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Matt Hawkins #1
Imposters of Patriotism
Savannah, Georgia antiques store owner Matt Hawkins discovers a two-hundred-year-old journal containing a stunning accusation. The journal claims that America’s most revered hero, George Washington, wrote a secret surrender letter to the British during the Revolutionary War—a seditious act that would have ended America’s fight for independence.
Meanwhile, the present-day race for president of the United States is a dead heat. The Republican nominee, a direct descendant of Washington’s family, has shamelessly exploited his ties to the Founding Father—a strategy that has worked brilliantly to eliminate a once wide gap in the polls. As the past collides with the present, Hawkins and lovely historian Sarah Gordon are determined to unearth the truth about the journal’s remarkable claim. But they must avoid a shadowy adversary who has a billion dollars riding on the election’s outcome—and who will stop at nothing to ensure that Washington’s surrender letter remains a secret.
Meanwhile, the present-day race for president of the United States is a dead heat. The Republican nominee, a direct descendant of Washington’s family, has shamelessly exploited his ties to the Founding Father—a strategy that has worked brilliantly to eliminate a once wide gap in the polls. As the past collides with the present, Hawkins and lovely historian Sarah Gordon are determined to unearth the truth about the journal’s remarkable claim. But they must avoid a shadowy adversary who has a billion dollars riding on the election’s outcome—and who will stop at nothing to ensure that Washington’s surrender letter remains a secret.
349 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 15, 2014
78 people are currently reading
486 people want to read
About the author
Ted Richardson
5 books17 followersFollow the author at: www.facebook.com/AuthorTedRichardson
Ted’s fascination with American history was planted in his early childhood. He grew up the youngest of five children in a New England family with roots that literally dated back to the Mayflower’s arrival in 1620. His mother’s side of the family (at least that’s how the story goes) can be traced to a man named William Brewster who arrived on the Mayflower and became the senior elder of the original colony and an advisor to the first Governor William Bradford.
With five children and a limited budget, Richardson family vacations usually involved piling into the family’s ’67 Ambassador Wagon and hitting the road. Destinations had to be no more than six hours away—because any longer than that and all hell would break loose in the back seat! If you took a compass and drew a six-hour radius from Ted’s childhood home, it would cover an area from Maine to Virginia – which included most of the places that gave birth to our country. The family traveled north to places like Sturbridge Village, Plymouth Plantation, and Lexington and Concord—where the ‘first shot heard around the world’ was fired. Traveling south, they visited Colonial Williamsburg, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. As you might imagine, it didn’t take Ted long to become hooked on American history.
Fast forward a few decades. After more than twenty-five years as a business professional, Ted finally parlayed his fascination with American history and love of a good mystery into writing his own works of fiction. Geronimo’s Gold is the third installment in the Matt Hawkins historical mystery series. His first novel, Imposters of Patriotism was released in June 2014 to enthusiastic reviews. Abolition of Evil followed in June 2016.
Ted’s fascination with American history was planted in his early childhood. He grew up the youngest of five children in a New England family with roots that literally dated back to the Mayflower’s arrival in 1620. His mother’s side of the family (at least that’s how the story goes) can be traced to a man named William Brewster who arrived on the Mayflower and became the senior elder of the original colony and an advisor to the first Governor William Bradford.
With five children and a limited budget, Richardson family vacations usually involved piling into the family’s ’67 Ambassador Wagon and hitting the road. Destinations had to be no more than six hours away—because any longer than that and all hell would break loose in the back seat! If you took a compass and drew a six-hour radius from Ted’s childhood home, it would cover an area from Maine to Virginia – which included most of the places that gave birth to our country. The family traveled north to places like Sturbridge Village, Plymouth Plantation, and Lexington and Concord—where the ‘first shot heard around the world’ was fired. Traveling south, they visited Colonial Williamsburg, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. As you might imagine, it didn’t take Ted long to become hooked on American history.
Fast forward a few decades. After more than twenty-five years as a business professional, Ted finally parlayed his fascination with American history and love of a good mystery into writing his own works of fiction. Geronimo’s Gold is the third installment in the Matt Hawkins historical mystery series. His first novel, Imposters of Patriotism was released in June 2014 to enthusiastic reviews. Abolition of Evil followed in June 2016.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
August 26, 2015
It’s no secret that I’m a bit of a history buff and I’m a frequent reader of historic fiction. In the last year I’ve been intrigued by and have explored alternative history novels. While I was surprised by the quality and detail in Laura Andersen’s Boleyn King Trilogy and Tudor Legacy Series (I’m looking forward to previewing The Virgin’s Spy sometime in the next two months), Ted Richardson’s Imposters of Patriotism was a bit of a bumpy ride for me.
Matt Hawkins has found a calm rhythm to life since trading a life in New York City as a Wall Street investor for one as an antiques dealer in Savannah, Georgia. After buying a box of old books from the local library, Matt discovers that concealed in a century-old atlas is a much older journal. Skimming through the journal, Matt learns two important things: it was the journal of Caty Greene, the wife of Revolutionary War general Nathanael Greene, and that in the journal she makes many references to a letter written at Valley Forge by George Washington to British General Howe regarding terms for surrender. At the same time, one of two candidates for President has based much of his campaign strategy around his family’s descent from George Washington – a strategy that could suffer if word of such a surrender letter came to light. As Matt Hawkins begins to search for the letter, he encounters a colorful cast of characters both eager to help him and desperate to stop him.
