"This Astounding Close: The Road to Bennett Place" by Mark L. Bradley is an incredibly well-researched and captivating account of the final days of the American Civil War. Bradley's meticulous attention to detail and skillful storytelling take readers on a turbulent journey, leading up to General Robert E. Lee's surrender to General Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House.
One of the remarkable aspects of this book is Bradley's ability to weave together multiple perspectives. Through the voices of soldiers, political leaders, and civilians affected by the war, readers gain a comprehensive understanding of the events. The extensive use of primary sources allows for an intimate glimpse into the decision-making processes and behind-the-scenes aspects of both military and political operations.
A particular strength of Bradley's work is his exploration of the emotional impact of the war on individuals. By delving into the personal struggles and sacrifices made by soldiers and civilians alike, he humanizes the historical events. This approach not only engages readers on an emotional level but also makes the stories relatable and relevant.
Available on Audible
Additionally, Bradley's writing style is easy to follow, making the book accessible to both avid history enthusiasts and casual readers. He presents complex information in a clear and organized manner, ensuring that readers can fully grasp the significance of each event.
In conclusion, "This Astounding Close: The Road to Bennett Place" is a highly recommended book for anyone interested in the American Civil War. Mark L. Bradley's meticulous research, compelling storytelling, and attention to detail make this book stand out in the field of Civil War literature. It offers a comprehensive and human perspective on the final days of the war, leaving a lasting impact on its readers.
What are readers saying?
The reception to Mark L. Bradley's novel, "This Astounding Close," has been a mixed bag. The book delves into the life of Lily, a young woman who finds herself caught in a complicated romantic entanglement with two men, ultimately leading to unforeseen consequences.
Some readers found the book to be highly engaging and praised Bradley's skill as a storyteller. They were particularly drawn to the complex characters and found Lily's journey to be captivating. These readers believed that the author effectively captured the characters' emotions and conflicts, resulting in a thought-provoking reading experience.
However, there were others who felt that "This Astounding Close" lacked certain qualities. These readers found the plot to be slow-paced and underdeveloped, leaving them craving more depth and substance. Additionally, they struggled to connect with the characters, as they felt that they were not fully realized or relatable.
Some reviewers also criticized the writing style employed by Bradley, describing it as excessively descriptive and long-winded. These readers believed that certain sections of the book were unnecessarily lengthy, resulting in a loss of pace. They desired a more concise and streamlined narrative.
Despite these mixed reviews, many readers commended Bradley for his exploration of complex themes within the book. "This Astounding Close" delves into topics such as relationships, identity, and the consequences of one's actions, leaving readers with much to contemplate. Some readers found this examination of themes to be thought-provoking and appreciated the added depth it brought to the story.
ThisAstoundingCloseBook SciFiLiterature BookLovers