School Library Journal Starred Review

Gr 7 Up-The final book in the trilogy finds escaped slaves Isabel and Curzon three years into their grueling search for Isabel's little sister Ruth and deeply divided in their beliefs of who is fighting for their freedom: the Patriots or the British. In 1781, the American Revolution rages on. When Isabel and Curzon discover 12-year-old Ruth on a plantation near Charleston, SC, they rejoice; agree to bring Ruth's friend, Aberdeen, with them; and quickly begin their secretive return journey north. After struggling to survive in the wilderness, the runaways are emboldened to separate and blend into the turmoil of the Patriot encampments, first at Williamsburg and then at Yorktown. Curzon becomes a Patriot soldier, Aberdeen lives a dual life as a spy for the British, and Isabel and Ruth find work in a laundry. When the sisters are threatened with recapture, they flee again and reinvent themselves as cooks for the soldiers at Yorktown. Their plight offers a less explored perspective on the motivations and hopes of black soldiers during the American Revolutionfreedom from slavery, not just from England. Fascinating facts, anecdotes, and real personalities and events are smoothly woven into this fictional story. The unheralded supportive role of women on the battlefield is depicted. Ruth's stubborn nature adds emotional complexity that challenges and ultimately deepens Isabel's compassion and understanding of others. VERDICT A rich cast of characters, nonstop adventures, lively dialogue, vivid battlefield descriptions, budding romance, and an informative appendix are hallmarks of this excellent novel and this compelling, must-have historical fiction series. Gerry Larson, formerly at Durham School of the Arts, NC

Horn Book

In 1781, Isabel (Chains) continues her fraught journey with her companion, Curzon (Forge), to rescue her sister from slavery. After fleeing the plantation, the three are inexorably drawn toward Yorktown, setting of the climactic battle of the American Revolution. Anderson takes full advantage of unfolding history--and the moral quagmire of colonial-American racial politics--to weave in a plethora of historical detail.

Publishers Weekly (Fri Oct 06 00:00:00 CDT 2023)

Picking up in June 1781, three years after Forge (2010), this thrilling conclusion to Anderson-s Seeds of America trilogy finds former slaves Isobel and Curzon finally locating Isobel-s younger sister, Ruth, on a South Carolina plantation. The reunion is not a happy one: while Ruth, now 12, has been cared for by fellow slaves on the plantation, she rebuffs Isobel. Curzon and Isobel are also at odds over his desire to enlist in the fight for independence. Despite the discord, the three head north-joined by Aberdeen, an escaped slave from the plantation-stopping in Williamsburg, Va., where patriots are preparing for an assault on Yorktown. As in the previous two books, Anderson-s vividly detailed writing immerses readers in the hardships of her heroes- travels and the harsh realities of war. Isobel-s eventual reconciliation with Ruth, her growing understanding of Curzon-s need to fight, and her recognition of the true feelings between them all work to guide the story to an emotionally satisfying conclusion. It-s a gripping finish to an epic journey that speaks resoundingly to the human capacity to persevere. Ages 10-14. Agent: Amy Berkower, Writers House. (Oct.)

Starred Review ALA Booklist

Starred Review Co-protagonists Isabel and Curzon (Chains, 2008, and Forge, 2010) return in this long-awaited third and final volume in Anderson's award-winning Seeds of America trilogy. The year is now 1781, and the two teenage fugitives are 12 miles from Charleston, South Carolina, in search of Isabel's younger sister, Ruth, stolen away from her many years before. To Isabel's great joy, find her they do, but, inexplicably, Ruth refuses to return Isabel's affection, remaining cold and distant, even when the three, along with farm-boy Aberdeen, set off to walk to Rhode Island and freedom. Will they reach their destination? Perhaps, but in the meantime, they arrive in Williamsburg, Virginia, where, to Isabel's great distress, Curzon reenlists in the Continental Army. The action then moves to the siege of Yorktown, even as Isabel and Curzon's often stormy relationship continues to evolve. But to what end? The plot-rich text makes for compelling reading, and the well-developed characters continue to invite reader empathy. Anderson demonstrates a particular talent for verisimilitude, bringing history to compelling life while she continues to develop her theme of the quest for liberty and the cruel irony that, during a war for freedom, there should remain slavery. Yes, readers, it was worth the wait. HIGH-DEMAND BACKSTORY: Chains and Forge are considered highlights of an author career packed with highlights, and this final installment comes with a book tour, floor displays, and more.