Bill O'Reilly's Legends & Lies: The Patriots

by David Fisher

The must-have companion to Bill O'Reilly's historical docudrama Legends and Lies: The Patriots, an exciting and eye-opening look at the Revolutionary War through the lives of its leaders

The American Revolution was neither inevitable nor a unanimous cause. It pitted neighbors against each other, as loyalists and colonial rebels faced off for their lives and futures. These were the times that tried men's souls: no one was on stable ground and few could be trusted. Through the fascinating tales of the first Americans, Legends and Lies: The Patriots reveals the contentious arguments that turned friends into foes and the country into a warzone.

From the riots over a child's murder that led to the Boston Massacre to the suspicious return of Ben Franklin, the "First American;" from the Continental Army's first victory under George Washington's leadership to the little known southern Guerilla campaign of "Swamp Fox" Francis Marion, and the celebration of America's first Christmas, The Patriots recreates the amazing combination of resourcefulness, perseverance, strategy, and luck that led to this country's creation.

Heavily illustrated with spectacular artwork that brings this important history to vivid life, and told in the same fast-paced, immersive narrative as the first Legends and Lies, The Patriots is an irresistible, adventure-packed journey back into one of the most storied moments of our nation's rich history.

Genres: History, Nonfiction, Historical, Audiobook, American History, Biography, American Revolutionary War

320 pages, Hardcover

First published May 3, 2016

About the author

Librarian’s note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.

David Fisher is the author of more than twenty New York Times bestsellers and coauthor of Bill O'Reilly's Legends and Lies series. His work has also appeared in most major magazines and many newspapers. He lives in New York with his wife and two sons.

Reviews

[Krista the Krazy Kataloguer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wasn't sure what to expect from this one. I saw most of the docudrama on TV and enjoyed it. I'm happy to say that I enjoyed the book even more. Each chapter was about a different person or persons--George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Benedict Arnold, Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, and other major figures of the time. I've read a lot about these people, but in each case I learned at least one thing that I didn't know before. Fisher certainly did his research. One of my favorite chapters was on Francis Marion, quite the character who reminded me of Robert Rogers, leader of Roger's Rangers during the French and Indian War. I was also fascinated by the chapter on the slaves and freedmen who fought on both sides during the Revolution. You don't read much about most of these people, and yet they fought bravely, and were depicted in a surprising number of illustrations of the war.

Fisher's narrative of our country's early years made me realize something that I probably should have learned back in high school--that our government as we know it evolved from nothing and is still evolving even today. Our founding fathers truly started from scratch, and it wasn't perfect, and probably still isn't. It gave me a whole new appreciation for the process and the people who participated in the two Continental Congresses.

I highly recommend this book for those who want to know more about the patriot leaders and their contributions to the formation of our government. I'm looking forward now to reading the other "Legends & Lies" books.

[Terry Cornell · Rating 3 out of 5]

I watched the television version and the book follows the same format in more detail. The book covers the major patriots of the time and is a quick read. Since I watched the show I've read some extensive biographies on George Washington, and Thomas Jefferson so much of the material wasn't new to me.

The chapter on Benedict Arnold I found informative. I was aware of his heroic exploits before he became a traitor, but the author goes into more detail about his disappointments, snubs, and financial dealings that most likely led him to sell out his country. Another one of my favorite chapters was about Frances Marion, and his military accomplishments using guerilla tactics in South Carolina. After spending some vacation time in some of the areas his soldiers fought, I understand how they could seemingly appear out of nowhere, attack, and afterward seem to vanish into the woods and swamps as if by magic.

I also loved the chapter titled Forgotten Heroes. It is estimated that nine thousand African Americans fought in both the Continental army and navy during the war. Some were slaves, some were free. The Emancipation Act of 1783 freed slaves who had served as soldiers. Escaped slaves also fought for the British, and were promised freedom after the war. Several thousand were granted land in Novia Scotia, but this area wasn't suitable for farming. Twelve hundred of these men were transported to Africa and founded the community of Freetown in the Colony of Sierra Leone.

The book includes the founding fathers forming the constitution, and Bill of Rights. I didn't know that one proposed amendment for the Bill of Rights prohibited Congress in session from giving itself a pay raise. This unfortunately didn't pass much to the chagrin of many American voters today.

