga, a turning point of the Revolutionary War, encourages the American Continental Army with their first great victory. But there seemed little to celebrate for one patriotic woman forced to nurse wounded British soldiers right in their war camp. Thrust into deception by a cruel Loyalist uncle, Abigail is forced to lie in order to survive, all the while dealing with fears that challenge her faith. Danger stalks her everywhere, yet her salvation springs from an unexpected source.

Then …

Two hundred years later, on the anniversary of the Battle of Saratoga, thousands arrive from Europe and the United States to celebrate the event -- including descendants from the war. One young American, Abby, meets the offspring of a British soldier. When her life is threatened, Abby turns to the only person she knows at the event -- her British ally. Can she trust him with her life? Or will he betray her in the same way loyalist spies betrayed her ancestors? Perhaps letters from long ago will reveal the truth.

Genres: Historical, Historical Fiction, Contemporary, Christian Fiction, Fiction, Romance, American Revolutionary War

362 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 4, 2016

About the author

Writer of historical fiction and Christian Devotions. Passionate about her faith, her family, and the history of the American Revolution.

Reviews

[Deanne Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rich in revolutionary war facts this book really shines! I was unable to stop reading as it really grabbed my attention. Two stories connected by 200 years . The story starts out with the battle of Saratoga in the American Revolution during 1777. Fast forward 200 years to 1977 and follow the descendants at the reenactment of this important battle. Saratoga Letters is full of elements of strength,suspense,romance and compassion.. I highly recommend this book to
readers of Historical Romantic fiction .
Published October 4th 2016 by Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas.
Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.

[Olivia · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was just okay. I never really loved any of the characters, but I did like all the connections of the first and second part. Ian's British character was done very well. I think there were a couple British swear words, but I know most American's wouldn't find them offensive. A lot of the romance is a little silly and I felt like some of the concerns both couples had (as in going too far in kissing) could have been fixed by not sleeping in the same room!! There are several innuendos throughout that were awkward, also some very clear mentions of women's periods, and lots of kisses, some detailed.

I wouldn't read this again and wouldn't really recommend it, but I'm glad to at least get another book read from my kindle :) I still probably will read the other book I have by this author on my kindle as I do like her style of writing.

[Loraine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a unique novel in that the first half takes place during the Battle of Saratoga, a turning point in the Revolutionary War. The second half takes place in modern time and involves descendants of the characters in the first part who are celebrating the 200th anniversary of the Battle.

The first thing I must say is that Elaine Cooper is one of the best writers when it comes to the Revolutionary War. Her historical research shines through the story line as you can smell, hear, and visualize each and every event that takes place during the battle. The detail on the happenings in the surgical and nursing tents fills your emotions as you feel what the wounded and dying soldiers are experiencing. Experiencing the events from the British viewpoint rather than the Patriot is another unusual twist.

The parallel storyline between part one and part two was quite interesting, yet Cooper added enough differences that I didn't feel like I was reading the same plot all over. Since historical military reenactment is such a large part of today's society, this made for a totally believable setting and storyline. The love plots in both parts were wonderful. The slowly growing romance between Abigail and William and Abby and Ian was tender and endearing. I particularly liked that both women held strong to their beliefs that physical feelings must be kept in checked until after marriage. And both William and Ian were wonderful heroes in that they respected their loves' beliefs. Cooper does a superb job of threading both parts with a strong faith element with the women leading their men back to the faith they had drifted from.

I thoroughly enjoyed this new historical romance novel from Elaine Cooper. It kept me up long past my bedtime and definitely made my Favorites of 2016 list.

FAVORITE QUOTES: "But even he knew life was God's to give--as well as take away. Not our to pray for the ending before He was finished with us on earth."

"Evil has been around since the pride of the evil one brought him to defy God. Evil caused the first murder--and every murder since then.....It's the alliance with evil in men's souls that leads to the pain in this world. But Jesus Himself said, 'I have overcome the world.' "

"God is not the God of confusion but of peace."

**I received a complimentary copy of this book from Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas to review. I was asked to give my honest opinion of the book - which I have done.

[Marguerite Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author connects two worlds separated by 200 years. The characters from the revolution era make decisions that will affect the lives of people many decades later. This novel would make anyone want to research his own genealogy to find that connecting piece that pulls at the heartstrings.

[Noela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author Elaine Cooper has fashioned an enthralling novel around the historically significant Battle of Saratoga. Authentic and emotive, this story is creatively paralleled from two different eras—two hundred years apart. From the bloody battlefield of the Revolutionary War during 1777 to modern-day 1977 and the commemoration of the Battle of Saratoga, this two-part story is connected through the ages by not only ancestry and other interesting similarities, but also heartbreak, danger, and enchanting romances.

