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Women Spies #1
355: A Novel: The Women of Washington's Spy Ring
Who was the Mysterious 355?
Culper Ring members such as Robert Townsend and Hercules Mulligan are well known for the part they played in the Revolutionary War, but who was the mysterious 355 that could “outwit them all?” Inspired by many of the same characters featured in AMC’s Turn and the Broadway musical Hamilton, 355: The Women of Washington's Spy Ring chronicles the lives of three remarkable women who use daring, skill, and, yes, a bit of flirtation, to help liberate America.
British sympathizer Margaret (Meg) Moncrieffe expects to find the carefree America she remembers as a youth when she returns from her Irish boarding school. Instead she finds the new country at war, with her father on one side and her new love, Aaron Burr, on the other. When her misguided attempt to end the war results in dire consequences for the Continental Army, Meg switches allegiances in order to amend the damage she caused.
After her husband Jonathan is captured by the British and dies aboard one of the notorious prison ships, a pregnant Elizabeth Burgin realizes she is stronger than she once thought. When a prominent member of the Culper Ring enlists her help on a heist of the prison ships, Elizabeth readily accepts, putting herself and her family in jeopardy in order to save the lives of strangers.
Patriot Sally Townsend wants nothing more than freedom for America. When her family is forced to take in enemy soldiers, Sally seizes the opportunity to garner information from them and pass it on to her brother, Robert, knowing that one false move could result in the noose for both of them. Instead of finding herself in danger when British intelligence officer Major John André shows up at her family’s doorstep, Sally finds herself falling in love. But Major André is playing the same dangerous game as her and Robert, albeit for the other side.
Told from the viewpoints of these three women—including the one operating under the code name 355—355: The Women of Washington’s Spy Ring is an absorbing tale of family, duty, love, and betrayal.
Culper Ring members such as Robert Townsend and Hercules Mulligan are well known for the part they played in the Revolutionary War, but who was the mysterious 355 that could “outwit them all?” Inspired by many of the same characters featured in AMC’s Turn and the Broadway musical Hamilton, 355: The Women of Washington's Spy Ring chronicles the lives of three remarkable women who use daring, skill, and, yes, a bit of flirtation, to help liberate America.
British sympathizer Margaret (Meg) Moncrieffe expects to find the carefree America she remembers as a youth when she returns from her Irish boarding school. Instead she finds the new country at war, with her father on one side and her new love, Aaron Burr, on the other. When her misguided attempt to end the war results in dire consequences for the Continental Army, Meg switches allegiances in order to amend the damage she caused.
After her husband Jonathan is captured by the British and dies aboard one of the notorious prison ships, a pregnant Elizabeth Burgin realizes she is stronger than she once thought. When a prominent member of the Culper Ring enlists her help on a heist of the prison ships, Elizabeth readily accepts, putting herself and her family in jeopardy in order to save the lives of strangers.
Patriot Sally Townsend wants nothing more than freedom for America. When her family is forced to take in enemy soldiers, Sally seizes the opportunity to garner information from them and pass it on to her brother, Robert, knowing that one false move could result in the noose for both of them. Instead of finding herself in danger when British intelligence officer Major John André shows up at her family’s doorstep, Sally finds herself falling in love. But Major André is playing the same dangerous game as her and Robert, albeit for the other side.
Told from the viewpoints of these three women—including the one operating under the code name 355—355: The Women of Washington’s Spy Ring is an absorbing tale of family, duty, love, and betrayal.
382 pages, Paperback
First published December 11, 2017
1465 people are currently reading
1680 people want to read
About the author
Kit Sergeant
17 books97 followersLike her character Addy in Thrown for a Curve, Kit has a practically useless degree in marine biology. A teacher by profession and at heart, she loves to impart little-known facts and dares you to walk away from one of her "light-hearted" chick-lit books without learning at least one new thing. Kit's female leads are all intelligent, strong, and stand fine on their own... but then again, a Prince Charming waiting in the background is always appreciated. As long as he puts the toilet seat down.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
February 14, 2020
I feel this book will be most appreciated by those with some knowledge of the American Revolutionary War and the key characters involved. Unfortunately, as a Brit, I don’t fall into that category so, as well as having never heard of the Culper Ring, I found myself confused at times by who was on what side, especially as various terms were used for the supporters of each faction – Whigs, Tories, Loyalists, rebels – and, of course, people supporting one side might be masquerading as supporting the other or switch sides!
The book opens with a prologue set in 1939 that recreates amateur historian, Morton Pennypacker, receiving important information in his search for the identity of all the members of the Culper spy ring. I must admit I thought this was an unnecessary bit of whimsy on the part of the author until I read the Bibliography and the Author’s Note at the end of the book.
