The Turncoat's Widow

Revolutionary War Mysteries #1

by Mally Becker

Set during the darkest days of the American Revolution, The Turncoat’s Widow tells the fictional story of General Washington’s most reluctant spy, a young widow who races times and traitors in New York City and Morristown circa 1780 to uncover a plot that threatens the new nation’s future. With elements of romance and suspense, this historical mystery also explores themes of resilience, loss, and the courage needed to leave the past behind.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Mystery, Fiction, American Revolution, Historical, Romance, Historical Mystery

304 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 16, 2021

About the author

Mally Becker combines her love of history and crime fiction in mysteries that feature strong, independent heroines. She is the Agatha Award-nominated author of The Turncoat’s Widow, which Kirkus Reviews called, "A compelling tale ... with charming main characters.” Her debut novel was also named a Silver Falchion finalist and a Mystery & Mayhem finalist in the Chanticleer International Book Awards. The Counterfeit Wife, the next book in her series, will be published on September 20, 2022, by Level Best Books.

A member of the board of MWA-NY, Mally was an attorney until becoming a full-time writer. She is also a member of Sisters in Crime and the Historical Novel Society. She and her husband live in New Jersey, where they raised their wonderful son. 

Reviews

[Tiziana · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 is my real rating.

I chose this book because I like spy stories, I love historical fiction and if there is also a touch of romance, then it is the perfect mix for me.

Unfortunately it took me the entire first half of the book to get into the story, there were no twists and the characters weren't developed enough to win me over.
-----> What saved the book's rating was the second half where action and twists finally engaged me and made me turn the pages with more interest than the first part.

___ THE PLOT ___ Set during the darkest days of the American Revolution.
1780. It's been a year since Daniel Alloway escaped from the British prison ship in New York City harbor.
Now he needs money and remembers that another prisoner confessed to him that he had left an important list of spies' names to his wife Rebecca Parcell who lives in Morristown, New Jersey. By selling the list to General Washinton it is possible to get a nice reward.

Unfortunately Rebecca knows nothing about it and is branded by the village minister as a traitor and accused of having handed her husband over to the British.

Despite being two strangers, Daniel and Rebecca find themselves entangled together in a dangerous mission imposed on them by General Washington, to find the precious list, otherwise they will both be left completely broke and without a future.

_________________

__HISTORICAL CONTEXT AND CHARACTERS WHO REALLY LIVED __ as I have already said, we are in the years of the American Revolution in which the British colonies in America want to become independent from the empire.
The war has lasted longer than expected, food is scarce and people are at the end of their strength and endurance.
There are no great historical notions in the book and not even historical notes from the author, but it was fun to see two great characters actively participate in the story: General Washington and his right-hand man Alexander Hamilton.
A few final jokes are also reserved for Washington's wife.

One thing I particularly liked was that the author highlighted how in the revolution (in this one and all revolutions and wars), although they fought for freedom, in truth both sides were oppressors:
--> The British would have taken everything from those who were not loyal and even Washington had no qualms about taking away lands and possessions from those who did business with the British or worse collaborated with them.
Every revolution, even if moved by a just ideal, then imposed the same arrogance of the previous oppressor in order to achieve its goal, therefore also using an iron fist and blackmail (for example like the French revolution and also the Russian one...).

___ SPY AND MYSTERY ___ perhaps the first part served more to introduce events and characters, I understand this, but for me it was too boring, while finally from 50% onwards the action moments and the plot between the suspects and the suspenseful scenes finally made me enjoy the story.
One of the culprits is quite predictable, but there are 3 others that I really never would have imagined!

___ CHARACTERS AND ROMANCE ___ in my opinion the author could have done a better job in developing the two main characters and should have dedicated a little more time to their interaction and the romantic story.
Otherwise she could have avoided the romantic hint altogether, to me it was the worst part of the book.

The impression I had was that a romantic part was not foreseen and that halfway through the book the author decided to add attraction and a future love story between the two characters.
While reading it seemed to me that the author had inserted, here and there and only at a later time, sentences that were supposed to foreshadow a love interest between Daniel and Rebecca, but these sentences were totally disconnected from the rest of the plot and did not evoke any emotion in me.

I use read several clean romances and even the description of a touch of a hand or a sweet thought from the other person can evoke butterflies in the stomach and give goosebumps if well described, but this was not the case.

After 50% of the book, the romance seemed to improve, it was described more believably, but then it was neglected again.
The reader has his "happy ending" but nothing really satisfying from a romantic point of view, just the premise of another spy adventure in book #2 of the series and the premise of other romantic attempts.

