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Patriots of the American Revolution #1
Brothers and Warriors
The British have invaded Charlestown and the Revolutionary War has descended with a vengeance upon the sleepy southern frontier. Oppression, privation, and fear overwhelm the villages and homesteads of North and South Carolina. The Patriot cause seems all but lost.
James and John Hamilton are violently drawn into the war by forces seemingly beyond their control. Since their early childhood these brothers have survived rejection, hunger, death, tragedy and loss. But will they survive the bloody onslaught and depravity of the Redcoats and their Tory allies? Can they spill the blood of their enemies and still hold on to compassion and humanity? Will they ever again know the peace of their humble cabin in the Carolina forest?
Brothers and Warriors is the tumultuous, triumphant story of brothers fighting and surviving for home, justice, love, and freedom … and for one another.
James and John Hamilton are violently drawn into the war by forces seemingly beyond their control. Since their early childhood these brothers have survived rejection, hunger, death, tragedy and loss. But will they survive the bloody onslaught and depravity of the Redcoats and their Tory allies? Can they spill the blood of their enemies and still hold on to compassion and humanity? Will they ever again know the peace of their humble cabin in the Carolina forest?
Brothers and Warriors is the tumultuous, triumphant story of brothers fighting and surviving for home, justice, love, and freedom … and for one another.
342 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 8, 2016
246 people are currently reading
349 people want to read
About the author
Geoff Baggett
25 books40 followersGeoff Baggett is a small town pastor with a passion for Revolutionary War history. He is an active member of the Sons of the American Revolution and has discovered over twenty Patriot ancestors in his family tree from Virginia, North and South Carolina, and Georgia. He is an avid living historian, appearing regularly in period uniform in classrooms, reenactments, and other commemorative events.
Geoff lives on a small piece of land in rural western Kentucky with his amazing wife, a daughter and grandson, and a yard full of perpetually hungry chickens and goats.
Geoff lives on a small piece of land in rural western Kentucky with his amazing wife, a daughter and grandson, and a yard full of perpetually hungry chickens and goats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
June 6, 2021
I hate to give such a low rating, because I had high hopes for this book. But…here goes.
There was a wealth of historical information and detailed descriptions of life as a settler and militiaman. Because the story was based on real people and events, it didn't really cover what most would consider the major actions of the Revolution in the South (King's Mountain, Cowpens), and there wasn't a lot of real plot to the story. Since I was mostly in it for research purposes, I didn't mind that too much. The real reasons for my disappointment lie in the almost constant vulgarity and profanity that appeared after the first chapter or two. I basically skimmed most of the dialogue and even some of the narrative. I've come to expect (and avoid) this kind of writing from secular authors, but I hoped for better things from a pastor. The often gruesome battle scenes didn't really bother me, but I can't say the same for the far-too-graphic account of British soldiers violating a woman or the repeated descriptions of soldiers' ailments. I've read other accounts of dysentery and similar illnesses, but the way they were handled here just struck me as crass. No discretion or reserve at all. And that's as detailed as I care to get in this review.
I'm giving two stars for the historical research and authenticity, but sadly, gorgeous cover aside, I don't recommend it.
There was a wealth of historical information and detailed descriptions of life as a settler and militiaman. Because the story was based on real people and events, it didn't really cover what most would consider the major actions of the Revolution in the South (King's Mountain, Cowpens), and there wasn't a lot of real plot to the story. Since I was mostly in it for research purposes, I didn't mind that too much. The real reasons for my disappointment lie in the almost constant vulgarity and profanity that appeared after the first chapter or two. I basically skimmed most of the dialogue and even some of the narrative. I've come to expect (and avoid) this kind of writing from secular authors, but I hoped for better things from a pastor. The often gruesome battle scenes didn't really bother me, but I can't say the same for the far-too-graphic account of British soldiers violating a woman or the repeated descriptions of soldiers' ailments. I've read other accounts of dysentery and similar illnesses, but the way they were handled here just struck me as crass. No discretion or reserve at all. And that's as detailed as I care to get in this review.
I'm giving two stars for the historical research and authenticity, but sadly, gorgeous cover aside, I don't recommend it.
November 7, 2017
“Sir, resistance being in vain, to prevent the effusion of human blood, I make offers which never can be repeated: You are now almost encompassed by a corps of seven hundred light troops on horseback…”
“Brothers and Warriors” is Geoff Baggett’s debut novel. I’m really becoming a Geoff Baggett fan, and I love how he approaches his work. As a small-town pastor and historical reenactor, he brings a remarkable sense of authenticity and passion to his books. The fact that he is writing about family ancestors seems to enhance his devotion to his craft. As a historian/author who has focused exclusively on the American Revolution, his attention to detail is evident on every page.