After that the book switches frequently between the points of view of three real life women: Margaret (Meg) Moncrieffe, the daughter of a British naval captain; Elizabeth Burgin, the wife of a man captured and imprisoned by the British; and Sarah (Sally) Townsend, the eldest daughter of a Quaker family, supporters of the drive for Independence.
Covering the years from 1776, the book recounts how the three women become involved in espionage, each for different reasons. For Meg, it’s in an attempt to end the war to protect the lives of her father and the man she has fallen in love with, fighting on the opposite side. For Elizabeth, it’s the desire to help men in the same position as her husband. For Sally, it’s all about the cause of independence.
I liked the way the book showed how women played a role in the outcome of the conflict in the only ways open to them: using a little flirtation to gather information, observing troop movements, acting as couriers for secret messages. Of the three, I found Elizabeth’s story the most interesting and engaging because of the more active nature of her involvement and the ingenuity she showed.
Although the women may not have been on the front line it was a dangerous game with serious consequences for those found guilty of spying. I liked that the epilogue provides information about what happened to the three women after the book ends.
And the identity of 355? The author makes her choice (and provides her reasons for it in her Author’s Note) but you’ll have to read the book to find out what it is!
The book opens with a prologue set in 1939 that recreates amateur historian, Morton Pennypacker, receiving important information in his search for the identity of all the members of the Culper spy ring. I must admit I thought this was an unnecessary bit of whimsy on the part of the author until I read the Bibliography and the Author’s Note at the end of the book.
After that the book switches frequently between the points of view of three real life women: Margaret (Meg) Moncrieffe, the daughter of a British naval captain; Elizabeth Burgin, the wife of a man captured and imprisoned by the British; and Sarah (Sally) Townsend, the eldest daughter of a Quaker family, supporters of the drive for Independence.
Covering the years from 1776, the book recounts how the three women become involved in espionage, each for different reasons. For Meg, it’s in an attempt to end the war to protect the lives of her father and the man she has fallen in love with, fighting on the opposite side. For Elizabeth, it’s the desire to help men in the same position as her husband. For Sally, it’s all about the cause of independence.
I liked the way the book showed how women played a role in the outcome of the conflict in the only ways open to them: using a little flirtation to gather information, observing troop movements, acting as couriers for secret messages. Of the three, I found Elizabeth’s story the most interesting and engaging because of the more active nature of her involvement and the ingenuity she showed.
Although the women may not have been on the front line it was a dangerous game with serious consequences for those found guilty of spying. I liked that the epilogue provides information about what happened to the three women after the book ends.
And the identity of 355? The author makes her choice (and provides her reasons for it in her Author’s Note) but you’ll have to read the book to find out what it is!
December 16, 2024
355: The Women of Washington's Spy Ring was a great read! I love all things American Revolutionary War and female spies. Check out my book review on my YouTube channel for a more in-depth review.
Linky link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wcvdL...
Linky link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wcvdL...
July 22, 2024
355: A Novel: The Women of Washington’s Spy Ring by Kit Sergeant dives into the world of espionage during the American Revolutionary War. The novel centers on the crucial contributions of female spies who played important roles in the Culper Spy Ring. The title 355 refers to the code number assigned to an unidentified female spy in George Washington's espionage network, whose true identity continues to this day remains mystery.
I had just completed the short novelette 355 by Marie Benedict. I thought it would be fun to read back to back. Ugh! This was excruciatingly slow paced. Too much dialog, not enough action.
The book follows the lives of several women, Anna Strong, a member of the Culper Ring, and other women who took enormous risks to gather and relay critical information to the Patriot cause. It highlights their intelligence, courage, and determination. Some of these brave women include
Anna Strong, a central character who uses her position and connections to assist the spy ring.
Elizabeth, represents the many women who contributed to the espionage efforts. The author’s writing is well-researched and detailed which brings to life danger of espionage.
I had just completed the short novelette 355 by Marie Benedict. I thought it would be fun to read back to back. Ugh! This was excruciatingly slow paced. Too much dialog, not enough action.
The book follows the lives of several women, Anna Strong, a member of the Culper Ring, and other women who took enormous risks to gather and relay critical information to the Patriot cause. It highlights their intelligence, courage, and determination. Some of these brave women include
Anna Strong, a central character who uses her position and connections to assist the spy ring.
Elizabeth, represents the many women who contributed to the espionage efforts. The author’s writing is well-researched and detailed which brings to life danger of espionage.
December 7, 2020
Hmm. I really liked the concept, but idk, something was just off about the entire thing. While I appreciate Sergeant's use of historical accuracy/detail, the history she used was too dense -- and that's coming from someone who is already knowledgeable about this time period and the historical figures in question.
