keithpruitt's Full Review: David Nevin - 1812: A Novel
The following was originally posted June 8, 2000, but is herein revised and reposted. Hope you enjoy the review and the wonderful book.
The War of 1812, sometimes dubbed Mr. Madison’s War, rarely gathers more than a footnote in most history books, but the conflict was a turning point in early United States history. The “colonists” finally convinced the British crown that it would be an independent country. Many other things were proven by the war with England, but the major part of the war that garners attention is the dramatic victory of Old Hickory, Andrew Jackson, at New Orleans and his becoming a national hero thrusting the general into the national political limelight. Of this victory, historian Robert Remini has written much.
When a book, however, receives the accolades of James Michener and John Jakes as well as critical acclaim from the literary establishment, one can be certain of its special nature. 1812 by David Nevin is one such book. Often asked for historical fiction recommendations, I generally have recommended works by Jakes, Vidal, and Ross. But after giving 1812 a read, Nevin’s name must certainly be added to the list of genre authors.
Perhaps the most amazing aspect of Nevin’s work is his ability to capture the essence of the historical characters. The reader feels compassion for President Madison, the leader during the conflict, and a greater sense of endearing respect for his wife Dolly. Dolly, ever the hero of first ladies, is prized in Nevin's writing for her bravery and proactive behavior to save valuable relics as the White House burned. Nevin equally expresses the character of James Monroe and General Andrew Jackson. The reader feels the emotion on every turn of the page and can better sense the price our early leaders were willing to pay for liberty.
Centering on the federal attempt to keep Washington from falling to the British, Nevin allows the readers to sense the grave danger the capital faced and the heroics of many during the time. Nevin has done his homework and presents a very accurate picture of the events.
The reader will also delight in the clarity and preciseness of detail Nevin includes in describing the major campaigns especially the battle of New Orleans and the Delmar peninsula campaign. The author’s insightfulness as to the relationships with foreign governments (especially Canadian) is brilliant adding another dimension often lost by historians. His work on Jackson rivals Remini, whom I tremendously respect, both dealing with detail and psyche.
1812 is a must read for serious history students and those who love good historical fiction. Nevin’s previous work Dream West was a New York Times Bestseller. This work, however, has not done as well although sales have kept in on the shelves now for eight years.
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 England. It was a...More at Alibris
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...More at Buy.com Marketplaces
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