This novel tells the tale of the Hamilton brothers. Superbly researched, it is grounded in the history of the villainous Banastare Tarleton’s Revolutionary War campaigns in the Carolinas. It is a tale of courage, brotherhood, and patriotism.
The dialogue is written in an “Appalachian” style: “John and I will set about repairin’ that busted fence.” The dialogue adds to the authenticity of the tale, and the book is rife with historical and cultural details. One example is the process of rolling cartridges, and the .54 caliber smooth-bore rifle. Another example is the preparation of hot corn cakes.
Additionally, the book covers in the series are absolutely beautiful, with “Brothers and Warriors” probably being the best of the series.
Bottom line, fans of meticulously researched, eighteenth century historical fiction need to have Geoff Baggett on their reading list. He is a dedicated craftsman, and this history lover appreciates his work.
“Brothers and Warriors” is Geoff Baggett’s debut novel. I’m really becoming a Geoff Baggett fan, and I love how he approaches his work. As a small-town pastor and historical reenactor, he brings a remarkable sense of authenticity and passion to his books. The fact that he is writing about family ancestors seems to enhance his devotion to his craft. As a historian/author who has focused exclusively on the American Revolution, his attention to detail is evident on every page.
This novel tells the tale of the Hamilton brothers. Superbly researched, it is grounded in the history of the villainous Banastare Tarleton’s Revolutionary War campaigns in the Carolinas. It is a tale of courage, brotherhood, and patriotism.
The dialogue is written in an “Appalachian” style: “John and I will set about repairin’ that busted fence.” The dialogue adds to the authenticity of the tale, and the book is rife with historical and cultural details. One example is the process of rolling cartridges, and the .54 caliber smooth-bore rifle. Another example is the preparation of hot corn cakes.
Additionally, the book covers in the series are absolutely beautiful, with “Brothers and Warriors” probably being the best of the series.
Bottom line, fans of meticulously researched, eighteenth century historical fiction need to have Geoff Baggett on their reading list. He is a dedicated craftsman, and this history lover appreciates his work.
May 30, 2020
Rousing good story of the Hamilton brothers during the American Revolution.
James, John and William Hamilton lose their successful pioneer father due to an accident at a fairly early age. Due to an unpleasant stepfather they make out on their own for several years. Resourceful and with as much support as their mother can manage for them, they plant, harvest, hunt, cook, make clothes and live on their own. When the eldest boy , James, is 18, the war comes to Carolina near where they live. Avid patriots, the two oldest get involved in the militia locally, and this is their story.
I enjoyed this book very much! These were decent people in terrible times of deprivation and travail. Based on the author's ancestors, this is a book worth reading.
James, John and William Hamilton lose their successful pioneer father due to an accident at a fairly early age. Due to an unpleasant stepfather they make out on their own for several years. Resourceful and with as much support as their mother can manage for them, they plant, harvest, hunt, cook, make clothes and live on their own. When the eldest boy , James, is 18, the war comes to Carolina near where they live. Avid patriots, the two oldest get involved in the militia locally, and this is their story.
I enjoyed this book very much! These were decent people in terrible times of deprivation and travail. Based on the author's ancestors, this is a book worth reading.
October 5, 2018
Excellent writing, strong, likable, and believable characters, and great historical research make this book a must-read!
June 2, 2022
I consider this book, and the others in the series, to be hidden gems in the Kindle Unlimited library. I rarely actually write reviews, but I enjoyed these so much that I felt inspired to share my joy about these novels.
They are well written, thoroughly researched, and highly entertaining reads. I find with historical fiction that sometimes there is not enough detail for me and I feel like there is something missing - like we aren't really scratching the surface and the characters and details need to be fleshed out a little more. Other times I find myself kind of skipping paragraphs and not really paying attention to what I am reading because there is too much tedium in the detail and it's a tad boring. I like a perfectly balanced historical fiction novel. These are perfectly balanced for me. They are a perfect blend of character development, description and story line. They are the sole reason I spent a week walking around like a zombie who got no sleep because I simply could not put them down.
The really neat part about this series is that the author is actually a relative of the characters each story focuses on. I really appreciate the care the author put into explaining his connection to the characters and explaining where he deviated from fact into fiction and why after each story.