For the complete review, please visit my blog:
http://wp.me/pUEx4-Hy
Matt Hawkins has found a calm rhythm to life since trading a life in New York City as a Wall Street investor for one as an antiques dealer in Savannah, Georgia. After buying a box of old books from the local library, Matt discovers that concealed in a century-old atlas is a much older journal. Skimming through the journal, Matt learns two important things: it was the journal of Caty Greene, the wife of Revolutionary War general Nathanael Greene, and that in the journal she makes many references to a letter written at Valley Forge by George Washington to British General Howe regarding terms for surrender. At the same time, one of two candidates for President has based much of his campaign strategy around his family’s descent from George Washington – a strategy that could suffer if word of such a surrender letter came to light. As Matt Hawkins begins to search for the letter, he encounters a colorful cast of characters both eager to help him and desperate to stop him.
For the complete review, please visit my blog:
http://wp.me/pUEx4-Hy
March 16, 2015
In this historical thriller, an antiques dealer, Matt Hawkins, finds a diary with a letter in it where Washington was surrendering during the worst of the Revolutionary War. Even though the letter was written, it was not sent. Because of this the colonists continued fighting and turned the tide to win the war.
In the present day, a presidential candidate is under attack as this news become more public. The story goes back and forth between time-lines as the story, from both continues to unfold.
This is a well-written, easy-to-follow novel by this debut author. I look forward to reading more by this author in the future.
This book was given to me in exchange for my honest review by NetGalley.Imposters of Patriotism
In the present day, a presidential candidate is under attack as this news become more public. The story goes back and forth between time-lines as the story, from both continues to unfold.
This is a well-written, easy-to-follow novel by this debut author. I look forward to reading more by this author in the future.
This book was given to me in exchange for my honest review by NetGalley.Imposters of Patriotism
April 10, 2015
Matt Hawkins is really good character. Likeable, smart, not a super human. This is a fun tale of past and present. Somewhat improbable but certainly not totally. Greed and power are the main themes, and our entertaining cast of characters work hard to do the right thing. Politics and money are the drivers of this story and they make for an interesting tale in this book. A nice, light and lively read.
September 23, 2019
Ted Richardson - Matt Hawkins Series Bk 1 - Imposters of Patriotism - Reviewed 9/22/19
The past and the present meet in an incredible journey…
Matt Hawkins becomes disillusioned with the life in the big city and the Wall Street Trader life when he attends the wedding of an old friend in Savannah, Georgia he falls in love with the town and the lifestyle. He purchases an antique store and moves his wife and him to the new life he sees for them. Unfortunately, his wife does not see things the same was as Matt so she packs up and goes back to the big city. Matt throws his life into living in the world that is more comfortable for him and when he buys some old outdated books from the library he finds a journal written over 200 years ago when George Washington was at his most devastating time during the Revolutionary War. When the situation became so dire he wrote a secret letter of surrender. The author of the journal claims to have the letter that her husband never delivered. Based on the events in the journal Matt and his friends are off on a search for the truth. Did he or did he NOT????
What did I like? While the above is not true, I loved how the author wove this fascinating tale involving fact and fiction that truly captured my attention. The way the author told this made me believe that this whole scenario could really have happened. Many of the events in the book really did happen and made it all the more enjoyable to read. I have visited in both New York City and many of Georgias beautiful towns. I can truly see the draw that would have pulled Matt from the big city to one of the souths most beautiful cities.
What will you like? Historical events, unquestionable action, and suspense, political mayhem plus a new endearing friendship that blossoms during the exciting adventures. Feel the tension and emotional drain as Matt and his friends search for the letter. Experience the beauty of the area with the delicious descriptions and exciting details of southern living. Taste the food of the south and the smells of the antiques. Live the past while it collides with the present and the political atmosphere comes alive. Hold your breath when the search leads them to an unbelievable end. Awesome read and I am looking forward to more from this author, I certainly could not stop reading!
The past and the present meet in an incredible journey…
Matt Hawkins becomes disillusioned with the life in the big city and the Wall Street Trader life when he attends the wedding of an old friend in Savannah, Georgia he falls in love with the town and the lifestyle. He purchases an antique store and moves his wife and him to the new life he sees for them. Unfortunately, his wife does not see things the same was as Matt so she packs up and goes back to the big city. Matt throws his life into living in the world that is more comfortable for him and when he buys some old outdated books from the library he finds a journal written over 200 years ago when George Washington was at his most devastating time during the Revolutionary War. When the situation became so dire he wrote a secret letter of surrender. The author of the journal claims to have the letter that her husband never delivered. Based on the events in the journal Matt and his friends are off on a search for the truth. Did he or did he NOT????
What did I like? While the above is not true, I loved how the author wove this fascinating tale involving fact and fiction that truly captured my attention. The way the author told this made me believe that this whole scenario could really have happened. Many of the events in the book really did happen and made it all the more enjoyable to read. I have visited in both New York City and many of Georgias beautiful towns. I can truly see the draw that would have pulled Matt from the big city to one of the souths most beautiful cities.
What will you like? Historical events, unquestionable action, and suspense, political mayhem plus a new endearing friendship that blossoms during the exciting adventures. Feel the tension and emotional drain as Matt and his friends search for the letter. Experience the beauty of the area with the delicious descriptions and exciting details of southern living. Taste the food of the south and the smells of the antiques. Live the past while it collides with the present and the political atmosphere comes alive. Hold your breath when the search leads them to an unbelievable end. Awesome read and I am looking forward to more from this author, I certainly could not stop reading!