This is this author's debut book and so perhaps she can be forgiven, hoping that the following books will be developed satisfactorily.

WOULD I RECOMMEND IT? I don't know...maybe only to someone used to read cozy mysteries where neither the mysteries nor the love stories are explored in detail.

WILL I GET THE NEXT BOOKS IN THE SERIES? I would like it, but I confess that I am undecided, I don't want to be disappointed again or waste precious time since I have so many books on my list.

THANKS for reading my opinion and please forgive my English, it's not my native language.

["Avonna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Check out all of my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com

THE TURNCOAT’S WIDOW by Mally Becker is a debut historical mystery set in Morristown during the Revolutionary War era with a female protagonist who is widowed and must find the strength and courage to do extraordinary things to save her family farm.

Rebecca Parcell is a widow who wants nothing more than to continue working her late husband’s family farm with her mother-in-law and servant/friend. She hates the war and feels no love for either side, but her husband supposedly died a patriot and hero.

Some in Morristown believe she turned her husband in to the British and are setting her up to forfeit her farm, but General Washington and his aide Alexander Hamilton know the truth about her husband and his activities for the British. If Becca, with the aide of Daniel Alloway, an escaped prisoner who was imprisoned with her husband, are willing to work together to spy and find the list of turncoats left by her husband, then Washington will intervene to save her farm.

Becca and Daniel work together to discover the turncoats before their plot can change the course of history.

I enjoyed this debut from Ms. Becker. The plot was well paced with several surprising twists and an increasing sense of dread and suspense leading up to the solution of the mystery. Becca and Daniel start out as characters that do not believe in the war, just personal survival, but Ms. Becker takes them through personal changes together that change their beliefs and futures. The secondary characters were all fully fleshed and I especially enjoyed the addition of the historical figures. This story is complete, but there are hints that Becca and Daniel could be up for future adventures.

I recommend this historical mystery for its well written plot and unique setting in history.

[Mark Baker · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s been six months since Rebecca Parcell lost her husband on a British prison ship, and the rumors in town that she is the one who turned him in to the British are only growing stronger. So when she gets an offer from General Washington, she is quick to listen. It seems that her husband was spying for whoever would pay him the most money, and Washington wants to know about his network, including the British spies he was going to identify. In order to help Washington, Rebecca travels to New York City with Daniel Alloway, a man she barely knows but who was on the ship with her late husband. Will they be able to find the network of spies in time to stop a plot?

This is definitely a shade darker than the cozies I typically read, but it is only just a shade darker. I was delighted to find a mystery set during the Revolutionary War, and the book does a great job of bringing that time period to life. The plot starts out well and only gets stronger as it goes. By the end, I was racing to find out what would happen next. I did find the romance between Rebecca and Daniel to be the weak point of the book, but that was minor. The characters, real and fictional, are strong, and using both Rebecca and Daniel to tell the story is a real asset. I’m glad I found this series, and I can’t wait to find out where the characters go next.

Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.

[Nev March · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just finished this book and absolutely loved it.
It’s playing still in my head! What incredible detail Becker has brought into play. Loved both the main characters and many of the minor ones. The suspense and action does not end from the get go!
Is there a second book? If not I will need to reread this one!

Here are some gems:

Shouldn’t evil stamp itself on a man’s face? Shouldn’t there be a warning for those careful enough to notice?

Daniel was adept at reading untruths, half truths and the rare honesty in men’s eyes. Hamilton didn’t believe they could succeed.

During his weeks on the prison ship Daniel learned that people needed to tell their secrets. The needed to know that their lives mattered and they only mattered if they could shape those secrets into a story that they could relate.

We tend to think of the war of independence as a national endeavor. This nuanced story builds a far more believable and even terrifying picture of living during that era. Who were Washington’s spies? This fictional account shows what it might be like to navigate the complex social structures of the times and how one might struggle to survive. Becker builds a believable picture of men and women in moral quandaries. And I simply love her spunky heroine Becca and troubled protagonist Daniel. Having Hamilton and General Washington not merely present but active players was just icing on an already sumptuous cake.

[Srivalli (Semi-Hiatus) · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

The book is about Rebecca Parcell or Becca, widow of Phillip Parcell, the supposed Patriot during the American Revolution. We see how he was a British spy and had made a list of fellow spies, which is supposed to be in Becca’s possession.
She is targeted by the folk of Morristown for various reasons- hatred for her husband, suspicion on her loyalties towards the land, and for the list, she doesn’t even know existed. Above all, we see that she was an easy target for being different from the rest of them.
Becca is offered a deal by none other than George Washington to find the list and be free of the rumors and the Council's threat to take away her farm.
Daniel Alloway, an escaped British prisoner, is appointed as her protector when Becca travels to New York to uncover the mystery around her dead husband.
The book is full of action, twists, and revelations. The lines between good and bad, friend and foe, blur as Becca gets embroiled deeper in the tangle of web around her.

