Fields of the Fatherless

by Elaine Marie Cooper

Winner of the 2014 Selah Award, YA Fiction
Winner of the 2014 Next Generation Indie Book Award, Best Religious Fiction
Winner of the 2014 Moonbeam Children’s Book Award, Best YA Religious Fiction

In the early months of 1775, war is brewing in the American colonies. Although frightened, eighteen-year-old Betsy Russell (an ancestor to actor Kurt Russell) of Menotomy Village, Massachusetts, wants to be prepared in case of attack by British troops. Her father, prosperous farmer Jason, is the fourth generation of Russells on this land yet their very rights as British Colonials are being stripped away one by one. Will the King of England take their land as well? Tensions are growing here in the countryside west of Boston and the outbreak of battle seems a certainty. Jason desperately wants to protect his family his wife, children and grandchildren and their future. Betsy makes every attempt to be prepared for the worst. But not even the American militia could have predicted the bloody massacre that was about to occur right on the Russells' doorstep. If Betsy loses everything she holds dear, are the rights of all the Colonists endangered?

Fields of the Fatherless is based on a true story.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Fiction, Historical, American Revolution, Young Adult, American Revolutionary War

140 pages, Paperback

First published October 22, 2013

About the author

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

Reviews

[Dianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

They knew it was coming. The American colonies wanted freedom from the British crown and that meant war, it was unavoidable. We are invited to live this time, the later 18th century, to actually live the very first battle through the diary posts of a teenaged girl in the small town of Menotomy where the first shots would be fired and a simple farming community would take the first stand against an absent government who became a crushing force in the colonies.

This is how history should be told, not through the dry accounts of history texts, lest we forget the human element, the passions of a fledgling world striving to become an independent nation. Through the eyes and words of Betsy Russell, we will witness both the inhumane and the humane sides of war. We will feel the religious passions of a simpler time, the social exchanges and the all too real fears and hatreds.

Watch a young woman come of age and grow into her own set of values and dignities, as well as her own need to do the right thing, against the popular belief of her fellow villagers, but in line with her beliefs in a greater power and the greater good. It was this battle that ignited the freedom to choose in a nation unlike any known before, one that would not be perfect, but would continue to grow and change.

FIELDS OF THE FATHERLESS by Elaine Marie Cooper is the human side of war, the real side, the finality of death, the hopes for a future that made war unavoidable. It is the story of the first shots fired, the first deaths recorded and the first lives forever changed by the American Revolution.

The afterword from the author details present day proof of what happened in this small village and the impact these brave people had on both history and the future. If this isn’t’ in school libraries, it should be, if you haven’t read this amazing tale, you should, it is the history of the labor pains of a nation giving birth to itself.

Publisher: Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas (June 14, 2016)
Publication Date: June 14, 2016
Genre: YA Historical Fiction
Print Length: 137 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com

[Loraine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elaine Marie Cooper is by far one of the best Revolutionary War Christian historical fiction writers. Her historical research is so in depth that she puts you right there in the middle of the events surrounded by the sights, smells, and sounds. Fields of the Fatherless focuses on one of the first and most vicious pre-Revolutionary War battles in Menotomy Village Massachusetts. The main characters are the Russell family. Betsy, the eldest daughter, is caught up in the events and wants to be able to protect her family as her father is disabled from a plowing accident. As the town prepares before the War even begins, they don't realize what they are about to face.

Cooper doesn't make war pretty and writes exquisitely the truth of what happened on that awful day in Menotomy. But at the same time, Cooper shows the role that God plays in the hearts and minds of people when they realize that no matter on what side of the war a soldier is fighting, if they are wounded seriously or die, someone is left without a child, a husband, and/or a father. They will grieve and cry the same tears and their hearts will ache or break the same way no matter on which side their relative fought. Betsy learned this lesson as she cares for a British soldier who no more wanted this war than she did.

This book left a lasting impression. I highly recommend it for those who love Revolutionary War historical fiction.

FAVORITE QUOTES: "Tis your heart God seeks. A heart that desires to forgive and submit to His laws. Our sinful nature leads us down one road. But a heart that desires to follow His ways--that is the path that leads to God."

"Tis one thing to follow what's right on this earth, to take a stand against an unjust cause. 'Tis another altogether to forget the precepts of God when there is a person in need. "

"T'would not have mattered, if I had died doing the right thing...If I did not do the right thing, it would mean something inside my sould had died. Nothing is worth that. Not even my life."

[Dorine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rated 3.5 - FIELDS OF THE FATHERLESS by Elaine Marie Cooper is a realistic reenactment of the first day of the American Revolution in 1775 from a young woman’s point of view. Eighteen-year-old Betsy Russell grows up fast when forced to protect her family during an unexpected turn of events. Caught between the British and the American militia, her bravery does not outweigh her sorrow.

