Stuart's Finest Hour: The Ride Around McClellan, June 1862
Utilizing previously unseen primary sources, he has created a deeply researched and smooth-reading narrative that has the sounds of bugles, saber strikes, and thundering hoofs resonating from its pages.Paul Taylor, Civil War News, January 2014Using a wealth of primary sources, some previously unpublished, Fox gives the reader an in-the-saddle account of the ride and its aftermath. One thing I really liked was the excellent photos, which were a blend of period and contemporary, giving the reader an excellent feel for the terrain. The excellent George Skoch maps also help the reader keep track of the raiders progress. Emblematic of some of the excellent books coming out of small presses these days, and well worth a place on your bookshelf.Fred Ray, author of Shock Troops of the Confederacy. Reviewed on TOCWOC A Civil War BlogFox again shines as a skilled narrator who is adept at weaving facts gleaned from broadly accessible primary and secondary sources with more obscure eyewitness reports, letters, telegrams, and such.C.L. Bragg, author of Crescent Moon over Carolina: William Moultrie and American Liberty and Distinction in Every Service: Brigadier General Marcellus A. Stovall, CSA--C.L. Bragg, author of Crescent Moon over Carolina: William Moultrie and American Liberty and Distinction in Every Service: Brigadier General Marcellus A. Stovall, CSAStuart s Finest Hour, with its seven maps and 75 photographs, is a valuable addition to historical literature, yet one which reads almost like a novel.Confederate Veteran magazine, January/February 2014A handful of black-and-white photographs illustrate this heavily researched, vivaciously presented chronicle, which brings Stuart s death-defying tactical raid to life. Highly recommended, especially for public and college library Civil War shelves.Midwest Book Review, Library Bookwatch, January 2014John Fox's Stuart's Finest Hour on many levels meets or exceeds the expectations of a demanding readership. Those familiar with Fox's earlier works, will recognize the same level of sound research and serious historical narrative presented in a spirited manner. All aspects of the planning and execution of the raid, as well as the Union response, are meticulously detailed in the text. Stuart's Finest Hour is highly recommended reading for students of the 1862 Peninsula Campaign, the command exploits of JEB Stuart, and Civil War cavalry operations in general.Andrew Wagenhoffer, Civil War Books and Authors Blog--Andrew Wagenhoffer, Civil War Books and Authors BlogI finished your book and loved it! Light, humorous, detailed and so informative. Can t wait to drive the route some day!Bob Price, Atlanta-based Civil War photographerJust finished the book - it's a great thumping read - an exciting story very well told - my compliments! You've really outdone yourself on this one, and I predict great success.Marc Ramsey, owner of Owens & Ramsey Historical Booksellers, Richmond, Va.--Marc Ramsey, owner of Owens & Ramsey Historical Booksellers, Richmond, VA