What I like:
• It is a fast-paced story with a straightforward and crisp narration.
• Some characters were interesting to read. (Augusta, Annie, Mason, etc.) I wished there was more information to give them the required depth.
• A decent and neatly tied up ending that can lead to another book in the series (it does look that way).
• Keeping the reader guessing about the twist. Half my guesses were right.

What I Wished was Better:
• Too many characters crammed into the story, causing confusion. (Yeah, they are necessary, but some could have been used without names).
• There are no proper explanations for some developments in the story. I wouldn’t call these plot holes. It’s more of a lack of character development.
• There is no real depth of emotions displayed by any character. Even Becca seems superficial and removed from the story. While that made reading easier, it would have been more impactful to delve into the emotional turmoil of the lead characters.
• The love/ romance angle wasn’t explored enough. I understand there wasn’t time for it, but the emotional connection was not as strong as it should be.

Overall, this is a good debut novel and was quite enjoyable. But it is a one-time read and not memorable enough to stay with me for a long time.

I received an ARC from NetGalley and Level Best Books and am voluntarily leaving a review.
#TheTurncoatsWidow #NetGalley

[Brian · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great historical fiction novel - exactly the type of book anyone might hope to read while locked down during quarantine (or afterwards!). Intricately woven story lines, a fantastic and well-researched sense of place, and engaging characters.

[Desiree Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun, fresh, and historical too – The Turncoat’s Widow is the perfect relaxing read! I always appreciate when an author can skillfully combine meticulous, historical research with an easy-to-read, engaging format and that is exactly what Mally Becker has winningly accomplished with Turncoat.

It’s shortly after the American Revolution, in 1780, and recently widowed Rebecca Parcell is surprised to find that her deceased husband has been selling American secrets to the British who control the state nation of New York. Drawn into the intrigue by none other than General George Washington himself, Parcell takes daring risks to track down the ring of spies with whom her husband was dealing. Along the way she faces danger from multiple corners and romance with a rogue she’s not sure she can trust.

The kernel for the novel all started when Becker was volunteering at a national park in New Jersey and found herself sorting through the park’s archive of historical letters. When Becker came across a copy of an indictment for the Revolutionary War-era crime of traveling from New Jersey to New York City “without permission or passport”, the spark that became Becker’s debut novel was born.

Such a short period time after the Revolution of 1776, the reader is reminded that not all during that historical period was cut and dry. In one particularly lovely and poignant scene, Parcell muses, “After the balls of New York, the evening’s entertainment seemed almost quaint. No, that wasn’t it. The music here was more straightforward. The guests laughed more easily. The voices were louder. We’re not British, she thought with surprise. In all the flowery language about independence, she hadn’t heard anyone state what was obvious to her now. They were not English. They were American.”

This reviewer has heard rumors that there may be follow-up installments to Turncoat, and if so, let’s just say that we can’t wait for the next wild romp through the Revolution – looking forward to more, Ms. Becker!

A big thank you to Mally Becker (https://www.mallybecker.com/), Level Best Books (https://www.levelbestbooks.us/), and NetGalley (https://www.netgalley.com/) for a complimentary Advanced Reader Copy of The Turncoat’s Widow in exchange for this honest review.

Please consider buying a copy of The Turncoat’s Widow today from Bookshop.org (https://bookshop.org/lists/best-reads...) – the online bookstore that gives 75% of the book’s profits back to independent bookstores.

From the Publisher
About the Author:

Mally Becker is a writer whose historical suspense novel, The Turncoat’s Widow, published in February 2021 by Level Best Books. She was born in Brooklyn and began her professional career in New York City as a publicist and freelance magazine writer, then moved on, becoming an attorney and, later, an advocate for children in foster care.

A winner of the Leon B. Burstein/MWA-NY Scholarship for Mystery Writing, Mally lives with her husband in the wilds of New Jersey where they hike, kayak, look forward to visits from their son, and poke around the region’s historical sites.

