The War Before Independence

1775-1776

De: Derek W. Beck

Narrado por: David Colacci

The United States was creeping ever closer to independence. The shot heard round the world still echoed in the ears of Parliament as impassioned revolutionaries took up arms for and against king and country. In this captivating blend of careful research and rich narrative, Derek W. Beck continues his exploration into the period preceding the Declaration of Independence, just days into the new Revolutionary War.

The War Before Independence transports listeners into the violent years of 1775 and 1776, with the infamous Battle of Bunker Hill - a turning point in the Revolution - and the snowy, wind-swept march to the frozen ground at the Battle of Quebec, ending with the exciting conclusion of the Boston Campaign. Meticulous research and new material drawn from letters, diaries, and investigative research throws open the doors not only to familiar figures and faces but also to little-known triumphs and tribulations of America's greatest military leaders, including George Washington.

©2016 Derek W. Beck (P)2016 Tantor

Reseñas de la Crítica

"Revolutionary War fans will rejoice in this well-written work and hope that the author has more on the way." ( Kirkus)

True, Quality History, Well Told.

First off, the narration for this title is superb. The narrator has a great voice with rich tones and great depths. He speaks as if he actually cared about the material, and pronounces the words correctly.

Secondly, the story itself is well told. The author has gone through great trouble to tell the history accurately, from both sides, treating neither as 'the good guys' or 'the bad guys.'

It is written so that it is actually interesting, and not dry, making you desire to hear more. I thoroughly enjoyed this title and learned much from it. I can't wait to listen to its sequel!

Narrating error

A glaring factual error, as stated in last 20 seconds of last chapter: "thus the Boston seige lasted from April 19, 1777 to March 1776." Dates are wrong. Battle of Lexington/Concord was on April 19, 1775.

Next?

I am eagerly awaiting book 3. Is it in the works? When shall it be?

David McCullough 2.0

A great style making for an enjoyable and intriguing read/listen, complemented with a great narration.

Lots of stuff I didn’t know.

In my reading of this book on the American Revolution, I found the author’s skillful integration of historical facts with engaging narrative particularly commendable. The meticulous research presented numerous insights previously unknown to me, enhancing my understanding of the era. Notably, I was surprised to learn the extent of Revolutionary War battles that occurred prior to 1776.  Overall, this work offers a compelling and informative exploration of the American Revolution.

More detailed than most. New and traditional facts

I read a great deal of revolutionary era literature. This is a great book for the period it covers for era enthusiasts. There is enough traditional fact and story to hold the narrative together while also cover many less well known aspects of the bigger events. Heard about many things not covered in other books I’ve read