Plot Summary

Valiant Ambition

Nathaniel Philbrick
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Valiant Ambition

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 2016

Book Brief

Nathaniel Philbrick

Valiant Ambition

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 2016
Book Details
Pages

448

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Setting

United States • 18th Century

Publication Year

2016

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Published in 2016, Nathaniel Philbrick’s Valiant Ambition: George Washington, Benedict Arnold, and the Fate of the American Revolution traces the history of the relationship between George Washington and the treasonous general Benedict Arnold, focusing on Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey from 1776-1780, exploring how Arnold's betrayal might have inadvertently helped to unite and save the young nation.

Informative

Mysterious

Melancholic

Suspenseful

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.3

11,271 ratings

83%

Loved it

14%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Nathaniel Philbrick’s Valiant Ambition receives praise for its compelling narrative and meticulous research on the American Revolutionary War, offering fresh perspectives on complex historical figures. Some critics, however, find the pacing uneven and argue that the dense details may overwhelm casual readers. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking read for history enthusiasts.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Valiant Ambition?

A reader who savors immersive historical narratives would delight in Nathaniel Philbrick’s Valiant Ambition. Fans of David McCullough’s 1776 and Ron Chernow’s Washington: A Life would appreciate its nuanced exploration of the American Revolution’s lesser-known facets and complex characters. Ideal for history buffs who relish in-depth, dramatic storytelling.

4.3

11,271 ratings

83%

Loved it

14%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

448

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Setting

United States • 18th Century

Publication Year

2016

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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