September 25, 2023
Fun historical mystery
Much like Dan Brown's Angels and Demons or The DaVinci Code this book took a historical figure and series of events and warped them into a fun quick read with a historical murder mystery and crime novel wrapped into one. It was a quick read that had good characterization and plot points. It also was a interesting idea. I've always enjoyed the blending of historical fiction with crime mystery and action adventure. So I'd recommend it to anyone who likes those things mixed together.
Much like Dan Brown's Angels and Demons or The DaVinci Code this book took a historical figure and series of events and warped them into a fun quick read with a historical murder mystery and crime novel wrapped into one. It was a quick read that had good characterization and plot points. It also was a interesting idea. I've always enjoyed the blending of historical fiction with crime mystery and action adventure. So I'd recommend it to anyone who likes those things mixed together.
April 28, 2018
What if.....
A long secreted letter is found - one that could affect not only a current election but possibly alter our perception of an American hero? This book takes that premise and gives the reader something to think about while entertained by a plausible story. I'll be reading more from this author.
A long secreted letter is found - one that could affect not only a current election but possibly alter our perception of an American hero? This book takes that premise and gives the reader something to think about while entertained by a plausible story. I'll be reading more from this author.
January 5, 2018
Interesting read
Good combination of history and fiction need to read other books to find out if his political bias continues on
Good combination of history and fiction need to read other books to find out if his political bias continues on
January 29, 2019
History lovers
Had a little bit of everything for every person that reads it, history, intrigue, humor, & romance. A real us versus them.
Had a little bit of everything for every person that reads it, history, intrigue, humor, & romance. A real us versus them.
March 7, 2015
Savannah antique dealer Matt Hawkins gets the shock of his life when he buys some discarded books from the local library and finds what appears to be a Revolutionary Era journal that mentions a letter of surrender from General George Washington to the British before Valley Forge. Meanwhile, it is the height of a presidential campaign, which is in a dead heat, and one candidate , Texas businessman Big Bill Emerson, is making political hay out of being descended from Washington. Bad publicity about Washington at this time could be just the tipping point that would cost him the election. Powerful interests want to make sure that doesn’t happen….
This book was surprisingly enjoyable. Why “surprisingly”? First of all, it is a first novel. Second, the subgenre of the thriller in which an innocent protagonist discovers a previously unknown historical document and becomes embroiled in danger and intrigue has become so popular that it seems trite. Reader, rest easy on both counts.
First novel or not, Richardson is a very talented storyteller. I was caught up in the story immediately, and my interest never flagged. In contrast to some other books of this genre, which often feature rather outlandish cabals and extremely unlikely historical departures, Richardson spins a plausible tale, both in the historic past and with respect to present-day political maneuvering. There are the expected elements of romance, danger, and suspense, and they are all well-done. It is easy to imagine this story being translated to the big screen. The ending was well-done, with a twist that could have come straight out of John Grisham.
I also liked the characters. Ex-Wall Streeter Matt Hawkins, beautiful bookish historian Sarah Gordon, and Sarah‘s retired-history-teacher father Hank make an engaging trio of investigators, and the cameo characters like Martha Sampson, the nonagenarian daughter of a man born in the last days of slavery, and archivist Sissy Hightower nicely fill out the picture of Southern culture.
One of the pleasures of reading fiction with a historical background is the history you learn along the way. There were some nice quotes, too, like Washington’s statement that “Worry is the interest paid by those who borrow trouble.” Like many readers, I always want to know how much was fact and how much fiction, and Richardson helpfully provides an Author’s Note to tell us where the fiction begins. One caveat: I almost did not read this book because of seems to be a glaring error, Big Bill Emerson’s presidential campaign theme of being descended from George Washington. Washington had no children, so clearly Emerson was not a direct descendant. Richardson (and Big Bill) clearly knew this and ducked the issue nicely with the kind of weasel-wording for which politicians are famous, e.g., “Ancestor.com anointed him as the most direct descendant of George Washington.” So I’ll give the author (but not Big Bill ) a pass.
Imposters of Patriotism includes an excerpt from Richardson’s next book, which also features Matt and the discovery of a lost document, this one by Meriwether Lewis. Can Richardson repeat his debut performance? I can’t wait to find out!
This book was surprisingly enjoyable. Why “surprisingly”? First of all, it is a first novel. Second, the subgenre of the thriller in which an innocent protagonist discovers a previously unknown historical document and becomes embroiled in danger and intrigue has become so popular that it seems trite. Reader, rest easy on both counts.
First novel or not, Richardson is a very talented storyteller. I was caught up in the story immediately, and my interest never flagged. In contrast to some other books of this genre, which often feature rather outlandish cabals and extremely unlikely historical departures, Richardson spins a plausible tale, both in the historic past and with respect to present-day political maneuvering. There are the expected elements of romance, danger, and suspense, and they are all well-done. It is easy to imagine this story being translated to the big screen. The ending was well-done, with a twist that could have come straight out of John Grisham.
I also liked the characters. Ex-Wall Streeter Matt Hawkins, beautiful bookish historian Sarah Gordon, and Sarah‘s retired-history-teacher father Hank make an engaging trio of investigators, and the cameo characters like Martha Sampson, the nonagenarian daughter of a man born in the last days of slavery, and archivist Sissy Hightower nicely fill out the picture of Southern culture.
