Winston Groom has researched and written an incredibly entertaining and informative book about a key battle in the War of 1812.I never knew just how tenuous the very existence of the American fraternity of states was at the turn of the 19th Century until I picked Patriotic Fire.Truly, God puts the right men (and women) in the right place at the right points in history... as it was with Andrew Jackson, and a most unlikely ally: pirate Jean Laffite.Together, they defend the "indefensible" city of New Orleans against the greatest superpower the world had ever known.Fascinating. Riveting. Simply inspiring in this age of "can't do," this book will stir feelings of fire and pride in the most recalcitrant soul.Buy this book. It's *that* good.