#TheTurncoatsWidow
#MallyBecker
#LevelBestBooks
#NetGalley
#BookShop

[Sue F · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Revolutionary War has been going on for a while, and things are getting really tough. Families have been split, American soldiers are being paid in worthless paper currency, food is scarce, disease is not scarce, and it’s hard to tell where anyone’s loyalties really lie. Amidst this roiling mess, Rebecca Parcell just wants the war to end - and to be able to keep her deceased husband’s land. But that’s not going to happen without a miracle. The local townspeople (with some extra help from a provocateur or two) think she betrayed her hero husband to the British, and she’s likely to forfeit the farm when she’s forced to defend herself in front of the “Council of Safety”.

Luckily for Becca, General Washington knows the truth about her decidedly non-heroic husband, Philip, and is willing to intervene on her behalf if she and Daniel Alloway, the last man to see Philip alive, help the Revolutionary cause with a bit of spying. Toss in some villainous Brits, an equally heinous American or two, a puzzling code, a pretty slick way of transferring messages, and an underhanded British plot, and soon the bit of spying turns into a lot of spying - and a fair amount of danger too. Eventually, though, Rebecca and Daniel figure things out, just in time to prevent a wartime atrocity. And in the process they figure out some things about themselves too, and about each other.

I really enjoyed The Turncoat’s Widow. Although this isn’t really a traditional mystery, since we know right up front how Philip died (on a British prison ship), the story is more in the details – who DID betray him, and why? Author Mally Becker does a great job of setting the stage, although I wish she would have included a historical note at the end – I always think these add to mysteries set in different times. The plot kept me guessing right along with Becca and Daniel. And it was a ton of fun to see a young Alexander Hamilton!

If I have any minor issue with The Turncoat’s Widow, it’s that I’m not super fond of the type of mystery where the wrongly-accused protagonist has to prove their innocence. But Becker handles it pretty well, and I didn’t find it too annoying. All-in-all, this is a really nice series starter. At least, I hope it’s a series starter – after all there’s that matter in Philadelphia that General Washington would like Becca and Daniel to look into...

And finally, my thanks to the publisher, Level Best Books, and NetGalley for the advance review copy!

[Debbie Rozier · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s 1779 and Becca Parcell’s husband, Philip has died aboard a British prison ship in New York City. His dying words to cell mate,
Daniel Alloway are to find his wife who has a list of Patriots that are really British Spies.

In Morristown, NJ, Becca is different than the other townsfolk and that causes the people in town to question her loyalty to the revolution.

Becca doesn’t know about any list that her philandering husband mentioned to Daniel.

But when George Washington himself offers both Becca and Daniel deals to work together to find out who has taken her husband’s spot as a courier and find the list of spies, they find themselves thrown into a dangerous situation.

My Thoughts:
I honestly can’t remember when I’ve read a mystery set during the Revolutionary War. I’ve watched countless documentaries and read nonfiction books about Washington’s Culper Ring so for me this plot was a perfect fit.

I enjoyed the characters and especially enjoyed Becca’s Mother-In-Law, Lady Augusta. I thought both Becca and Daniel’s backstories were very interesting and placed perfectly throughout the book.

The mystery itself was full of twists and turns and proceeds as you would hope for two people who aren’t trained spies but have a lot to loose if they fail in finding out the information Washington needs.

I loved the ending and look forward to seeing Becca and Daniel help out the Patriots again soon!
Thank You @mallybeckerwrites and @partnersincrimevbt for the chance to read this one and give my honest opinion!

[Catherine Siemann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Growing up in Newburgh, N.Y., I went on endless school trips to Washington's Headquarters, downtown, and the New Windsor Cantonment, where reenactors in tricorn hats played fifes and drums. When the 1976 Bicentennial rolled around, I was of the age to be called on to march in parade after parade dressed in a mob cap and some approximation of colonial dress. Naturally, I fell in love with the late-Victorian London of Sherlock Holmes, and yawned at the thought of the American Revolution.

Mally Becker's debut novel, The Turncoat's Widow, brings me full circle with an engaging historical mystery set in New Jersey and New York during the Revolutionary War. Becca Parcell, the eponymous heroine, is a strong and engaging protagonist who also feels true to her time. Daniel Alloway, a printer turned political prisoner turned reluctant spy for Washington, is a worthy ally and budding love interest for the widowed Becca. Secondary characters like Becca's mother-in-law Augusta, the more-than-he-appears bandit leader Mason, and the dastardly prison warden Cunningham fill out the stage for an exciting adventure filled with secret codes, spies on both sides, and a plot that nearly derailed the new nation before it even began. Appearances by George and Martha Washington and Alexander Hamilton round out the story.

The book's end sets us up for further adventures of Becca and Daniel, and I look forward to seeing what they get up to in Philadelphia, as the British provocateurs try to undermine support for the Revolution.