Flame-haired patriot Abigail Gillingham is forced by her abusive, loyalist uncle to tend to the wounded of the King’s army in their hospital marquee. Thrust into the middle of mayhem and anguish, Abigail has no choice but to help the enemy that has invaded her country whilst keeping her patriotism secret. Amongst the trauma and human misery, a wounded corporal with intense blue eyes and a sympathetic, gentle nature—becomes her anchor and stirs up feelings she shouldn’t have. Will Abigail’s deception be discovered? Will she find freedom from her situation, audacious admirers, and her uncle? And can love between a Corporal and patriot survive or be felled like so many of the soldiers?

Two-hundred years later, circumstances bring American Abby Carpenter and British constable Ian Thacker together for the bicentenary celebrations of the Battle of Saratoga. As Abby and Ian unravel mysteries of the past, and deal with ominous threats in the present, will it help them to find a deeper connection? Or will the real battle be in their hearts?

Raw. Edgy. Realistic. Powerful. ‘Saratoga Letters’ tells of the reality of war, along with the hope and promise that faith and love carry. I had tears by the end of the third chapter but there were also plenty of smiles throughout—especially from the amusing moments arising from the modern-day couple’s culture differences and shared history. This was one of those captivating stories that will likely frustrate you when life gets in the way of reading! Highly recommended!

[Joleen · Rating 2 out of 5]

Wow, did this turn out to be a weird book. It started out interesting, although portions were cringe-worthy. But the last few chapters were just bizarre.

Two parts, two time frames: Revolutionary War and 1977
Locales: Redlands, CA, but mostly in Saratoga Springs, NY
Characters, story one, 1777:
Abigail Gillingham. Father was a patriot colonist doctor who had recently died.
William Carpenter, Corporal in the King's Army; sole regiment survivor in recent battle. Injured and in the field hospital
Thomas Salyer, loyalist surgeon's-mate
Characters, story two, 1977:
Abby Carpenter, nurse in Redlands, California
Thomas Thacker, British constable. In America for the Revolutionary War celebrations

Story one: Abigail is living alone in her parents cabin, both of whom are dead. Her father was a doctor, and a patriot colonist. Her uncle, on the other hand, was an unkind monster of a loyalist who burst into her house to steal all of her father's medicine, and to abduct her, spiriting her off to a field hospital, forcing her to be a nurse for the King's army.

While there, her great beauty and sweet ways drew attention from everyone, some in admiration, many in lascivious ways. It seems she had to be protected all the time. Thomas, a surgeon's-mate, nearly immediately fell in love with her, but so did William, a corporal in the King's army, recently injured, with seemingly nothing much to live for. She was drawn to both, but when Thomas took unwelcome liberties, she knew she could no longer trust him.

Even though her father promised her to another, she fell in love with William. But sadly, she was healing him in order for him to go back into the war and kill more colonists.

One of the soldiers she needed to be protected from grabbed her, pulled her into the forest, and was about to rape her, when Thomas Salyer shot him, and William and Abigail ran to get far away from there, eventually married. But two more men came to their cabin that she needed protection from. One was her intended, the other one was her uncle.

Story two: Abby's brother talks her into going to the reenactment and celebration of the Revolutionary War in the town of her birth, Saratoga Springs, NY. This was to honor their father who had loved this celebration. Because of appendicitis, her brother was not able to go, so she went alone. Along the way she met Thomas, a British constable who was also there for the celebration. Both had ancestors who were involved in this war, on opposite sides.

As it turns out Abby is also beautiful, and needed to be protected from two men who seemed to want to take advantage of her. As she spends time with Thomas they both fall in love.

This story was a bit convoluted. Too many things didn't fall together properly, didn't make sense, or lacked imagination. There was far too much emphasis on the beauty of both female leads, Abigail and Abby. Men either wanted to have their way with them, or hurt them. On the other hand there seemed to be an awful lot of men who were trying to protect them. Once, while Thomas was protecting her, getting caught up in a fight for her honor, Abby just walks off, not staying to see what happens to Thomas, with whom she had professed her love! (Really???) As she's walking off with sweet, innocent, simple-minded Gregory whom she had befriended, he presents himself as Gregory's psychopathic brother, Greyson, who had killed Gregory and assumed his identity. Greyson had always had something against Abby, and wanted to kill her, so he leads her into the woods.
Yep, convoluted.

This story had such potential, but the delivery of it lacked so much. Sadly I can't give it any more than 2 1/2 stars.

