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Revolutionary War #2
Valley Forge
In To Try Men's Souls, New York Times bestselling authors Newt Gingrich and William R. Forstchen cast a new light on the year 1776 and the man who would become the father of our nation, George Washington. Valley Forge picks up the narrative a year after Washington’s triumphant surprise attack on Trenton, and much has changed since then.
It’s the winter of 1777, and Washington’s battered, demoralized army retreats from Philadelphia. Arriving at Valley Forge, they discover that their repeated requests for a stockpile of food, winter clothing, and building tools have been ignored by Congress. With no other options available, the men settle down for a season of agony. For weeks the dwindling army freezes under tents in the bitter cold. Food runs out. Disease festers. The men are on the point of collapse, while in Philadelphia the British, joined by Allen van Dorn, the Loyalist brother of the dead patriot, Jonathan van Dorn, live in luxury.
In spite of the suffering and deceit, Washington endures all, joined at last by a volunteer from Germany, Baron Friederich von Steuben. With precious few supplies and even less time, von Steuben begins the hard task of recasting the army as a professional fighting force capable of facing the British head-on—something it has never accomplished before—and in the process he changing the course of history.
Valley Forge is a compelling, meticulously researched tour-de-force novel about endurance, survival, transformation, and rebirth. It chronicles the unique crucible of time and place where Washington and his Continental Army, against all odds, were forged into a fighting force that would win a revolution and found the United States of America.
It’s the winter of 1777, and Washington’s battered, demoralized army retreats from Philadelphia. Arriving at Valley Forge, they discover that their repeated requests for a stockpile of food, winter clothing, and building tools have been ignored by Congress. With no other options available, the men settle down for a season of agony. For weeks the dwindling army freezes under tents in the bitter cold. Food runs out. Disease festers. The men are on the point of collapse, while in Philadelphia the British, joined by Allen van Dorn, the Loyalist brother of the dead patriot, Jonathan van Dorn, live in luxury.
In spite of the suffering and deceit, Washington endures all, joined at last by a volunteer from Germany, Baron Friederich von Steuben. With precious few supplies and even less time, von Steuben begins the hard task of recasting the army as a professional fighting force capable of facing the British head-on—something it has never accomplished before—and in the process he changing the course of history.
Valley Forge is a compelling, meticulously researched tour-de-force novel about endurance, survival, transformation, and rebirth. It chronicles the unique crucible of time and place where Washington and his Continental Army, against all odds, were forged into a fighting force that would win a revolution and found the United States of America.
438 pages, Hardcover
First published November 9, 2010
108 people are currently reading
966 people want to read
About the author
Newt Gingrich
114 books545 followersNewt Gingrich is well-known as the architect of the “Contract with America” that led the Republican Party to victory in 1994 by capturing the majority in the U.S. House of Representatives for the first time in forty years. After he was elected Speaker, he disrupted the status quo by moving power out of Washington and back to the American people. Under his leadership, Congress passed welfare reform, the first balanced budget in a generation, and the first tax cut in sixteen years. In addition, the Congress restored funding to strengthen defense and intelligence capabilities, an action later lauded by the bipartisan 9/11 Commission.
Today Newt Gingrich is a Fox News contributor. He is a Senior Advisor at Dentons, the world’s largest law firm with more than 6,500 lawyers in 50 countries and offices in more than 125 cities. He advises the firm’s world-class Public Policy and Regulation practice. He is also a Senior Scientist at Gallup.
From May 2011 to May 2012, Newt Gingrich was a candidate for the Republican nomination for President of the United States, winning the South Carolina and the Georgia primaries. The campaign was especially notable for its innovative policy agenda, its effort to bring new coalitions into the Republican fold, and for Newt’s debate performances. His $2.50 a gallon energy plan set off a nationwide discussion about the use of America’s energy resources.
But there is a lot more to Newt Gingrich than these remarkable achievements. As an author, Newt has published twenty-nine books including 14 fiction and nonfiction New York Times best-sellers.
Non-fiction books include his latest, Breakout, in addition to A Nation Like No Other, Ronald Reagan: Rendezvous with Destiny, To Save America, Rediscovering God in America, 5 Principles for a Successful Life, Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less, Real Change, A Contract with the Earth, Winning the Future: A 21st Century Contract with America, To Renew America, Lessons Learned the Hard Way, Saving Lives & Saving Money, Window of Opportunity, and The Art of Transformation. He is also the author of a series of historical fiction books including, Gettysburg, Grant Comes East, Never Call Retreat: Lee and Grant the Final Victory, 1945, Pearl Harbor, Days of Infamy, To Make Men Free, To Try Men’s Souls, Valley Forge, and Victory at Yorktown. These novels are active history studies in the lessons of warfare based on fictional accounts of historical wartime battles and their aftermaths. His latest novel, Treason, is the sequel to Duplicity and is a thriller of Washington intrigue and international terrorism.
