Son of the Hounds

Martha Lamon is a freelance writer and researcher based in Huntsville,
Ontario.

The book opens at a point during the War of 1812 when the British are
beleaguered and the Americans are confident. Young Jimmy Cameron, having
been captured by and escaped from the Yankee soldiers, decides to act as
a spy and messenger for the British band of Bloody Boys, who use
hit-and-run tactics on the American army in Upper Canada. While serving,
he witnesses the Battle of Stoney Creek and meets Faith Fairlie, a young
girl who is also spying for the British (which adds a hint of romance to
this tale of intrigue and bravery).

Son of the Hounds is based on historical events, and many of characters
are actual historical figures, including Lieutenant James FitzGibbon
(the British officer who served in the 49th Regiment of Foot under
General Isaac Brock and formed the Bloody Boys), Cyrenius Chapin (an
American officer who harassed settlers, took them prisoner, then looted
their homes), and Laura Secord (who walked 32 kilometres to
FitzGibbon’s camp to inform them of an impending American attack).

Son of the Hounds is an exciting, well-written, fast-paced, historical
adventure that provides an excellent introduction to the War of 1812 for
students in Grades 5 to 10. Highly recommended.