Book Blurb:
When the first shots of the American Revolutionary War were fired in Massachusetts on April 19, 1775, thirty-two-year-old Nathanael Greene, a self-educated Quaker with no military experience, dismayed his family and marched toward Boston as general of the Rhode Island provincial army. General George Washington recognized his unwavering belief in American independence and the qualities that catapulted him to a major general in the Continental Army.
From the hard lessons learned on the battlefields of New York, to his appointment as Quartermaster General during the harsh winter at Valley Forge, his role in convicting the British spy who colluded to obtain the plans to West Point, to the godsend who took command of the ragged remnants of the Southern Continental Army, Nathanael Greene’s complex perseverance and brilliant strategies broke military doctrines.
This is the story of the man who rose to become a national hero by resuscitating and then propelling the American states to victory in their war for independence and the personal cost of that war.
"In The Line of Splendor: A Novel of Nathanael Greene and the American Revolution, Salina Baker has given readers an insight into the realm of the possible. The Line of Splendor is clearly a work of love…. Join her, as she invites you into The Line of Splendor: A Novel of Nathanael Greene and the American Revolution." —Ricardo A. Herrera, 18th and 19th century American military history historian, Professor U.S. Army War College, Department of National Security and Strategy; author of Feeding Washington’s Army
Book Buy Link: https://geni.us/eipCpV
Author Bio:
Salina is a multiple award-winning historical fiction author and American Revolution and Victorian America historian. She has presented at events such as History Camp at Boston and Valley Forge as well as Authors of the American Revolution Congress at Washington Crossing Historic Park. She has been interviewed on podcasts such as Revolution 250 and American Revolution Podcast. Her extensive travels and research follow the footsteps of the compelling historical people, places, and events she passionately writes about and brings to life. She currently resides in Austin, Texas, with her loving husband John.
Editorial Review:
The novel "The Line of Splendor: A Novel of Nathanael Greene and the American
Revolution" highlights the often overlooked hero, Major General Nathanael Greene, in the
history of the American Revolution. The author, Salina B. Baker begins the story with a
quote from General Greene's own conviction: "I am determined to defend my rights and
maintain my freedom, or sell my life in the attempt." This dedication to rights and freedom
serves as a prelude to the exploration of his life and significant contributions to the events
that marked the beginnings of the United States of America.
The book's preface emphasizes that this work has been written with meticulousness and love
to honor a great and noble man who dedicated his entire life to his country, the cause of
freedom, and the American Revolution. Baker invites us to listen to the voices of Nathanael
Greene, his beloved wife Caty, and the people who influenced his life. These voices are often
extracted from hundreds of letters exchanged between Nathanael and others, as well as from
their biographies.
The novel traverses the life of this often overlooked hero, focusing on the American
Revolution and the period when Nathanael Greene became one of George Washington's
trusted generals. Despite a lack of formal education, Greene became a remarkable battlefield
commander and, according to the author, perhaps the best quartermaster general of the
Continental Army. It is emphasized that, contrary to what some artistic works, such as the
musical Hamilton, might suggest, Greene was Washington's right-hand man:
“Greene was Washington’s right-hand man. Indeed, Washington relied on and trusted Greene as he did no other general.”
The book brings to the forefront not only the military aspects of Nathanael Greene's life but
also his personal side, which unfortunately remains partially shrouded in mystery due to the
loss of most letters between him and his wife, Caty. Salina B. Baker deviates from the
constraints imposed by historians and uses her imagination to breathe life and humanity into
the characters, events, and places of that historical period.
The book highlights a challenging moment in Nathanael Greene's life, illustrating how
unexpected events can influence people's lives. The fire that consumes his iron forge in
Coventry, Rhode Island, leaves behind only debris and ruin:
“The flames soared in orange tongues so intense that the men could get nowhere near them despite close access to the waters of Pawtuxet River that flowed behind the iron forge in Coventry, Rhode Island. Nathanael Greene, his older brother, Jacob, and the forge workers could only watch as everything, including the iron furnace, succumbed”.
Salina B. Baker provides a detailed depiction of the personal and financial impact on
Nathanael during this crisis period. Against the backdrop of the factory's destruction, Baker
describes the atmosphere charged with tension and unrest during that time of the American
Revolution. She also introduces us to the world of political debates and concerns related to
British taxes and opposition to them. Characters, including James Varnum, contribute to the
rich atmosphere and the development of the epic narrative.
Nathanael Greene's journey to East Greenwich further illustrates the social and political
interactions of the characters. Heated discussions about British tax injustices and possible
courses of action reflect the tumultuous realities of the time. The colorful narrative and
well-integrated historical details make this book a captivating and educational read.