Newt and his wife, Callista, host and produce historical and public policy documentaries. Recent films include The First American, Divine Mercy: The Canonization of John Paul II, A City Upon A Hill, America at Risk, Nine Days That Changed The World, Ronald Reagan: Rendezvous with Destiny, Rediscovering God in America, Rediscovering God in America II: Our Heritage, and We Have the Power.
In his post-Speaker role, Newt has become one of the most highly sought-after public speakers, accepting invitations to speak before prestigious organizations throughout the world. Because of his own unquenchable thirst for knowledge, Newt is able to share unique and unparalleled insights on a wide range of topics. His audiences find him to be not only educational but also inspirational. For more information about Newt’s speaking engagements, please visit the Worldwide Speakers Group.
Widely recognized for his commitment to a better system of health for all Americans, his leadership in the U.S. Congress helped save Medicare from bankruptcy, prompted FDA reform to help the seriously ill and initiated a new focus on research, prevention, and wellness. His contributions have been so great that the American Diabetes Association awarded him their highest non-medical award and the March of Dimes named him their 1995 Citizen of the Year.
To foster a modern health system that provide
Today Newt Gingrich is a Fox News contributor. He is a Senior Advisor at Dentons, the world’s largest law firm with more than 6,500 lawyers in 50 countries and offices in more than 125 cities. He advises the firm’s world-class Public Policy and Regulation practice. He is also a Senior Scientist at Gallup.
From May 2011 to May 2012, Newt Gingrich was a candidate for the Republican nomination for President of the United States, winning the South Carolina and the Georgia primaries. The campaign was especially notable for its innovative policy agenda, its effort to bring new coalitions into the Republican fold, and for Newt’s debate performances. His $2.50 a gallon energy plan set off a nationwide discussion about the use of America’s energy resources.
But there is a lot more to Newt Gingrich than these remarkable achievements. As an author, Newt has published twenty-nine books including 14 fiction and nonfiction New York Times best-sellers.
Non-fiction books include his latest, Breakout, in addition to A Nation Like No Other, Ronald Reagan: Rendezvous with Destiny, To Save America, Rediscovering God in America, 5 Principles for a Successful Life, Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less, Real Change, A Contract with the Earth, Winning the Future: A 21st Century Contract with America, To Renew America, Lessons Learned the Hard Way, Saving Lives & Saving Money, Window of Opportunity, and The Art of Transformation. He is also the author of a series of historical fiction books including, Gettysburg, Grant Comes East, Never Call Retreat: Lee and Grant the Final Victory, 1945, Pearl Harbor, Days of Infamy, To Make Men Free, To Try Men’s Souls, Valley Forge, and Victory at Yorktown. These novels are active history studies in the lessons of warfare based on fictional accounts of historical wartime battles and their aftermaths. His latest novel, Treason, is the sequel to Duplicity and is a thriller of Washington intrigue and international terrorism.
Newt and his wife, Callista, host and produce historical and public policy documentaries. Recent films include The First American, Divine Mercy: The Canonization of John Paul II, A City Upon A Hill, America at Risk, Nine Days That Changed The World, Ronald Reagan: Rendezvous with Destiny, Rediscovering God in America, Rediscovering God in America II: Our Heritage, and We Have the Power.
In his post-Speaker role, Newt has become one of the most highly sought-after public speakers, accepting invitations to speak before prestigious organizations throughout the world. Because of his own unquenchable thirst for knowledge, Newt is able to share unique and unparalleled insights on a wide range of topics. His audiences find him to be not only educational but also inspirational. For more information about Newt’s speaking engagements, please visit the Worldwide Speakers Group.
Widely recognized for his commitment to a better system of health for all Americans, his leadership in the U.S. Congress helped save Medicare from bankruptcy, prompted FDA reform to help the seriously ill and initiated a new focus on research, prevention, and wellness. His contributions have been so great that the American Diabetes Association awarded him their highest non-medical award and the March of Dimes named him their 1995 Citizen of the Year.
To foster a modern health system that provide
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
November 18, 2011
The story of George Washington’s fateful winter at Valley Forge is remarkable…singularly remarkable.
Undermined by the majority of his subordinate generals, conspired against by powerful political rivals, hindered and ignored by a Congress that was either profoundly inept or maliciously obstructionist, Gen. George Washington took a malnourished, dreadfully equipped and woefully under-supplied rag-tag group of brave but morale-diminished men and, in one fateful winter of 1777-78, forged them into a cohesive, modern fighting force sufficient to stand against the most powerful army on Earth in the cauldron of victory known as…Valley Forge.
WOW
I know the above may smack of hyperbolic patriotism and historical embellishment for the sake of melodrama, but the above is consistent with the consensus opinion of what happened during that critical period. Thus, I say, embrace the hype and enjoy the story of a singularly special moment in American history.
After Washington’s miraculous victory at the Battle of Trenton (wonderfully portrayed in To Try Men's Souls: A Novel of George Washington and the Fight for American Freedom), Washington and his men suffered a series of humiliating and demoralizing defeats at the hands of the British. Finally, after the last the Battle of Edge Hill, Washington’s battered, motley band limped into Valley Forge to settle in for the winter.
