In Hostile Red

"In Hostile Red" by Joseph A. Altsheler is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds against the backdrop of the American Revolutionary War, featuring characters Bob Chester and Lieutenant Marcel as they navigate a series of adventurous and dangerous situations. The narrative explores themes of loyalty, identity, and the complexities of war as the protagonists find themselves in precarious situations while trying to gather intelligence and serve their cause. The opening of the novel introduces Captain Charles Montague and Lieutenant Arthur Melville, two young British officers, who find themselves captured by American soldiers. As they contemplate their situation and the impact of their capture, Chester and Marcel contrive a daring plan to disguise themselves in the uniforms of the captured officers and infiltrate the British lines. The tension escalates as they navigate risks while attempting to gather information and potentially serve their side in the conflict, while also wrestling with their own identities and loyalties amidst the chaos of war.