Salina B. Baker continues to use her imagination to humanize and deepen the portrait of
Nathanael Greene, providing readers with a broad perspective on his life, both personally and in the tumultuous context of the American Revolution.
The resumption of production activities brings a ray of hope for the town's residents, but
Nathanael feels that his destiny is still marked by his status as a rough farmer, and he must
overcome social barriers to reach his true potential.
Turning his thoughts to the future, Nathanael increasingly feels the discord between his ideals
and his Quaker upbringing:
“I feel the mist of ignorance to surround me, for my own part I was educated a Quaker, and amongst the most superstitious sort, that of its self is a sufficient
obstacle to cramp the best of geniuses: much more than mine”.
In his letter to his friend Sammy, Nathanael reveals his internal struggle between the desire for knowledge and social constraints.
Throughout the narrative, the author highlights Nathanael's conflicts with the Quaker
community, showing how his actions, such as the lawsuit against Dudingston and the use of
military terms as a lawyer, bring him into discord with the traditional values of society.
Additionally, Baker presents an episode where Nathanael opposes the protests of Quaker
clergymen against a play banned by the colony's law. His choice to support one of the actors
demonstrates his evolution toward a more open mindset and contradicts the strict norms of
the community.
Subsequent events, such as the protest against the Tea Tax and Nathanael's marriage to Caty
Littlefield, add new layers of complexity to Nathanael Greene's story. Marriage places
Nathanael in the midst of charitable efforts to help the poor residents of Boston and illustrates
Caty's transition to the life of a respected wife.
Later chapters, including Nathanael's key struggles and decisions, promise to bring new
twists to the story and highlight his significant contribution to the creation of the United
States of America. Washington instructs Nathanael to prepare quickly for the possible
evacuation of the enemy at Valley Forge. Greene returns with a sense of urgency and
becomes involved in organizing and preparing the troops to face any scenario. Meanwhile,
the atmosphere becomes increasingly challenging at Valley Forge, and Nathanael and other
military leaders work tirelessly to improve the conditions and morale of the soldiers. The
book also emphasizes the complex relationship between Nathanael and his wife, Caty, in the
context of war and family separation, highlighting both personal challenges and sacrifices
related to his commitment to the fight for freedom.
The events unfold in a dramatic setting, with epic battles, severe weather conditions, and
army fatigue. In a captivating manner, the book takes us through key events of the struggle,
including the crucial moment at Monmouth Court House. In this context, the close
relationship between Washington and Greene becomes evident, with strategic discussions and
negotiations highlighting mutual respect and trust.
Nathanael returns to his plantation, Mulberry Grove, where he spends his final days with his
family. His efforts to maintain unity among the troops are highlighted, even if some actions of
his allies did not meet expectations. Despite the rivalry between Marion and Sumter,
Nathanael tries to maintain a positive tone, giving special praise to Harry and William.
The last presented fragment illustrates a poignant letter from William Washington, wounded
and a prisoner of war. Nathanael, overwhelmed with emotions, tries to hide his pain, but his
face reflects the burden of years spent in the service of his country. Caty, his wife, is
portrayed as a strong and determined woman who wants to continue her life and honor her
husband.
Simultaneously, the author discusses intimate moments between Nathanael and Caty,
revealing the fragility and humanity of the hero, far from his image as a military leader. The
book also unveils lesser-known aspects of Nathanael's personal life, including his unshared
love for Nancy Ward and how her loss affects him even after marrying Caty.
A significant part of the book focuses on the tragic moment of Nathanael's death. The text
suggests the suffering and pain felt by Caty, facing the prospect of raising her children alone.
The author emphasizes the swiftness with which events led to this tragedy, and Caty, though
fragile in the face of loss, promises to continue and honor her commitment to her husband:
“The tears she tried to contain burst like water from a broken levee. He was growing cold, and with him the seeds of their happiness and future. “My love,” she whispered. “I will carry on and see to the future we promised one another we would live. I will use every resource and every ounce of determination I possess to relieve you of the burdens you carry to your final rest. I promise—”.
The final part of the book provides a retrospective on Nathanael Greene's impact on
American history, emphasizing his merit as a national hero. It mentions Congress's resolution
to erect a monument in his honor, symbolizing appreciation for his patriotism, bravery, and
abilities.
"The Line of Splendor" is a captivating book that not only offers a detailed perspective on
Nathanael Greene's life but also delves into the significant events of the American
Revolutionary War. The book maintains readers' interest through its fascinating narrative and
vivid details. It serves as a journey into American history during the Revolutionary War and
offers a profound look into the life and contributions of a remarkable military leader,
Nathanael Greene.
*****
“The Line of Splendor” by Salina B. Baker receives five stars and the “Highly Recommended” award of excellence from The Historical Fiction Company
Award:
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