What walked out of Valley Forge was the first true American Army which is staggering to comprehend when you learn that conditions became no better for Washington’s men once they arrived at Valley Forge. The weather was absolutely brutal and up to 33% of the men did not even have shoes. Supplies remained wholly unavailable and the food stores dwindled while diseases proliferated and death ran rampant.
In these conditions where just staying alive was a challenge, the Americans did far more. However, Washington himself, was not the instrument that forged the Continental Army.
Enter Baron von Steuben.
Easily my favorite character in the novel, the Baron is someone I had nothing but passing knowledge of before opening this book I read this. I now intend to seek out other works about this incredible figure and his singular contribution to the American Cause.
Steuben was a Prussian officer who had served under Frederick II (aka the Great) and offered to join Washington’s army because he believed in the fight for freedom and wanted to be a part of something greater than himself. He was single-handedly responsible for turning the undisciplined, inexperienced American volunteers into a well-trained, cohesive fighting force. He did this by employing the drills, tactics, and disciplines that had made the Prussian Army among the most well organized forces in Europe. The manual he eventually wrote on the training of soldiers was to serve as the standard United States drill manual until the War of 1812.
Tough, loyal and driven, Steuben comes across like a gruff drill sergeant with a heart of gold. Perfect from my perspective.
Steubens was not the only player critical to Washington’s success. Another remarkable individual in this drama was the Marquis de Lafayette.
Despite being French-born and not personally staked in the fight for American Independence, it is hard to imagine anyone who fought harder and more strenuously for he cause of American freedom. Serving as a general under Washington, he was George’s staunchest ally and was instrumental in obtaining the support of the French army.
Washington, von Steuben and Lafayette come across in these pages as human and fallible but also as superhumanly principled. This worked for me and tugged at my sense of patriotism and nationalistic pride. Given how shitty things have looked in our own time, this vicarious nostalgia was entirely welcome. I found myself carried away in the story of these extraordinary men who, fortunately for America, were in exactly the right place at exactly the right time.
Before I wrap up with my one gripe about the story, I want to mention one final aspect that I thought was wonderfully done. The role of women at Valley Forge, something I had not understood before. Many of the soldiers in Washington’s Army had their families traveling with them because they had no other means of support. Thus, the women were recruited to treat the sick, to build shelters, to forage for supplies and all of the things necessary to allow the soldiers to train. They were vital and I am glad to see their invaluable contribution recognized. The authors in their afterward make it clear that they do not believe George Washington would have made it through the hardships he faced at Valley Forge if not for the support of Martha during his darkest hours.
Great, great stuff.
Now…despite my great affection for much of this story, I did not give it 5 stars for one primary reason. It seemed about 100 pages too long and there were parts of the story that dragged and plodded and limped around too much to be read with much enthusiasm. The fact that the rest of the novel was so engaging actually highlighting the lack of spark in these slower passages and made them far more identifiable.
Thus, for some slowness here and there, I can only give this 4 stars. However, this is still superior historical fiction and a commendable treatment of this pivotal period of American history.
4.0 stars. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
P.S. I listened to the audio version of this story read by William Dufris (with some assistance by Callista Gingrich as Martha Washington) and I thought it was excellent and enhanced my enjoyment of the story.
Undermined by the majority of his subordinate generals, conspired against by powerful political rivals, hindered and ignored by a Congress that was either profoundly inept or maliciously obstructionist, Gen. George Washington took a malnourished, dreadfully equipped and woefully under-supplied rag-tag group of brave but morale-diminished men and, in one fateful winter of 1777-78, forged them into a cohesive, modern fighting force sufficient to stand against the most powerful army on Earth in the cauldron of victory known as…Valley Forge.
WOW
I know the above may smack of hyperbolic patriotism and historical embellishment for the sake of melodrama, but the above is consistent with the consensus opinion of what happened during that critical period. Thus, I say, embrace the hype and enjoy the story of a singularly special moment in American history.
After Washington’s miraculous victory at the Battle of Trenton (wonderfully portrayed in To Try Men's Souls: A Novel of George Washington and the Fight for American Freedom), Washington and his men suffered a series of humiliating and demoralizing defeats at the hands of the British. Finally, after the last the Battle of Edge Hill, Washington’s battered, motley band limped into Valley Forge to settle in for the winter.
What walked out of Valley Forge was the first true American Army which is staggering to comprehend when you learn that conditions became no better for Washington’s men once they arrived at Valley Forge. The weather was absolutely brutal and up to 33% of the men did not even have shoes. Supplies remained wholly unavailable and the food stores dwindled while diseases proliferated and death ran rampant.
In these conditions where just staying alive was a challenge, the Americans did far more. However, Washington himself, was not the instrument that forged the Continental Army.
Enter Baron von Steuben.
Easily my favorite character in the novel, the Baron is someone I had nothing but passing knowledge of before opening this book I read this. I now intend to seek out other works about this incredible figure and his singular contribution to the American Cause.
