I haven't read Patriots or One Second After, but have read a similar novel called, 'Lights Out' by halfast on this board. I am NOT a book reader and have never been. I kept hearing people mentioning lights out and read a few exerts that really peaked my interest. Once I saw it was 600 pgs, I said hell no, I can't read that. Well, a few months later I couldn't resist. Read chapter one, and couldn't put it down! I think it's now offered as an audiobook for those interested.
Here's a link to a big thread about it....
LIghts out info
There are lots of other SHTF reads and opinions on these books here...
Survival guides and fiction
Some in that forum don't speak favorably of Patriots saying the tactics are extreme and will get you killed. Other say 'One second After' leaves alot to be desired w/ details of events and inaccuracies of an EMP strike. Like I said though, I haven't read either, yet. I will probably read both and formulate my own opinion.
scroll about half way down
These books all have one simple fact in common though... in that they show you
HOW BAD IT COULD ACTUALLY GET IF THE SHTF. And they aren't talking about shtf for a week or two... it's shtf for mos/ yrs (at least in lights out). Really opened my eyes about prepping.
Anyone seen the show Jericho? I watched all the Jericho episodes while I was reading lights out. They're entertaining and will certainly get you thinking!
Damn it... now I guess I better go buy Patriots and One Second After.