The Best Books on the American Revolution
Looking for the best books on the American Revolution? If so, you're in the right place. This list is full of Revolutionary War novels for historical fiction fans and readers who want to dive deeper into the founding of the nation ahead of the 250th anniversary of the United States. There’s something here for everyone, even the fellas. Grab a pen and paper (or sign up for my newsletter to get a printable copy) and start building your list of must-read novels about the Revolutionary War.
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A Founding Mother
Stephanie Dray & Laura Kamoie
Published May 2026
The story of Abigail Adams, a "formidable force" behind two early American Presidents. Working alongside her husband, John Adams, Abigail helped to shape the future of American politics while managing her family and farm. Beloved by readers and perfect for the 250th Anniversary, A Founding Mother should be high on your list of American Revolution books to read.
The Traitor's Wife
Allison Pataki
Published February 2014
The Traitor's Wife is the story behind the most infamous betrayal of all time: Benedict Arnold's treasonous plot. Half his age and secretly loyal to the British, Arnold's young bride, Peggy Shippen, was instrumental in the plot that ultimately turned the tide of the war.
Agent 355: A Novella
Marie Benedict
Published January 2024
Agent 355 is a thrilling imagining of the identity of Agent 355, a super secret female spy able to navigate Loyalist circles while gathering information for George Washington's Culper Ring. Short and fast-paced, this novella is the perfect addition to your Revolutionary War reading list.
The Secret Wife of Aaron Burr
Susan Holloway Scott
Published September 2019
One of the most infamous characters in the Revolutionary War, Aaron Burr was surrounded by dark whispers long before firing the fatal shot that killed Alexander Hamilton. But few know the story of his secret affair with a strong-willed young woman born into slavery in India. The Secret Wife of Aaron Burr takes you behind the scenes for the a tale of power and passion, sharing a secret that would have shocked the nation.
My Dear Hamilton
Stephanie Dray & Laura Kamoie
Published April 2018
Filled with shocking revelations and buried secrets, My Dear Hamilton is the story of Elizabeth Schuyler and her relationship with her husband, Alexander Hamilton. Both fiercely supported American Independence, finding themselves in the middle of scandals, brawls, and impassioned arguments. But when Hamilton in murdered, it's up to his wife to fight his last battle: the fight to preserve his legacy.
The Turncoat
Donna Thorland
Published March 2013
A tense battle between passion and patriotism, The Turncoat is the story of Kate Grey, who succumbs to the passionate advances of Major Lord Peter Tremayne, the British officer who commanders her Philadelphia home. But when one of her staff steal his military dispatches, Kate is blamed. Will she put desire ahead of duty in this dangerous dance?
The Ninth Daughter
Barbara Hamilton
Published September 2009
When a murder occurs at the home of fellow friend and patriot, Abigail Adams must clear her husband, John Adams, who is suspected of the crime. In doing so, she uncovers a conspiracy that threatens to expose not just her husband but his fellow Sons of Liberty. The Ninth Daughter is the first of several Abigail Adams mysteries and is perfect for mystery lovers in search of Revolutionary War fiction.
Redcoat
Bernard Cornwell
Published January 1987
Tested loyalties and fractured families are the focus of Cornwell's Redcoat. When young Redcoat Sam Gilpin witnesses his brother fall in battle, he is forced to choose between loyalty to the crown or the calling of his conscience. From the battlefields at Valley Forge to the shadowed corners of occupied Philadelphia, this epic is one for the ages!
The Treason of Betsy Ross
Wendy Long Stanley
Published April 2023
Before Betsy Ross became a national icon, she was a quiet young Quaker woman, peace-loving and non-violent. When she falls for militiaman, John Ross, she's determined to keep her faith, but when the first shots of war ring out, Betsy realizes she cannot remain neutral. Get the story behind the woman who created our iconic flag in this great American Revolution novel.
The Lacemaker
Laura Frantz
Published January 2018
Suspenseful and full of passion, The Lacemaker is the the story of Lady Elisabeth "Liberty" Lawson, Virginia belle and lacemaker. As war descends on Williamsburg, Liberty is caught in the fray and suspected of spying for the British. She must choose between her English roots and her only supporter, Patriot Noble Rynallt.
Mrs. Benedict Arnold
Emma Parry
Published April 2026
Mrs. Benedict Arnold is the story of Peggy Shippen, a lively young woman desperate for the war to end so that life can return to normal. Witty and charming, she's welcomed into Loyalist circles where she first meets Captain John André. But when war separates them, she finds herself in the arms of another, General Benedict Arnold. Together with both men, Peggy helps develop a plot that will live in infamy.
The Rebellion of Jane Clarke
Sally Cabot Gunning
Published June 2010
Defiant young Jane Clarke refuses her Loyalist father's demands that she marry. Sent to live with her aunt in Boston, she later witnesses the infamous Boston Massacre. Surrounded by prominent Patriots, Jane is soon entangled in political turmoil and must choose a side. An exploration of independence and conscience, The Rebellion of Jane Clarke blends fiction with fact, helping readers escape to the early days of the American Revolution.