I don't understand why Sergeant insisted on making this a book about 3 women. If she had chosen one, it would've been much improved. When she kept switching between POVs, the plot itself was at a standstill because all three POVs are happening simultaneously, so there's a ton of backtracking to fill in the details on one of the timelines. Speaking of different timelines, I don't understand why Sergeant tried to weave in three different romance subplots on top of everything else -- one I can understand, but three?? That was, yet another, aspect that bogged down the pacing. The pacing was this book's biggest problem. I was reading this thinking we had gotten so much progress done, and then I'm half done with the book and it's only March 1777!! Wth? We still four and a half more years of the war to get through! Sergeant! Please, let's get a move on!
Of all the POVs, I liked Sally's the best; however, Sally's personality was a bore and a half... My biggest gripe is that this is historical fiction. Yes, that means being inspired by or incorporating the history into your own story, but that also means you can do whatever you want. You can use the history as a guide to create conflict and tension, and this book was literally about espionage during a war, and There. Was. No. Tension.
Sergeant did take a few liberties with the history, but I'm very iffy on how she approached it. I didn't like how she had entire scenes where half the Culper Ring was present and meeting up in the middle of New York City in broad daylight... keep in mind, this was in the middle of the war and during British occupation to top it all off. As far as history tells us, that couldn't have happened so easily; and if that did happen, the characters would've had to approach it differently.
Overall, I was very meh about this entire book.
I don't understand why Sergeant insisted on making this a book about 3 women. If she had chosen one, it would've been much improved. When she kept switching between POVs, the plot itself was at a standstill because all three POVs are happening simultaneously, so there's a ton of backtracking to fill in the details on one of the timelines. Speaking of different timelines, I don't understand why Sergeant tried to weave in three different romance subplots on top of everything else -- one I can understand, but three?? That was, yet another, aspect that bogged down the pacing. The pacing was this book's biggest problem. I was reading this thinking we had gotten so much progress done, and then I'm half done with the book and it's only March 1777!! Wth? We still four and a half more years of the war to get through! Sergeant! Please, let's get a move on!
Of all the POVs, I liked Sally's the best; however, Sally's personality was a bore and a half... My biggest gripe is that this is historical fiction. Yes, that means being inspired by or incorporating the history into your own story, but that also means you can do whatever you want. You can use the history as a guide to create conflict and tension, and this book was literally about espionage during a war, and There. Was. No. Tension.
Sergeant did take a few liberties with the history, but I'm very iffy on how she approached it. I didn't like how she had entire scenes where half the Culper Ring was present and meeting up in the middle of New York City in broad daylight... keep in mind, this was in the middle of the war and during British occupation to top it all off. As far as history tells us, that couldn't have happened so easily; and if that did happen, the characters would've had to approach it differently.
Overall, I was very meh about this entire book.
Read
March 17, 2022355: The Women of Washington's Spy Ring is a bittersweet tale about the lives of three women, while using their inner strength, skills, and womanly attributes, turn to espionage to help America win her freedom from the English.
Meg, a British sympathizer, switches sides when her attempt to end the war leads to many casualties for the Continental Army. She is then forced into an abusive, loveless marriage, which further helps her in her espionage.
Elizabeth, a pregnant woman, whose husband dies on one of the prison ships under deplorable conditions, places her entire family in jeopardy. She finds the courage to aid other prisoners on the ship, while working with the Culper Ring to rescue the prisoners from the ship.
Sally, all she wants is for freedom for the colonies. When her family is forced to house British soldiers, she uses this opportunity to gather information from them and passes it along, knowing that it could mean death to her and her family if caught. While falling in love with one of the British soldiers staying at her family home, who is playing the same game she is, espionage.
*Review by Julie from Edgerton*
Meg, a British sympathizer, switches sides when her attempt to end the war leads to many casualties for the Continental Army. She is then forced into an abusive, loveless marriage, which further helps her in her espionage.
Elizabeth, a pregnant woman, whose husband dies on one of the prison ships under deplorable conditions, places her entire family in jeopardy. She finds the courage to aid other prisoners on the ship, while working with the Culper Ring to rescue the prisoners from the ship.
Sally, all she wants is for freedom for the colonies. When her family is forced to house British soldiers, she uses this opportunity to gather information from them and passes it along, knowing that it could mean death to her and her family if caught. While falling in love with one of the British soldiers staying at her family home, who is playing the same game she is, espionage.
