Fields of the Fatherless

Betsy Russell's life changes forever when the British army marches past her home on the way to Concord. Step into the year 1775 and experience the beginning of the Revolutionary War through the eyes of a young woman at the doorway to the rest of her life.

Elaine Marie Cooper has done a great job in Fields of the Fatherless portraying the culture and events of the time. While the main characters and their stories are fictional, many of the events and places which served as the basis for the story did occur.

Elaine takes us directly into the emotions of fear and disbelief as Betsy's world is turned upside down by war. Her emotions show her both honest and strong as she faces an uncertain future forever shaped by what she witnesses. Struggling to make sense of the horrors of war, she discovers a truth greater than death and hating.

Whether battling on a national level or in the schoolyards, the truth Betsy finds is as applicable today as it was in the 1700's. Through Fields of the Fatherless, you will experience events that shaped individual lives as well as our nation. I highly recommend this book.

I enjoyed Elaine Marie 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.

Once again, Elaine Marie Cooper makes a home run with this glimpse into American History. With amazing insight and detail she takes the reader into the heart and mind of colonial patriots. With clarity you will understand the horror of the war that brought forth the birth of a new nation. The real-life characters thrust into the thick of the first and little known battle that began the revolution will long be in your memory for their bravery, sacrifice and loyalty to the cause of freedom. The author's ability to take you into the mind of the young heroine, Betsy, allows you to experience her fears, grief, and hope throughout the narrative. You will want to have your children read it when you're finished. It is a classic piece of American history--well told in Fields of the Fatherless.

This story takes place in 1775 about the Russell family living in the Memtony Village. This story goes into detail how the colonist fought the British and devastation to the Russell family and the villagers showing the fear, sorrow and grief. It is a very compelling story and would recommend this book and this author.

I love novels based on historical events and this is well written. I think I have learned more from books like this than I did from history books in school. It's a book for all ages and I recommend it to anyone who loves historical romance

Fields of the Fatherless does a good job of making the Revolutionary War become real. While we have grown up knowing the basic facts, this brings the war down to our level and lets us see that what happened was personal and that feelings were involved also. I loved that the story is told not through the eyes of the fallen war hero, but instead through the eyes of his 18 year old daughter. I enjoyed reading this book and would recommend it to any one that enjoys Historical Fiction along with students studying American History as it brings the human side of the war to life.

Once I started this book, I wasn't able to stop until I had finished the book. Not only a good book, but a safe book to give to your teen or pre-teen daughter

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.

Many historical books are great tomes detailing the movement of nations and armies. Others are stories of those who lived through those events. Fields of the Fatherless is the latter. Elaine Cooper has breathed history into the story through the eyes of the character of Betsy Russel. She faces the horror of war as a civilian and as a woman in an age when women didn't fight. But the story moves beyond Betsy's experiences of war, but how she found compassion for the men on the other side of the front lines. A short book and an easy read, nevertheless, we are placed into the ugly business of war through the eyes of a frightened teenage girl.

Elaine Marie Cooper's newest book, "Fields of the Fatherless", is a compelling, fictional account of an actual historical event that happened on the first day of the Revolutionary War. The weeks surrounding that fateful day are authentically told through the eyes of Betsy Russell, the teenage main character. In this page-turner, the reader is given a believable insight into the daily struggles that Betsy, and every person that lived through that war, was forced to face. Elaine accurately and engagingly portrays the lives and culture of 1775 Massachusetts. Betsy's story is told in such an inspiring and intriguing way that you will feel that you are walking down the streets, across the thresholds, and into the homes of Menotomy. Through "Fields of the Fatherless", you see the trauma of war, the pains and joys of family, and the blessings that flow out of obedience to God through compassion, forgiveness and love for our fellow man. God's precepts taught to Betsy her by her father; doing what you know to be right, even at the risk of alienating friends and family.

I was enthralled with Elaine Marie Cooper's trilogy, "The Deer Run Saga" (highly recommended!!!), I was even more so with "Fields of the Fatherless". This is a wonderfully powerful account of a horrible event. You will see the ultimate triumph of the American spirit in a story of our Nation's history that indeed needs to be told. The reader will be caught up in this story from the first page to the last, and come away a better person having read it.