One of the pleasures of reading fiction with a historical background is the history you learn along the way. There were some nice quotes, too, like Washington’s statement that “Worry is the interest paid by those who borrow trouble.” Like many readers, I always want to know how much was fact and how much fiction, and Richardson helpfully provides an Author’s Note to tell us where the fiction begins. One caveat: I almost did not read this book because of seems to be a glaring error, Big Bill Emerson’s presidential campaign theme of being descended from George Washington. Washington had no children, so clearly Emerson was not a direct descendant. Richardson (and Big Bill) clearly knew this and ducked the issue nicely with the kind of weasel-wording for which politicians are famous, e.g., “Ancestor.com anointed him as the most direct descendant of George Washington.” So I’ll give the author (but not Big Bill ) a pass.
Imposters of Patriotism includes an excerpt from Richardson’s next book, which also features Matt and the discovery of a lost document, this one by Meriwether Lewis. Can Richardson repeat his debut performance? I can’t wait to find out!
August 6, 2015
Ted Richardson has presented an outstanding book in his debut writing endeavor, “Imposters of Patriotism.” He has imagined that our leading patriot, George Washington, was forced to offer a surrender to the British during the Revolutionary War because of the dire conditions that Americans were being forced to endure. The horrible conditions did actually exist, the British forces were about to overwhelm the colonists, and Washington was desperate to find solutions to the problems he faced. But there is no evidence Washington ever considered surrendering. In Richardson’s novel the surrender offer was actually written by Washington, sent via a trusted courier, but not delivered. Washington believed the undelivered letter was burned per his instructions to the courier who, for whatever reason, disobeyed the order. The letter disappeared for a couple of hundred years.
The story moves to modern times when an antique dealer, Matt Hawkins finds a journal in which the letter is disclosed. Knowing the impact such an act would have on the legacy of George Washington, Hawkins becomes obsessed with finding the actual letter to allay any concerns that might sully the reputation of the first President of the United States. He believes the letter should be found and disclosed, being certain that it is an important historical event, and that George Washington’s reputation and the conditions that prompted the offer would overcome any negative public reaction.
Unfortunately unscrupulous politicians and their equally nefarious promoters have a different view. The Republican nominee for President in an approaching election is a direct descendant of Washington, bears his name, and is shamelessly exploiting the father of our country in his campaign. The tactic has worked and he has steadily risen in the polls. He also has a hidden hedge fund involving huge amounts of money that he will be able to enhance by presidential edict after he wins the election. Fearing that Washington will be become a pariah for even considering a surrender and the public fallout will damage his campaign, costing him billions of dollars. He and his vicious advisors are frantic to make sure the letter disappears into the dark morass of historical secrets.
Richardson’s idea is intriguing. He has done his research and his writing stirs the imagination. He presents it so well that one has to think it might really have happened. Of course, the way things have turned out in the real world, we know the delivery was never made--think what our world might be had we not won our war for independence. The author has combined a realistic historical possibility with a modern detective drama and come up with a very enjoyable and thought-provoking read.
March 13, 2015
Political Intrigue and a Missing Letter from George Washington
Matt Hawkins, an antiques dealer in Savannah, Georgia, buys a box of old atlases. The last one looks uninteresting, but when he opens it to the center, he finds a small leather-bound journal. The journal dates from the Revolutionary War and was written by Caty Greene, wife of General Nathaniel Green, one of Washington's officers.
In the journal, Caty recounts the story of Washington writing a surrender letter addressed to General Howe during the terrible winter at Valley Forge. The letter was never delivered, but General Greene, who was the courier, kept the letter. Caty ends up with it and so has a very explosive piece of history.
Matt shows the journal to Sarah Gordon, a local historian. They decide that it should be authenticated, but this brings the existence of the letter to the attention of politicians. The country is in the middle of a presidential campaign. One of the candidates claims direct descent from George Washington and is using that relationship to move ahead in the polls. The existence of the letter could change the tenor of the race.
Imposters of Patriotism is told from the viewpoint of the present day interspersed with chapters giving Caty Greene's perspective. It is both a historical novel and a romantic suspense story. As the story progresses, Sarah and Matt recognize their mutual attraction. They become partners with Sarah's father in trying to find the original letter. This attraction between the principals is a typical plot line for romantic suspense.
The historical details seem reasonably accurate save for the fact that Washington himself had no direct descendants. That doesn't hurt the story, since it is fiction, but if you're looking for historical accuracy, this is pretty much fabrication. However, the setting is interesting and seems accurate for both time periods.
This is a fun if predictable read if you like historical fiction or romantic suspense. However, if you're looking for serious historical fiction you'll be disappointed.
I reviewed this book for Net Galley.
Matt Hawkins, an antiques dealer in Savannah, Georgia, buys a box of old atlases. The last one looks uninteresting, but when he opens it to the center, he finds a small leather-bound journal. The journal dates from the Revolutionary War and was written by Caty Greene, wife of General Nathaniel Green, one of Washington's officers.
In the journal, Caty recounts the story of Washington writing a surrender letter addressed to General Howe during the terrible winter at Valley Forge. The letter was never delivered, but General Greene, who was the courier, kept the letter. Caty ends up with it and so has a very explosive piece of history.