*Review by Julie from Edgerton*
May 21, 2018
Women warriors in a covert war
Superbly researched and well-written, 355: The Women of Washington's Spy Ring is a remarkably skillful blend of American Revolutionary War history and modern women's fiction. Author Kit Sergeant gives readers an overview of the conflict and the roles of major players, but the heart of her story is the incredible courage and the outrage of three colonial women whose lives were forever changed by that war. Sally, from a staunch Quaker family with strong ties to the rebellion; Meg, daughter of a British officer and loyal to the crown; and Eliabeth, pregnant wife of a shopkeeper who fought for freedom and died a British POW, are the three heroines who (as we now know) could have been part of the Colonial Army's intelligence gathering efforts. The fascinating transformation of these three, from typical women of their time and class to patriots and spies, is a tour de force in how the personal becomes political, and how the world map may change in consequence. Gifted with wit, charm, and keen intelligence, these are the women who made America, and whose legacy of courage still inspires American female patriots. My only issue with the book is the author's regrettable tendency to sprinkle modern idiom into her characters' dialogue: "Let's do this" is NOT a colonial era catchphrase. That anachronistic annoyance aside, 355 is four-star fine reading for history buffs and fiction fans alike. This is a voluntary and independent review of an ARC from eBook Discovery.
Superbly researched and well-written, 355: The Women of Washington's Spy Ring is a remarkably skillful blend of American Revolutionary War history and modern women's fiction. Author Kit Sergeant gives readers an overview of the conflict and the roles of major players, but the heart of her story is the incredible courage and the outrage of three colonial women whose lives were forever changed by that war. Sally, from a staunch Quaker family with strong ties to the rebellion; Meg, daughter of a British officer and loyal to the crown; and Eliabeth, pregnant wife of a shopkeeper who fought for freedom and died a British POW, are the three heroines who (as we now know) could have been part of the Colonial Army's intelligence gathering efforts. The fascinating transformation of these three, from typical women of their time and class to patriots and spies, is a tour de force in how the personal becomes political, and how the world map may change in consequence. Gifted with wit, charm, and keen intelligence, these are the women who made America, and whose legacy of courage still inspires American female patriots. My only issue with the book is the author's regrettable tendency to sprinkle modern idiom into her characters' dialogue: "Let's do this" is NOT a colonial era catchphrase. That anachronistic annoyance aside, 355 is four-star fine reading for history buffs and fiction fans alike. This is a voluntary and independent review of an ARC from eBook Discovery.
January 19, 2020
I read a well written Revolutionary War series in my teens and looked forward to this book. I was not disappointed. Another great one of female spies In the war. I found the level of interaction between the Whigs and Tories very interesting. In some areas, only in avid battle are they considering the other to be enemies - very unlike common held view today - while in others there seems to be “spying” on each other left and right. Unlike the Civil War where there were mostly clear lines, this must’ve been very confusing as families and neighborhoods would have been split. I really liked how intertwined these characters were. It felt more like one big story rather than being disjointed on different areas of the war- however, His may be simply because the area for this war over is less than the area in the previous ones, be that as it may, I still hold that I like the intertwined factor better. All in all, an amazing book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 12, 2018
A close look at 3 female spies during the Revolutionary War. Good stories about each of them. Will recommend to friends.
January 25, 2020
This novel weaves together the stories of 3 ladies - real women - who might possibly have been our gal 355. There is a decent story in there, but the writing is lacking. I kept wondering if it was a young adult novel, and literally went to Goodreads to check multiple times. lol Once I'd sit down with it, I would get absorbed into the tale, but it would take me a few pages to acclimate to the clunky writing. It was just very risid, and was more tell not show. Characters could have been more fleshed out and the world more developed. Also, I read it on Kindle (I think I got it for, like, 99 cents), and I am not a huge fan of e-readers (I love me my hard copy still), so, that probably affected my enjoyment.
I am a huge history nerd, and I am obsessed with this time period - and the NY spies - so, I still enjoyed it enough. I felt like the first half was very heavily influenced by TURN, but as we got into the novel, Sergeant was able to make the characters more of her own. She had a pretty good balance on not making them all good or bad (unlike TURN). Overall, I got my money's worth. It wasn't bad, it just could have been so much better. I might give the rest of the series a look-see, too - just not right away. Google the real players - the non-fiction stuff is AMAZING! 3 to 3.5 stars
I am a huge history nerd, and I am obsessed with this time period - and the NY spies - so, I still enjoyed it enough. I felt like the first half was very heavily influenced by TURN, but as we got into the novel, Sergeant was able to make the characters more of her own. She had a pretty good balance on not making them all good or bad (unlike TURN). Overall, I got my money's worth. It wasn't bad, it just could have been so much better. I might give the rest of the series a look-see, too - just not right away. Google the real players - the non-fiction stuff is AMAZING! 3 to 3.5 stars
did-not-finish
November 13, 2024DNF after about 60 pages. I really wanted to like this one since I enjoyed the show "TURN: Washington's Spies" but unfortunately I just couldn't get into it. The writing had a kind of juvenile feel to it, and I didn't care for the back-and-forth POVs. I also kind of felt like the author had seen the Hamilton musical right before writing this, because the first few chapters were definitely dropping key characters: Aaron Burr, Hercules Mulligan, Alexander Hamilton.... It just didn't feel like a natural introduction to the characters. Plus, one of the three female MCs met Aaron Burr and IMMEDIATELY fell in love with him, to the point of basically proposing marriage to him. Definitely made her seem like a totally airheaded girl, rather than the clever spy that (presumably) she becomes later on in the book.
