The American Revolution wasn’t just fought with muskets—it was carved in courage, loss, and raw determination. In No Small Thing, New York Times bestselling author Harold Coyle delivers a pulse-pounding journey through the heart of a nation being born. From the blood-soaked heights of Breed’s Hill to the icy gamble of Washington’s Christmas crossing, this unforgettable novel plunges readers into the fire and fury of 1776 and beyond. With rich perspectives and powerful storytelling, Coyle reveals the loyalties and spirit that forged America.
As No Small Thing nears its September 23, 2025, release, Coyle shares how his military experience and passion for historical fiction drove him to create authentic characters. He brings the American Revolution to life through the eyes of those who lived it, blending history with the reality of combat and human struggle.
What inspires you as a writer?
In Sir John Hackett's book, The Third World War, he included little vignettes that tell the story of the war from the soldiers’ viewpoints. I found them intriguing and enjoyable. I wanted to know more about them. When assigned to Korea in the mid-80s on an unaccompanied tour, I was told on arrival I would become a fanatic about something. With no desire to spend time messing about with the indigenous population or downing brews at the old club, I started to write. And thus, as they say in England, Bob's your uncle.
How did your own combat experience influence the way you wrote your battle scenes?
My total combat experience is limited to two events. One was undergoing a Scud attack during the Gulf War while out running PT, wearing nothing but gym shorts, a shirt, and a gag bag. The other time I was shot at by a unit of the National Guard while putting up targets for them. Training exercises I participated in were as realistic as the army could make them. My experience and observations of how others behaved during these events allowed me to vicariously place myself in the position and mindset of my characters.
What were some of the challenges in bringing historical settings to life?
The beginning for me was reading and trying to understand von Steuben's regulation for the order and discipline of troops of the United States, also known as the Blue Book. But that wasn’t enough. I took up reenacting. Living as they did, even briefly, goes a long way to appreciating what my characters had to contend with.
Being in the ranks, shoulder to shoulder with other members of your regiment, trying to reload and bring a musket to the ready, brings history to life. In the reenacting community, there is a phenomenon known as the magic moment, an instant when you become so caught up in the sights, the sounds, the smells, and the rush of events that you are no longer in the 21st century. I tried to pass along that magic in my writing.
No Small Thing is now available. This is more than a story about war. It is about conviction, identity, and the cost of freedom. Through the voices of those who lived it, the American Revolution becomes not just history, but a powerful and personal journey. Order your copy today to enter that world, remember the sacrifices, and think about why it still matters.