Almost a Miracle

The American Victory in the War of Independence

By: John Ferling

Narrated by: David Baker

In this gripping chronicle of America's struggle for independence, award-winning historian John Ferling transports listeners to the grim realities of that war, capturing an eight-year conflict filled with heroism, suffering, cowardice, betrayal, and fierce dedication. As Ferling demonstrates, it was a war that America came much closer to losing than is now usually remembered. General George Washington put it best when he said that the American victory was "little short of a standing miracle."

Almost a Miracle offers an illuminating portrait of America's triumph, offering vivid descriptions of all the major engagements, revealing how these battles often hinged on intangibles such as leadership under fire, heroism, good fortune, blunders, tenacity, and surprise. The author paints sharp-eyed portraits of the key figures in the war, including General Washington and other American officers and civilian leaders. Some do not always measure up to their iconic reputations, including Washington himself.

Others, such as the quirky, acerbic Charles Lee, are seen in a much better light than usual. The book also examines the many faceless men who soldiered, often for years on end, braving untold dangers and enduring abounding miseries. Ferling's narrative is also filled with compassion for the men who comprised the British army and who, like their American counterparts, struggled and died at an astonishing rate in this harsh war. Nor does Ferling ignore the naval war, describing dangerous patrols and grand and dazzling naval actions. Finally, Almost a Miracle takes listeners inside the legislative chambers and plush offices of diplomats to reveal countless decisions that altered the course of this war. The story that unfolds is at times a tale of folly, at times one of appalling misinformation and confusion, and now and then one of insightful and dauntless statesmanship.

©2007 John Ferling (P)2013 Audible, Inc.

Awesome

An exciting and enlightening story of the Revolutionary War. Love this book and the ending

Victory!

Victory in the War of Independence and the story and the narration!
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So much to learn

While I expect many readers of this book will have some level of knowledge about the Revolutionary War, there is always much more to learn. This book is an excellent overview of the military campaigns of the war - and also delves into the fascinating biographies of the major characters playing their part in the war.

Superb Military History of the American Revolution

A well done example of one of the finest military histories of the American revolution. Rich in detail and story, both individual personalities and background as well as politics and campaign. One of the best I've read.

learned about a

a good listen to know what happened when our nstion was just begging in time

Tells a story we should all know.

I am unabashedly a history buff. This book of our beginning is so greatly defined that I found one thing missing for me ... a map to follow and mark as the story unfolded. No sugar coating here, just a darned good story! Oh yes, and loved the ending.

An engaging discussion of the American Revolution

I appreciated Ferling’s vivid and engaging account of the American Revolution. The narrative kept me listening.

Excellent

A great recounting of the American revolution. A well researched and objective depiction of our nation’s first military leadership. .

Narrator not great

The guy who read this mispronounced numerous words and place names which was really distracting and took away from the content. Great, extensive, well written history but not great reader

The Amazing Story of the US

An absolute must read for all Americans, to truly appreciate the story of the US