I thought this was an exceptionally well written book. Stackpole writes from an Army level strategy point of view, and the tactical info is related in a general way. He speaks very highly of Robert E Lee, and comments on his understanding of the character and inclinations of the opposing Union generals. He frames the book in terms of established war fighting principles like unity of command. It is clear that Stackpole is very familiar with military tactics, as he himself was a Lt General and veteran of both WW1 and WW2. I think I prefer his style to that of the more popular Civil War writers. I can’t believe his books are not more popular, and overall are very difficult to find. My only complaint is that the many maps in the book are hard to read. Some are topographical maps that also contain troop positions. Others are small in scale and make it difficult to get perspective on the overall campaign and battlefield. He sometimes describes broad movements and gives very localized maps.

The section on the battle of Antietam is epecially good. The author is brutally clear in his professional opinion of the strengths and weaknesses of the Union commanders. He is particularly dissatisfied w the conduct of Gen McClellan, and gives clear examples of how he thinks the battle was mishandled. Stackpole is very knowledgeable, and does not suffer fools. ( )