Patriots and Privateers
An American Revolutionary War Novel
John G. McWilliams III
The Revolution was fought on land. But America’s fight for independence also belonged to the sea.
About the Book
Patriots and Privateers is a sweeping historical novel set against the struggle for American independence – a story of courage, faith, family, and the men who carried the Revolution beyond the battlefield and onto the sea. At its heart is Captain Thomas McWilliams, my ancestor and the protagonist of the story, set against the privateering world of the American Revolution.
As rebellion spreads through the colonies, ordinary mariners are called to extraordinary purpose. Armed with privateering commissions and an uncertain future, they risk their ships, fortunes, and lives against the might of the British Empire.
Inspired by the history and spirit of the American Revolution, Patriots and Privateers brings to life a lesser-known front in the fight for liberty, where loyalty is tested, sacrifice carries a price, and the choices of one generation echo through those that follow.
Faith • Family • Community • Courage • Sacrifice • Liberty. ⚓
Available Now
Patriots and Privateers is now available in Kindle and paperback editions through Amazon.
Speaking Engagements & Events
John G. McWilliams III presents author talks, book discussions, historical programs, and community events centered on Patriots and Privateers, American Revolution, privateering, and the enduring importance of family, faith, community, duty, and legacy.
Speaking programs are tailored for historical societies, libraries, museums, veterans organizations, civic groups, schools, book clubs, and other organizations interested in American history and the Revolutionary era.
Upcoming Author Events
October 6, 2026 . 7:00 PM Cascades Library-Loudoun County Public Library . Potomac Falls, Virginia Patriots and Privateers: The Revolutionary Chesapeake . Author Presentation, discussion & Q&A
Saturday, October 10, 2026 | 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Lost Barrel Brewing – The Loft | 36138 Little River Turnpike, Middleburg, VA Author and SMJC Chapter member John G. McWilliams, III will present: Patriots and Privateers: The Forgotten Maritime War for American Independence Special Chapter Meeting hosted by the Sergeant Major John Champe Chapter, Virginia Society SAR
November 10, 2026 . 1:00 PM Frederick County Community Center, Frederick County Maryland . Patriots and Privateers: Stories from the Revolutionary Chesapeake . Author Presentation, discussion & book signing
Spring 2027 . Date TBA . Thomas Balch Library Leesburg, Virginia . Patriots and Privateers: History, Family & Legacy . Author presentation and historical discussion
Now Booking 2026-2027
WHO WILL STAND THE NEXT WATCH?
What the American Revolution Can Still Teach Us About Family, Faith, Community, Leadership & Legacy
John G. McWilliams, III is available for author talks and presentations for historical societies, museums, veterans organizations, libraries, book clubs, civic organizations, heritage groups, and community events.
About the Author
John G. McWilliams III is a U.S. Navy veteran, author, and lifelong student of American history whose work has been shaped by service, family, faith, and community. His professional career has supported national-security, aerospace, technology, and government missions, including work connected with the Department of Defense, NASA, FAA, and the Navy.
Drawing upon family history, faith, maritime heritage, and extensive historical research, McWilliams wrote Patriots and Privateers to illuminate the courage, sacrifice, and convictions of Americans who helped secure independence during the Revolutionary War. At the heart of the novel is an ancestor, Captain Thomas McWilliams, whose story connects one family’s legacy to the larger struggle that created a nation.