In J.T. Murphy's Malice Toward Some: The Road to Gettysburg, Volume 1, the course of the American Civil War dramatically shifts. Stonewall Jackson's survival at Chancellorsville sets the stage for a Confederate invasion unlike any other, led by a seemingly unstoppable Lee and Jackson. Facing this threat, a weakened Lincoln appoints the ailing John Reynolds to lead the demoralized Army of the Potomac. Reynolds's challenge is immense, compounded by the Confederate juggernaut and the crucial role of Captain Jacob Stalkingwolf's company of Iroquois warriors. This meticulously researched alternate history explores pivotal "what ifs," weaving together the bravery and sacrifice of soldiers and civilians, offering a gripping and unexpected vision of a nation teetering on the brink.
Review MALICE TOWARD SOME
"Malice Toward Some: The Road to Gettysburg," Volume 1, completely captivated me. It's a masterful "what if" story that takes the familiar landscape of the American Civil War and subtly, yet dramatically, alters its course. The premise—a surviving Stonewall Jackson leading the Confederate charge alongside a newly appointed, and highly capable, General Reynolds commanding the Union army—immediately hooked me. Murphy's skill lies not just in presenting this alternate reality, but in making it feel incredibly plausible. The meticulous research shines through; the details, from troop movements to weaponry (I especially appreciated the realistic portrayal of the Berdan Sharpshooters!), are woven into the narrative seamlessly. This isn't just a fantastical reimagining; it's a thoughtful exploration of how even small changes can ripple outwards to create drastically different outcomes.
The characters are richly developed, and I found myself invested in their fates. Reynolds, burdened with the weight of command and the failures of his predecessors, is a compelling figure, struggling to unify a demoralized army. The inclusion of Captain Stalkingwolf and Company B, composed entirely of Iroquois warriors, adds another fascinating layer to the narrative, offering a perspective often overlooked in traditional Civil War accounts. Their presence isn’t simply tokenistic; their skills and strategies become integral to the unfolding conflict, highlighting the diverse contributions to the war effort. The author does an exceptional job in portraying the human cost of war, illustrating the bravery, sacrifice, and sheer grit displayed by soldiers on both sides, regardless of their allegiance.
While the battles are exciting and vividly described—the author doesn't shy away from the brutal realities of combat—the narrative also delves into the strategic intricacies of the war. The decisions made by both Union and Confederate leaders feel grounded in the historical context, even as the overall trajectory diverges from our known history. There's a satisfying level of tension throughout, as the reader anxiously anticipates the next clash and the ultimate outcome of this dramatically altered campaign. The author masterfully balances the large-scale strategic maneuvers with intimate portrayals of individual soldiers' experiences, creating a truly immersive reading experience.
The inclusion of elements like the economic and technological aspects of the conflict adds depth and further reinforces the realistic feel of this alternate history. It’s a story that not only entertains but also educates, prompting reflection on the critical choices made during the Civil War and the potential consequences of those choices. It's a book that effortlessly blends historical accuracy with imaginative storytelling, resulting in a truly compelling and rewarding read. I eagerly await the next volume to see how this fascinating alternative history unfolds. This is more than just a "what if" scenario; it's a gripping, well-researched, and expertly crafted novel that deserves a wide audience.
Information
- Dimensions: 6 x 1.75 x 9 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 698
- Publication date: 2024
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