In a nutshell, if you like historical fiction, especially in the Revolutionary War era, this series will not disappoint.
They are well written, thoroughly researched, and highly entertaining reads. I find with historical fiction that sometimes there is not enough detail for me and I feel like there is something missing - like we aren't really scratching the surface and the characters and details need to be fleshed out a little more. Other times I find myself kind of skipping paragraphs and not really paying attention to what I am reading because there is too much tedium in the detail and it's a tad boring. I like a perfectly balanced historical fiction novel. These are perfectly balanced for me. They are a perfect blend of character development, description and story line. They are the sole reason I spent a week walking around like a zombie who got no sleep because I simply could not put them down.
The really neat part about this series is that the author is actually a relative of the characters each story focuses on. I really appreciate the care the author put into explaining his connection to the characters and explaining where he deviated from fact into fiction and why after each story.
In a nutshell, if you like historical fiction, especially in the Revolutionary War era, this series will not disappoint.
March 8, 2019
I received this book for free. I am voluntarily leaving this review and all opinions expressed herein are my own.
This is a fictionalized story using real people and events from the Revolutionary War. It is clear that the author has done a lot of research for this story -- from the accuracy of creating their bullets to their food to their homes to their way of speaking to medical care. This is an engaging story which is presented in a very realistic manner. As a warning -- there are battle scenes which include some graphic material and for those who are sensitive, there is a rape scene.
Here, the story centers around the Hamilton brothers. Their father has died and mother has remarried. The brothers do not really get along with their stepfather so they strike a deal with him to live on their father's farm and pay their stepfather a mortgage. The war has moved down to North Carolina. The eldest Hamilton brother, James, is called to serve for the Patriots. The rest of the story centers on the war and how it affects the Hamilton family.
I listened to this book - the narrator, Bill Schafer, did a very good job [although his British accent could use a little work]. There are different voices for all of the characters and he moves it along at a good pace creating an interesting listening experience which enhanced the written word.
This is a fictionalized story using real people and events from the Revolutionary War. It is clear that the author has done a lot of research for this story -- from the accuracy of creating their bullets to their food to their homes to their way of speaking to medical care. This is an engaging story which is presented in a very realistic manner. As a warning -- there are battle scenes which include some graphic material and for those who are sensitive, there is a rape scene.
Here, the story centers around the Hamilton brothers. Their father has died and mother has remarried. The brothers do not really get along with their stepfather so they strike a deal with him to live on their father's farm and pay their stepfather a mortgage. The war has moved down to North Carolina. The eldest Hamilton brother, James, is called to serve for the Patriots. The rest of the story centers on the war and how it affects the Hamilton family.
I listened to this book - the narrator, Bill Schafer, did a very good job [although his British accent could use a little work]. There are different voices for all of the characters and he moves it along at a good pace creating an interesting listening experience which enhanced the written word.
February 19, 2019
Disclaimer.
I had requested and received audible version of this book for free from the narrator, in exchange for an unbiased review.
What I liked about the book -
I had very recently played Assassin's Creed 3 and read "The First Conspiracy" by Brad Meltzer. So, right now I'm addicted to historical fictions based on American revolution. "Brothers and Warriors" by Geoff Baggett is a satisfactory fodder in this respect.
This is a fictional story of the brothers, weaved around the historical events of the revolutionary war. The very well written scenes and dialogues gives you the impression that the author did his research / homework about the time period before starting to write this. Every detail sounds authentic and you feel like you are in the middle of all the happenings. It's gritty, spell-binding and captivating.
What I disliked about the book -
Nothing specific that I can think of.
Narration -
Narration by Bill Schafer was a good match for the content. The accent / dialect sounded different than what I'm accustomed to (as far as content of that period is concerned), but still it was good enough to keep me listening.
I had requested and received audible version of this book for free from the narrator, in exchange for an unbiased review.
What I liked about the book -
I had very recently played Assassin's Creed 3 and read "The First Conspiracy" by Brad Meltzer. So, right now I'm addicted to historical fictions based on American revolution. "Brothers and Warriors" by Geoff Baggett is a satisfactory fodder in this respect.
This is a fictional story of the brothers, weaved around the historical events of the revolutionary war. The very well written scenes and dialogues gives you the impression that the author did his research / homework about the time period before starting to write this. Every detail sounds authentic and you feel like you are in the middle of all the happenings. It's gritty, spell-binding and captivating.
What I disliked about the book -
Nothing specific that I can think of.
