The Saratoga Deception: a Mystery Novel of the American Revolution

Could the mysterious death of a young woman hold the key to the outcome of the American Revolution?

In the summer of 1777 British general John Burgoyne aspires to execute an elaborate plan to grab control of New York State thereby driving a wedge between New England and the rest of the colonies. If successful, the stratagem could doom the idealistic rebellion. However, north of Albany the general?s Indian scouts return to camp with the scalp of a young woman, Jane McCrea. They claim that they only took the scalp after the colonial militia accidentally killed her but the Americans contend that the Indians have committed murder-- proving that the British have no control over their Indian allies who are bent on savaging women and children. If the American claim is true, the girl?s murder could be a powerful tool in recruiting men to the cause and stopping General Burgoyne. For this reason General Washington sends the eccentric and enigmatic Mr. Fox to the region to determine the truth. Fox is an urbane Quaker allegedly committed to pacifism, but is also a skilled woodsman and Indian fighter. The bizarre contradiction of Mr. Fox both intrigues and exasperates Captain Shelby, the young officer sent to aid in the investigation. Before long attempts are made on the lives of the investigators and it becomes apparent that there is more to the girl?s death then anyone had supposed. Fox and Shelby follow clues and fight off would be assassins as they piece together the true facts of the girl?s demise-- a truth that could indeed turn the tide of the war in favor of the Americans.

Praise for The Saratoga Deception: ?The Saratoga Deception is a magnificent work. Leadley takes an intriguing subject in American history and seamlessly blends in a wonderfully thrilling mystery. This ability to artfully interweave fact and fiction not only keeps the reader captivated, but educates as well.? --Professor Sean McHugh, Monmouth University

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