The Fate of the Day: The War for America, Fort Ticonderoga to Charleston, 1777–1780

The second volume (following The British Are Coming) in the landmark American Revolution trilogy by Pulitzer Prize–winning and bestselling author Atkinson offers a sweeping and meticulously detailed account of the Revolutionary War’s first 21 months, from 1777 to 1780, which began at Lexington and ended at Princeton. Atkinson chronicles pivotal battles and the political dynamics that shaped the conflict. The literary quality is exceptional, blending vivid storytelling with rigorous historical analysis. One of Atkinson’s strengths is his ability to interweave personal narratives of key figures like Lafayette and Franklin with broader military strategies, providing a fresh perspective on well-trodden history. His book boasts two 16-page color inserts of illustrations, and the nearly two dozen maps offer readers visual clarity on battlefield movements and geographical context. The book’s organization is impressive, with a logical structure that guides readers through the chronology of events while maintaining engagement. Atkinson’s subject matter is deeply valuable to his intended audience, history enthusiasts, as he underscores the interconnectedness of war and politics by focusing on military campaigns and diplomatic maneuvers.