Steuben was a Prussian officer who had served under Frederick II (aka the Great) and offered to join Washington’s army because he believed in the fight for freedom and wanted to be a part of something greater than himself. He was single-handedly responsible for turning the undisciplined, inexperienced American volunteers into a well-trained, cohesive fighting force. He did this by employing the drills, tactics, and disciplines that had made the Prussian Army among the most well organized forces in Europe. The manual he eventually wrote on the training of soldiers was to serve as the standard United States drill manual until the War of 1812.
Tough, loyal and driven, Steuben comes across like a gruff drill sergeant with a heart of gold. Perfect from my perspective.
Steubens was not the only player critical to Washington’s success. Another remarkable individual in this drama was the Marquis de Lafayette.
Despite being French-born and not personally staked in the fight for American Independence, it is hard to imagine anyone who fought harder and more strenuously for he cause of American freedom. Serving as a general under Washington, he was George’s staunchest ally and was instrumental in obtaining the support of the French army.
Washington, von Steuben and Lafayette come across in these pages as human and fallible but also as superhumanly principled. This worked for me and tugged at my sense of patriotism and nationalistic pride. Given how shitty things have looked in our own time, this vicarious nostalgia was entirely welcome. I found myself carried away in the story of these extraordinary men who, fortunately for America, were in exactly the right place at exactly the right time.
Before I wrap up with my one gripe about the story, I want to mention one final aspect that I thought was wonderfully done. The role of women at Valley Forge, something I had not understood before. Many of the soldiers in Washington’s Army had their families traveling with them because they had no other means of support. Thus, the women were recruited to treat the sick, to build shelters, to forage for supplies and all of the things necessary to allow the soldiers to train. They were vital and I am glad to see their invaluable contribution recognized. The authors in their afterward make it clear that they do not believe George Washington would have made it through the hardships he faced at Valley Forge if not for the support of Martha during his darkest hours.
Great, great stuff.
Now…despite my great affection for much of this story, I did not give it 5 stars for one primary reason. It seemed about 100 pages too long and there were parts of the story that dragged and plodded and limped around too much to be read with much enthusiasm. The fact that the rest of the novel was so engaging actually highlighting the lack of spark in these slower passages and made them far more identifiable.
Thus, for some slowness here and there, I can only give this 4 stars. However, this is still superior historical fiction and a commendable treatment of this pivotal period of American history.
4.0 stars. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
P.S. I listened to the audio version of this story read by William Dufris (with some assistance by Callista Gingrich as Martha Washington) and I thought it was excellent and enhanced my enjoyment of the story.
October 4, 2016
I'd do better reading an out right history book. Just all work and no fun reading this.
December 19, 2023
Recommended by a friend, I listened to this book on Audible and couldn't get enough. This book is written in narrative form and develops the characters (unfolds the descriptions of these real people and forefathers) so well, I felt not only intellectually drawn to the writing but emotionally invested as well. This book brought me to tears on more than one occasion. Can't wait to read the next one...
August 15, 2024
My one complaint about this book is how it was edited. It was hard to know who was speaking for lack of attribution in dialogue. Once I learned the writing style, I enjoyed this book very much! Engaging for even someone like me who doesn't particularly enjoy battle sequences.
October 3, 2017
This was a very good story. At times, I felt the anger of the soldiers, of General Washington and the sadness of their losses of friends and family. I had to put it down a few times because I could imagine the scenes and some were very horrendous. All in all, a good read.
February 3, 2014
Newt Gingrich and William R Forstchen have outdone themselves with this remarkable tale of the trials and tribulations of the greatest man in American history. For without the dogged perseverance of this relentless warrior during the 1777-78 winter at Valley Forge in Pennsylvania, we Americans would be extending our pinkies while drinking a spot of tea.
Hassled by a powerless and broke congress, penniless colonies, betrayal from subordinate generals, and many Tories in New York and Philadelphia, Washington battles disfavor, the weather, untrained soldiers, and desertion, for the cause of liberty from the tyranny of King George of Great Britain. Such a leader and genuine American does not today exist.
Authors Gingrich and Forstchen delve into the characters and minds of LaFayette, Nathanael Greene, and Mad Anthony Wayne, among other lesser known patriots of the revolution, both men and women. Young Peter Wellesley is an inspiration, as is Daniel Morgan with his sharpshooters.
Another hero emerges in March of 1778 when Baron von Steuben from Germany shows up to offer his expertise in training and reshaping the survivors of Valley Forge into a viable fighting force. His efforts are soon rewarded at the Battle of Monmouth in New Jersey on June 20 where the revamped colonial army tangles with British forces under the leadership of Sir William Clinton.
Intriguing are the actions and thoughts of British loyalist Allen van Dorn and his mentor, the flamboyant British officer John Andre, aided, no less, by the elegance and flirtatious behavior of two local ladies.
Even with only a smattering of knowledge about the valiant efforts of Washington and von Steuben, this is a must read if the reader desires to obtain an understanding of America's beginning.
