I’ve read many of Jeff’s books and enjoyed them all but somehow I missed this one along the way, only his third published book. Now that I think about it, I suppose that is analogous to the subject of the book itself. The Mexican-American War, taking place 13 years prior to the Civil War, is often an overlooked war, remembered most often as a sort of training ground for many of the future military leaders of the Civil War.
I certainly learned a lot from reading this book. I knew some of the basics but to witness first hand the major events of the war through the eyes of key participants was both fun and educational. Turns out it was much more than just a training ground, with all the complex political and military conundrums that plague most wars. The actual results and the what-might-have-been’s are indeed profound, with major impacts on both countries.
Most of the novel is told from the perspectives of two individuals: 1) Winfield Scott, the overall commanding general who probably never received as much credit as he deserves, and 2) the 40-year-old Captain Robert E. Lee, the engineer who would win numerous accolades for his brilliant and workmanlike performance. Others also get a chapter perspective, especially during the culminating battle for Mexico City, including US Grant, Lt Jackson (eventually to be dubbed “Stonewall” Jackson), Lt Longstreet, Lt Pickett, as well as General Worth. In addition, many others whose names would become famous in the Civil War are present as well. Interestingly, there are also several chapters from the perspective of Mexican General Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, a man who was truly an incredible larger-than-life historical character.
I love reading these sorts of historical novels where I can enjoy the story as well as learn from a trusted source. Looking froward to my next Jeff Shaara book.