[April Gardner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Saratoga Letters offers the best of both worlds--contemporary and historical romance. I usually lean toward historical romance, but I was pleasantly surprised to find that the contemporary side of this story grabbed me as much as the historical.
The premise was unique and the history rich. I'd heard of the Battle of Saratoga, of course, but I knew practically nothing about it. Come to find out, it was a pivotal point for the American in the Revolutionary War. Several times in both threads of the story, I felt inspired to put my hand over my heart and launch into the National Anthem. :-)
I applaud Ms. Cooper for not shying away from gritty details or uncomfortable subject matter. Give me life in all its stark reality, and I'm a much happier reader.
Well done, Ms. Cooper!

[Gretchen · Rating 4 out of 5]

They always say never judge a book by it’s cover, but I often tend to. That is exactly the reason this book has been sitting on my kindle for close to 10 years it seems. Do not leave this book sitting on yours. Oh my gosh. What a crazy and fun ride this was. The stories were incredible, I could not put the book down for fear of what was going to happen. Must read.

[Elizabeth Kling · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not my usual genre

This was a new author to me and I rarely read historical romance. I guess i didnt realize what I was missing. Most intriguing, clean, well developed characters, great plot with a big unexpected twist at the end. I do love surprise endings. I will definitely be following this author.

[Yvonne Gilbert · Rating 5 out of 5]

True love

Steeped in the Revolutionary War as the story unfolds. The cruelty of war, of despair, the struggles to survive and of true love. Then wrapping around 200 hundred later to find the same struggles and love most perfected. I could not out this book down.

[Janet Grunst · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Saratoga Letters, the author has cleverly woven together two distinct stories set two hundred years apart. Each story involves romance with numerous challenges and plenty of danger and intrigue.

It’s 1777 and Abigail Gillingham alone and despondent after the death of her physician father, waits at her Saratoga, NY home. Her unscrupulous and cruel Loyalist uncle Richard shows up and forces her to the nearby British Army camp to serve as a nurse. She passes as a Loyalist and as a married woman since single nurses are not allowed. As a colonial Patriot she is appalled to be aiding the enemy, but soon she begins to see the suffering men as patients who desperately need her care.
Corporal William Carpenter, a British soldier badly wounded at the Battle of Saratoga and guilt ridden because his many of his fellow soldiers were killed is one of Abigail’s patients. An attraction develops between William and Abigail, but her deceptively married state is a barrier. But that is the least of their difficulties. Danger and treachery enter the picture, and Abigail will need the protection of the British Corporal.

It’s 1977 and Abby and her brother, Scott, are both descendants of people involved in the Battle of Saratoga. Scott tries to talk Abby into going to Saratoga Springs with him to honor their deceased father’s wish to attend the 200th Anniversary of the Battle. Abby, a nurse is not enthused about using her vacation time to observe the reenactment and ceremonies until Scott falls ill and begs her to go for both of them. Reluctantly she decides to attend.

Another descendant of the battle, Ian Thacker, a constable, has traveled from England for the Anniversary and meets Abby at the airport. With credit card issues, Abby needs a rental car and Ian needs an American driver—problem solved. They both unexpectedly enjoy the Anniversary festivities and each other. But this idyllic encounter will experience serious challenges and danger and Abby will be grateful to have made a friend of the attractive British police officer.
The letters in the story from long ago will have their own role in this suspenseful romance.

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

An extremely enjoyable story. I especially like the way the author told the story in two parts, one in the year 1777 and the other, 200 years later, in 1977, At the Bicentennial celebration in Saratoga, site of the battle that was the turning point in the American Revolution, the hero and heroine meet. In 1777, Abigail, a battlefield nurse, fell in love with a soldier who was fighting against the colonists. But their love knew no bounds. Generations later we find Abby, faced with a rather similar problem. A well-written tale that was fast-paced.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Revolutionary War in the new Colonies didn’t end with the Declaration of Independence in 1776. Battles continued to rage throughout the territories, such as New York.

Patriot Abigail Gillingham is forced to serve as nurse to Loyalist wounded during the battle for Independence in Saratoga New York Colony 1777 after her medical father’s death and at the insistence of her loyalist uncle Richard. Feeling guilty as she befriends/is befriended by the enemy nurse and surgeon’s mate.

Corporal William Carpenter of the King’s Regiment is wounded, the only one left alive in his unit, and sent to a tent hospital where he convinces the surgeon not to hack off his bullet-torn arm There Abigail cares for him, sewing him up.