Matt shows the journal to Sarah Gordon, a local historian. They decide that it should be authenticated, but this brings the existence of the letter to the attention of politicians. The country is in the middle of a presidential campaign. One of the candidates claims direct descent from George Washington and is using that relationship to move ahead in the polls. The existence of the letter could change the tenor of the race.
Imposters of Patriotism is told from the viewpoint of the present day interspersed with chapters giving Caty Greene's perspective. It is both a historical novel and a romantic suspense story. As the story progresses, Sarah and Matt recognize their mutual attraction. They become partners with Sarah's father in trying to find the original letter. This attraction between the principals is a typical plot line for romantic suspense.
The historical details seem reasonably accurate save for the fact that Washington himself had no direct descendants. That doesn't hurt the story, since it is fiction, but if you're looking for historical accuracy, this is pretty much fabrication. However, the setting is interesting and seems accurate for both time periods.
This is a fun if predictable read if you like historical fiction or romantic suspense. However, if you're looking for serious historical fiction you'll be disappointed.
I reviewed this book for Net Galley.
April 8, 2015
Disclaimer: ARC copy from Netgalley.
Imposters of Patriotism, by Ted Richardson, is a great book! This book tells the tale of a secret surrender letter written by George Washington to the commander of the British Army during the darkest part of the Revolutionary War; when the Continental Army was freezing to death at Valley Forge. When that letter is discovered by an antiques dealer, he submits that letter to the Society of Cincinnati to be verified. That's when unseen forces come in and make the book even more interesting. What he doesn't know is that the Republic Presidential candidate has been running as a direct descendant of George Washington and has everything to lose by that letter being made public. His campaign will stop at nothing to make sure that letter never sees the light of day.
The characters in this novel are very real people, from the historical figures like George Washington and Eli Whitney, to the modern characters in the novel. Everyone has quirks of personality, which just serve to make them more human and easier to relate to. One of the things I enjoyed about this novel is that the people who were in favor of publishing the surrender letter gave the same reasons I would have given: It's part of history, and people need to see that Washington was a person also, and not a god. That makes this book even better to me, because I can relate to it.
I recommend this book to anyone who loves archaeological history, those who like ancient history, and those who like stories involving George Washington.
Imposters of Patriotism, by Ted Richardson, is a great book! This book tells the tale of a secret surrender letter written by George Washington to the commander of the British Army during the darkest part of the Revolutionary War; when the Continental Army was freezing to death at Valley Forge. When that letter is discovered by an antiques dealer, he submits that letter to the Society of Cincinnati to be verified. That's when unseen forces come in and make the book even more interesting. What he doesn't know is that the Republic Presidential candidate has been running as a direct descendant of George Washington and has everything to lose by that letter being made public. His campaign will stop at nothing to make sure that letter never sees the light of day.
The characters in this novel are very real people, from the historical figures like George Washington and Eli Whitney, to the modern characters in the novel. Everyone has quirks of personality, which just serve to make them more human and easier to relate to. One of the things I enjoyed about this novel is that the people who were in favor of publishing the surrender letter gave the same reasons I would have given: It's part of history, and people need to see that Washington was a person also, and not a god. That makes this book even better to me, because I can relate to it.
I recommend this book to anyone who loves archaeological history, those who like ancient history, and those who like stories involving George Washington.
March 27, 2015
I really enjoy books of this genre – I refer to them as history with a twist. These novels take real events, and add an element which really could have happened within the historical timeline. Mr. Richardson does a great job outlining the real historical events that pertain to Imposters of Patriotism at the end of the novel. You can see how the potential letter of surrender could have fit in, and subsequently been hidden away from the world.
Here was my problem with this book: the author gives the reader way too much information. Throughout the book, we follow events in modern day Savannah, and then jump back in time to follow the progression of the surrender letter. The narrative would have been much more effective and suspenseful if Mr. Richardson would have stayed in the present with his main characters, and let the reader discover things as Matt and his friends did, perhaps through the actual journal entries themselves. Instead, the jumps to the past treat the reader to extra information so we knew that the letter did exist, and exactly what had happened to it.
It was a fun, quick read. There was a lot of potential in this story, if only Mr. Richardson had executed it a bit differently.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
For my full review, please visit Hidden Staircase.
Here was my problem with this book: the author gives the reader way too much information. Throughout the book, we follow events in modern day Savannah, and then jump back in time to follow the progression of the surrender letter. The narrative would have been much more effective and suspenseful if Mr. Richardson would have stayed in the present with his main characters, and let the reader discover things as Matt and his friends did, perhaps through the actual journal entries themselves. Instead, the jumps to the past treat the reader to extra information so we knew that the letter did exist, and exactly what had happened to it.
It was a fun, quick read. There was a lot of potential in this story, if only Mr. Richardson had executed it a bit differently.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
For my full review, please visit Hidden Staircase.
March 10, 2015
You know those friends who, when they tell stories, have to include every single detail when all you want is for them to get to the point? That's how I felt when reading the beginning of this book. I didn't need to know details of the shelves at the library, or what the vintage truck is like, or anything like that. I just wanted the point. [And lest you think I am a hater of descriptive language, one of my favorite book series is "Anne of Green Gables" - I think my distaste in this case had to do with the genre]
When Richardson got to the point, however, it was a breezy, engaging look at something that was obviously so meticulously researched it felt real. If you loved the movie National Treasure, you will love this book. Although the twists were not surprising and the romance was a little trite, I found myself continuing to read. I finished this in a day and a half, which tells you how easy to read and interesting it was. The flashbacks from the 17th and 18th centuries interspersed with the present day brought together the voyeuristic aspects of historical fiction with the pace of modern day mystery book. That creates book magic.
