Benedict Arnold’s Navy: The Ragtag Fleet That Lost the Battle of Lake Champlain but Won the American Revolution is a book that takes one of America’s greatest traitors and presents as the hero that he was until things turned sour.

In October 1776 the Americans forces had all but fled from Canada while British reinforcements threaten to sweep them from Lake Champlain and right down the Hudson River to Albany. Effectively splitting the colonies in two. The only thing standing in their way was Commodore Benedict Arnold and a rag tag fleet of American ships. As the two fleets sailed the great lake in a game of cat and mouse, Arnold showed a courage and uncanny leadership ability that would make him a star in the Continental Army and the ego and hubris that would come back to haunt him in the years to come.

Author James L. Nelson tells the story of Arnold’s Navy in a deft and efficient manner around the Battle of Valcour Island, in which a small American fleet, led by the Arnold, went toe to toe with the British navy, only to be overwhelmed and destroyed.

Using skills that shone in a dozen novels the Nelson presents a new Benedict Arnold. Not the egotistical traitor but a fearless and talented officer, One of General Washington’s favorites and a who capably led his men to hell and back.

If you really want to see a different side of the Arnold this book shows you a fair and honest look at one of the most pivotal moments in the American Revolution that put him center stage. this book may not change how you view Arnold, but it show you that if nothing else he was  a man of tremendous courage. It is recommended for those that like to dive a little deeper into what they have been told about the man. As always you can click the cover of the book to purchase yourself a copy!