1812: A Novel » (REPRINT)

"1812 is splendidly researched and finely written—a fiery tale of our country's youth, of mighty passions, a half-for-gotten war, and incomparable men and women. David Nevin's readers are blessed" -Ralph Peters, author of Red Army

"A rich, robust historical novel of the kind we don't get often enough. Famous men and women spring vividly to life—action abounds—1812 is a great read" - John Jakes

The war of 1812 would either make America a global power sweeping all the way to the Pacific—or break it into small pieces bound to mighty England. It was a second revolution of sorts to prove to the British that America had to be taken seriously. The principal actors in this drama were James and Dolley Madison, and Andrew and Rachel Jackson. Their courage and determination would shape America's destiny.

"It was a perilous and pivotal time for the young and not-entirely-United States, but it has been the most unremembered time in American history. Until now. The faded old etchings of battle on land and sea, of statesmen, heroes, villains (and their ladyloves), are now, in David Nevin's 1812, brought to vivid life and color, tumultuous intensity, and you-are there immediacy." -Gary Jennings, New York Times bestselling author of Aztec

"Whatever we have gained by technology we have lost by ease. These people who lived in 1812 faced danger, adventure, and—no income tax! Read on." -Rita Mae Brown, author of Dolley

Library Journal

Spanning a young American nation from the northern frontier around New York to the site of the war's most celebrated battle in New Orleans, the causes and major military actions of the War of 1812 unfold in this fictional account. A respected historical novelist, Nevin (Dream West, 1984) excels at portraying battles in vivid detail and revealing political complexities in an engaging manner. Regrettably, this work degenerates into a historical soap opera as the author attempts to animate the action by concocting love lives for major players such as James and Dolly Madison, Andrew and Rachel Jackson, and Winfield Scott. Attention is drawn to this overly amorous prose by the rushed, theatrical delivery of reader Dick Hill. Skip this protracted version and opt for the abridged edition (also available from Brilliance).Linda Bredengerd, Univ. of Pittsburgh Lib., Bradford, Pa.