Soooo...yeah, this one wasn't going to do it for me, so I decided to quit sooner than later. Onward to the next book!
Soooo...yeah, this one wasn't going to do it for me, so I decided to quit sooner than later. Onward to the next book!
May 8, 2018
I was a bit disappointed the Title made me think it was a spy novel but instead it was more of a female History of washington and some parts were good but mostly it dragged on.
"I recived this book for free fromebook Discovery review thisis my honest REview.
"I recived this book for free fromebook Discovery review thisis my honest REview.
May 14, 2024
This book brings awareness to the women who were involved in the American Revolution. They risked everything and were vital to General Washington intelligence. if you love American history this is a must read!
July 24, 2020
3.5-4. I liked this book... I wanted more Burr love story. Love the Culper ring. Need to watch TURN again.
July 26, 2021
355: The Women of Washington's Spy Ring (Women Spies Book 1) by Kit Sergeant; And who was the Mysterious 355? Culper Spy Ring members such as Robert Townsend and Hercules Mulligan are well known for the part they played in the Revolutionary War, but who was the mysterious 355 that could “outwit them all?” Inspired by many of the same characters featured in AMC’s Turn and the Broadway musical Hamilton, 355: The Women of Washington's Spy Ring chronicles the lives of three remarkable women who use daring, skill, and, yes, a bit of flirtation, to help liberate America.
Told from the viewpoints of these three women—including the one operating under the code name 355—355: The Women of Washington’s Spy Ring is an absorbing tale of family, duty, love, and betrayal. The author presents stories from both sides, the Tories or loyalists who remained loyal to the King of England and those of the rebels or patriots as well as some who switched sides as things escalated over time. A fascinating look at the lives of the colonials and how they lived facing many kinds of danger as they banded together to create a new and independent country.
Told from the viewpoints of these three women—including the one operating under the code name 355—355: The Women of Washington’s Spy Ring is an absorbing tale of family, duty, love, and betrayal. The author presents stories from both sides, the Tories or loyalists who remained loyal to the King of England and those of the rebels or patriots as well as some who switched sides as things escalated over time. A fascinating look at the lives of the colonials and how they lived facing many kinds of danger as they banded together to create a new and independent country.
May 14, 2022
The story of Washington's Spies during the Revolutionary War; the Culper Ring. 355 is the code for Woman Spy. I enjoyed the story of the 3 principal spies; Sally, Meg and Elizabeth. I am an American History fan and I previously watched the AMC series Turn, which introduced me to all these characters in the book. Sally was involved with Colonel Simcoe and Major Andre of the British Army and their info. Elizabeth helped with an American prisoner escape of over 200. Robert Townsend and she ran a store that catered to the English, listening carefully. Meg was British, fell in love with Aaron Burr but forced into a loveless marriage to a British officer. Being in this abusive marriage she changes sides. These brave women helped with the cause of the American Revolution and can be honored as heroes. Recommend TURN the series.
February 26, 2025
Interesting read. I enjoyed imagining what life was like during the revolutionary war and what women went through.
September 13, 2025
Interesting book! Felt a bit cheesy the way some of it was written, but interesting to find out how much was based on true (or suspected) events
January 20, 2020
The Ladies’ TURN
I am a huge fan of the AMC TV show Turn and streamed each season on Netflix as they were available. So when I saw this book at my favorite book review site, I knew it would be right up my alley. And I was right.
While, of course, every detail in this book cannot be historically accurate, the author has done an excellent job researching the times and the stories of these particular three women. I love the amount of detail that she shared, both of history and of the settings. I'm a very visual reader, and I could visualize each of these women and their surroundings as they lived their lives.
The book is set up with the first scene set in the late 1930s, where an amateur historian is attempting to figure out who the mysterious “355” is, as mentioned in Culper Spy Ring documentation. It's noted that the person is “a lady,” but no further details are given. This historian posits that it must be one of the three women, and those are the ladies at the heart of this novel.
I like that the author showed the women and the war from both patriot and loyalist perspectives.