America's First Daughter
Stephanie Dray & Laura Kamoie
Published March 2016
Patsy Jefferson, the devoted daughter of Thomas Jefferson, knows first hand how much her father loves his country. So it's no surprise that she finds herself attracted to another man of principle, staunch Abolitionist William Short. when she discovers his secret liaison with a young slave girl, she is forced to reckon a life-changing choice: her love for her father vs a life as William's wife.
The Midwife's Revolt
Jodi Daynard
Published April 2015
Alone in a new town and grieving the recent loss of her husband, midwife Lizzie Boylston finds a friend in Abigail Adams. When she uncovers a plot to harm Abigail and her famous husband, Lizzie gets caught up in a conspiracy that could destroy her. This historical mystery is a great addition to your American Revolution TBR.
The Hamilton Affair
Elizabeth Cobbs
Published August 2016
The Hamilton Affair is a sweeping story of the tumultuous love affair between Alexander Hamilton and Elizabeth Schuyler. Hamilton, born an orphan, and Schuyler, the daughter of wealthy New York family, were twin flames in the fight for freedom.
The Schoolmaster's Daughter
John Smolens
Published September 2011
The Schoolmaster's Daughter is the tense story of willful young Abigail, daughter of a Loyalist who sides with her brothers in support of the Patriots. Together with her siblings, Abigail smuggles supplies and delivers messages in an effort to turn the tides of war. But when a British sergeant is murdered, Abigail stands accused.
Celia Garth
Gwen Bristow
Published January 1959
Charleston is a pivotal port city, a place where ammunition and supplies could easily find their way into the hands of the Patriots. Local seamstress and dressmakers apprentice, Celia Garth watches as her world transform around her when the British take control of the city and destroy everything in their wake. So when she's asked to do her part, Celia doesn't hesitate putting her skills to use in support of the rebel cause.
Blindspot
Jane Kamensky & Jill Lepore
Published December 2008
Authored by two historians, Blindspot is a witty, romantic story of two unlikely characters who find themselves witness to the Revolution. Stewart Jameson is a Scottish painter and Libertine who flees the UK to avoid his debtors. Fanny Easton is a disgraced member of a prominent Boston family who must disguise herself as a boy to gain independence in the form of a painter's apprentice.
No Small Thing
Harold Coyle
Published January 2020
A sweeping multi-POV story of early America, No Small Thing explores beyond the battle and into the heart of the men and women who helped shape the budding nation.
I, Eliza Hamilton
Susan Holloway Scott
Published September 2017
The daughter of a prominent military figure, Eliza Schuyler is no stranger to socializing with dignitaries and great military minds. But when Alexander Hamilton, the charismatic aide to General Washington, crosses her path, she is swept off her feet. As his wife, she works diligently to advance his career and their shared political beliefs. Beset by one test after another, Eliza proves herself to be an indomitable force in the shaping of the new nation.
Burr
Gore Vidal
Published November 1973
The only book on the list set after the end of the Revolutionary War, Burr is an "extraordinary portrait" of one of America's most misunderstood Founding Fathers. Former Vice President Burr is an aging statesmen determined to set the record straight. He enlists the aid of a young journalist to tell the story of his life and the early years of the nation.
America's Daughter
Celeste De Blasis
Published January 2021
As she secretly watches the acts that would later be known as the Boston Tea Party, Addie Valencourt knows everything is about to change. And when the British take control of the city, she realized just how right she was. Divided between her love for her Loyalist-leaning father and her young rebel sweetheart, Addie finds herself in a most unlikely position: falling in love with a Scottish soldier. Her loyalty to her heart must battle with her loyalty to the cause in this historical romance series starter.
Dear George, Dear Mary
Mary Calvi
Published February 2019
Crafted from letters, journal entries, and first-hand witness accounts, Dear George, Dear Mary portrays George Washington like you've never seen him before: insecure and besotted with a New York heiress who wasn't what she seemed.
A Girl Called Samson
Amy Harmon
Published April 2023
Sold into indentured servitude after her Puritan father abandoned his wife and family, Deborah Samson is determined to live a life of freedom. Years later, as the colonies begin to battle for independence,l Deborah sees her chance. Disguised as a young man, she enlists in the Continental Army where she battles to keep her secret and to keep from falling for her superior.
Rise to Rebellion
Jeff Shaara
Published July 2001
Told from the shifting perspectives of key figures in Revolutionary War history, Rise to Rebellion captures the spirit of the times and the lives of the men on both sides of the fight in"full flesh-and-blood humanity."
The Fort
Bernard Cornwell
Published June 2004
Meticulously researched, The Fort tells the story of the siege of Fort George, a little known battle in the early days of the American Revolution. Told in conflicting British and American perspectives, Cornwell brings the battle to life in this epic Revolutionary War novel.
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Hi, I'm Carlie
I’m a historical fiction fanatic passionate about sharing newly released books, book club picks, and the types of stories that linger long after the last lines. If that sounds like the type of books you love to read, then you’re in the right place!
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