The book is a good historical overview of this time in American history. It also includes several illustrations. There are certainly more detailed history books on this period of time, but for an entertaining, and concise work this book is hard to beat.

[Jonathan · Rating 4 out of 5]

An audiobook I listened to on the way to vacation. This book was both informative and engrossing. It reviewed some familiar stories that most pupils in the American school systems learn, but it delved deeper in many cases. This book also had many stories of lesser-known heroes of the Revolutionary War. Overall, a good historical account of the Revolution.

[C K P · Rating 1 out of 5]

As a professional historian, I found This book amazingly superficial and pretentious.

[Jackie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Certainly for American History buffs, Bill O'Reilly's Legends and Lies: The Patriots will be fascinating reading, even though they may have already sorted out the fact vs. fiction of some of these Revolutionary stories. Some of the myths and legends we may have heard about in school are rebuked and denied in these pages and, to be honest, takes away some of the romance and charm of the period for many of us. Sometimes we just want to believe the glorified version of a story.

However, saying all of that, I suppose it really is beneficial to learn the correct facts (if in fact they can be verified) and it is extremely interesting to hear how some of these stories were passed down generation to generation. Nonetheless, our country was begun with a good dose of fortitude, serendipity, and lucky fate. A group of men were brought together who clearly had a vision and carried it through as best they could. There is no denying that where we are today is a result of their vision.

This is a tedious reading endeavor which many times reads as textbook material. Fans of wartime and revolutionary times will love it...for the fiction fan, it is not-so-engaging (but I struggled through it and my book club will be proud of me).

[Jamie Whitmore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fast paced account of the Revolution. From the Boston Massacre to the Louisiana Purchase. History everyone should know. And, also shares little known stories about the women, slaves and immigrants who played critical roles.

[Vickie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although Bill O'Reilly's Legends and Lies: The Patriots by David Fisher isn't for everyone, I thoroughly enjoyed listening to it. It took me back to the days of being an undergraduate history major at the University of Louisville and sitting in my favorite professor's classes. Holter Graham was the narrator, and he is fantastic!!!!

The book cover all the major players and debunks some of the lore that has been passed down through history. Some people like that and some don't; seriously, I was just sitting back (or walking) enjoying everything. While listening to the part with Benedict Arnold and John Andre, I had to chuckle. Quite a few years ago, in the middle of a hot New Jersey summer, my FIL decided to take my MIL and me on a ride to Tappan, NY to see where Major Andre was hanged. When I say it was hot, it was HOT!!! We found the monument which is literally in the middle of a cul-de-sac of some nice modest homes. My FIL decides to get out and start reading the monument, encouraging us to leave the air-conditioned car. At this point, my MIL had had enough and announced, "Enough with your liberty, I am dying in this heat!"

Anyway, it was a great listen and I look forward to listening to other legends and lies!


Go Cards! L1C4!!

[Sonya · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting work on the American Revolution's (and aftermath) legends and how they may or may not vary from the truth. I listened to it after reading Nathaniel Philbrick's "Valient Ambition" and I thought they paired well with each other. I particularly liked the parts on what happened to slaves and free blacks during and after the war in both the North and South, Aaron Burr and what a piece of work he was, and how the issue of aliens and immigration (with the Alien and Sedition Acts) was a contested topic. The only thing I didn't like about the book was the narrator who continually paused, for emphasis, after every couple, of words.

[Randy Tramp · Rating 5 out of 5]

American history came alive in this book. The motives, the events, and the occurrences, all revealed in an exciting way.

I enjoy being around these people, who shaped our way of life. Listening to this book, gave me that opportunity.

George Washington, one of the greatest Americans, by his insight, set this nation on a course we now know as the United States of America.

The others, many known, some unknown, all played a part in the formation of the greatest nation on earth. Not because we have perfect people, but because we have the nearest perfect system.

Great read.

[SoulSurvivor · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm a history buff , but in-depth examination of John Adams' early law cases was a bit much . Very good information , but some was too obscure for me to really enjoy .

