About

The Central Rappahannock Regional Library is hosting four book discussions in celebration of America’s semiquincentennial. The Fate of the Day is the second of four books to be read and discussed. This work begins two years into the war and is a direct follow up to Atkinson’s first book, The British Are Coming, in his Revolutionary War trilogy. Led by librarians, the VA250 book group is a discussion focused on the Revolutionary War.

By the winter of 1777, the exhausted Continental Army faced a determined and eager George III wanting to bring the rebellion to a close. However, with the potential introduction of French and Spanish forces on the side of the Americans, British control is now being threatened. In response, General William Howe, the commander of the most formidable force the British have ever sent abroad, begins a new campaign to bring the Americans to heel. Involving the battles at Brandywine, Saratoga, Monmouth, and Charleston, the winter at Valley Forge, and more, The Fate of the Day covers the important middle years of the War. Atkinson’s account between the Americans and the British offers a new perspective on the pressure a democracy may apply to its citizens.

Contact the Porter Branch Adult Services Desk at 540–372–1144, extension 7339, to request a copy to be held for you or sent to another branch for your convenience. A library card is not required to reserve this book. Limited copies are available.

Future VA250 Book Group Dates:

January 26th, 2026 - The Fate of the Day by Rick Atkinson
Meets at the Fredericksburg Branch of Central Rappahannock Regional Library, 1201 Caroline St, Fredericksburg, VA 22401
Time: 6 pm to 7:30 pm

April 27th, 2026 - A Girl Called Samson by Amy Harmon
Meets at Porter Branch of Central Rappahannock Regional Library, 2001 Parkway Boulevard, Stafford, VA 22554
Time: 6 pm to 7:30 pm

July 27th, 2026 - This Fierce People: The Untold Story of America’s Revolutionary War in the South by Alan Pell Crawford
Meets at The Mary Washington House, 1200 Charles St, Fredericksburg, VA 22401
Time: 6 pm to 7:30 pm