Hassled by a powerless and broke congress, penniless colonies, betrayal from subordinate generals, and many Tories in New York and Philadelphia, Washington battles disfavor, the weather, untrained soldiers, and desertion, for the cause of liberty from the tyranny of King George of Great Britain. Such a leader and genuine American does not today exist.
Authors Gingrich and Forstchen delve into the characters and minds of LaFayette, Nathanael Greene, and Mad Anthony Wayne, among other lesser known patriots of the revolution, both men and women. Young Peter Wellesley is an inspiration, as is Daniel Morgan with his sharpshooters.
Another hero emerges in March of 1778 when Baron von Steuben from Germany shows up to offer his expertise in training and reshaping the survivors of Valley Forge into a viable fighting force. His efforts are soon rewarded at the Battle of Monmouth in New Jersey on June 20 where the revamped colonial army tangles with British forces under the leadership of Sir William Clinton.
Intriguing are the actions and thoughts of British loyalist Allen van Dorn and his mentor, the flamboyant British officer John Andre, aided, no less, by the elegance and flirtatious behavior of two local ladies.
Even with only a smattering of knowledge about the valiant efforts of Washington and von Steuben, this is a must read if the reader desires to obtain an understanding of America's beginning.
February 2, 2012
Valley Forge is an account of one of the key periods of the revolutionary war. It chronicles the struggles faced by the Continetial Army as they attempt to survive at Valley Forge during the winter of 1777. These include brutal weather, primitive living conditions, a lack of supplies, and limited support from congress. As winter turns toward spring, conditions slowly start to improve. However, the army is still dispirited and poorly trained. Perhaps the turning point of the story occurs when the German drill Master Fredrick Von Stuben volunteers to travel to Valley Forge and help Washington win the war. Shortly after arriving, he begins to teach basic military techniques to the continetial army. In a very short period of time he helps transform the army into a disciplined and professional group of soldiers.
At the end of the book, Washington decides to attack the British as they retreat from Philadelphia. In this battle, the Americans are able to stand face to face with the British for the first time. Many of Washington’s men are killed in the fighting. However, he also secures a key victory that helps lead the way to American independence.
I enjoyed reading this book, partly because I love historical fiction and have visited Valley Forge. Based on my visit to Valley Forge, I would have to say that the description of the living conditions were very realistic. I also thought that book was well researched, very compelling, and full of vivid detail. I would recommend it to anybody who enjoys historical fiction or history in general.
At the end of the book, Washington decides to attack the British as they retreat from Philadelphia. In this battle, the Americans are able to stand face to face with the British for the first time. Many of Washington’s men are killed in the fighting. However, he also secures a key victory that helps lead the way to American independence.
I enjoyed reading this book, partly because I love historical fiction and have visited Valley Forge. Based on my visit to Valley Forge, I would have to say that the description of the living conditions were very realistic. I also thought that book was well researched, very compelling, and full of vivid detail. I would recommend it to anybody who enjoys historical fiction or history in general.
Read
July 25, 2011Another excellent book from Gingrich and Forschten. The genius of their books is to provide an individual and human context to historical events that we often know about at a very high level and at the level of leaders, dates, and results. This book brings to life the sufferings of the men at Valley Forge, the deep division within Americans between loyalists and revolutionaries, and the toll that the suffering and death took on the generals and officers on both sides of the conflict.
The battle scenes are described in military detail with maps for support, and with tidbits of detailed information such as the proper procedure to maintain a musket and rifle used in those times. Highly recommended for those that want to drill down more on the details of the events that led to the foundation of the United States and the inner lives of people that fought the wars.
The battle scenes are described in military detail with maps for support, and with tidbits of detailed information such as the proper procedure to maintain a musket and rifle used in those times. Highly recommended for those that want to drill down more on the details of the events that led to the foundation of the United States and the inner lives of people that fought the wars.
February 24, 2013
All Americans know about Valley Forge and the overwintering stay of the Continental Army from middle school and high school American History classes. What Gingrich and Forstchen accomplish as historians writing a fictional account is to make this very real. I bet you don't associate Valley Forge with lice, smallpox, starvation, and leg amputations from frostbite. Nor do we associate this situation with political positioning and infighting within the newly constituted congress. These writers bring George Washington the Marquisse de Lafayette, and Baron Von Steuben to life for us as real people with human doubts and frailties, as well as the strength, determination, and courage to succeed in the face of overwhelming adversity. This series about the birth of the United States of America is well written, engaging and I highly recommend it as a "Good Read."
October 22, 2019
So I read this for three reasons. First, I love Revolutionary War fiction and am always looking for something new. Second, I've always wanted to read a novel about Valley Forge. And third, I read "Collusion," a modern day thriller, by Gingrich and was surprised by how good it was. So I had high hopes for Valley Forge. Alas, it disappointed me. There just was any story. Instead of historical fiction, if felt more like slightly juiced up history. Everything was so true to life that the story really didn't take me anywhere I had never gone before in all the nonfiction I've read about Valley Forge. Good historical fiction often needs to take a few liberties with the fiction, and this one just failed to do the job. Nevertheless, I'm guessing I'll give his "To Try Men's Souls" a shot and hopefully will be able to give a better review next time.
