The Patriot [Mass Market Paperback]

My American roots have often dictated my taking a strong personal interest in the USA; it can likely be perceived, therefore, that I was truly delighted to notice the release of a new blockbuster movie entitled, "The Patriot". And whilst I am unable, as yet, to comment on the movie, I am thrilled to report that the book has proved to be everything I hoped it would, and more besides. Stephen Molstad has already written film adaptations of cinema successes. I must confess, however, that this was the first time I had read any of his work. "The Patriot" takes up its backdrop in the Carolinas, as the American Colonies approach the prospect of war with England. The eventual hero of the play's title, Benjamin Martin, has already fought in the French and Indian War of past years. The reader is soon gripped, however, as the battle for independence springs alive, ripping through homes and families all across the New World. At first unwilling to fight, Martin is eventually forced to confront the demons of his past in order to gain back the justice his children deserve. Imminent tragedy, however, fuels Martin's desperate need for revenge, and the reader is compelled to discover whether true freedom can ever be found... As the thread is gradually unwound, the author reveals a whole array of truly magnificent characters whose contrasts and depth serve only to enhance the reader's enjoyment no end. Tavington, a murderous military villain, is a creation that colours the storyline with great success, despite the hatefulness of the character. The fact that the reader yearns for this man's savagery to be put right is truly unique in pushing us to read on. A most touching relationship, meanwhile, develops between Benjamin Martin and a French colonel named Jean Villeneuve, which adds to the plot in an equally pleasing manner. The author's adept descriptive work, not only regarding characters and physical surroundings, but also, perhaps to even more avail, the emotions which transpire from the novel's many twists and proceedings, allows us to visualise in astonishing clarity all that is related. Indeed, the novel is one that sees an enormous amount of action, inevitably so, one might conclude, considering the significance of the outcome. Molstad's ingenuity, however, lies in the way he embosses upon this, a nation's well-loved history, the private story of one family. Reading the work, I felt engulfed by the marvellous array of emotions presented to the reader as the plot is developed. As we witness Martin's love and heavy pain provoke his driving need for revenge, we see him turn around a war that has, in essence, cost him everything he once lived for. Above all, the biting sense of history that prevails throughout the work gives the storyline the "edge" that simply makes it an instant success. As a tale in itself, Martin's story would make "The Patriot" very rewarding. But as the reader comes to realise the significance of the story and we witness the birth of a wonderful new nation, it becomes a true masterpiece. Precisely the type of book, I might add, that should make one proud to be considered an American.