The Reckoning

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

25441

Title

The Reckoning

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Set in besieged New York during the American Revolution, this historical romance follows Carus Renault, a Continental spy navigating political intrigue, personal loyalty, and the brutal realities of war. Chambers blends atmospheric tension with intimate character studies, exploring themes of sacrifice, the cost of liberty, and the enduring bonds between a spy and the family he serves.

Summary up to 500 words

Robert W. Chambers' *The Reckoning*, the fourth volume in his American Revolution series, offers a gripping narrative set against the backdrop of the British occupation of New York. The story follows Carus Renault, a spy for the Continental army's Military Intelligence Department who operates within the enemy lines. While publicly managing the finances and affairs of his wealthy kinsman, Sir Peter, Renault secretly maintains a vital intelligence network. The novel vividly portrays the harsh realities of the siege, including the isolation of the city, the devastation of fires, and the horrific conditions in British prisons where patriots suffered from starvation and disease under the cruel supervision of Provost Captain Cunningham. The plot intertwines high-stakes espionage with profound personal drama, centering on Renault's betrothed, Elsin. Captured by British forces, she endures the brutal hardships of the wilderness before being rescued. Her ordeal highlights the moral complexities of the era, contrasting the savagery of British reprisals with the selfless devotion of the patriot cause. Chambers weaves a tale of love, duty, and the heavy price paid for freedom, featuring historical figures like George Washington and the notorious Butler family. As the war progresses, the narrative moves toward the climactic events of the conflict, culminating in the decisive victory at Yorktown. The novel captures the transition from the chaos of the siege to the quiet joy of peace. It concludes with Renault's emotional reunion with Elsin and the restoration of order, celebrating the triumph of liberty. Through rich historical detail and a focus on the landed families of northern New York, Chambers presents a story where the men who stood against their King did so with hope of no reward save freedom, facing the tempest with souls self-shriven and hearts washed free of selfishness.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• History
• Fiction