Why was this book on Dorine’s TBR? One of my Goodreads friends (Penelope - that's you :) reviewed this book and I couldn’t resist buying it. I read it for Wendy’s TBR Challenge for the March 2017 “comfort read” theme, but I’m late with my review. You may wonder why I’d ever choose a fictional novella during wartime as a comfort read, especially when it’s not a typical romance. Well, I happen to love American history during the 1700s, so even though this book is war-torn, the era and the faith of the characters, along with a somewhat romantic ending, comforted me.

Join the discussion at my blog, The Zest Quest.

First, let me say that novels depicting war are not normally something I enjoy reading all the time, even though I’ve read quite a few of them. I love the era and the bravery of our forefathers, but the brutality of hand-to-hand combat can be appalling. Even though this story has realistic wartime content, it is the human-interest side of it and the faith message that stands out.

Author Elaine Marie Cooper has a gift for storytelling. I would have preferred the characters’ day-to-day activities to be a bit more fleshed out to ease the transitions from scene to scene. At least, that’s what felt choppy to me in a few places, and maybe that’s because of the novella length. I would love a more detailed view into Betsy’s future as well, so this novella could be expanded. That said, none of my quibbles detracted from my overall enjoyment of finding an author who writes American historical fiction, as well as her ability to eloquently incorporate a faith message that enhanced the story.

FIELDS OF THE FATHERLESS whetted my appetite for more. Emotional and compelling, this story meant even more to me after I read the Afterword and the author’s notes at the end. I’m pleased to discover that Ms. Cooper also writes full-size novels during this period of American history. The first book of the the DEER RUN SAGA, ROAD TO DEER RUN, will happily land on my TBR, especially since it’s only $.99.

Review by Dorine, courtesy of The Zest Quest. Digital copy purchased from Amazon.

[Deborha Mitchell · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading this epic tale, I immediately sat down to write my review. I had to get it down while this story was fresh in my mind.
I am totally spent after reading The Fields of the Fatherless, all my emotions are either at the surface, or have spilled over. Elaine Marie Cooper has truly shown what it was like during this terrible time in history. I found myself vividly envisioning such unthinkably, vivid scenes, yet I kept reading because I needed to ‘witness’ it until the end.
I appreciate Elaine’s writing so much, as she doesn’t hold anything back. She not only tells the story, but she ‘shows’ the story through her words.
This story is based on fact and Elaine did a great job incorporating her own imagination into it all.
I simply love this quote from the story…it spoke to my heart.
“T’would not have mattered, if I had died doing the right thing.”
She paused. “If I did not do the right thing, it would mean something
inside my soul had died. Nothing is worth that. Not even my life.”
Such powerful words and so true.
Whether you are a history buff or simply enjoy a great novel, I highly recommend this book to you. You will find yourself totally immersed in the time…..and find yourself learning a very important lesson in forgiveness and what if truly means to show compassion and love to everyone…including your enemies.

Thank you, Elaine, for writing this story. And thank you for including your Author’s note. It added to the impact of this story.


I was allowed to read this story in advance in exchange for my honest review. I was under no obligation to write a positive review.

[Kathleen L. Maher · Rating 5 out of 5]

The battle of Concord comes alive through the utterly sympathetic character of Betsy Russell, an authentic 18-year-old farm girl from colonial Massachusetts. Diary posts inspire this fictionalized account of the emotionally charged months leading up to the first shots of the American Revolution. Betsy's vulnerability and honesty carry a tale of grit, loss, and ultimate triumph through faith.

Betsy battles her growing fears in the changing times in Menotomy, a small town on the road between Concord and Boston. Young men she knows have already joined the militia, while older men like her father would shelter her from the horrors to come. But even wise and faithful Jason Russell cannot spare her innocent eyes forever.

What transpires among her family and close-knit townsfolk on that fateful April day will affect her the rest of her life, but not without passing through the filter of an earthly father's prescient wisdom and a heavenly father's sovereignty. Betsy must learn which battle lines to draw and which to surrender to the Lord's love.

Written with a tender authenticity and faithfulness to the times, Elaine Cooper has opened a portal to a world gone by, and yet drawn parallels to a world not so different now. This is a beautiful novel ideal for young students of history and literature, as well as for adults who cherish the power of a good story.

[Noela · Rating 5 out of 5]

History is bursting with stories to be told, but oftentimes some are overlooked that cry out to be shared. This is one of them. You don’t just read this story however; you are immediately transported back to 1775 to the small village of Menotomy in Massachusetts - only three months before the American Revolution. With every fibre of your being, you’ll feel the fear of the rumblings of war, watch with trepidation the ominous preparations, and when the incoming troops ride past, your heart will pound along with the thundering of the horse’s hooves. Nothing can properly prepare you though, for the assault of gunfire, the boom of the cannons, or the tortured cries of the wounded.

