The Green Mountain Boys

The Green Mountain Boys is a historical novel set in Vermont during the years leading up to the American Revolution. The narrative centers on the real-life militia group that protected Vermont settlers from New York authorities who attempted to seize their land. The story follows Charles Warrington, a fictional member of the Green Mountain Boys, as he navigates political tensions and personal relationships in 1770s Vermont. Under the leadership of Ethan Allen, the group works to defend Vermont territory while facing threats from multiple fronts. Thompson blends documented historical events with fictional characters and storylines to create a portrait of Revolutionary-era Vermont. The book includes accounts of actual conflicts and legal disputes between Vermont settlers and New York land speculators. The novel explores themes of justice, loyalty, and the complex motivations that drive both individuals and movements during times of political upheaval. Through its depiction of the Green Mountain Boys, the work examines questions about legitimate authority and the right to self-governance.

Readers describe this historical novel as an adventure tale that brings Revolutionary War events in Vermont to life, though some note the writing style feels dated and formal by modern standards. Positive reviews highlight: - Detailed portrayal of real historical figures like Ethan Allen - Local Vermont settings and landmarks - Balance of action scenes with historical context - Educational value for learning about the period Common criticisms: - Slow pacing in early chapters - Dense, antiquated language requires careful reading - Some historical inaccuracies - Romantic subplot feels forced Ratings: Goodreads: 3.7/5 (147 ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (31 ratings) "Takes you right back to that era" - Goodreads reviewer "The formal writing style made it hard to get through" - Amazon reviewer "Great for Vermont history buffs but may not appeal to casual readers" - LibraryThing review

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🌲 Though a work of historical fiction, the book accurately depicts many key events of Vermont's struggle for independence, including Ethan Allen's famous capture of Fort Ticonderoga in 1775. 🖋️ Daniel P. Thompson wrote the novel in 1839 while serving as a probate judge in Vermont, drawing from first-hand accounts of surviving Revolutionary War veterans. ⚔️ The Green Mountain Boys were a real militia organization founded in the 1760s to protect Vermont settlers from New York authorities who challenged their land claims. 🏔️ The book helped establish the romantic legend of the Green Mountain Boys and became one of the most popular novels about Vermont history, remaining in print for over 100 years. 🎭 The character of Charles Warrington, the novel's romantic hero, was based on Remember Baker, one of the actual leaders of the Green Mountain Boys and a cousin of Ethan Allen.