January 31, 2011
Great book, inspiring! Once again, Washington has to overcome meddling from Congress and American generals that are either power-hungry, foolish or cowardly. If Gingrich is accurate about what Washington had to overcome, and in how he always managed to have just the right judgment and approach to win over his foes (British and American), then Washington totally deserves his reputation as a hero. Would be interesting to read about the same events written by a historian who is less of a GW fan - it is really hard to believe that GW managed to triumph so many times, over so much adversity.
April 24, 2012
Newt Gingrich has a very easy way with words. This is his seventh novel, and the second in a projected "George Washington series". This is also a sequel to "To Try Men's Souls."
The winter of 1777 was outrageously brutal. Washington's bone-weary Continental Army endured privation, in stark contrast to the luxury of Loyalists in Philadelphia. The will of the Continentals to press on in the face of these contrasts is core to why Valley Forge has become such hallowed ground. Historical figures and invented ones interact, all while retaining historical accuracy. But of course; this IS Newt Gingrich - the former collegiate History Professor.
The winter of 1777 was outrageously brutal. Washington's bone-weary Continental Army endured privation, in stark contrast to the luxury of Loyalists in Philadelphia. The will of the Continentals to press on in the face of these contrasts is core to why Valley Forge has become such hallowed ground. Historical figures and invented ones interact, all while retaining historical accuracy. But of course; this IS Newt Gingrich - the former collegiate History Professor.
March 17, 2013
Yet another winner from Newt Gingrich and William Forstchen. I will steal a sentence from my review of their novel, "To Try Men's Souls." This book, notwithstanding the fictional approach, can really help you understand the almost unbelievable physical, mental, and emotional commitment and perseverence of the colonial "citizen soldier." These authors continue to come together and produce works that actually make what is so often 'dry military history' such that it becomes fun and exciting to read about these important events in American history. Outstanding read.
December 21, 2010
First off, I enjoy historical fiction and non-fiction about the Revolutionary War. I really enjoy Newt Gingrich's fiction writing. His non-fiction/political books I can take or leave, but his fiction is a different story. This book is great. It brings readers into the story of Valley Forge and the story reveals little tidbits of trivia not known about various relationships at the camp.
will-never-read
November 26, 2010I've never understood why Newt Gingrich, supposedly a lobe of the brain trust of the Republican Party, and a college professor, can't write books on his own.
August 10, 2012
Imagine trying to feed and shelter 12,000 men in a frozen, snowy field in 1777... Truly unbelievable how America survived and won the war.
November 20, 2012
Well written, easy to follow. Hard to imagine what soldiers went through.
February 3, 2013
I can't believe I actually read a book that Newt Gingrich coauthored. I just kept telling myself the other guy probably did all the work.
January 9, 2022
Why?
That's the one question that could have been addressed in Valley Forge to save this clunker of a story. Many reviewers here applaud the authors for getting inside the heads of the Continental Army - writing the book with such vivid detail it's as if they were there. Sorry, I don't see it.
The story tells us that they fought for freedom and liberty, but what did that really mean to those men & women suffering through a bitter winter? 5-star reviewers discern the resentment felt by the farmers for the British because of pillaging, yet the story says the Continental Army did the same, and at least the British paid real money rather than IOUs. Many left when their enlistment ran out (we're not told how many, if any, re-upped); were they lesser patriots? What drove one man to stay, but another to leave?
Valley Forge brings no insight to what went on insight the heads of this army. We accept that Washington was a leader of leaders, and a linchpin in the Revolutionary movement, but what about the rank and file that comprises the fighting force? In addition to this, the storytelling is firmly in the style of a daytime drama - ironic, as we're told ad nauseum that the men had no soap.
Valley Forge is at its best when describing the mood of the main players - Gates seeking to undercut Washington; Washington struggling to prevent the army from disbanding while adhering to the principles of the to-be-formed nation;, Lafayette & von Steuben bringing their skills to the table to prop up a leader in need. The Battle at Monmouth is also quite good - new skills put to the test, brought down by a faithless General and later rallied by the faithful, the men in the field realizing the drills they suffered allowed them to stand up to the best army in the world. There are pockets of compelling storytelling...
...unfortunately the good is weighed down by the laziness of the writing in most of the book.
A fascinating period in history let down by an overreliance on cliche, and no desire to tell us why we really emerged from Valley Forge to fight another day.
That's the one question that could have been addressed in Valley Forge to save this clunker of a story. Many reviewers here applaud the authors for getting inside the heads of the Continental Army - writing the book with such vivid detail it's as if they were there. Sorry, I don't see it.
The story tells us that they fought for freedom and liberty, but what did that really mean to those men & women suffering through a bitter winter? 5-star reviewers discern the resentment felt by the farmers for the British because of pillaging, yet the story says the Continental Army did the same, and at least the British paid real money rather than IOUs. Many left when their enlistment ran out (we're not told how many, if any, re-upped); were they lesser patriots? What drove one man to stay, but another to leave?