The book is gently periodic with just the right touch of dialogue and rich details that made me feel I stepped back to 1775, walking, talking, crying, even smelling with Betsy Russell. It's more than history, more than a story; reading Fields of the Fatherless was an experience.

From the rumblings of conflict to the drumbeat of impending war, the men and women of Menotomy Village held firm to what they believed to be right. "If we are terrified into submission, the other colonies will make the best terms they are able and leave us and our posterity to groan in chains of bondage."

And many in Menotomy paid the ultimate price.

But the story doesn't end with the horrors of war. In the aftermath, while Betsy Russell struggles with bitter emotions that brought me to tears over and over, Elaine Cooper has already begun to weave-in redemptive forgiveness. Betsy must face her enemy and decide which will rule her life: her feelings or her faith.

It's a powerful story of courage and forgiveness. And one I intend to share with family and friends.

Ever wonder what your ancestors did during the early founding years of this country? This is a great book for the young teens in your life to peak their interest in the American Revolution. This book brings a personal perspective to the horrors and truths of the War for Independence. It is also a great read for anyone who doesn't like to read long, drawn-out history books, but still desires to know something about history. Elaine Marie Cooper has done a great job in bringing the time period to life and keeping it historically accurate. This book will take you through an entire gamut of emotions...from shock, to anger, to tears, to praise, to thankfulness.

Since my ancestors fought in the Revolutionary War, I'm drawn to fact-based stories about the conflicts. Elaine Cooper's story brings to life the brutal truth about an oft-forgotten battle with poignancy and emotion. Her flawless way of showing God's mercy and forgiveness is memorable. A beautiful story. I hesitated about giving it five stars because the long battle scene was so fast-paced that I felt I could hardly breathe. However, I thought that placing the scene within the context of the birth of a child was brilliant. Looking forward to reading her other books.

Elaine Marie Cooper's writing is always a pleasure to read, and this book is no exception. What I wish I had known at the beginning was just how historically accurate many of the events in the story actually were. In some ways, the Author's Note at the end was my favorite part of the book, because it talked about those events (and the author's personal connection to some of them).

This book poignantly captures the tragedy of war, and the uncertainty and fear that must have gripped early Americans during that time period. It also beautifully portrays one young woman's journey to peace and trust in God for her physical safety.

Sensitive readers should be aware that there are a lot of references to violent events and bloodshed. I think this was necessary to realistically portray the atmosphere of wartime.

Without giving anything away, I will say that it felt like there was another story to be told... there is a little bit about it in the last chapter, and more facts in the afterword. Maybe a future book by this author will reveal the details to that story--we can always hope.

Fields of the Fatherless is a beautifully written and researched retreat. I am glad I had the entire afternoon when I started because I could not put it down. The character of Betsy was so well developed I felt she was a good friend. This book does what a great historical novel should do, places you right in the midst of that place and time, and gives you the experience of viewing the story through the character's eyes. I was sad when I turned the last page. This is a book I will read over and over and share it with others.

Beautifully written historical fiction that brings to life a part of American history that we can only begin to imagine. In the first few pages of this book Betsy Russell is so very young in her thinking. But as the author takes Betsy and the reader through the grim realities of war and through the grief, anger and bitterness that follows trauma and loss, Betsy grows into a beautiful, mature, Godly woman. I enjoyed learning about the history of that time but what I loved best was Betsy's reliance on a Father God that she loves and trusts in the midst of the unthinkable. Her little prayers were honest and realistic. And though her pain and loss was real, so was her redemption from the bitterness that could have claimed her. Highly recommended reading.

Fields of the Fatherless was an absolute wonderful book to read. Author Elaine Marie Cooper captures the reader's attention with amazing historical detail and creates a vivid picture of life during the Revolutionary War. The characters are so fully developed that you can't help but feel the faith, fear, sadness, and courage of the men and women who sacrificed so much during the birth of our nation.

It is a powerful story based on actual events and I couldn't stop reading once I started. The author is gifted in bringing to life this time in our nation's history and especially portraying what it means to truly stand up for what is right. I highly recommend this book for adults and young adults alike.

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. I was given this book for an honest review.

I loved this book by Elaine Cooper. She has taken the stories of the American Revolution and brought them to life in a most entertaining way. We were able to follow an actual family who was caught up in the revolt, and felt their fears, their passions, their heroism, and their humanity. It is so well-researched that it is a great way to learn about American history, from the clothing they wore and their social etiquette to the process they used to make bullets. I live in Boston, MA, where everyone knows so much of the history of the Revolution, and yet Ms. Cooper, rather than focus on the major battle of Lexington and Concord, took the little-known story of the Russell family in Menotomy (now Arlington) MA. For those of us who have seen the Russell house, which is still standing, the story seems even more real. I can't wait to see what story Ms. Cooper will share with us next!

I loved this Revolutionary War historical fiction. I loved the personalized words in the Author's Note...it made the author's story so personal and intimate. I was humbled by those who have gone before us and believed, to the marrow of their bones, in this budding nation, willing to spill their blood for her...I was grateful for those in the pulpit who so intensely encouraged their congregations to support the cause of freedom, one of the tenants of our faith...I was blessed by a father's, selfless love for his family who not only rallied himself and others to defend America, but taught the lesson of "love thine enemy" as something to define us as Christians ("We must look past the horizons on earth at those times to view the horizon of heaven.")...I cheered the protagonist, Betsy, who, despite her human desires, chose the high calling of God's word, being obedient to her Heavenly Father's lofty commands and her earthly father's compassionate discipline.

Fields of the Fatherless is a poignant story of a young lady, Betsy Russell, and her family during the Revolutionary War. Author Elaine Cooper weaves a believable historical fiction of the brutality of war along with the spiritual struggle and growth of Betsy. The story is relatable because Betsy wrestles with the same issues modern Christians do in regards to war and spirituality. Ms. Cooper obviously did her research into the history of that era. I highly recommend this book for anyone who is a history buff. You won't be disappointed.

Fans of historical fiction will love this latest book by Ms. Cooper. You will really feel like you've stepped backwards into history while perusing the pages of 18 year-old Betsy Russell's "diary."

This book is based on actual events from our nation's history, which makes it not only an engaging read, but educational and inspiring as well. It was so interesting to read, as I haven't studied the Revolutionary War much myself. Ms. Cooper's research is well-done and adds so much to the believability of the book.

As the reader follows Betsy through the pages, you see her both struggle and grow in her faith. For readers who enjoy similar stories, they will be very satisfied by Betsy's progress, and also with the end of our view into her life.

This book is highly enjoyable, encouraging, and well-written.
Thanks to Ms. Cooper for the advance PDF copy to read!

I thought I knew all about the American Revolution but after reading Fields of the Fatherless, I realize I only knew the facts. This compelling story drew me in and rewrote my impressions of this time in history. I wish there was a sequel then more after that. Cooper is an excellent historian and storyteller.

Fields of the Fatherless is based on true accounts and is told in first person through the eyes of Betsy Russell, born in 1756. Betsy was a teenager during the period recounted in the book Fields of the Fatherless, and I could easily put myself in her shoes and relive how frightening, difficult, and character-building life during this period must have been. Fields of the Fatherless is a mesmerizing, heart-warming and heart-wrenching tale.

There is something about Elaine Cooper's writing that keeps me coming back. When I open her books, I feel like I have stepped into another place and time. This book is suitable for both adults and young adults, bringing history to life and bridging generations with each turn of the page.

I enjoyed seeing the Revolutionary War through the eyes of a colonial girl. We see her faith and courage challenged as she seeks to keep her family together. Elaine Cooper shows courage grow in the girl's heart during a bloody and tumultuous time. ~ Robin Melvin

Elaine Cooper is a fantastic author. I truly enjoyed her Deer Run Series and was excited to hear about this book.

Elaine has a great way of bringing true history to life. History has never been an exciting subject for me, but Elaine Cooper has a way with her writing that brings it to life and is truly enjoyable to read!

