A Girl Called Samson: an unsung Revolutionary War hero

A Girl Called Samson by Amy Harmon is a fictionalized story of a real life Revolutionary War hero. In 1760, Deborah Samson is born in Plympton, Massachusetts. When her father abandons the family and her mother is unable to support Deborah and her siblings, she is bound out as an indentured servant. She lives and works with the Thomas family, she yearns for a life of freedom and adventures. As the colonies are battling for their independence, Deborah disguises herself as a soldier and enlists in the Continental Army. With her height and lanky build her transformation is persuasive and soon she finds herself witnessing the horrors of war. As Deborah fights for her country’s freedom, she must protect her secret at all costs and finds something she did not expect: love. Will she survive the war? Will her secret be discovered? 

I love history and especially American history. I have never heard of Deborah Samson. A woman born ahead of her time, Deborah fought with bravery, ingenuity and courage. Amy Harmon’s story is a fast paced story, told through letters and from Deborah’s point of view, readers will witness battles and the fight for freedom with Deborah. I found myself cheering for her, urging her on and holding my breath that she wouldn’t be caught. I also enjoyed seeing more Revolutionary War figures than the usual suspects. I learned about real life General John Paterson and Agrippa Hull, a freeman. After I finished this story, I immediately looked up the individuals and read more into their lives before, during and after the war. If you enjoy strong women characters and history, I highly, highly recommend A Girl Called Samson. 

A Girl Called Samson is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook