By Deseret Book Press Release
The Hand of Providence
SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH -- Continuing his popular fictional
Revolutionary War series, Ron Carter reimagines the Battle of
Saratoga in THE HAND OF PROVIDENCE (Bookcraft/October 2000/$22.95.)
An event that historians believe changed the history of the world,
the Batle of Saratoga is brought to vivid life by Carter's winning
blend of deftly drawn characters, enthralling adventure, and riveting
historical details.
THE HAND OF PROVIDENCE reflects the trials and triumphs of war
through the eyes of two brave American heroes, Billy and Eli, who
give conflict a human dimension. Here we see the brilliant strategies
and cunning tricks of men in both armies -- from General Arthur St.
Clair, to General Benedict Arnold, to British General John Burgoyne
-- and we learn fascinating facts about the customs of the Iroquois
tribes who fought in the Revolution. THE HAND OF PROVIDENCE further
illuminates the action with background notes for every chapter, as
well as maps and illustrations.
Following America's magnificent victories at Trenton and Princeton,
King George III orders General Burgoyne and a large army to move
south from Canada to take Fort Ticonderoga and isolate the New
England states. In this and other battles throughout THE HAND OF
PROVIDENCE, Ron Carter's meticulous research comes to life, as he
takes us to the front lines, where we learn the strategies of war:
"There are three ways to take a fort such as Ticonderoga," General
Burgoyne says, "tunnel underneath and set mines, breach the walls
with heavy artillery, or place it under siege."
One of Carter's most skillfully etched characters, British General
John Burgoyne is an enigma: a playwright and ladies' man who is also
coldly calculating. Opposing Burgoyne is American General Arthur St.
Clair, a brilliant, unpredictable force. Burgoyne takes Fort
Ticonderoga in a masterful mission, but he is unprepared for the
American retaliation. Now the stage is set for the pivotal battle of
Saratoga, where the American and British armies fight brutally, and
the Americans -- with less than half the army of the British -- stun
the world by defeating Burgoyne, crediting their victory to "the Hand
of Providence."
Offering a warm contrast to war, THE HAND OF PROVIDENCE also follows
the struggles of loved ones left behind: a beautiful widow searching
for a new life with an old friend, devoted mothers praying for the
return of their sons, a young American woman suffering over her love
for a British captain. Here Carter weaves his narrative with high
emotion, portraying the pain of separation that is inevitable in
wartime.
This sweeping saga will stir the imagination and even touch the
hearts of readers of all ages, offering colorful characters and
breathtaking action at every turn. An extraordinary portrayal of one
of the most influential events in American history, THE HAND OF
PROVIDENCE is a tale that will be treasured for years to come.
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About the Author
Ron Carter holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Brigham Young
University and attended law school at George Washington University
and the University of Utah. He practiced law for 25 years concluding
his legal career with seven years in research and writing for judges
in the Los Angeles County court system. He also served one term as a
State Senator in the Idaho legislature. He is the author of fourteen
books, including "The Youngest Drover," a title that was placed on
the ALA "Booklist," and authorized by the California State Department
of Education for use in teaching high school history courses. His
other works include mysteries and humor for children, young adults,
and adults. He is married to LaRae Dunn Carter, and they have nine
children and twenty-three grandchildren. Ron Carter lives in Park
City, Utah.
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