[Verona · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoy Bill O'Reilly's books. But this one even though I gave it four stars, was somewhat disappointing because Bill Riley himself did not narrate it. I listened to this with my husband Blaine and we did enjoy the American history portrayed in these separate events told. And we did learn some new twists and new information in these stories. It was worth the time listening, and I always get a thrill hearing patriotism and especially when the founding fathers give credit to God in the accomplishment and victories shared from our country's past. I have a reverence for the events that transpired in the founding of our country, our America!

[Connie Curtis · Rating 4 out of 5]

I lot of information to digest here. I'm not a fan of history and don't know much about it. Well researched. A little long and boring in some places, but those of you who know more about the people he's talking about will find it very intersting.

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn't expect to like O'Reilly as much as I do. I loved his Killing series. The Legends and Lies are a good combination between a decent survey to rarely-known facts about famous people. I think these would be fantastic books for teenagers interested in history.

[JC Roadman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good book about the American Revolution. And the Patroits. Non fiction usually makes me sleepy but this book was good the whole way through. I will enjoy reading the other two books like this about the old west and the civil war as Well.

[Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pretty concise summary of key figures and stories from the Revolutionary era. I found chapters 9 and 10 of particular interest as they described the difficulty the founders had in actually developing the structure that became the constitution. Gave me a renewed appreciation for the uniqueness of our country … despite the flaws of the founders themselves. Together, they created a society never before imagined. Most all the ideas and principles were not new, but combined together as they were was unique.

Try not to let the Bill O’Reilly name put you off. He didn’t write it, yet he obviously approved of his name being used.

[Michael Kelley · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was a great read! I learned a lot that I had forgot or didn’t learn when in school. Lots of details that made it more interesting.

[BAM doesn’t answer to her real name · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lenten Buddy Reading Challenge book #7

[Chris Doelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is how history should be - interesting! Read my full review --> http://www.ridingwiththewindowdown.co...

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'd like to thank Henry Holt and Company, Goodreads Giveaway, and Emily Kobel for a beautiful hardcover copy of "Bill O'Reilly's Legends & Lies: The Patriots" by David Fisher.

While nursing a broken wrist and unable to write, I had plenty of time to enjoy this amazing book! I so appreciated the research that went into this book, and David Fisher's excellent talent for writing factually of our country's history! It is also beautifully illustrated, and I couldn't help but think what a delightful gift this would make for someone who loves history and/or our wonderful country.

A friend of ours stopped by, after I had finished reading this book and spotted it immediately. He asked if he could borrow it. I might add that he substitute teaches, and when he returned my book, he had written his book report for me! (Yes, he's a fun guy!) So, here it is. I HAVE to include it:

"The world today is possessed by secular ideology, and in many cases, we have forgotten about those who came before us. The people who began this governmental system of ours were not only very courageous men, they were also men of means.

David Fisher has managed to lay out our formidable years in an easy-to-read format that everyone can understand. He gives us the true story of our founding fathers and how big a sacrifice they really made, when they pledged "their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor." Almost all of the patriots were wealthy men in their own right, and Mr. Fisher points out the fact that the fortunes they put on the line were indeed considerable. It takes a book like "Legends and Lies" to reawaken our sense of history and to appreciate what these men accomplished.

This book should be a must read for every American citizen. The stories of heroism, defeat, and victory were all part of the Revolutionary War. No one knows this feeling more than George Washington. His leadership skills are unsurpassed in American folklore. Never has a president been so loved by his people and so willing to give up everything for the freedom that we have today. This Liberty we enjoy has been taken for granted during recent years, because people have forgotten what it took to put this, the greatest nation in the world, on the map.

Most of the Patriots covered in this book have individual tales of hardship that contributed to the defeat of the British Empire, and these stories are what makes "Legends and Lies" an exciting read, from page one to the end."

Yes, Donald and "Bill O'Reilly's Legend and Lies: The Patriots" by David Fisher get an A+ from me!

[Mark August · Rating 3 out of 5]

Forget about the politics and leave your impressions of Billy O’Reilly behind. If you have expectations of Ron Chernow or David McCullough, this isn’t your in-depth history of a historical figure or event. This book isn’t a shocking exposé about the founding of the United States.