He notices her bruised face where her uncle had hit her, making an impression on her, despite her alliance with the colonies bid for independence. Complications arise when the surgeon’s mate is attracted to the young woman, who is masquerading as a married woman, a story concocted by her uncle to keep her safe, and offers her an unsavory and unsuitable position. Jealousy ensues when Abigail treats the corporal with special favor. Fighting her feelings, the truth, and her faith were not the only troubles as the hospital dealt with food shortages, weather and insects, not to mention ever-present infection, fears, and natives.

Sending her new found love back to battle the rebels might not be the worst thing Abigail has to face when the fighting becomes more than that of one army against another.

Told from multiple viewpoints with the author’s usual flair for historical detail and accuracy, those who love early American history, particularly medical drama, will find Saratoga Letters a fascinating fictional account of the loyalties and sufferings, choices, and consequences of life during Colonial America.

Ah…but this only half of the story. Two hundred years later…

Another war and another soldier meet under similar circumstances. Abigail Carpenter, a nurse in California, and Ian Thacker, a constable from England, encounter one another on a journey to a ceremony in Saratoga, New York, to honor the two hundredth anniversary of the battle. A retelling of the colonial-era tale during the era of re-enactment is a clever device, and while similar events and atmosphere remind us life really hasn’t changed all that much, interesting twists will keep your attention.

Huzzah to Elaine Cooper for an intriguing story well told.

[Phylis Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was pulled into this amazing story with the great writing and imagination of the author. The fact that is connected two centuries was icing on the cake. I really enjoyed this delightful story I didn't want it to end. Everyone should read this amazing story. Thanks

[Norma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Saratoga Letters is a triumphant combination of historical and contemporary fiction!

Elaine Cooper’s story of two Abigail’s born many years apart, and the later knowing nothing of her predecessor’s history will wind its way into your heart. Ms. Cooper shares the drama of the Revolutionary War, from the viewpoint of a young nurse, mingled with the touching story of her descendant. Every lover of historical fiction will enjoy this book. The romance is both sweet and compelling. The history is intriguing. The setting and characters come to life in this charming tale. The ending leaves you deeply satisfied, yet longing for more from this very talented author.

[Becky Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first part of this book is so emotionally moving, that I just could NOT put it down! It’s an incredibly touching historical fiction story of the beginning of the United States. The story and characters are well-developed Elaine’s writing is exceptional and captivating!

The 2nd part has a wonderfully endearing story of love with unexpected twists and turns. I read this in one day, and feel like I have been living in Saratoga! And the history Elaine weaves into the story is fascinating! It is a MUST read for all!

[Joy Kidney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Two love stories from--1777 and 1977--connected by wounds from a battle in the Revolutionary War, when that battle was commemorated 200 years later. History buffs and descendants came from all over the United States, and even from England for the celebration. The later story is also a scary mystery, with historic ties to the earlier one. A well-woven tale.

[JudyAnn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book a great deal and recommend the author. In-depth review at http://cardinalbluff.com/saratoga-let...

[Tony Parsons · Rating 5 out of 5]

9/19/1777, Saratoga, NY. Corporal William Carpenter had to have his leg amputated.
Mrs. Abigail “Abby” Gillingham (21, daughter/niece) was attending to her dying father. He later died.

Sergeant Richard Cawthorne (Uncle, Loyalist militia) came to visit her.
It defiantly was not to give his condolences.
Richard was taken her to Freeman’s Farm.
The 2 of them where going to care for William the best they could.
Mrs. Sarah Carberry (matron), Mrs. Lydia Cravens (matron), Mrs. Elizabeth Pomeroy (nurse), Thomas Salyer (surgeon mate), & Mr. Braithwaite (surgeon) also helped care for the wounded soldiers.
Lieutenant Baggley was watching/guarding the camp in case it was attacked.
What was going on with William & Abby?
Summaville, MA. Abby went to see her brother Scott Carpenter who had appendicitis.
Dr. Talbot (ER) was attending to him.
Fast forward; 9/1977. Redland, CA. Constable Ian Thacker (CID London, England) & Abby (children’s nurse) were staying at the Cardwell Hotel owned by Jake Cardwell.
Ambrose “Travolta” Cardwell (Jake’s nephew) occasionally worked there.
Ms. Swanson (seamstress) was fitting costumes for the gala reenactment of the 9/19/1777, Battle of Saratoga.
Ian invited Abby to church. Reverend Jacob Moore gave the sermon.

What was Sergeant Walker speaking to Ian & Abby about?
What was Greyson (Gregory’s twin brother) up to?

I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.

A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written romantic mystery book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great romantic mystery movie, or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.

Thank you for the free author; Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolina; Amazon Digital Services LLC; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)

[Vicky Sluiter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Author Elaine Cooper takes a historical event and uses it as a great story with characters that feel real to life. Starting in 1777 and jumping to 1977, she did a great job of tying these stories together. While she gives a lot of history, and helps you to see what life would have been like in 1777, it is in no way dry or boring. This story moves along quickly with lots of twists and turns.

