The Reb and the Redcoats is an adventurous historical fiction story about a British family during the American Revolution who "play host" to an American prisoner of war. 15 year old Randal is a well-educated Virginian who was sent on a military mission as a French interpreter. When he and his comrades are captured, he gives his captors no end of trouble with his escape attempts and is finally confined to an old penance cell at the estate of Laurence Templeton (which had once been a monastery). Things get interesting when Captain Templeton's elder sister, Mrs. Darrington and her four children arrive for an indefinite stay at the estate. The children are fascinated by the American Rebel and can't understand why Uncle Laurence is so resentful of his presence.

This is one of the most delightful stories I've read in a long time. Although it is recommended for ages 10 and up, our entire family enjoyed this story immensely. Not only is it a very enjoyable and well-told tale (with accurate historical details), but there are some very nice lessons tied into the story about how we should treat other people and how easy it is to misjudge.