So as much as I rolled my eyes at certain parts of this book, I wouldn't mind picking up the next in this series, and I think you'd enjoy it too.
Thank you to Createspace and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
When Richardson got to the point, however, it was a breezy, engaging look at something that was obviously so meticulously researched it felt real. If you loved the movie National Treasure, you will love this book. Although the twists were not surprising and the romance was a little trite, I found myself continuing to read. I finished this in a day and a half, which tells you how easy to read and interesting it was. The flashbacks from the 17th and 18th centuries interspersed with the present day brought together the voyeuristic aspects of historical fiction with the pace of modern day mystery book. That creates book magic.
So as much as I rolled my eyes at certain parts of this book, I wouldn't mind picking up the next in this series, and I think you'd enjoy it too.
Thank you to Createspace and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 10, 2014
I received this book from GoodReads as a giveaway. I found it very entertaining and page turning.
The main character of the book is Matt Hawkins who is and antiques dealer and happens to purchase an old journal in a cut-out atlas from a library in Savannah, Georgia. Therein starts the story and roller coaster ride. The journal happens to be Caty Greene's from the Civil War Era, Nathaniel Greene's wife. She writes in her journal that Nathaniel had a letter from George Washington when he was at Valley Forge addressed to General Howe of the British Military to surrender.
This rocks the antique dealer, Matt Hawkins. He soon asks a local historian to "look" at the journal to verify it authenticity, Sarah Gordon, realizes it is beyond her experience and suggests more people to authenticate facts and the actual journal. Soon there are a lot of people involved in this authentication process. Who is trustworthy? Who has leaked the secrets? Who is shooting at them and stealing the journal? Yes, the journal gets stolen. It doesn't stop them. They find the original surrender letter. More bad guys.
The good guys are getting very frustrated with bad guys. Stick with the book, the good guys have a plan. I liked the end.
The main character of the book is Matt Hawkins who is and antiques dealer and happens to purchase an old journal in a cut-out atlas from a library in Savannah, Georgia. Therein starts the story and roller coaster ride. The journal happens to be Caty Greene's from the Civil War Era, Nathaniel Greene's wife. She writes in her journal that Nathaniel had a letter from George Washington when he was at Valley Forge addressed to General Howe of the British Military to surrender.
This rocks the antique dealer, Matt Hawkins. He soon asks a local historian to "look" at the journal to verify it authenticity, Sarah Gordon, realizes it is beyond her experience and suggests more people to authenticate facts and the actual journal. Soon there are a lot of people involved in this authentication process. Who is trustworthy? Who has leaked the secrets? Who is shooting at them and stealing the journal? Yes, the journal gets stolen. It doesn't stop them. They find the original surrender letter. More bad guys.
The good guys are getting very frustrated with bad guys. Stick with the book, the good guys have a plan. I liked the end.
March 18, 2015
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review. I have to say I'm surprised! As you can tell from my rating, I liked this book. The revolutionary period isn't exactly my favorite time period, but it was a lot of fun and I learned some stuff. This definitely didn't read as a first novel. I had pretty much given up on this genre as a whole after my Steve Berry fiasco last year. I liked Matt Hawkins and the rest of the gang. They were believable characters. The setting was believable. The flashback scenes were believable. I was straining a bit toward the end, but, hey! it's a first novel! And, I might add, independently published. The biggest problem I had with this book was formatting. I received this copy from NetGalley, so it is an ebook and there were a lot of formatting errors! Paragraphs would just begin on one page in the middle and I would find the beginning on the next page embedded two paragraphs later. Words would just cut off midway and be lost. Headers and footers in the middle of pages. And so on... But that is not a reflection on the quality of the writing. The writing was quite good. I will read the next book Mr. Richardson publishes.
March 6, 2015
Imposters of Patriotism is pretty predictable but still a fun easy book to read. It is set in the present but does flashbacks to the past. Those flashbacks set up the story line. I found a lot of the action a bit over the top but it did keep me reading. There is enough tension and danger to hold interest and just for fun there is a little romance.
The present day characters were well-developed and fit the story like a glove. The plot was developed in a way that fit the actual actions of the historical characters showing that the author did quite a bit of research when writing the book. All of that made the book more interesting.
The author included notes in the back of the book that tell real from fiction. While the main thrust of the story is a fictional document I was surprised by how much of the setting was real. The big surprise was how many of the places and organizations were also real. Now I want to go back and see some of the places mentioned in the book.
Imposters of Patriotism is not a stand alone. It is the first book in a series that features the same main character. Chapter One of the next book is included at the end of Imposters of Patriotism.
The present day characters were well-developed and fit the story like a glove. The plot was developed in a way that fit the actual actions of the historical characters showing that the author did quite a bit of research when writing the book. All of that made the book more interesting.
The author included notes in the back of the book that tell real from fiction. While the main thrust of the story is a fictional document I was surprised by how much of the setting was real. The big surprise was how many of the places and organizations were also real. Now I want to go back and see some of the places mentioned in the book.
Imposters of Patriotism is not a stand alone. It is the first book in a series that features the same main character. Chapter One of the next book is included at the end of Imposters of Patriotism.
