Rivertown Social

With the nearing of America’s 250th anniversary it seemed fitting to draw upon this as a theme for the first book club of the new year.

The selected book is Becoming Benedict Arnold, a work of fiction by Stephen Yoch.

ABOUT the BOOK

In this extensively researched Revolutionary War historical fiction novel, award-winning* author and lawyer Stephen Yoch presents the thrilling story of America's most notorious traitor.

Benedict Arnold was one of America's greatest heroes and perhaps the best tactical general of the Revolution. Arnold was totally committed to the Cause. Indisputably brave, he won pivotal battles against British forces that saved the Revolution. Yet, horrible wounds, a loyalist bride, and nasty political infighting all drove him into the welcoming arms of the British.

This first-person account explains why Arnold chose treason and betrayal over a country he once loved.

Stephen Yoch's award-winning debut novel, Becoming George Washington, has sold over ten thousand copies. Returning fans will love Yoch's masterful presentation of true, but little-known stories from American history.

The hotel has plenty of parking and offers a dinner menu if of interest.

Hope to see you there / then!

—-

*AWARDS

WINNER -- 2024 Book of the Year in historical fiction by Next Generation Indie
WINNER -- 2024 Book of the Year in military by Next Generation Indie
WINNER -- 2024 Book of the Year, "Outstanding Historical Fiction: Pre-20th Century" by Independent Author Network
BRONZE MEDAL- 2024 Book of the Year in military/wartime by Independent Publisher Book Awards
FINALIST -- 2023 Book of the Year in historical fiction by Forward Indies

Thought I’d post a second book club now, as it may be something to add to your holiday reading list.

ABOUT the BOOK
By Elinor Florence

A rollicking historical novel set in turn-of-the-century Alberta about a young woman on the run from her abusive husband who uses a legal loophole to claim a homestead in the Wild West—perfect for fans of Outlawed and The Giver of Stars.

Scottish newcomer Flora Craigie jumps from a moving train in 1905 to escape her abusive husband. Desperate to disappear, she claims a homestead on the beautiful but wild Alberta prairie, determined to create a new life for herself. She is astonished to find that her nearest neighbours are also female: a Welsh widow with three children; two American women raising chickens; and a Métis woman who supports herself by training wild horses.

While battling both the brutal environment and the local cynicism toward female farmers, the five women with their very different backgrounds struggle to find common ground. But when their homes are threatened with expropriation by a hostile government, they join forces to “fire the heather,” a Scottish term meaning to raise a ruckus. To complicate matters, there are signs that Flora’s violent husband is still hunting for her. And as the competition for free land along the new Canadian Pacific Railway line heats up, an unscrupulous land agent threatens not only Flora’s livelihood, but her very existence.

Hope to see you there!

—-

The Hilton Garden Inn offers food and beverage options via their concession area and full serve cafe.