[Bee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed The Turncoat’s Widow, and after finishing, was surprised to learn this was author Mally Becker’s debut novel. I look forward to more of her books in the future.

In a unique setting for the historical mystery genre, this book is set in gritty Revolutionary War-era New England. Young widow Rebecca Parcell finds herself at the mercy of the townspeople in Morristown, NJ, when publicly accused of betraying her husband to the British and being the cause of his death. But Philip Parcell was not what he seemed to be. As a blacksmith’s daughter wed for her dowry, Becca had never fit in with Morristown society, despite her husband’s aristocratic family line, so she provides a handy scapegoat for those in the town who had reasons to be rid of her. The suspicions raised mean that Becca will most likely lose her farm and all she holds dear, despite the backing and support of her mother-in-law, Lady Augusta, and neighbor Thomas Lockwood, a man of standing who also happens to be personally acquainted with George Washington. In an astonishing turn of events, Becca finds herself enlisted by General Washington himself, to serve as a spy for him and discover the truth about a list of names of turncoats Philip had in his possession.

Enter Daniel Alloway, who’d been on the same British prison ship as Philip Parcell and was told by the dying man that his wife would know how to retrieve the list of names. Daniel is recruited to accompany Becca, Lady Augusta, and their maid Annie to British-occupied New York City to help discover who the traitors are amongst Washington’s own men and how the trail leads to Morristown. Already a dangerous and brutal place during the Revolutionary War, the city harbors enemies of both Daniel and Becca, making a difficult assignment even more deadly.

The cast of supporting characters was well-rounded and enjoyable, the story clipped along at a fast pace, and there were twists and turns along the way. It offered a glimpse into the rougher, and most likely quite accurate, aspects of life during this tumultuous time. It also threw in a few interesting facts I didn’t realize, like one needing a passport to travel from New Jersey to New York.

With a tidy resolution to the mystery and hints at a future romance and other opportunities to spy for Washington, it set itself up nicely for future books in the series. And I’ll gladly read them.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the opportunity to read this novel in exchange for my unbiased review.

[Vikki Vaught · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks go to the publisher and Net-Galley for the electronic copy of The Turncoat’s Widow by Mally Becker. I voluntarily agreed to read and review this novel prior to publication. My opinions are my own, and nothing has influenced them.

The Turncoat’s Widow is a well-written novel with plenty of suspense, intriguing characters and an enthralling plot. The pacing is a bit slow in the first part of this tale, but it picks up dramatically around the halfway mark. From that point on, I couldn’t read fast enough.

Rebecca Parcell is the heroine, and I enjoyed her character a great deal. She’s fearless and determined to save her farm and protect her mother-in-law. Her bravery as the story progresses is amazing. The care and concern she shows toward Augusta is touching and helped me become fully vested in her character. Although her struggles are daunting, she never gives up, even when she faces being branded as a traitor.

Daniel Alloway is the hero, and he grew on me as the story moves forward. I could feel his fear when he’s presented with the task George Washington and Alexander Hamilton persuade him to undertake. The last thing he wants is to end up on the British prison ship, the Jersey again. His nightmares he experiences concerning his escape are chilling and vivid. There’s a good amount of descriptive writing in this book of those scenes that had me grabbing onto my seat!

I loved the spine-chilling espionage in this tale, as Rebecca and Daniel run from the villains of this story. I also enjoyed the historical aspect of the novel. I love novels set during our country’s fight for independence, and Ms. Becker’s research comes through. I can just imagine the excitement she must have experienced when the premise for this book came to her while volunteering at the Morristown Historical Park.

If you enjoy historical fiction with nail-biting suspense, incredible characters and a fantastic mystery to solve, then you will love The Turncoat’s Widow as much as I did. I was amazed when I learned this is Ms. Becker’s debut novel. This book is well worth the time it took to read. Happy reading!

[Madelyn Grey]

This was such a wonderful read! Right from the very start, I was instantly drawn into Rebecca "Becca" Parcell's story. Her grief and frustration from being ostracized by her own town, as well as her attitude towards her situation made her both sympathetic and admirable. Although I liked Becca immediately, I really grew to love her. She was easily my favorite character. I liked Daniel too, but I feel like I didn't "know" him nearly as well -- I'm hoping that'll change in the sequel!

I've been a fan of the AmRev for years, so that was what definitely drew me to the series first, but Becker's writing is what kept me reading. I would've probably flown through this in just a couple sittings, were it not for being busy this week. I was itching the entire time to get back to where I'd left off!

