CHAINS ACROSS THE RIVER

A historical novel focuses on an engineer’s key role in the American Revolution.

When readers first meet Thomas Machin, he is a private in Britain’s 23rd Regiment of Foot. Tom has been sent to America with his fellow Red Coats to quash the rebellion. Life in the king’s service is a major disappointment. Even though Tom is a trained engineer, his superiors care little about his experience. What’s more, they are not particularly gifted leaders. Then there is the reality that British soldiers are frequently met with the lash for even the smallest infraction. All this, coupled with Tom’s interest in the American cause, convinces him to desert. Tom throws in his lot with the Continental Army. Although there are initial suspicions that he may be a spy, Tom proves his worth in the difficult task of moving artillery pieces from upstate New York to Massachusetts. His logistical abilities are further put to use on the Hudson River. If the Continental Army can place an iron chain across the Hudson, it can greatly hamper the mighty British navy. But with spies, financial impediments, and other challenges will the chain plan prove possible? Longstreth’s book takes a refreshingly nuanced angle on the Revolutionary War. Readers have probably heard of such historical figures as the American military officer Henry Knox but what of the unlikely, real-life patriot Tom Machin? Tactics such as moving cannons over icy terrain and sailing fire ships (vessels that have literally been set ablaze) into enemy boats make for some substantial historical fare. But not all of the interactions are quite as thought provoking. For instance, mealtime scenes can prove dull, as when a character asks questions like “What’s in the lamb stew, aside from lamb?” Yet in the end, the engrossing story allows readers to appreciate both the geographical and technological obstacles of 18th-century warfare. Move some cannons with oxen? Easier said than done. Stop the formidable British navy from controlling the Hudson? Better find a skilled engineer.

An engaging tale that sheds an intriguing light on some lesser-known Revolutionary War challenges.