This is the compelling story of Miss Elizabeth Russell (Betsy), an eighteen year old woman and the only daughter of Jason and Elizabeth Russell. When the war becomes imminent, her father instructs her to trust in God and do all she can to protect the family should he be unable to be there for them, but when he hugs her more tightly than he has ever done before, fear surges through her.

What would it be like for a young woman to go through a horrific war right on her doorstep, to see and hear things she should never have been exposed to, all at a time in her life when she should be thinking about pleasant things like courting? At the beginning of each chapter, Betsy shares her journal entry of her innermost thoughts and of scripture verses that have been a comfort to her that day. These precede the chapter as a foretaste of the chapter’s essence which I found to be a poignant introduction to each one.

While the men of the area were employing their weapons to defend their rights and freedom, and facing a horror all of their own, this story is very much about the women and children that carried on their own battle against often overwhelming fears. Fear of the approaching war, of the safety of loved ones called to fight, of being discovered by the King’s soldier’s, and fear of the harrowing sounds of war; these were just some of the unsettling terrors that plagued Betsy, and the other women and children. God will use even the direst of circumstances, and Betsy learned much from her experiences, some of which she could never have imagined she’d be in. I couldn't help but put myself in many of those same situations, and contemplating how I would have reacted.

‘Fields of the Fatherless’ is based on genuine events and people, with the author Elaine Marie Cooper keeping the real history intact as much as possible in this novel. Elaine has written this powerful story with integrity and conviction, but containing a rich eloquence that will stir your heart as evident in this quote, “The tears she kept prisoner in her heart threatened to escape her jail of restraint. Once one prisoner broke out, a flood of mourning would surely follow. She tightened her jaw and sniffed. No tears would bypass the barred doors of her tenacity.”

Your emotions will tear at your heart while reading this amazing story, opening it to empathy, forgiveness, and love, which will linger in your thoughts and heart long after you reach the end!

[Lisa Norato · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed Elaine Cooper’s Deer Run series set during the Revolutionary era, so I was both curious and excited to see how she would tackle this same time period from a young adult point of view. What I experienced in reading Fields of the Fatherless was an engrossing, heart-wrenching read with characters that grabbed my heart and a wonderful historical tale, suitable to be shared with the entire family, the sort of book grandmothers can confidently pass on to their granddaughters.

What makes this story special is that it is based upon true accounts of an actual battle and its aftermath on the small village of Menotomy, Massachusetts, at the start of the Revolutionary War. Ms. Cooper makes history come alive in a first person account told through the eyes of real-life Betsy Russell. Betsy was a teenager when this significant, but little told, battle in our country’s fight for independence took place, and she makes for an endearing character.

Imminent signs of war disrupt her life and place the Menotomy townsfolk on alert. Betsy’s father teaches his young son how to handle a firearm, and Betsy yearns for the same skill to ease her feelings of helplessness. In the tension-filled days leading up to the battle, Besty experiences cozy moments with her family along with the fear of what may lie ahead for their community. She has been told her place is to tend the home. As a female, she is destined for domestic life. But although Betsy is an obedient daughter, her fierce protectiveness for her loved ones—which include a young nephew and a sister-in-law about to give birth—lead her to take matters into her own hands.

When the fighting is over and the redcoats have passed through the village, the Russell family is forced to deal with the after effects of the bloody battle. Betsy struggles with her faith. How is she to hold true to the Bible’s teachings and keep hatred from her heart? Where is God’s presence to be found in the midst of the ravages of war? Her greatest challenge comes in the form of forgiveness when she is called upon to put aside her anger and do God’s work in helping a fellowman in need.

Fields of the Fatherless grew more intense the deeper into the book I read, until I was unable to put it down. I enjoyed the unexpected twists at the end, including a surprise for Betsy that brought hope through the despair. Through its trials and hardships, this story carries a wonderful spiritual message and embraces the power of forgiveness. I highly recommend this book to men and women of all ages.

[Samantha · Rating 3 out of 5]

This novel tells the story of the Battle of Menotomy in 1775 through the eyes of 18 year old Betsy Russell. Her father, Jason Russell was one of the men involved in the bloody but little known battle between colonial minutemen and British regulars. Written for younger readers, Betsy's point of view provides a useful example of how events are often more complex than we believe and few wars can be broken down into good versus evil.

I enjoyed the way the author utilized true events to demonstrate Betsy's awakening to the idea that British soldiers, those she hated for their massacre of good men she knew, were not all the cruel barbarians that she assumed them to be. She is able to find mercy and forgiveness through an unexpected connection with a wounded redcoat, who she only assists most reluctantly.