The characters were mostly great (I really enjoyed that whole "aunties" exchange where the bandits dressed as women to rescue Daniel), the research was well-done, and, most importantly, I had a good time throughout! I definitely recommend this if you're a fan of the AmRev, mysteries, and a touch of romance!

[Helen R Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rebecca Parcell, widow of Robert Parcell, is targeted by the locals in Morristown of being a traitor during the American Revolution.
To save her farm and clear her name General George Washington offers her a deal, find the list of spies her husband had and give it to him. He appoints Daniel alloway, an escaped British prisoner to protect her and help her through her mission.

I loved the plot, it is interesting and generally fast paced. The ending especially moves quickly and is exciting, keeping you turning the pages.
I did find some of the characters a bit confusing and hard to keep track of who they are and what “side” they are on.
There is a great mix of suspense, romance and historical fiction.
It has a good ending and I like that while this story has finished there could definitely be another following it. I would definitely like to see more of Becca and Daniels relationship and how it develops.

3.5 stars rounded up.

Thanks to NetGalley, Malley Becker and Level Best Books for my ARC copy.

[Grace · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you enjoy historical fiction, specifically about the revolutionary era, this book is for you. After her husband dies, Rebecca Parcell is accused of being a Loyalist Sympathiser. General George Washington promises to safeguard Rebbeca, as long as she goes on a mission to find her husband's list of British spies.
It was so interesting to read about some of the famous faces of that time but in a different fictional context e.g. George Washington and Alexander Hamilton.

#TheTurncoatsWidow #NetGalley

[Karla Pagan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mally Becker’s Debut book The Turncoat’s Widow was engaging and would consider this historical fiction a great read. There is also the mystery undertones of who did what..the twists and turns are palpable. Early chapters can be harder to follow. Once the main characters reach New York there is a solid plot and storyline. Characters are easy to follow and love or hate them and see them grow with the storyline. I am looking forward to her next book!

[Caitlyn (delightful.reading) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an enjoyable read centered around the American Revolution with some spy-craft thrown in.

Becca Parcell has been recently widowed and ostracized by the town because the blame her for her husband's death and capture by the British. Daniel Alloway escaped a prisoner of war ship and was the last one to see Becca's husband alive. With knowledge of Parcell's list of British spies in the midst of Washington's command, Daniel joins forces with Becca at Washington's request. As the two navigate the tricky world of spies and double agents, will the two find their home in each other or gather enough funds to build a new home on their own?

I will say I enjoyed George Washington's role in this novel! There's the hint of his spymaster status, which often gets overlooked. But because of my knowledge of the Culper Spy Ring (particularly George Washington's Secret Six), Minister Townsend's name through me for a loop because I kept thinking of a Robert Townsend, the leader of the Culper Spy Ring. (But James Rivington, another member of the spy ring, does make an appearance!)

All in all, a pretty solid debut by Mally Becker.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Level Best Books for the e-ARC. I really appreciated the opportunity to read this novel!

[Karleen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very enjoyable read

A great story, very likeable characters, good mystery! Can't wait for the next one! Love finding new authors to read.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Turncoat’s Widow by Mally Becker is a great historical fiction novel that has it all: history, intrigue, mystery, suspense, well-thought out characters, and a dash of romance to boot.

I really enjoyed this book. I really don’t think that there are enough books that take place during the Revolutionary War time period. There is so much untapped potential. It was refreshing to read and follow along with a full cast of characters as they try to decipher through political intrigue, spy networks, espionage, traitors, secrets, conspiracies, and villains to overcome evil and right the wrongs.

I really enjoyed Rebecca Parcell as the main character. She is strong, smart, complex, imperfect yet likable, and is a woman wronged. Word on the street is that she is a traitor to the British, however she is wrongly accused. With the help of unlikely additional characters, Daniel Alloway and the inclusion of George Washington himself (I looooove this classy addition), the stakes couldn’t be higher. Will Rebecca find vindication, happiness, and be able to help save her country in the process?....one must read to find out.

Delightful.

4.5/5 stars

Thank you to NG and Level Best Books for this arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.

I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon and B&N accounts upon publication.

[Leigh Ann]

The Turncoat's Widow is a historical fiction mystery set during the American Revolution. This is a unique time period for a mystery novel and it gave it a little extra kick for being different. The characters of Becca and Daniel are solid, though not particularly complex, so it made the novel a quick and easy read. It is laid out well and it is fun to guess along the way who might be part of the spy ring they are investigating.