We don't hear often enough about the women who help shape history, so I appreciate this book for that fact as well. Each of these women lived very different lives and yet still made an impact despite the fact that their lives were so constrained by societal expectations and cultural norms. They are certainly women who could empower future generations, if their stories were more widely known.
If you, like me, enjoyed the series Turn, you will see or hear mentioned a few familiar characters. I found that added even more enjoyment of reading the book. If you have any curiosity about female spies, the Revolutionary War, or the Culper Spy Ring, you may very well enjoy this fictionalized account that touches on all those elements.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
I am a huge fan of the AMC TV show Turn and streamed each season on Netflix as they were available. So when I saw this book at my favorite book review site, I knew it would be right up my alley. And I was right.
While, of course, every detail in this book cannot be historically accurate, the author has done an excellent job researching the times and the stories of these particular three women. I love the amount of detail that she shared, both of history and of the settings. I'm a very visual reader, and I could visualize each of these women and their surroundings as they lived their lives.
The book is set up with the first scene set in the late 1930s, where an amateur historian is attempting to figure out who the mysterious “355” is, as mentioned in Culper Spy Ring documentation. It's noted that the person is “a lady,” but no further details are given. This historian posits that it must be one of the three women, and those are the ladies at the heart of this novel.
I like that the author showed the women and the war from both patriot and loyalist perspectives.
We don't hear often enough about the women who help shape history, so I appreciate this book for that fact as well. Each of these women lived very different lives and yet still made an impact despite the fact that their lives were so constrained by societal expectations and cultural norms. They are certainly women who could empower future generations, if their stories were more widely known.
If you, like me, enjoyed the series Turn, you will see or hear mentioned a few familiar characters. I found that added even more enjoyment of reading the book. If you have any curiosity about female spies, the Revolutionary War, or the Culper Spy Ring, you may very well enjoy this fictionalized account that touches on all those elements.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
September 30, 2018
E-Reader. History Story
This book starts in June 1776 & end in 1779.
The number 355 are women spies for the Continental Army headed by General George Washington.
One the woman was Elizabeth Burgin, who pregnant with her third child. And husband Jonathan died on a British prison ship.
She agreed with others to try save as many men a prison ship.
They used a bottle of rum with a small vial put in the rum so the guards would go to sleep. She told one the guards she had letter for husband & many wool blankets. When that man was given the letter he was able read code. The Hudson River was frozen so they used a sleigh to push across the frozen river. Over 200 men were freed from that prison ship.
Another woman was Margaret (Meg) Moncreffe who was forced by her father to marry a British officer John Coglan. He was very mean to her.
There are too many characters in this book you need to read it!
I hope this war that took place so many years ago, that you will be to understand whats happens in this book. Some parts will not be easy to read, like someone is ale be hold their drink high, shout out cheers to King George.
This book starts in June 1776 & end in 1779.
The number 355 are women spies for the Continental Army headed by General George Washington.
One the woman was Elizabeth Burgin, who pregnant with her third child. And husband Jonathan died on a British prison ship.
She agreed with others to try save as many men a prison ship.
They used a bottle of rum with a small vial put in the rum so the guards would go to sleep. She told one the guards she had letter for husband & many wool blankets. When that man was given the letter he was able read code. The Hudson River was frozen so they used a sleigh to push across the frozen river. Over 200 men were freed from that prison ship.
Another woman was Margaret (Meg) Moncreffe who was forced by her father to marry a British officer John Coglan. He was very mean to her.
There are too many characters in this book you need to read it!
I hope this war that took place so many years ago, that you will be to understand whats happens in this book. Some parts will not be easy to read, like someone is ale be hold their drink high, shout out cheers to King George.
January 11, 2019
This book is about George Washington's Culper Spy ring during the Revolutionary War. Really interesting historical details and seeing the times through the 3 woman highlighted in the book. The book isn't the best in writing but I was caught up in the story of the 3 woman and I loved the historical details that the writing level didn't really bother me. In today's age, it is all about "girl power". So it's really great to read about some woman who did great and dangerous things to help our country win the war and be created. There are also famous men like Major Andre, Aaron Burr, Hercules Mulligan, George Washington, etc.
February 27, 2019
355: The Women of Washington's Spy Ring (Women Spies Book 1) by Kit Sergeant is Historical Fiction, Mystery, Thriller and Adventure. Kit Sergeant was a new author for me and is now a new favorite author. I received a copy of 355 from my local library and could not put it down. Warning causes late night reading. 355 is such exciting historical faction that I immediately purchased it and Underground (Women Spies Book 2). 355 and Underground in the Women Spies Series appealed to me having grown up listening to family history, Revolutionary War Ancestors, American History and the DAR. This is a well written historical and a book to add to your must read list.