Narration -
Narration by Bill Schafer was a good match for the content. The accent / dialect sounded different than what I'm accustomed to (as far as content of that period is concerned), but still it was good enough to keep me listening.
August 17, 2017
Wonderful book. Wish it wasn't over.
Very well written. From the first page you are hooked. You are pulled into the story as if you are a silent character. You won't want to put it down. Although this story is fiction wrapped around historical events it reads as if it's a family story that's been handed down through the generations. The characters are believable, before the end of the book they're your family , your friends. If you enjoy historical fiction you won't regret putting this book on your reading list.
Very well written. From the first page you are hooked. You are pulled into the story as if you are a silent character. You won't want to put it down. Although this story is fiction wrapped around historical events it reads as if it's a family story that's been handed down through the generations. The characters are believable, before the end of the book they're your family , your friends. If you enjoy historical fiction you won't regret putting this book on your reading list.
July 14, 2022
I googled "revolutionary war historical fiction", and this title came up. This novel follows the Hamilton Brothers and their experience in the War serving with the Mecklenburg county militia. We often hear about the grand themes and military movements, but we rarely hear about the local militias that played such an important role in the fight for our Independence. The Hamilton Brothers find strength in their love and caring for each other amidst many war tragedies. Caution: this book contains graphic depictions of rape and violence. Great book and great story.
August 2, 2024
Rev War in the South
Author is a living historian from Kentucky, writing here of the Southern campaigns in America's fight in the Charleston area against the infamous British commander Banistre Tarleton. Greetings from Western Pennsylvania, I'm a volunteer docent of a historical site celebrating life on the colonial frontier of that era. Author writes with great historical accuracy. Compelling historical fiction, I read this book thru Kindle Unlimited on my Amazon HD 11 Fire Tablet.
Author is a living historian from Kentucky, writing here of the Southern campaigns in America's fight in the Charleston area against the infamous British commander Banistre Tarleton. Greetings from Western Pennsylvania, I'm a volunteer docent of a historical site celebrating life on the colonial frontier of that era. Author writes with great historical accuracy. Compelling historical fiction, I read this book thru Kindle Unlimited on my Amazon HD 11 Fire Tablet.
July 10, 2022
Excellent read!
This was so well written and it grabbed me from the first page. Couldn't put it down until I finished it. Thought I was reading a historical fiction but read the authors note at the end and the 4 Hamilton boys and their story is written based on facts found. I really loved this. When a story makes me cry in happiness and sadness it's a great book and I rarely live in the story while reading but I did reading this book.
This was so well written and it grabbed me from the first page. Couldn't put it down until I finished it. Thought I was reading a historical fiction but read the authors note at the end and the 4 Hamilton boys and their story is written based on facts found. I really loved this. When a story makes me cry in happiness and sadness it's a great book and I rarely live in the story while reading but I did reading this book.
March 28, 2019
Great history but weak storytelling
I was disappointed that the promise this book had never materialized. As interesting as the history aspect was, it was obvious the story itself was contrived as a means to share said history and lacked depth and convincing character development.
I was disappointed that the promise this book had never materialized. As interesting as the history aspect was, it was obvious the story itself was contrived as a means to share said history and lacked depth and convincing character development.
September 6, 2021
Enjoyed Reading
I love history and reading about actual people who fought in the Revolution, although fictionalized is great. I had no idea that the Hamilton's were real.people. Andy and Robert Jackson yes and how he got his scar is well known. Really enjoyable read. Look forward to the next in the series. I just wonder why start with the end of the war.
I love history and reading about actual people who fought in the Revolution, although fictionalized is great. I had no idea that the Hamilton's were real.people. Andy and Robert Jackson yes and how he got his scar is well known. Really enjoyable read. Look forward to the next in the series. I just wonder why start with the end of the war.
February 7, 2023
historical fiction of the highest quality
Thoroughly enjoyed this historical storytelling. As a fledgling nation, this was a very special time. The patriotic characters who founded our nation need their stories told. Unfortunately, our schools have failed us in providing such. Thank you Geoff Baggett for your literary skill. Enjoyed it!
Thoroughly enjoyed this historical storytelling. As a fledgling nation, this was a very special time. The patriotic characters who founded our nation need their stories told. Unfortunately, our schools have failed us in providing such. Thank you Geoff Baggett for your literary skill. Enjoyed it!
