After listening to the Rebels & Redcoats Saga by T.J. London, I’ve been on the lookout for more books set during the American Revolutionary War. I was intrigued by the synopsis of A Girl Called Samson by Amy Harmon. I am so glad I listened to this delightful, well executed historical fiction featuring a fearless heroine and a swoon-worthy romance.
by Amy Harmon
Narrator: Tavia Gilbert
Length: 13 hours and 14 minutes
Genres: Historical Fiction
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate
Heat Level:
Narration: 5 cups Speed: 1.5x
From New York Times bestselling author Amy Harmon comes the saga of a young woman who dares to chart her own destiny in life and love during the American Revolutionary War.
In 1760, Deborah Samson is born to Puritan parents in Plympton, Massachusetts. When her father abandons the family and her mother is unable to support them, Deborah is bound out as an indentured servant. From that moment on, she yearns for a life of liberation and adventure.
Twenty years later, as the American colonies begin to buckle in their battle for independence, Deborah, impassioned by the cause, disguises herself as a soldier and enlists in the Continental Army. Her impressive height and lanky build make her transformation a convincing one, and it isn’t long before she finds herself confronting the horrors of war head-on.
But as Deborah fights for her country’s freedom, she must contend with the secret of who she is—and, ultimately, a surprising love she can’t deny.
Deborah Samson spends her youth as an indentured servant after her father abandons the family and her mother cannot support them in rural Massachusetts. Deborah was one of the lucky ones who found herself with a kind family where she helps a mother raise five sons and has her own room. She loves to read, corresponding, and like the boys she helped raise longs to join the war.
At twenty-one, wrapped in bindings and dressed as a young boy of sixteen, she enlists in the Continental Army. She is lanky, a good shot, and dedicated. Despite her fresh face, she impresses her superiors and finds herself in a position beside General John Patterson.
A Girl Called Samson was an enthralling tale that illuminated the perils of war, the predicaments of womanhood, and the difficulties of those of color. I adored Deborah and all that she stood for. John hero was fascinating, a genuine leader and a visionary. Scenes involving his men, rebellion and events with Deborah made him an authentic hero.
A vast number of quotes seemed pertinent, even by today’s standards. The story gave us more than her time during the war, but beyond. The story mirrored life and encompassed love, loss, family and the ugly truths of war, no matter how just the cause.
The story lends itself perfectly to the audiobook format. While I prefer a full cast, Tavia Gilbert did a stellar job of giving voice to Deborah and the rest of the characters. Be sure to listen to the author’s notes as I found them equally riveting.
While the story takes liberties, it is steeped in history and actual events. Notable figures and events are mentioned. I recommend the book to fans of historical fiction who enjoy a side of romance, and fans of the revolutionary war period.
*Kindle Unlimited -add audio for $1.99
“ I do not hate being a woman. I simply hate that a woman can’t go to Yale or be a statesman or help draft a constitution. I hate that I can’t travel to Paris without a husband or even walk down the street alone. I hate the limitations that nature has placed on me, the limitations that life has placed on me. But I do not hate being a woman, and I would not hate being your woman.”
About Amy Harmon
Amy Harmon is a Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and New York Times Bestselling author. Amy knew at an early age that writing was something she wanted to do, and she divided her time between writing songs and stories as she grew. Having grown up in the middle of wheat fields without a television, with only her books and her siblings to entertain her, she developed a strong sense of what made a good story. Her books are now being published in two dozen languages, truly a dream come true for a little country girl.
About Tavia Gilbert
Tavia Gilbert, a six-time Audie Award nominee and multiple Earphones and Parents' Choice Award–winning producer, narrator, and writer, has appeared on stage and in film. Library Journal said of the highly acclaimed actress, "as close as you can get to a full cast narration with a solo voice." Tavia has narrated more than 250 multicast and single-voice audiobooks
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About Kimberly
Kimberly is a coffee loving book addict who reads and listens to fictional stories in all genres. Whovian, Ravenclaw, Howler and proud Nonna. She owns and manages Caffeinated PR. The coffee is always on and she is ready to chat. BlueSky | Facebook | Instagram
Sophie
I am so, so, so HAPPY that you loved that one too KImberly! Amy Harmon is my favorite author and she does have highly quotable books!
Kimberly
Yay! I will definitely be reading/listening to her again.
Katherine
This sounds really interesting and I love Tavia Gilbert’s narration. I know that there were women who disguised themselves as men to fight in both the Revolutionary and Civil War and this sounds an interesting way to see that come alive.
Kimberly
Yes, the narration was wonderful.
DEBBIE HAUPT
What a fantastic sounding tale Kim thanks for sharing. It this as dark as London’s books?
Kimberly
I hope you get a chance to listen Debbie.
Maureen @ Maureen's Books
Sounds like a very intriguing read. I love that cover!
Kimberly
I love the cover as well.
Anne - Books of My Heart
Sounds like a great read!
Kimberly
It was. Thanks.
Rachel @Waves of Fiction
I’ve read and enjoyed her books. I need to add this one!
Kimberly
This was my first Rachel.
Carla
Excellent review, Kimberly. I just saw that my library has the audiobook and I am now on the list to get this one. It sounds right up my alley.
Kimberly
Wahoo!!! I cannot wait to hear your thoughts
Silvia
Sounds like a captivating read, and I love the quote you shared!
Kimberly
There are quite a few I earmarked but that one is powerful.
Sophia Rose
I picked this one from the recent Amazon Prime free list and now can’t wait to give it a go.
Kimberly
I got it then too and was all set to read it, until i saw it was on audio….lol
Barb A.
Tavia Gilbert does such an amazing job on the audio book. I would highly recommend it!!!
Kimberly
Agreed, I reviewed the audiobook. Thank you!