Valley Forge brings no insight to what went on insight the heads of this army. We accept that Washington was a leader of leaders, and a linchpin in the Revolutionary movement, but what about the rank and file that comprises the fighting force? In addition to this, the storytelling is firmly in the style of a daytime drama - ironic, as we're told ad nauseum that the men had no soap.
Valley Forge is at its best when describing the mood of the main players - Gates seeking to undercut Washington; Washington struggling to prevent the army from disbanding while adhering to the principles of the to-be-formed nation;, Lafayette & von Steuben bringing their skills to the table to prop up a leader in need. The Battle at Monmouth is also quite good - new skills put to the test, brought down by a faithless General and later rallied by the faithful, the men in the field realizing the drills they suffered allowed them to stand up to the best army in the world. There are pockets of compelling storytelling...
...unfortunately the good is weighed down by the laziness of the writing in most of the book.
A fascinating period in history let down by an overreliance on cliche, and no desire to tell us why we really emerged from Valley Forge to fight another day.
June 23, 2025
The book appears to be very well researched, based on other books I have read on the topic (fiction & non-fiction). I really enjoy historical fiction as it helps you get a sense of what it might have been like to experience the circumstances covered by the book.
My wife and I listened to this as an audiobook before visiting historic sites around Valley Forge and Philadelphia. It really brings the historical sites to life to have listened to this novel and then actually walking the ground and seeing the historical structures that are featured in the novel. Again, the story accurately reflected the factual information that we learned when visiting the sites.
I particularly appreciate historical fiction novels about the founding of America. I think it would be very helpful to our national identity and culture if more Americans would read the stories and visit the historic sites involved with the founding of our country. It really helps to appreciate the freedoms that have been purchased for us at such great a cost.
The book was well written and engaging. The audiobook narration was not very good. The narrator struggled to portray the voices in a way that did not detract from the story.
My wife and I listened to this as an audiobook before visiting historic sites around Valley Forge and Philadelphia. It really brings the historical sites to life to have listened to this novel and then actually walking the ground and seeing the historical structures that are featured in the novel. Again, the story accurately reflected the factual information that we learned when visiting the sites.
I particularly appreciate historical fiction novels about the founding of America. I think it would be very helpful to our national identity and culture if more Americans would read the stories and visit the historic sites involved with the founding of our country. It really helps to appreciate the freedoms that have been purchased for us at such great a cost.
The book was well written and engaging. The audiobook narration was not very good. The narrator struggled to portray the voices in a way that did not detract from the story.
September 9, 2025
This book is A historical fiction covering the haunting experience of valley forge during the American revolution. Very creative and what I assume would be very realistic and compelling. Characters you know are brought to life with a story we’ve heard with a compelling narration . This author gives these characters a voice while telling the story.
It’s a cleaver way to present the history and make it more entertaining.
Of the characters, Washington was the best represented, Laffeyette is my favorite, Wayne is a bad ass, and von Stubben as a new name to revere. Then we have the bad guys, Gates and Conway. And finally the politicians Mifflin, Laurens, and Dr Rush.
I won’t tell the story but want to note these very realistic characters.
I went in knowing that Washington stayed here, it was miserable, and we survived. This story really gives a huge upgrade to the story I can tell about this event. Specifically about how Washington was setup to fail, the men who believed in him, and the British who assumed he would fail.
This book did give some goosebumps. It’s written well and tells a. Amazing story.
It’s a cleaver way to present the history and make it more entertaining.
Of the characters, Washington was the best represented, Laffeyette is my favorite, Wayne is a bad ass, and von Stubben as a new name to revere. Then we have the bad guys, Gates and Conway. And finally the politicians Mifflin, Laurens, and Dr Rush.
I won’t tell the story but want to note these very realistic characters.
I went in knowing that Washington stayed here, it was miserable, and we survived. This story really gives a huge upgrade to the story I can tell about this event. Specifically about how Washington was setup to fail, the men who believed in him, and the British who assumed he would fail.
This book did give some goosebumps. It’s written well and tells a. Amazing story.
August 4, 2020
Valley Forge is book 2 in Newt Gingrich's Revolutionary War trilogy. It picks up one year after George Washington's crossing of the Delaware, and the taking of Trenton.
The pride of victory was short lived. Washington has gone on to lose battle after battle. He lost Trenton. Horatio Gates executed political loopholes, and has became a thorn in the General's side. Congress is of no help. Washington's troops have no food. No clothing. No tools. Limited weapons and ammunition.
The troops are undisciplined when compared to the army of Britain, and their German mercenaries. During the wintertime, Washington brings in French soldiers to help train his men. An organized Continental Army is sure to throw General Grey and the Hessian Riflemen off balance.
With Rebel spies in the British camps, Washington finally has a leg up over his opponent.
Marching into battle Washington secures a much needed victory as they get closer to winning the war!
Historical fiction that reads like you are standing right there with Washington himself!
