Step into the thrilling world of Patriots, where the sparks of rebellion ignite a gripping tale of courage and camaraderie! Written by James Reasoner under the pseudonym Adam Rutledge, this six-book historical fiction series transports readers to the heart of the American Revolutionary War. Through the eyes of brothers Daniel and Quincy Reed, Patriots weaves real historical events with fictional drama, offering an adventurous dive into colonial America’s fight for independence.
From the bustling streets of Boston to the battlefields of Lexington, the series captures the spirit of a nation in the making. With its blend of action, romance, and espionage, Patriots isn’t just a history lesson—it’s a page-turner that brings the past to life with vivid characters and heart-pounding stakes.
How Patriots Began
In 1992, James Reasoner, a prolific author known for his historical novels and westerns, launched the Patriots series under the pen name Adam Rutledge. Published by Bantam Books and edited by Book Creations, Inc., the series was crafted to blend meticulous historical detail with engaging storytelling. Reasoner’s inspiration stemmed from his love for America’s formative years, aiming to spotlight lesser-known aspects of the Revolution, like the Patriot spy networks, through the fictional Reed brothers’ adventures.
The series kicked off with Sons of Liberty, setting the stage for a saga that spans 1773 to 1776. Reasoner’s knack for character-driven narratives and his passion for history shaped Patriots into a beloved, if niche, gem for fans of historical fiction.
The Heart of Patriots
The Patriots series follows Daniel Reed, a Harvard-bound Virginian, and his impulsive younger brother, Quincy, as they navigate the escalating tensions of the American Revolution. Sons of Liberty (1992) introduces their journey in 1773 Boston, where Quincy joins the Boston Tea Party, and Daniel falls for the fiery patriot Roxanne Darragh. Rebel Guns (1992) sees the brothers aiding the Green Mountain Boys in capturing Fort Ticonderoga, a pivotal early American victory. The Turncoat (1993) splits their paths, with Daniel fighting at Bunker Hill and Quincy facing Mohawk alliances in the Ohio Valley. Stars and Stripes (1994), the series finale, delivers a thrilling climax as Roxanne confronts England’s top spy.
Themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the cost of freedom pulse through the series. Reasoner balances war’s grim realities with personal stories—love, betrayal, and brotherhood—set against richly detailed colonial backdrops. The Patriots books stand out for their focus on espionage and lesser-known events, like the theft of British artillery or the formation of George Washington’s spy network, making history accessible and exhilarating.
The series’ style is brisk and character-focused, with Reasoner’s prose painting a vivid picture of 18th-century life. Fans praise its blend of historical figures—Sam Adams, Henry Knox, John Paul Jones—with fictional heroes, creating a seamless tapestry of fact and fiction.
Why Patriots Resonates
Though not a mainstream blockbuster, Patriots has carved a niche among historical fiction enthusiasts for its immersive storytelling and authentic Revolutionary War setting. Its emphasis on spy networks and unsung heroes offers a fresh perspective on a well-trodden era, appealing to readers who crave adventure with a historical twist. The series’ charm lies in its ability to humanize the Revolution, showing how ordinary people shaped extraordinary events.
Reasoner’s Patriots remains a testament to the enduring allure of America’s origin story. Its cameo appearance in his Wagons West Empire Trilogy delights dedicated fans, hinting at the Reed brothers’ lasting legacy. For those seeking a spirited journey through the birth of a nation, Patriots delivers.
- Publication Years: 1992–1994
- Number of Books: 6
- Author: James Reasoner (as Adam Rutledge)
- Genre: Historical Fiction
Ready to march into the Revolutionary War? Grab Sons of Liberty and dive into Patriots’ thrilling world of rebels, spies, and freedom fighters!