December 7, 2018
Initially the story line was difficult to keep track of with so many characters. I should have made a character map! Eventually the story took over and I found myself caring about the protagonists. It just seemed like it took a long time to get to that point.
April 30, 2023
355 A Novel, follows 3 women who played a part in spying in the American Revolution. All 3 of the women portrayed in this book were actual people. They lived and did the things (at least to a certain extent) told in the book. While I really enjoyed this story, there were a few things I would like to mention:1) the book is called 355, yet none of the characters in this book quite fit what we know about the actual lady agent known as 355 in the Culper Spy Ring of New York. That doesn’t mean that these women didn’t do great things for the American revolution. Neither does it mean that none of them could have been agent 355. To this day, the identity of agent 355 still remains a mystery, but none of these women quite seem to fit the bill so if you are picking this book in order to learn specifically about agent 355 you may be a little disappointed. 2) The book came to a rather abrupt ending. I respect and value when an author stays as true to the real history as possible, and as real life doesn’t have neat little endings tied up in bows, neither does this story. The story in this book was good. I felt that the characters did come to life for me by sticking closely to the history that is known about these women the author did well, but I would say this is more of a portrayal of events told, well, than a story with a plot. Read it and judge for yourselves- I’d probably say this is a 4 star rating as far as the story goes, but 5 star if you are reading to learn the history!
May 10, 2018
Set in the time of the Revolutionary War, this spy story is based on fact and events surrounding the period. It is generally well-written, although a little dry at the time, nevertheless my interest was held all the way through. The women who made up the 355 spy ring were ordinary human beings with the dreams and desires of every woman who has ever lived. However, they were caught up in a war, not of their making, but one that impacted their lives at the deepest level. A couple of things came out of this book, the first being that war brings a chasm between families, friends and business acquaintances, loyalties are divided and survival of the fittest is the order of the day. The second is that woman of the era were considered blind, deaf and incompetent, based solely on their gender. With the result, when they became involved in the war at different levels, their contribution was overlooked, making them the perfect vehicles to carry messages. I found the book informative and may have enjoyed it more if I had been part of the US schooling system and American history had been part of my curriculum. As an outsider, I nevertheless found it interesting. The book ends on a fairly sad note, but with positive results. I received this book for free from eBook Discovery. I voluntarily post this review. This is my honest review.
January 9, 2023
I enjoyed reading this book. It provided me with a wealth of information and details about the revolutionary war. I never knew about Washington's spy ring, let alone women spies.
The other thing brought to light were the hardships endured. Understanding the horrific treatment prisoners endured and the life of colonists living with British soldiers opened my eyes more to the dynamics of the times. Functioning as spies during this period was amazing. The courage each had for whatever their reasons amazes me.
Living in the areas that this took place made the happenings more authentic and real. I could follow their movements in my head since the locations were familiar.
I did feel the beginning of the book was too detailed. I think the various spy activities could have been introduced earlier on. I'm giving 3 stars because I feel the beginning of the book will lose readers. I feel the title doesn't fit the book. This is really about Washington's spies, not just the women. I also had a hard time accepting that the women would so easily accept the proposals from men on the opposing side. If this section was rewritten and started with the spy activities and the book was renamed, I would move this book to 4 stars.
The other thing brought to light were the hardships endured. Understanding the horrific treatment prisoners endured and the life of colonists living with British soldiers opened my eyes more to the dynamics of the times. Functioning as spies during this period was amazing. The courage each had for whatever their reasons amazes me.
Living in the areas that this took place made the happenings more authentic and real. I could follow their movements in my head since the locations were familiar.
I did feel the beginning of the book was too detailed. I think the various spy activities could have been introduced earlier on. I'm giving 3 stars because I feel the beginning of the book will lose readers. I feel the title doesn't fit the book. This is really about Washington's spies, not just the women. I also had a hard time accepting that the women would so easily accept the proposals from men on the opposing side. If this section was rewritten and started with the spy activities and the book was renamed, I would move this book to 4 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 12, 2024
Imagine my surprise when I read this book to the end and found that the characters had actually lived!
Like! I was just reading book, vibing with the history of America’s tussle for independence from the Brits, and I get to the end and they’re telling me what happened to these people after. Eish. I mean, sure, some people could have been included to fill some gaps and advance some narratives, but a big chunk of these people were real.
Nice book, this. It was told from the points of view of three women. I’d actually roll my eyes whenever a certain one got her turn to speak because she was my least favourite. Each of these women was a spy, with their different agenda: spying for the Brits, or for the Americans, each seeking for their side to win the war. I don’t even like historical bio-fic like that but this one was really good. Very gently told, considering the weight of the subject matter. Characters drawn out, some likeable, some complete donkeys. Descriptive enough to engage all your senses, tug at your heartstrings, leave you afraid for characters’ safety.