March 21, 2015
Given To Me For An Honest Review
Imposters of Patriotism by Ted Richardson is not only a debut novel it is the first in a book series. Once you open the book make sure you have your seatbelt on because you are going on a fun journey. You will be grabbed and held down and the pages with tur and turn some more until the last page is done. There are some twists and turns thrown in for good measure. A 200 year old journal is found. The journal claims that George Washington wrote a secret letter of surrender to the British during the Revolutionary War --- thus ending America's fight for independence. The present day presidential race is now going on. An historian and antique store owner want to find the truth of the journal. There is someone who wants it to be kept a secret. Will the truth be discovered? Will it be kept a secret? Who wants it to be kept a secret? This is a very good historical fiction thriller. I gave this book 5 stars but wish I could have given it more. I recommend it to everyone. I am looking forward to Book 2 in the series and I also look for more from Ted Richardson.
Imposters of Patriotism by Ted Richardson is not only a debut novel it is the first in a book series. Once you open the book make sure you have your seatbelt on because you are going on a fun journey. You will be grabbed and held down and the pages with tur and turn some more until the last page is done. There are some twists and turns thrown in for good measure. A 200 year old journal is found. The journal claims that George Washington wrote a secret letter of surrender to the British during the Revolutionary War --- thus ending America's fight for independence. The present day presidential race is now going on. An historian and antique store owner want to find the truth of the journal. There is someone who wants it to be kept a secret. Will the truth be discovered? Will it be kept a secret? Who wants it to be kept a secret? This is a very good historical fiction thriller. I gave this book 5 stars but wish I could have given it more. I recommend it to everyone. I am looking forward to Book 2 in the series and I also look for more from Ted Richardson.
September 8, 2016
Gripping, page-turner of historical fiction!!!
As a fan of historical fiction, I read each story with a slight hesitation until I see the author has woven a "possible" true tale. While complete fantasy, this novel brings the Revolutionary War story of George Washington to an exciting possibility!
Ted Richardson has taken true facts (generously explained at the end of the book) and woven a tale that excites from the very beginning. The discovery of a mysterious document with significant ramifications to history is totally plausible. The real, historical characters and their story weave flawlessly with the modern day activities which bring them back to relevance. I don't want to give any spoilers, but the main focus of George Washington and Valley Forge is VERY interesting.
The novel has mystery, intrigue, a little romance (1 brief sexual encounter), and keeps flowing faster and faster from start to finish. It was a challenge to put it down and not read straight through...
Totally enjoyable from start to finish!
As a fan of historical fiction, I read each story with a slight hesitation until I see the author has woven a "possible" true tale. While complete fantasy, this novel brings the Revolutionary War story of George Washington to an exciting possibility!
Ted Richardson has taken true facts (generously explained at the end of the book) and woven a tale that excites from the very beginning. The discovery of a mysterious document with significant ramifications to history is totally plausible. The real, historical characters and their story weave flawlessly with the modern day activities which bring them back to relevance. I don't want to give any spoilers, but the main focus of George Washington and Valley Forge is VERY interesting.
The novel has mystery, intrigue, a little romance (1 brief sexual encounter), and keeps flowing faster and faster from start to finish. It was a challenge to put it down and not read straight through...
Totally enjoyable from start to finish!
April 17, 2015
An impossibly good book that blends historical and contemporary fiction together expertly.
Wow.
I was a bit afraid to read this book. Sometimes I love the books that use history to create current drama for their characters and sometimes I hate them, so I was a bit nervous to see how the author would handle this. I have to say, this was absolutely fantastic.
The plot was not only believable and made good use of the historical characters and events, but the great discovery the character made that added the tension to the story was not something silly or completely far-fetched.
These are characters that you can care about without effort and a plot that keeps twisting and getting more surprising as the chapters increase in number.
This is definitely a book I'd recommend to anyone looking for something exciting and unpredictable.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher, provided through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
Wow.
I was a bit afraid to read this book. Sometimes I love the books that use history to create current drama for their characters and sometimes I hate them, so I was a bit nervous to see how the author would handle this. I have to say, this was absolutely fantastic.
The plot was not only believable and made good use of the historical characters and events, but the great discovery the character made that added the tension to the story was not something silly or completely far-fetched.
These are characters that you can care about without effort and a plot that keeps twisting and getting more surprising as the chapters increase in number.
This is definitely a book I'd recommend to anyone looking for something exciting and unpredictable.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher, provided through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
June 5, 2015
Being an avid historical fiction fan, this book did not disappoint! The entire premise of a letter written by George Washington surrendering to the British - as outlandish as it may sound - was actually made plausible in this story. I enjoyed the chapters moving back and forth between the Revolutionary War Era and present day. The characters drew me in from the start and the book was an easy and enjoyable read. I would definitely recommend this book for history fans and it really leads to a discussion of "what if this had truly happened". My only complaint was that the Kindle version I received was missing either pages or paragraphs in 3 different sections. The story wasn't difficult to follow so I just moved ahead with my reading, but it was annoying to have that happen in the middle of a great tale.
May 18, 2016
I received an ARC from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
What if George Washington had surrendered to the British? That is the question asked in Imposters of Patriotism.
Matt Hawkins is an antiques dealer in Savannah, GA. When he stumbles upon a journal claiming that George Washington penned a surrender letter, he is instantly thrown into a dangerous quest to unravel the mystery. Teaming up with historian, Sarah Gordon, and a colorful cast of characters, Matt races to find the letter before it falls into the wrong hands and is lost forever.
