Patriot Acts

by Jim Lies, Gene Frazer

An epic historical novel— a war story, a love story, a coming of age story—spanning 70 years.

In the remote fields of North Dakota in 1966 a questioning college student’s search for answers about America’s involvement in the Vietnam War leads him into a world of intrigue and danger. After discovering two mysterious strangers posing as farmers, he is consumed by the need to know the story of their dark past during World War II and the reason for their presence in America. While uncovering their secrets in his search for clarity, he discovers that most of history is recorded in shades of gray. Forced to confront his own feelings about the draft, the morality of war, and the conflict between society and the individual, he finds himself questioning his country, his beliefs and his faith in humanity.

611 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 5, 2011

Reviews

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book. North Dakotans will appreciate the part with local connections. Much of the middle of the book is a realistic portrayal of Nazi officers in Germany and how and why Nazism developed and succeeded for awhile.

[Sally Beaudean · Rating 4 out of 5]

Patriot Acts is good historical fiction. The reader is able to learn about World War II Germany from the perspective of a German SS soldier and his family. I personally could have done with less specific battle strategy and details of the actual war, but then I'm only one reader. I suspect this aspect could be the most interesting to another reader. I was intrigued by the German perspective, and seeing how the power of indoctrination can even make people support a tyrant such as Hitler. The book is definitely worth reading.

[Kathy Tomlinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting perspective as the story is told from the eyes of a German SS officer. It's certainly not a view I've ever looked at before. Hitler was an evil man, but this shows a little of how people can get caught up in the words and charisma of an evil person and hardly realize they are. Not my favorite book, but I think that's more because it calls me to question how I would have reacted. Would I stand up for my faith and fellow man or fall for lies and deception? I hope I would stand in my belief.

[KayG · Rating 4 out of 5]

I learned so much from this novel! It was a great history lesson - I recommend this to those wanting to learn about the history of WWII in an entertaining manner. Other historic matters were covered as well - but I won't detail them as it would be a spoiler. Great story - couldn't put it down! Glad I stumbled upon it!

[Michael Bayman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best historical fiction book I've read on WW II. If you are interested in dual perspectives - German and American - this one is outstanding.

[Anthony · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book. I learned a lot about the Waffen SS and WWII.

[Jeffasmith1 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fascinating historical fiction. Great read if you are ever touring Germany!