Four out of five stars.
Like! I was just reading book, vibing with the history of America’s tussle for independence from the Brits, and I get to the end and they’re telling me what happened to these people after. Eish. I mean, sure, some people could have been included to fill some gaps and advance some narratives, but a big chunk of these people were real.
Nice book, this. It was told from the points of view of three women. I’d actually roll my eyes whenever a certain one got her turn to speak because she was my least favourite. Each of these women was a spy, with their different agenda: spying for the Brits, or for the Americans, each seeking for their side to win the war. I don’t even like historical bio-fic like that but this one was really good. Very gently told, considering the weight of the subject matter. Characters drawn out, some likeable, some complete donkeys. Descriptive enough to engage all your senses, tug at your heartstrings, leave you afraid for characters’ safety.
Four out of five stars.
January 18, 2023
An Intriguing Tale
Kit Sergeant's story brings light into the dark pages of history.
This book brings people into the history and allows us to peek into the occupation and experience it as it happened. Well, as the author's mind could reconstruct it, at least.
If history teachers taught from good, honestly portrayed historical fiction, more people would enjoy history, and perhaps more people would know history and be better able to learn from it. And just, maybe, they would understand the cost of the history that allowed us to be who and what we are.
Thank you for the hours of research and writing to brighten history and bring it to life. For me, it's onward four score years into the future to see what light you shine on my favorite time in the forging of today's America.
Kit Sergeant's story brings light into the dark pages of history.
This book brings people into the history and allows us to peek into the occupation and experience it as it happened. Well, as the author's mind could reconstruct it, at least.
If history teachers taught from good, honestly portrayed historical fiction, more people would enjoy history, and perhaps more people would know history and be better able to learn from it. And just, maybe, they would understand the cost of the history that allowed us to be who and what we are.
Thank you for the hours of research and writing to brighten history and bring it to life. For me, it's onward four score years into the future to see what light you shine on my favorite time in the forging of today's America.
August 1, 2023
Many people are familiar with George Washington and other heroes of the American Revolution, but they may not be aware of the spies who helped our troops outsmart the British. This book follows the lives of three women, Elizabeth Burgin, Margaret Moncrieff Coghlan, and Sarah Sally Townsend. In a time when women were subject to their fathers, husbands, or brothers, these women bravely risked love, safety, and reputations to assist the American forces. We may not definitively know the woman or women known as 355 by the Culper Spy Ring, but we are given insights into these ladies and how they came to value service to their country above all. This book is well written and easy to read, so it should appeal to people who enjoy historical novels and patriotic tales. I very much enjoyed this book and recommend it to other readers.
June 28, 2020
Exciting, Animated History
Kit Sergeant does a great job of enticing the reader to learn more about the Revolutionary War, through this exciting and tragic tale of the women who aided the Continental Army. The shift of revisionist history to include these stories has been 1 of my favorite things about recent history books, and it's good to see historical fiction researching with attention to detail. The 3 women that we follow are different than what you would expect if you have seen TURN: Washington's Spies on AMC, but the real history incorporated in this book makes the stories compelling. I definitely recommend this to anyone who enjoys this era of history, and anyone Interested in women's role in American history.
Kit Sergeant does a great job of enticing the reader to learn more about the Revolutionary War, through this exciting and tragic tale of the women who aided the Continental Army. The shift of revisionist history to include these stories has been 1 of my favorite things about recent history books, and it's good to see historical fiction researching with attention to detail. The 3 women that we follow are different than what you would expect if you have seen TURN: Washington's Spies on AMC, but the real history incorporated in this book makes the stories compelling. I definitely recommend this to anyone who enjoys this era of history, and anyone Interested in women's role in American history.
October 28, 2023
An Eye Opening Experience!
I did not realize my ignorance of the Revolutionary War until I read this book! What an eye opener! In my naivety, I had not considered the role of women spies in the War, nor the atrocities that occurred as communities leaned one way or the other during this conflict. It seems our history is closer to the conflicts of Europe during the second World War than I ever imagined: the fear, the determination, the loves found and lost, the lives saved and extinguished. War is never pleasant. Sometimes the sacrifices are worth it, but the efforts should be remembered and appreciated by future generations! So glad I read this book!
I did not realize my ignorance of the Revolutionary War until I read this book! What an eye opener! In my naivety, I had not considered the role of women spies in the War, nor the atrocities that occurred as communities leaned one way or the other during this conflict. It seems our history is closer to the conflicts of Europe during the second World War than I ever imagined: the fear, the determination, the loves found and lost, the lives saved and extinguished. War is never pleasant. Sometimes the sacrifices are worth it, but the efforts should be remembered and appreciated by future generations! So glad I read this book!
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