The story takes off slowly and emphasizes somewhat too much Betsy's supposed frustration with her place in events due to being female. This is part of the story that is not backed up by historical evidence, but many writers of historical fiction like to assume that women of different times were frustrated by their lot in life. Certainly some were, just as some continue to be today, but I do not like the assumption that most women wished for more than what was socially acceptable for them. Too much of Betsy's thoughts were given when they could already be inferred by the action and dialog. Maybe this was in the interest of younger readers, but it seemed unnecessary and condescending.

Once the battle begins and we follow the characters through the aftermath, the story improves and captured my interest much more than previously. I appreciated that this novel was written to highlight an event in US history that is not given the attention of other battles taking place around the same time. It is a novel that I would recommend for middle school level readers with an interest in history.

[Jim Not · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was not what I expected. Going in, I knew it was about the first day of the American Revolution but I didn't understand that events would be seen through the eyes of a teenage farm girl. Most war or suspense stories I read have strong male central characters with one-syllable names and killer instincts. Needless to say, Betsy was no killer. What she was, instead, was a young woman struggling to survive and cope during an extraordinarily violent, difficult day. Her pastoral life vanished in a cloud of musket and canon fire. This meticulously researched book explores events the afternoon of that first war day in Massachusetts. The action takes place, as it did in real life, in a small village through which British troops retreated as they made their way back to Boston only hours after brief battles at Lexington and Concord. It's largely unknown in our time that the biggest battle that day was fought in the village of Menotomy. None of the people there that day could have predicted the ebb and flow of the battle nor understood the high cost it would extract. Author Cooper shows us the horror from the point of view of women and children who are paying just as dearly as the men engaged in warfare. You will sense how close the battle is and how unforgiving it was for many. There is a deep authenticity to this story that lets us feel the terror, the anger and the sorrow of those who were among the first Americans to die for their country. "Fields of the Fatherless" is an exceptional work.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

In 1774, Massachusetts isn’t exactly the safest place to be, what with the Red Coats and all, trying to keep the colonies from declaring Independence from England. Young Betsy Russell is about to learn one of those life lessons that only experience can teach. Just who is the enemy, after all?

When their home community of Mentonomy Village becomes a hot zone battle ground in the spring, Betsy must choose to fight her prejudices and fears or give in to hatred. After her father is murdered, Betsy’s neighbor begs for help caring for wounded soldiers in her home. One of the men is eventually claimed and taken away by family. The other is a lobster back, a British soldier, an enemy, alone in a strange land. How could anyone find it in her heart to give aid to those responsible for the death of her father, a crippled old man, unarmed, on the doorstep of his home?

Fields of the Fatherless is a soul-searching read, meant to encourage the reader to look inside our own hearts and examine our prejudices and hold them up to the light of Christian love and charity. Are we better persons for defending our rights no matter the circumstances? For holding our ground, no matter how or why?

Join Betsy and her family as they experience life during this tumultuous time in American history, with all the laws and customs, culture and speech, life and death, packed into this great short read. For those who love history, Fields of the Fatherless will touch your spirit. Especially interesting is the author’s note at the end, detailing the inspiration behind this story.

[Caleb Wheeler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mrs. Cooper painted a picture so vivid and fresh in my mind of a quiet nook just outside of Boston Mass that would soon lay witness to the great horror and suffering from the first day of our American Revolution. Throughout the pages of this work the lives of the Russell family come to life and demonstrate the true nature of a charicter that is rooted so deeply in Christian values. These values are suffered by the youth and elderly alike as the conflicts of man approach a looming War with Great Britain.
The dedicated care of how the Citizen Soldiers who bore this conflict dipicted by Mrs. Cooper is spot on. The same feelings shared on the pages of Fields of the Fatherless by the Citizen Soldier who took up arms to defend his home are the same as the Citizen Soldier of today. Reading this book my mind reflected to my own experiences and feelings during combat and after. Page after page I held back my own tears as to not offend the Charicter in the book the inner most feelings of their own fear, grief, anger,the love of a woman, and the love of Home that for some is so close, and others so far away.
In this work we find all that we are, and all that we aspire to be, not only as one person, but as one people united in a cause greater than ourselves.

[Janet Grunst · Rating 5 out of 5]

In her latest book, Elaine Cooper has once again demonstrated her knowledge and love of history to tell a touching story of the horrors of war but without gratuitous violence. Ms Cooper also has a unique perspective on the locale of the story as she was raised in Menotomy, MA, now Arlington, MA.

FIELDS OF THE FATHERLESS is based on actual events and people of Menotomy, MA on April 19th, 1775. The massacre in this small village has long been overshadowed in our history books by the Battles of Lexington and Concord that occurred on that day. Yet more soldiers (American and British) were lost there than all the other towns between Concord and Boston; not even take into count the civilians in the village who also perished.