August 26, 2024
Revolutionary War in the Carolinas
The author is a descendent of one of the main characters and related to the other main Character. War is never pleasant so there are some gruesome scenes. Both brother’s served in the war in different ways. The book tells of their service, and of their family and friends. It was worth my time.
The author is a descendent of one of the main characters and related to the other main Character. War is never pleasant so there are some gruesome scenes. Both brother’s served in the war in different ways. The book tells of their service, and of their family and friends. It was worth my time.
July 26, 2025
Historical fiction
This historical fiction is one that everyone in this great country needs to read. It covers the trials and tribulations of the people that fought and formed the great experiment we call the United States of America. It is a story of the common man and his contribution to our founding.
This historical fiction is one that everyone in this great country needs to read. It covers the trials and tribulations of the people that fought and formed the great experiment we call the United States of America. It is a story of the common man and his contribution to our founding.
October 20, 2019
Awesome sauce!!!
Great book! Its amazing the author was able to trace his family this far back. The details in this book gets you lost in time. I definitely recommend this book.
Great book! Its amazing the author was able to trace his family this far back. The details in this book gets you lost in time. I definitely recommend this book.
May 3, 2020
I love how little moments capture the personal growth of many of the characters. The brothers’ fraternal love and intimacy was touching. But I most enjoyed the change in their stepfather showing how strife can lead to victories beyond even the immediate battle.
August 27, 2020
Patriotic
Mr. Baggett has done his research and written an entertaining and educational story. One that makes me proud to be an American. It's sad that there are those amongst us who wish to erase our history and destroy our heritage.
Mr. Baggett has done his research and written an entertaining and educational story. One that makes me proud to be an American. It's sad that there are those amongst us who wish to erase our history and destroy our heritage.
December 15, 2020
Exciting read!!!!
Wow rarely am I surprised but the excitement and historical accuracy of this book did just that!!!! Thank you for an extremely enjoyable day reading this well written story!!
Wow rarely am I surprised but the excitement and historical accuracy of this book did just that!!!! Thank you for an extremely enjoyable day reading this well written story!!
September 3, 2021
Excellent Read
The author brought to life the hardships and sacrifices as well as the perseverance of our Nations patriots. The battles are real as the results of the battles that won our independence. I would recommend this book to anyone with interests in our history
The author brought to life the hardships and sacrifices as well as the perseverance of our Nations patriots. The battles are real as the results of the battles that won our independence. I would recommend this book to anyone with interests in our history
July 23, 2023
Well written
Loved this book. So well written. Such a tribute to American patriotism. Emotional at times with humor mixed in to tell the story of the trials of these young men who gave so much in defense of our fledging country.
Loved this book. So well written. Such a tribute to American patriotism. Emotional at times with humor mixed in to tell the story of the trials of these young men who gave so much in defense of our fledging country.
December 10, 2020
Historical Fiction
Historical fiction, fast moving read, kept me glued to the book. Definitely reccommend! Can't wait to read next book. Enjoyed the humor too.
Historical fiction, fast moving read, kept me glued to the book. Definitely reccommend! Can't wait to read next book. Enjoyed the humor too.
August 12, 2021
Extremely good
Extremely good, a true adventure in American history. I'll probably read it again, its too good not revisit. A good read.
Extremely good, a true adventure in American history. I'll probably read it again, its too good not revisit. A good read.
April 6, 2022
Hard to put down
This was a well written book. The characters and their way of life back then was hard. Interesting account of events during American Revolution .
This was a well written book. The characters and their way of life back then was hard. Interesting account of events during American Revolution .
September 27, 2022
Great storyline well developed characters
I loved reading this book. It gives you the insight into what the soldiers and families had to endure to fight for our freedom.
I loved reading this book. It gives you the insight into what the soldiers and families had to endure to fight for our freedom.
September 20, 2023
Good book. Interesting to read. Had several slow sections which took away from excitement of story.
June 4, 2025
Excellent book
Thoroughly enjoyed the reading of this offering of historical fiction. The characters were well developed as was the telling of their story.
Thoroughly enjoyed the reading of this offering of historical fiction. The characters were well developed as was the telling of their story.
November 3, 2025
A wonderful read
I love reading of the American Revolution era. This book has been a great book, one that was hard to put down after I started reading it
I love reading of the American Revolution era. This book has been a great book, one that was hard to put down after I started reading it
August 1, 2017
Good story
The writer did a very good job writing a fictional version of his ancestors lives. I especially like the historical content at the end of the story.
The writer did a very good job writing a fictional version of his ancestors lives. I especially like the historical content at the end of the story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews