Review of Fields of the Fatherless
Birth pains…..the birthing of a baby or of a nation? Both begin simultaneously in Elaine Marie Cooper’s newest book, intending a realistic comparison of the grueling pain and bleeding during birth and war. Believing the characters were fictional and the story based on Ms Cooper’s admirable deep research of that era and area during The Revolutionary War in Massachusetts, I was astonished to learn otherwise!
Just this morning I finished reading this compelling story, and fell behind other readers posting reviews. Having read through several inclusive reviews about the story, I wondered what more I could say that would impress a reader to obtain a copy of Fields of the Fatherless – if they weren’t already convinced. Nearly every lexis or depiction has already been used to illustrate this exquisite story. I can only add I am profoundly touched by the sensitivity shown in Elaine Marie Cooper’s narrative of historical changing events of our nation.
There is no romance in Ms Cooper’s story…only the courting of God to the hearts on either side to believe and trust in Him. During the short time that Betsy cared for an injured enemy soldier with such compassion and forgiveness did I think romance might emanate. There is a slight impetus that suggests that possibility is not null and void in the future for Betsy. From the 1700’s, we read of the horror and atrocity of war, and yet do we truly understand the pain unless we ourselves have been in current warfare? Betsy’s story doesn’t end without promise. We do go forth.
Reading only snippets from Betsy’s diary gave me a longing to read its entirety, owning up to my snoopy curiosity. Betsy’s story says much to me about the author’s personal relationship with our Lord. Stories, fictional or real based on the Revolutionary War or all wars are not pretty. The beauty of Ms Cooper’s story is being witness to the growth and maturity of Betsy and those in Menotomy spiritually and emotionally. Love and war are much the same in any century that God’s children struggle. The most challenging part of humans experiencing what these families and community lived or died through is forgiveness. It would be easy to venture philosophically into the need today of the same kind of loyalty to good morals, love and faith displayed within the Russell family. Betsy’s faith and obedience firstly to her beloved earthly father was the heart to understanding her Heavenly Father.
Ms Cooper creatively poses enough dangling hooks in this story, for which there is purpose. I’m already growing impatient for that purpose to be revealed in her next novel. My review has left some relevant details out, so if you want to know what they are….do Elaine Marie Cooper the honor of reading Fields of the Fatherless. Oh, and do read the Afterword…you won’t stop thinking about it!