This is more than a story of the tragedy of war; it is a story of faith, fortitude, and forgiveness. FIELDS OF THE FATHERLESS is both gritty and tender. I was intrigued by young Betsy Russell’s story, struck by its intensity, and found myself unable to put it down. This is not just a tale of loss and sorrow; it will also inspire and leave you feeling glad you read it.

[JoAnn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elaine Marie Cooper always brings an excellent, thought-provoking and engaging story with well-drawn characters and plenty of drama and action (with just the right touch of well-placed humor). Others have written beautiful reviews for this particular book, so I'll make this short and sweet. Buy it, read it, enjoy it, savor it...you'll definitely remember it. No doubt you'll experience every one of these emotions in this involving, moving story. If I had a complaint, it's that it's not long enough. But there's always the next story to anticipate from this marvelous author. Highly recommended!

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chilling, Heartbreaking and Compelling
This short novel, infused with factual circumstances gripped me from start to end. American history is something I know very little of, but now I know a little more having lived it through the eyes of Besty, the main character of Fields of the Fatherless.
Thank you Elaine Marie Cooper for taking me on this factual and fictional journey and reminding me how easy our life is today.
Some books you read and some books change you forever. This one has changed something inside of me that will never be the same again.

[Peter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elaine Cooper captures the essence of what it was like to live during the opening days of the Revolutionary War. Her research about this little known battle takes the reader to Betsy's side as she sees horrors, love, and a personal journey of hatred and forgiveness in this amazing story. Faith of the Fatherless is a snapshot of history everyone should read.

[Charly Troff (JustaReadingMama) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a touching Christian historical fiction set during the first battle of the American Revolution.

This is a time period that I've always been interested in (thank you, Liberty Kids). It's such an inspiring time full of inspirational people and stories full of faith and God. I loved the way this author approached it; it was an up close and personal story, with the main focus on character growth. I really loved the main character and her character arc. The underlying themes of forgiveness and brotherhood were lovely to read.

I really enjoyed the book overall, I wish there had been more of it. It's a fairly short book and you can feel that in the way some characters and ideas aren't as fleshed out.

Overall, I would definitely recommend this if you enjoy historical fiction or reading about this time period.

[Jo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed!

[Sarah Phillips · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this story from the first page. Every compelling chapter opened my eyes to the tensions and resulting bloodshed during the start of the American Revolution and what it meant to the people living in New England. Based on true stories, FIELDS OF THE FATHERLESS captured an era of change and highlighted not only the sacrificial quest for freedom that birthed a new nation but also the cold realities of war suffered by both sides of the conflict.

[Esther Filbrun · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve been intrigued by the cover of Fields of the Fatherless for a very long time, and have had it downloaded on my Kindle for a while, too, waiting for me to pick it up. So recently, when I was trying to decide what to read next, I picked this one up. From the cover, I figured I probably wouldn’t get far, because it looked like the kinds of romance books I get two chapters into and give up in disgust—so imagine my surprise and delight to find out it’s a historical fiction! And more than that, about a famous event in American history, but from a very unique perspective! This history fan was instantly sucked in.

As the daughter of the colonist Jason Russell, Betsy’s life hasn’t always been sunshine and spring flowers. Working the American soil takes much determination and a good handful of faith, and with the threat of war brewing from nearby Boston, life seems quite unstable. Then one dark night in April, a horseman comes galloping through town shouting “the regulars are coming! To arms!” From that moment on, her world slowly swirls into darkness like she’s never known before. How can she and her family stay safe when British regulars pour through the streets of their little village of Menotomy, searching for and killing any colonists they find? What happens when, after the women and children try to retreat to a safe house, her father stays behind to defend his home and country?

Although somewhat of a short book, this story—of the battle of Lexington and Concord and then the terrible effects afterward it had on the little village of Menotomy—is a gripping one. Everything about it felt quite real, and I sat on the edge of my seat while I watched the events unfold. I doubt I’ll be forgetting this portion of history any time soon.

One thing I did love about this book is the fact that some things in it surprised me—I hadn’t expected the characters to act the way they did, even though their actions were quite understandable and believable. And despite the fact that this is a war novel, containing a lot of blood and wounded people, it was very well written and I’m glad I took the time for it.

Four stars, because some battle scenes were quite gruesome (although needed and understandable).

[Julie Lence · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ms. Cooper's Fields of the Fatherless can be summed up in one word--Wow! As an author, I enjoy the research I do to make my novels as true to the era I write as possible. But Ms. Cooper has gone above and beyond the norm, taking a small thread from an historic era and transforming it into an intense read. And by intense I don't mean the shoot 'em up scenes from a Jason Statham move. I'm talking intense as to actually smelling the fear and grief her heroine does throughout the entire novel.

The story begins with Betsy's ears ringing from her sister-in-law's agonizing screams during child birth, and from the roar of gunfire and cannons outside her door. The British are storming through her hometown and the male townsfolk are ready to defend their land and country from England, including Betsy's crippled father. Ms. Cooper than takes the reader back a few months where Betsy struggles to make sense of the impending war, where she fears for the well-being of her family and her neighbors, where she has an urgent need to possess some type of weapon to help keep safe everything and everyone she loves, including herself. Where she falters in her relationship with God to understand right from wrong, love from hate, and most of all, forgiveness.

Without the gruesome visual of battle depicted in Saving Private Ryan, Ms. Cooper gives just enough description to allow the reader to imagine on his own the ravages of war. Chilling in reality, Fields of the Fatherless precisely conveys the devastating effects of war on both sides and how, as humans, we must band together to protect what is most precious--life. As you cheer, weep, cringe, pray and even learn, you'll come away from this novel with the same feeling as I did--Wow!

***Note--This book will be available for purchase in October 2013. I received an advanced copy from the publisher to write this review.

[Gail Pallotta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set in 1775, as the Revolutionary War heats up, Fields of the Fatherless shows the heartache and agony of a battle in Menotomy, MA. The heroine, Betsy Russell’s, a teen who must grow up too quickly. Writing from Betsy’s diary, Elaine Cooper, brings the struggle of the colonists in the small village to life.
Minutemen discuss an onslaught of the British military. Then they get word that the red coats are coming. Betsy retreats with the other women and children to a neighbor’s house. Even though she’s not in the path of the battle, she can hear the gun shots and screams. Simultaneously outcries of a Mother in a difficult labor resound from the birthing room. Betsy’s called upon to help with the baby delivery then to accompany her brother to the site of the battle to clean up the blood and ravages of war left, her own father killed, shot then stabbed.
She develops hatred for the British, but is asked by an exhausted neighbor to help care for a dying British soldier. The young lieutenant fell in the neighbor’s house, and the woman believes relieving his suffering before death is the right thing to do. No one will aid the caretaker, some even calling her a Tory, but she’s been up day and night. Betsy’s heart goes out to the tired woman, and she agrees to assist her.
As Betsy sits with the young lieutenant she learns that he personally didn’t want to be at war. He wanted to be in England marrying the love of his life. Before he dies she understands him as a human being rather than an enemy and no longer hates him.
Mrs. Cooper does an excellent job of putting the reader into the time and place. The book intensifies as she juxtaposes the death taking place in the battle with life emerging in the birthing room. She successfully shows the devastation wreaked upon those attacked by the British, but humanizes the enemy when the reader gets to know the young soldier. I high recommend Fields of the Fatherless as a suspenseful read that takes one back in time.

[Hylah Cagle (Borwey) · Rating 4 out of 5]

As you must have gathered from the surrounding reviews, Fields of the Fatherless is the story of young Betsy Russell and is set just days before the beginning of the Revolutionary War. While it is the story of the first battle of the Revolution, it’s really the story of a young woman struggling with tough decisions, expectations, and personal tragedies.

Now, the best thing, in my opinion, about Mrs. Cooper’s novels is just how much research goes into everything she writes. She researches the battles, people, way of life, and must spend hours poring over eye-witness documents. Don’t let anyone fool you: Elaine Cooper knows her subject very, very well.

While this latest story of hers might have unfolded just a tad bit too predictably, I still found it worth the read. If for nothing else, it was worth it for the history which was so deftly woven into the narrative. After reading the Author’s Note, I was surprising to find how many scenes in the book had actually happen in real life (such as the incident with Anna’s tea -- who would’ve thought?)

The second thing I have to address is Betsy. At eighteen, she’s not really a teenager anymore, but in some ways, not quite an adult. Regardless, Betsy is still faced with the same hard choices as everyone else in her village. Choices that often have very spiritual implications. At the peak of Betsy’s spiritual journey, towards the end of the novel, she has to decide whether or not to care for a dying enemy soldier. Ought she let herself hate the enemy as everyone else does? Should she wallow in her hate and bitterness? Or ought she forgive? And what happens then?

If you're someone who enjoys this particular genre, I can just about guarantee you'll enjoy this book. The characters are compelling (my personal favorite? Okay, I admit it was Betsy's little brother, Noah), the writing was well-done, and the moral conflicts were worth thinking on long after you put down the book.

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fields of the Fatherless***** by Elaine Marie Cooper Audio book

Months before that first shout, “The regulars are coming! To arms! The regulars are coming!”, Betsy Russell—only daughter of Jason and Elizabeth Russell—prepare the best they can for what is certain to be impending war between the American colonies and the British. Fields of the Fatherless conveys the thoughts, fears and prayers of the Russell family and the colonist living in Menotomy Village (now Arlington), Massachusetts located on Concord Road—leading to Boston. Before each chapter we get a glimpse of Betsy's heart, fears and prayers from her journal writings. On April 19, 1775 their worst fears come true, the war has come—right to their front door. What follows is nothing like Betsy, her family or neighbors could have even imagined. As her father leaves to join the minutemen, he reminds Betsy that he is counting on her to keep everyone safe.