Phillip Tomasso
The pride of victory was short lived. Washington has gone on to lose battle after battle. He lost Trenton. Horatio Gates executed political loopholes, and has became a thorn in the General's side. Congress is of no help. Washington's troops have no food. No clothing. No tools. Limited weapons and ammunition.
The troops are undisciplined when compared to the army of Britain, and their German mercenaries. During the wintertime, Washington brings in French soldiers to help train his men. An organized Continental Army is sure to throw General Grey and the Hessian Riflemen off balance.
With Rebel spies in the British camps, Washington finally has a leg up over his opponent.
Marching into battle Washington secures a much needed victory as they get closer to winning the war!
Historical fiction that reads like you are standing right there with Washington himself!
Phillip Tomasso
May 7, 2017
I am ashamed that I never investigated information about this critical time in America's birth. This beautifully told story embarrassed and shamed me for my negligence. I hope that the REAL heroes (men and women, white and black) receive true heartfelt thanks for what they sacrificed so that we are able to live the lives that we know today. I am going to send copies of this book to my children and grandchildren and pray that they will read it. Thank God for George Washington and his strength of character! A very special thank you to two immigrants... Generals Lafayette and Von Stuben. Their belief in America and the revolution shaped our military!
August 21, 2017
Not as great as To Try Men's Souls because there was no overarching ticking clock and tension, but I loved the characters, the relationships, and the turmoil of Allen van Dorn, brother to Jonathan van Dorn from To Try Men's Souls. Also, the scene with John Andre and Franklin's instrument was totally copied by AMC and put into Turn. A shameless copy, but could also be a nod to this book.
Overall, fantastic story, with explicit details of the Battle of Monmouth, with its 105 degree temperatures and people dropping from heat stroke left and right, on both sides. A great sequel to a great book, and a fantastic novelization of real events.
Overall, fantastic story, with explicit details of the Battle of Monmouth, with its 105 degree temperatures and people dropping from heat stroke left and right, on both sides. A great sequel to a great book, and a fantastic novelization of real events.
December 3, 2019
Riveting retelling of the deprivations and unimaginably harsh conditions faced and overcome by the men who fought the British for our freedom. It's easy to understand why George Washington constantly gave credit to providence for holding the army together despite the lack of support and active hardships thrown up by those who wanted to force Washington out of power. So a solid three stars for illuminating this important chapter in our national history. But the writing leaves something to be desired. We listened to this book on audio during a long trip and believe you could make a good drinking game using the phrase "forced a smile". It has to occur at least 20 times in this book.
May 21, 2020
What I didn't know
Valley forge Put me in the thick of the Revolutionary war.To read how George Washington Single-handedly Moved his men To construct, To forge And come through this devastating winter Because the continental congress let him down..Led by general gates Who was a nothing and I nobody But thought he was the beginning and the end.He wanted total control over our country.But this book is about hardship thousands of men Trying to get through the winter in valley forge And their guts and determination
Valley forge Put me in the thick of the Revolutionary war.To read how George Washington Single-handedly Moved his men To construct, To forge And come through this devastating winter Because the continental congress let him down..Led by general gates Who was a nothing and I nobody But thought he was the beginning and the end.He wanted total control over our country.But this book is about hardship thousands of men Trying to get through the winter in valley forge And their guts and determination
March 17, 2025
Too Repetitive
This book needs better editing. There were so many things mentioned over and over for no reason. I felt it was longer than it needed to be and while there were some great battle scenes, the place where it ended was a bit of a letdown. The second half of the book was all about Von Steuben, so to call this a George Washington series seems like a bit of a stretch.There were a lot of characters mentioned with no follow through so why bring them into the story at all?
This book needs better editing. There were so many things mentioned over and over for no reason. I felt it was longer than it needed to be and while there were some great battle scenes, the place where it ended was a bit of a letdown. The second half of the book was all about Von Steuben, so to call this a George Washington series seems like a bit of a stretch.There were a lot of characters mentioned with no follow through so why bring them into the story at all?
July 26, 2017
An amazing insight into the soldier's personal struggle of enduring Valley Forge. The detail on what they experienced added true flavor to what our ancestors dealt with in order to grant us freedom. As a reenactor for 15 years, I understood more of what they went through. Characters, imagery written well and added a new perspective of how these people of history truly acted. Well done.
February 5, 2021
I know very little of Valley Forge or Baron von Steuben. Thankfully this book taught as well as entertained. The authors did an excellent job of portraying life in 1776 and how brutal it was to be in the army, or even a citizen. The battle's in this book were well written and showed how some can show companion to the other side.
March 1, 2024
Reason read: war room challenge, US war of independence
This was the second book I read about the war of independence and the two books meshed well. I enjoyed listening to this audiobook. The reader did a good job and the story was engaging. This covers the build up of a Patriot troops that could actually win a battle.
This was the second book I read about the war of independence and the two books meshed well. I enjoyed listening to this audiobook. The reader did a good job and the story was engaging. This covers the build up of a Patriot troops that could actually win a battle.
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