Gideon’s Revolution
In his author’s note, Brian Carso mentions that in law school, he had come across Benedict Arnold’s story and a little-known plot conceived by Washington. Carso has studied Arnold for over two decades and grappled with the question: “What compelled George Washington’s best field general to betray the cause to which he had shown such devotion?” Using the techniques of historical fiction, Carso has pieced together the available information and imagined the rest.
In 1777, American Continental Army general Arnold leads his troops bravely in the Battle of Saratoga but is badly wounded. American captain Gideon Wheatley is also injured and, while recuperating in the same Albany hospital as Arnold, aids him. However, in 1780, Arnold performs a treasonous act, and the deed is discovered in some papers carried by captured British major André. Arnold defects and flees to the British Army. General Washington himself orders Gideon and another soldier to undertake a mission to kidnap Arnold and bring him back to face justice. Unfortunately, the abduction is thwarted; the agents are confined and must fight alongside Arnold’s raiders like traitors. Years later, Gideon is obsessed with recollections of the war and, wishing justice for Arnold’s treason, undertakes a mini-revolution. Nevertheless, Gideon has to deal with his inner torments in his quest.
Carso’s narration of Gideon’s discourse with family and friends reveals much about their feelings and their intense patriotic views. Readers will enjoy this journey through the American Revolution. The descriptions of the norms and the peculiarities of people from the period, particularly Gideon’s family and others, are eloquently written. The author doesn’t shy away from vivid bloody battle scenes, and the Patriots’ shouts of “Huzza” will ring in readers’ minds. This is an interesting novel that highlights the repercussions of a revolution. Highly recommended.