As pops, sharp bursts of ignited gunpowder continue to grow into explosive terror, thunderous blasts—cannon fire, followed by the wails and screams of the wounded, Betsy's sister-in-law struggles to give birth. Birth—such a blessing but there is death too on this day—so much death. Who died, who is wounded? Lives forever changed.

Elaine Marie Cooper has taken historical facts and written a powerful, compelling story from Betsy's view from her journal entrees. Her descriptions are such that I felt as if I were among the colonists, experiencing what they experienced—not just reading about it. Heart-wrenching emotions, forgiveness, love, compassion and faith take hold of your heart as the story unfolds which stay with the reader long after the ending.

(Note: I actually read this book a few months ago but recently was given an audio copy to listen to by the author. The narrator of the book did a wonderful job).

~~I received an audio-book from the author this is my honest review~~

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fields of the Fatherless***** by Elaine Marie Cooper

Months before that first shout, “The regulars are coming! To arms! The regulars are coming!”, Betsy Russell—only daughter of Jason and Elizabeth Russell—prepare the best they can for what is certain to be impending war between the American colonies and the British. Fields of the Fatherless conveys the thoughts, fears and prayers of the Russell family and the colonist living in Menotomy Village (now Arlington), Massachusetts located on Concord Road—leading to Boston. Before each chapter we get a glimpse of Betsy's heart, fears and prayers from her journal writings. On April 19, 1775 their worst fears come true, the war has come—right to their front door. What follows is nothing like Betsy, her family or neighbors could have even imagined. As her father leaves to join the minutemen, he reminds Betsy that he is counting on her to keep everyone safe.

As pops, sharp bursts of ignited gunpowder continue to grow into explosive terror, thunderous blasts—cannon fire, followed by the wails and screams of the wounded, Betsy's sister-in-law struggles to give birth. Birth—such a blessing but there is death too on this day—so much death. Who died, who is wounded? Lives forever changed.

Elaine Marie Cooper has taken historical facts and written a powerful, compelling story from Betsy's view from her journal entrees. Her descriptions are such that I felt as if I were among the colonists, experiencing what they experienced—not just reading about it. Heart-wrenching emotions, forgiveness, love, compassion and faith take hold of your heart as the story unfolds which stay with the reader long after the ending.

(Note: I actually read this book a few months ago but recently was given an audio copy to listen to by the author. The narrator of the book did a wonderful job).

~~I received an audio-book from the author for my honest review~~

[Maureen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the way that Elaine Cooper brought the struggles of the American Revolution to life in her new novel, Fields of the Fatherless. I felt as though I had been transported back in time to 1775. All of the details of life in Boston in 1775, no matter how minor, made you feel as though you were there. You could feel their passion for the cause of freedom, as well as their dread at what lay before them, and almost hear the cannonballs and the beat of the soldiers marching through town.
I live in the town between Boston and Menotomy (now Arlington). Here in Massachusetts we have a great understanding of and appreciation for the history of the Revolution and the Minutemen. I have seen the Jason Russell house, the Paul Revere house, the many battle sites, the authentic reenactments of the battles, etc. The Fields of the Fatherless, though, brought the story to life like never before. All of the characters were so real, and I could easily relate to the way they reacted to the situations in which they found themselves. Their emotions, ranging from fear to anger to hatred and even to compassion helped you to understand those times, and the ordinary people caught up in them, in a very human way. But Ms. Cooper went beyond the mere historical aspects of her story. The book gave you a glimpse into the lives of people just like ourselves. We were shown how it is possible to believe in a cause so strongly that you are willing to give your life for it, while still being able to show compassion for your enemy. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Fields of the Fatherless, and I cannot wait for her next book!

[Kevin Sorensen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want to thank Elaine Cooper for the privilege of reading a preview copy of 'Fields of the Fatherless.' What a delightful book. Having read her previous trilogy (The Deer Run Saga: The Road to Deer Run, The Promise of Deer Run and The Legacy of Deer Run), I knew I was in for a treat.

First, I love the historicity of Cooper's writing. She's thoroughly researched her subject matter: places, locations, names, dates and battle information. Yet the one piece that lends the most credibility to her fiction in 'Fields of the Fatherless' is the journal of Betsy Russell. Betsy becomes Cooper's chief character in this novel. Each chapter begins with a small snippet from the real Betsy Russell's journal, so there is 'real life' in this story.

Second, the faith which is exhibited is also believable and deep. The spiritual struggle Betsy goes through during the various plot twists in the book make one ask, 'How would I respond? Would I do that? Or would I give in to the serious temptations seeking to ensnare Miss Russell?'

