TEXAS RISING The Epic History of the Lone Star Republic and the Rise of the Texas Rangers, 1836-1846

P.J. Ochlan provides an urbane voice for this account of the 1836 Texas Revolution. His neutral, all-American pronunciation, as opposed to a Texas drawl, is suitable for the author’s assertion that the Texas Revolution is a key component of U.S. history rather than a mere Texas tale. As Ochlan describes the brave Texan defenders of the Alamo, he provides subtle color for Travis and Bowie, while lending a hint of fanaticism to the outlandish Mexican president Santa Anna. As the Battle of San Jacinto paves the way for the independent Republic of Texas, Sam Houston is portrayed as both a hero and a swashbuckling opportunist. Ochlan delivers this narrative with reverence for the author’s vivid historical details and vibrant real-life characters. N.M.C. 2016 Audies Finalist © AudioFile 2015, Portland, Maine [Published: JULY 2015]