Instead, author David Fisher pens an easy history of the earliest days of the struggles to build the Republic of the United States. Names of heroes fill the pages with nuanced discussions of their strengths and weaknesses. Failures abound during the Revolutionary War and the years leading to the Constitution and first elections. They’re here.

What makes this book stand out over a casual refresher of the Revolutionary War period is the cast of discussed characters in Fisher’s work is often skipped over in a survey class. Want to read about the role of African-American soldiers on both sides of the Revolution? Stories of the slaves and freemen who fought on both sides is in here. Want to read about Aaron Burr’s ideas to create a new country after the Hamilton duel? Also here. The Swamp Fox and foreign military leaders also have a prominent place in this book.

David Fisher writes a succinct synopsis of many events of the Revolution and the years to follow. If you are looking for a fast read about the founding of the American Republic, this is your novel. But if you are the in-depth historian looking for the few nuggets of a forgotten American hero, you’ll have to look elsewhere.

Recommended.

[Amanda Sexton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Audiobook version. For those who wish they knew more about American History (specifically the American Revolution, in this case), this is a great series to listen to. The author broke each chapter down into a deeper look into different people who helped bring the US to unity, an independent nation. He didn’t just profile the most famous, he did a chapter on the African American men who served with distinction, he covered the lesser known signers of the Declaration, he taught us about what happened to people after the War was resolved. I thought I knew a lot about that period of history, but I finished listening to the book knowing even more.

The narrator did a presentable job. There were noticeable times when he would put a pause in the middle of a phrase or sentence which was building up to becoming annoying, but the stories he was reading about were compelling enough to overlook the odd speech patterns.

[Erin Lee · Rating 2 out of 5]

I don't know why I read this, unless it's because I feel like my elementary school education about the American Revolutionary War didn't seem to stick in my brain and I needed a little help. I'm not conservative by any stretch of the imagination, so I read it despite Bill O'Reilly's name tacked to it. (Note: Why IS his name attached to it, when David Fisher wrote it?) The writing is kind of strange, and while I enjoyed the anecdotes contained within, I really struggled with the author's writing style. The layout of the book is really cool in some places, with text overlaid atop classic woodcuts and engravings of the time. Other times, the paper looks like bad scrapbook paper and is hard to read the text for the print. I could take it or leave it, and I'm sure there are books out there just as informative as this one.

[WhatShouldIRead · Rating 4 out of 5]

This reads like the Reader's Digest version of the highlights of the Revolution. Some things I knew, others I didn't. I found all of it very interesting and the narrative brought to life the events that happened during this long war.

I would love to see the companion series now and will have to search it out.

[Rick · Rating 3 out of 5]

What can you say about a book like this. American History light, as with all of Bill O'Reilly's books; interesting, fun, with little meat but enough to provide a good overview. While I am a history junky have never really read in-depth regarding the American Revolution expect for biographies of several of the founding-fathers. Reading this did pique my interest in several aspects and probably will lead to more specific reading regarding the period.

Would recommend this book to anyone who has even a passing curiosity regarding the American Revolution as it does hit most high points and reasonable inclusion of the more noteworthy participants.

[Debra Jeakins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bill O'Reilly's Legends and Lies: The Patriots
by David Fisher
If you like or dont like Bill O'Reilly you have to read this book. The book gives you an inside look to the Revolutionary war and its players. Fact: Paul Revere was not the only rider yelling that the british have landed, there were other men and women who rode that night. Meet the hero's and the villains of the Revolutionary war in this book. Take it from a history junkie like me this is a must read.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm not a huge fan of history books--I usually prefer to get my history education through realistic period fiction. BUT I couldn't put this book down! It was a fascinating read and I highly recommend it! It was shocking to discover that politics hasn't changed much --the folks 200+ years ago were not the gentlemen you might imagine. I'm now looking forward to seeing the series on t.v.

[Larry Van Bibber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent easy to read history that covered several patriots that died before achieving the fame of the founding fathers and presented facts on several others in that time frame.

[Lou · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting book regarding our founding fathers - Washington, Adams, Jefferson, Franklin, and more. Any American Revolutionary buff would enjoy this book.

[Bobbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book on the history of some of our patriotic founding fathers

[Toni · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book if you interested in American History.