This is a must read and I am excited to share this book with my teenage daughter.....I just know she is going to love it!

If you like historicals that really feel like historicals, rather than like contemporary stories playing dress-up, then you will enjoy Fields of the Fatherless. The details of the town, the way the characters speak, everything feels as if you are a fly on the wall of a 1776 home watching first-hand the events of the revolution take place. When you open this book, get ready to step back in time.

I have read the previous books by Elaine Cooper and always enjoyed them as I love history and stories that make the issues of the past just as relevant today. The obstacles encountered by Betsy that really brought this home is her yearning for being seen as equal to the menfolk even though the conventions of the day did not support that. Perhaps most importantly, this book is inspiring in that it clearly lays out how positive life experiences can be when we move beyond our prejudices and allow goodness to come through in accepting others. I highly recommend this book as I was so engrossed, I could not stop reading and finished it in one sitting.

Once again the author has brought history to life in an enjoyable read that's hard to put down and yet sad when the story has ended. The characters have become so familiar you actually feel their pain and sorrow. Thanks Elaine for another best seller. Keep them coming. I love your style!

Fields of the Fatherless is a captivating tale of a young woman’s struggle to stay true to her faith and act with kindness and forgiveness in the midst of tragedy. The authentic events that occurred during the Revolutionary War make for a story that everyone, teens and adults, men and women, will enjoy. Fields of the Fatherless is a small piece of history wrapped up in riveting prose and delivered with a truly satisfying message.

Fields of the Fatherless is an Inspirational story set during before the Civil War in 1775 in a small village west of Boston. The story centers around 18-year-old Betsy Russell as she and her family prepares for an attack by British troops. Her father was a 4th generation farmer who feared his land being taken away, as so many others had been, in the name of the King of England. Before leaving for the militia, Betsy’s father instructs her to trust in God and to protect her family should he not return. Shortly after her father’s death, she takes a wounded confederate soldier into her care and tries to nurse him back to health. Despite censure from the community from doing so, she always acted as a good Christian woman should.

What I liked most about this story was the detailed descriptions. It was impossible not to have my heart racing during the battle and the tortured cries of the wounded. As a nice touch, Betsy’s journal entries and scripture verses begin each chapter.

Becca Ballenger did an excellent job narrating. She has a youthful voice that was easy to listen to and the characters came to life for me. Well done!

Mrs. Cooper took historical facts and weaved them into a story so real that you are captured from the very first page. It brings to life the horror and suffering of a small community during the very first day of the American Revolution. You will feel every emotion that Betsy Russell feels and it will keep you turning the pages until you're done.

Fields of the Fatherless is an Inspirational story set during before the Civil War in 1775 in a small village west of Boston. The story centers around 18-year-old Betsy Russell as she and her family prepares for an attack by British troops. Her father was a 4th generation farmer who feared his land being taken away, as so many others had been, in the name of the King of England. Before leaving for the militia, Betsy’s father instructs her to trust in God and to protect her family should he not return. Shortly after her father’s death, she takes a wounded confederate soldier into her care and tries to nurse him back to health. Despite censure from the community from doing so, she always acted as a good Christian woman should.

What I liked most about this story was the detailed descriptions. It was impossible not to have my heart racing during the battle and the tortured cries of the wounded. As a nice touch, Betsy’s journal entries and scripture verses begin each chapter.

Becca Ballenger did an excellent job narrating. She has a youthful voice that was easy to listen to and the characters came to life for me. Well done!

Mrs. Cooper took historical facts and weaved them into a story so real that you are captured from the very first page. It brings to life the horror and suffering of a small community during the very first day of the American Revolution. You will feel every emotion that Betsy Russell feels and it will keep you turning the pages until you're done.

I love how this book makes history come alive! The story line is simple but it quickly pulls you in. I love history and the way Elaine Marie Cooper wove true historical events with fiction beautiful. A wonderful gift for yourself or a friend who loves to read!

It felt like a hidden bystander. You feel Betsy's fear of the impending war. The fragrance of lavender, the smell of blood seem almost real. Another great novel by an excellent writer. Certainly award winning! Can't wait for her next book!