While the first story was a bit gruesome to some people, it was realistic. You could hear the cries of the wounded and feel the fatigue of the medical staff. As well Cooper doesn’t shy away from the fact that there were prostitutes in camp, and many officers had mistresses. Again, this was realistic but tastefully written.

Well researched and wonderfully written, if you enjoy historical fiction you’ll love Saratoga Letters.

I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.

[Brandi Raae · Rating 5 out of 5]

Abigail is forced by her cruel uncle to work as a nurse for enemy soldiers. For safety, she must pretend to be married, but one soldier seems to capture her attention more than the others. Danger is always lurking and more wounded are always coming in which makes for a page turner - plus I tend to love war stories!

I must have not read through the book description very well because I was disappointed to see that the last half of the book was set in 1977 and a completely new story. However, it ended up being really good. It's set during the anniversary celebration of the Battle of Saratoga, and people from the U.S. and Europe arrive for the event. Abby, an American who has ancestors from this time period, ends up having to travel alone. She meets the offspring of a British soldier who sort of becomes her protector and friend. Danger lurks here as well, and there was quite a twist for me at the end.

[Robin Willson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent read. Revolutionary war. Abigail's father died, and her Uncle showed up at their house. He was a soldier in the English army. He forced her to come to their hospital tents and help with the wounded, telling them she was married so that it wouldn't be improper for her to be there. She fell in love with one of the patients and vice versa. Well told love story where there shouldn't have been one, amidst the horrors of war. A Loyalist medic also wanted her, but he didn't behave as honorably. 200 years later in Saratoga, at a reenactment, their ancestors meet and their lives intertwine.
Quote
"She was learning the unseen lesions of war could be as painful as the damage inflicted by weapons."
I received a copy of this book from the Author and Publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

[Jeanne Alfveby Crea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Two wonderful stories, two hundred years apart, yet connected in many ways with letters passed down through the families. It makes me wish I had letters passed on from my ancestors! Maybe I'll have to leave letters with my kids in the hopes they will pass them on. It's amazing how much history can get lost in a two hundred year period. I highly recommend Saratoga Letters by Elaine Marie Cooper for those who love historical fiction and two timelines, she did a beautiful job with this book, and I will definitely be reading more of her stories!

[Tammy Doherty · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've looked forward to reading this novel and it did not disappoint! Abigail Gillingham's story hooked me. Her descendant Abby's story kept the pages turning relentlessly. I suspected who was stalking her but the revelation of why was a surprise. I loved the romance between Abby and Ian. And the parallels between 1977 characters and 1777 characters is charming and delightful. This book is well worth the time it kept me up at night!

[Mom · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked how there was shown people in the 1700s through the letters to the 200th Anniversary of the war.
So many people did not know the past and through the letters that was written by their ancestors they found out.
Abigail about her ancestor, Thomas Salyer about his, and Ian his.
Each wrote what they were thinking at that time.
Now Abby is writing to her son about how her husband and she met and stayed together.

[Dotty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Saratoga Letter covers 1777 battlefield of the Revolutionary war and 1977 reenactment of the Battle of Saratoga, there is two parts to this book. This book with both parts shows love conquers all with help from our heavenly father.

I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.

[Marianne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Though not especially well-written, the plot kept me reading until the end. Cooper could have researched the area more--there were a few errors. The main flaw for me was the characters and plot could have been more developed. There was enough to the story to write two books. Writing only the one left me wanting more in depth narrative to the main characters in both time periods. I found the plot to be fresh and original and interesting.

[Anne Rightler · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love dual time stories and this one does not disappoint. Two sweet but tension-fraught romances 200 years apart. Strong, relatable characters and good stories. Suspense, faith, and a good love story, what more could a reader ask for! Lots of Revolutionary war history including some from a British point of view. I listened to a complementary audio version of the book and Joe Mills does a great job narrating, making for an enjoyable listening experience.

[Sharon M. Turner · Rating 5 out of 5]

The romance of history.

This story has quite a bit of American-English history in it with a lot of romantic fiction. The detailed description of The Revolutionary War mixed with what a field hospital was like was spellbinding. Add to this the gentle words of faith makes this a book worthy of reading.

[Janet Cardillo · Rating 4 out of 5]

A little predictable

It was an interesting concept, showing the 2 Abbys and their love interests, but it was a little predictable because of that. And the characters seemed to be one dimensional...all good or all evil. But it was interesting to learn about this battle and its importance in history.