And finally, the pacing is so good. The reader isn't running willy-nilly through the entire narrative, but there are times when the eyes simply cannot fly fast enough over the words to see how this portion will resolve itself.

If you've not read any of Elaine Cooper's previous work, I would highly recommend them. As for 'Fields of the Fatherless', well, get your order in now. I wouldn't be surprised if the printer's have short-sighted this run and it will be sold out quickly.

[Susan Baganz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Field of the Fatherless is a new young adult novel out by Elaine Cooper. I thought it was a disturbing but honest portrayal of what life was like at the beginning of America's war for Independence.

Betsy Russell is a young woman struggling to cope with the reality of what life is bringing to her small village. The fear, the devastation and the heartbreaking losses create a well of resentment within her. Called on by a neighbor to help care for a dying man she agrees before she learns that the man is British. Can she care for a man who is part of an army that so ruthlessly killed people she loved?

Confronted by this man's grave injuries she provides care, because God calls us to love our enemies. She begins to understand that the choices he had to made were not always in his control either and that war is brutal on both sides. Both the British and the American's were capable of gross atrocities.

This book looks at the reality of life in 1775. Told from Betsy's perspective we see the harsh realities of not only that time period but the sacrifices made for independence. The cost of duty and devotion are not minimized. This story has a strong faith line as Betsy struggles with her fear and to forgive as well as to move past the images and sounds that occur to live in the world that her father and many others died to preserve. While written for young adults, the story would be one that any adult would be impacted by. Thank you for taking us there, Elaine!

[Penney Douglas · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished reading "Fields of the Fatherless" by Elaine Cooper. It has been a while since I read a book that touched my heart and made me weep so much. Elaine Cooper has brought this relatively short time period to life in a way that I have never considered in all the times that I have studied the beginning of the American Revolution. The story is about the town of Menotomy Village, Massachusetts, a town which lay between Lexington and Concord that lost more people that night than either of those famous towns that we all learn about in the history books. I felt the fear and dread that the people of Menotomy felt as they wondered when the British regulars would be marching through their town. They were certain that they would come; they just didn't know when. Elaine does a fantastic job of portraying the emotions of the real people who inhabited the town in that tumultuous time period, from the struggle to keep their Christian principles intact and not give in to hatred and rage at the enemy which was so brutal and tyrannical to the overcoming of fear and sadness to do what needs to be done and keep living even when life seems to be intolerable and not worth living anymore. This was more than a piece of historical fiction. This was a picture of how to live as a Christian in the midst of war and injustice. If you want to be immersed in the time period of the beginning of the American Revolution, this book will do it for you.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fields of The Fatherless by Elaine Cooper

I had never read any of Elaines books , so this was my first ! But it will not be my last that is for sure and for certain. I thoroughly enjoyed the historical accuracy in the book and I am compelled me to delight in reading it to my children for history as we homeschool. I so loved any and all tender moments between characters. Very tastefully written and today morals and edict are much needed. Godly Character and moral value are throughout the book and I am very pleased with all I read therein. I am so glad that I was introduced to Elaine on Colonial Quills with Carrie Fancett Pagal who was hosting a tea party for her. I am now so longing to read Deer Run Series. Some stories just take your breath away and bring the desire for more good reading from that author and this is one of those stories. You will want to read more of her wonderful works, if you have not done so already. I could not put it down, I had to keep reading. It is inspiring and I believe if more folks read such works, they would see what things should and could be like today !

Linda Finn
Faithful Acres Books
http://www.faithfulacresbooks.wordpre...
[email protected]

I received this wonderful book from the author for my honest opinion and have received no other compensation from it.

[Marie Tschopp · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Fields of the Fatherless” is the first book I’ve read by author Elaine Marie Cooper, but it will not be the last. It’s title comes from Proverbs 23:10-11 KJV: Remove not the old landmark; and enter not into the fields of the fatherless: For their redeemer is mighty; he shall plead their cause with thee.

“Fields of the Fatherless” opens three months before American Revolution in the village of Menotomy (now Arlington) Massachusetts. Our heroine is eighteen-year old Betsy Russell, the unmarried and only daughter of Jason and Elizabeth Russell. Ms. Cooper’s tale is a delightful mix of history and fiction. She is a masterful storyteller, and her storytelling created a desire in me to learn more about the colonial period in our nation’s history. Her characters are likeable, yet real-to-life. Perhaps this is because they are based on real people, and I kept turning pages to discover their fate. At the book’s close, I appreciated anew the sacrifices made in the founding of America.

I recommend this book, and it is one I will be rereading. If you enjoy historical faith-based fiction, you won’t be disappointed.

Note: I was given a free advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion, which is it's a compelling story wonderfully told.