[Stacy Laue · Rating 2 out of 5]

I have admittedly been spoiled by very, very wonderful historical fiction over the years, and unfortunately this is not in that category.
I enjoyed the premise but felt too much was undertaken and things ultimately fell flat. The plot progressed in confusing ways, and often characters acted with motivation that was confusing, not ever fully explained or rushed. Example - Mason and Augusta. What? What even happened with that?

Many thanks to #NetGalley for access to this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Wytzia Raspe · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fascinating neutral novel set during the American revolution - "The Turncoat's widow" by Mally Becker

As a non-American I often wondered what the American revolution meant for a "common" colonist. Many were British or of British decent and the slogan "No taxation without representation" what we learned in Holland in school that was the spark that set off the war seemed for a grown up me a bit far fetched for the random Tom, DIck and Harry who had no seat in Parliament anyway.

However many American historical novels go for a full patriotic blast. But there were loyalists. Canada stayed British. Native Americans were often pro British as the Americans were not so nice and freedom loving to them. So how would it have been for a random person living in the colonies?

This book is about exactly those..

New York being in the hand of the British but New Jersey in the hands of Washington's army Becca is just a young widow of impoverished middle class who does not give a toss who is in charge Washington or the British. But when words get out her husband was a British spy who turned on his master willing to sell British spies on Washington's staff but she ratted him out (she did not) she is almost run out of town. Her only way out is given by Washington who promises to let her keep her farm (and he also promises to pay a former prisoner to aid her) if she finds that list with the spies.

Becca at a certain moment says she realises that the people living in the colonies are indeed not British. I think she regards them as people less focussed on a glorious pasts and more flexible. I think the author means that there were more opportunities on the American side.

After finishing the book I found out the author works on the historical site where the novel is set.

The mystery part of the novel is well done. The love interest is an undercurrent that is very believable and the historical background is fascinating. For instance that people in their thirties were considered middle aged. That Washington at age 48 was considered old and that he was very tall but had a high voice (like my good friend M I immediately thought). It is also interesting to read that people had expected that war to be over a lot sooner too. Are they not always? And that the British had burned Manhattan and not rebuild it and the prison ships sounded very cruel too. I always wondered why the British who were winning for a long time lost. Lost the popular vote?

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[Bec · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Turncoat’s Widow by Mally Becker
• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B08QV7SLKH
• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Level Best Books (February 16, 2021)
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ February 16, 2021


THE TURNCOAT’S WIDOW by Mally Becker is a debut historical spy thriller that takes place in New York City and Morristown during the Revolutionary War era. The main character, the recently widowed Rebecca Parcell, doesn’t really care who wins the war. With her husband now dead, she just wants to run her farm that sits on the outskirts of Morristown with the help of her mother-in-law and the family servant/friend, Annie.

That all changes when rumors start that Rebecca is actually a loyalist and had turned her husband over to be captured, tortured and executed, by the British. The irony of the whole situation is that it was her husband that was the turncoat. He used his merchant status to sell whiskey in British occupied New York City in order to pass along information about Washington’s plans and troop deployments. When his usefulness was compromised the British simply had him killed.

While the accusations about his wife are untrue, Rebecca has no way of proving it and if found guilty it will give the town the right to seize her farm and run her out of town... or hang her.

Fortunately General George Washington and Alexander Hamilton know the truth and in exchange for her helping to locate a list of spies that her husband has hidden somewhere they will make sure she doesn’t lose the farm... or her life.

The author, Mally Becker, does a wonderful job of creating a very believable story. All of the characters are rich with personality and the attention given to the small details describing a woman’s place and role in society during the British occupation really bring this novel to life.

The Turncoat’s Widow is a solid series starter that paves the way for additional revolutionary war spy thrillers featuring Rebecca Parcell. I’ve already purchased the next book in the series: The Counterfeit Wife.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Becca Parcell’s husband died on a British prison ship stationed in New York, and her neighbors are convinced she betrayed him. Daniel Alloway was a prisoner on the same ship, and has a message for the Widow Parcell that her husband entrusted to him before he died. Becca, threatened by the mob, and Daniel, hiding from his British captors after a sneaky escape, are thrown together in this historical novel set during the Revolutionary War. Together, they seem to uncover the mystery of how Rebecca’s husband ended up in British hands, what he knew, and who is betraying the fledgling nation to the British.

This is a charming, well-researched and carefully crafted first novel by Mally Becker. She is clearly well-versed in the time period - from language to clothing to historical details that aren’t commonly known. Becker’s story is true to the era in which it is set, which is a pleasure to read (I like historically accurate historical fiction) although her heroine is probably a little spunkier than would have been common in that era. There is a steady stream of action and the characters largely have agency- ie things happen because of what they do rather than happening to them for no apparent reason.