This was a faced paced mystery. I couldn't put it down. The characters were all unique and enjoyable, and it draws you in with just enough suspense that leaves you on the edge of your seat.
What if George Washington had surrendered to the British? That is the question asked in Imposters of Patriotism.
Matt Hawkins is an antiques dealer in Savannah, GA. When he stumbles upon a journal claiming that George Washington penned a surrender letter, he is instantly thrown into a dangerous quest to unravel the mystery. Teaming up with historian, Sarah Gordon, and a colorful cast of characters, Matt races to find the letter before it falls into the wrong hands and is lost forever.
This was a faced paced mystery. I couldn't put it down. The characters were all unique and enjoyable, and it draws you in with just enough suspense that leaves you on the edge of your seat.
August 13, 2014
I won this book as a first reads giveaway!
I wanted to give this 3.5 stars. It was a nice, quick moving adventure. A good easy read. It missed me giving it 4 starts simply because it was so predictable. It reads like all of Dan Brown's Robert Langdon series except it takes place inside the United States. Guy finds priceless artifact that could change history; bad guys want said artifact and steal it; good guys steal it back and out the bad guys; guy has girl helping him and they fall in love; good guys of course win in the end. Oh and there is another one to come it looks like. It kept my interest enough that I'll probably check out the sequel but it'd be nice to throw in something different, something not predictable.
I wanted to give this 3.5 stars. It was a nice, quick moving adventure. A good easy read. It missed me giving it 4 starts simply because it was so predictable. It reads like all of Dan Brown's Robert Langdon series except it takes place inside the United States. Guy finds priceless artifact that could change history; bad guys want said artifact and steal it; good guys steal it back and out the bad guys; guy has girl helping him and they fall in love; good guys of course win in the end. Oh and there is another one to come it looks like. It kept my interest enough that I'll probably check out the sequel but it'd be nice to throw in something different, something not predictable.
February 15, 2016
Sprinkled with nuggets of factual history making this an engaging read with a peek into this nation’s past. Colorful characters, some believable, many not, plot against a few corrupt individuals of which there seems to be an abundance in real life. Documents revealing startling acts by powerful figures in this nation’s struggle for independence provide the basis for treachery by those wishing to abuse their power for purposes of enhancing their wealth. The American Revolution for Independence provides the source and the backdrop is largely Savannah Georgia, which is of course rich in history. The story has the action, the romance and the historical facts to provide a first class page turner.
March 26, 2015
This is a delightful adventure story that poses the question, "What would happen if a letter written by George Washington to General Howe, offering to surrender, is discovered during a presidential race?" Perhaps the hardest things for new novelists to master is believable dialogue and well-developed characters. Richardson succeeds in this endeavor by skillfully weaving threads of possibility for each of the characters throughout the novel. Even the manner in which he introduces new characters is superb. Even if you aren't a history buff, this book should appeal to anyone who enjoys tales of adventure, intrigue, and alternative history.
October 16, 2016
I think that this is very impressive for a first novel. I really enjoy historical fiction, and alternative history, and Richardson has created some very believable "history" of Washington and contemporaries during the American Revolution. Reminded me of the new TV show 'Timeless," moving back and forth between present day Savanah and centuries ago. The plot device of a very likeable antique dealer as the protagonist worked well. Really more of a mystery rather than a thriller. But the linkage between a present-day election and our country's yet-to-be-elected first president is intriguing and plausible. I have already purchased ABOLITION OF EVIL.
September 14, 2014
I received this book as a Goodreads First Read give-away.
I was torn between giving it 3 or 4 stars (no 3.5 option). It is well written, an easy & fast read. The characters are interesting but a little too "cardboard" & predictable. There were a few annoying errors (i.e. using "descendant" instead of "ancestor"). Plus, the premise of George Washington's descendent running for President was never satisfactorily explained as Washington had no direct descendants. I see that a sequel is in the works- this was interesting enough that I'm willing to give that a chance when it's published.
I was torn between giving it 3 or 4 stars (no 3.5 option). It is well written, an easy & fast read. The characters are interesting but a little too "cardboard" & predictable. There were a few annoying errors (i.e. using "descendant" instead of "ancestor"). Plus, the premise of George Washington's descendent running for President was never satisfactorily explained as Washington had no direct descendants. I see that a sequel is in the works- this was interesting enough that I'm willing to give that a chance when it's published.
October 11, 2015
Suppose George Washington wrote a controversial secret surrender letter in the low point of the American Revolution, with implications for a modern-day presidential election. Suppose you’re a well-meaning history type with a team of afficiandos up against a team of politicos who will stop at nothing to make sure it never comes to light, and you’ve got Imposters of Patriotism: A nice light romp through alternative history. If you like National Treasure and Dan Brown, this one is for you.
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March 29, 2015
I received this book through Netgalley and I am glad I read it. It is hard to believe that this is the first novel that this author has written. It is well researched for historical accuracy. This book is an extremely well written historical thriller. There is lots of suspense, romance and intrigue. It is a great combination of fiction mixed with historical facts , which makes for a very interesting read. This is a book well worth reading.
April 8, 2015
As a fan of historical fiction, I really liked this story. There was so much history involved that I felt like all of the events actually did happen in real life. There was enough of everthing - drama, excitement, mystery, suspense, and a little romance - to keep me very interested. The only drawback was that it was an e-book and some of the words cut off.
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