All in, this is an excellent first novel. If you enjoy historical fiction, give this one a try!

[Jessika Caruso · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars
This book places readers in the action almost instantly. I don’t like books that make you wait for the plot to get moving, and this one was up and running from the start. Becca Parcell was a spirited and compelling heroine, a widow nearly alone in the world save for her mother-in- law and a servant. She is almost stoned in her own home at the beginning of the book because the town is convinced she sold out her husband to the British. It was exciting for me personally to read a novel set in Morristown, which is near where I currently reside and which inspired my interest in the American Revolution.
I deducted half a star because Becca & Daniel’s romance plotline barely got started and I was looking forward to more. On to book 2!

[Andrew Kramer · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Turncoat's Widow is an enjoyable novel with a solid plot and interesting characters. It's a good summer read. I lament that there was no map of the area, as it would have been immensely beneficial.

The story takes place in northern New Jersey and New York during the harsh winter of 1780. Two different people in difficult circumstances are thrown together in a plan to discover who among George Washington's staff are traitors. It appears that a supposed plot is being hatched to end the war that everyone, it seems, has grown tired of. Becca Parcell, a determined woman with a mind of her own, is paired with Daniel Alloway, an aspiring printer whose ambitions were dashed during his escape from a notorious British POW ship. Of course, romance blossoms, and the two are concerned as much for each other as their own safety when danger comes. And it does come, many times.

[Lori Robbins · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Turncoat's Widow is a brilliant take on the historical mystery. Becker sets her dramatic story against the backdrop of the American Revolution, and she seamlessly integrates fictional characters with real life figures from that era. Even George Washington--not to mention Martha!--comes to life in unexpected ways. I was fascinated with the treasure trove of intimate details about life in that era, but those elements of the story never take over either the plot or the engaging characters. I don't often read historical novels, but this one may just change my mind. Gripping plot, turns and twists, and a dollop of humor kept me reading until the satisfying end. Looking forward to more books by this talented author.

[Brynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Historical fiction is my favorite genre and it was so nice to read a novel that took place during the Revolutionary War. The story was entertaining and kept me flipping the pages quickly. The kindle version had a ton of typos, so that was really annoying. I was able to guess who the turncoats were but it didn’t ruin the story. I plan to read the sequel, in paper, hopefully that won’t have all the typos.

[Karen Rand · Rating 4 out of 5]

This Revolutionary War novel takes place during General George Washington’s encampment in Morristown, NJ. While the story of Rebecca Parcell and Daniel Alloway is fictional, many historical persons are included in their mystery/spy story centering around a list of turncoats Rebecca’s late husband was rumored to have compiled and left for her.

I especially enjoyed this book because I live near the locations that were mentioned in the story and the 250th anniversary of the Revolution is quickly approaching. A great story with history coming to life was a wonderful read.

[Katreader · Rating 5 out of 5]

THE TURNCOAT'S WIDOW by Mally Becker
The First Revolutionary War Mystery

The widow Becca Parcell doesn't care one whit for politics, she's too busy trying to maintain her farm. But the villagers suddenly condemn her a loyalist, saying she sold out her husband who died aboard a British prison ship and try to oust her from her home. The truth of the matter is that Phillip Parcell was a British spy who wore out his welcome with the loyalists. A spy who had a list of names. Now General Washington has paired Becca with Daniel Alloway, the prisoner who was with her husband when he died, and tasked them with finding the list. In order to keep her farm Becca will travel to New York City to determine who is the spy amongst the so called patriots of Morristown.

THE TURNCOAT'S WIDOW introduces us to Becca Parcell and Daniel Alloway, both flawed characters with heart. Though set during the Revolutionary War, these characters are so real that they step out of the pages and twenty-first century readers can easily relate to them. Both have incredible backstory and dimension. The book is populated with a variety of characters, from villains who make you cringe, people you just don't trust, and true historical characters. Each bringing a vibrancy to the book. While a mystery, it is a story of its people. I appreciate the variety of relationships, from family and friends to budding romance. Even the relationship of citizens to the country, be they patriots or loyalists. We get to see rugged determination, independence, and even some very funny moments.

The mystery was complex with twists and turns and a surprise or two. I loved how the historical detail gave emphasis to both the mystery and the characters. Richly drawn details enhance the atmosphere, making me feel I was actually with Becca.

THE TURNCOAT'S WIDOW is a gripping historical mystery. I was thoroughly engrossed by the story and the characters making this first Revolutionary War Mystery a stellar debut.