Sam Rawlins has drawn together firsthand sources to craft an interesting and often emotion filled tome. Although this volume is constructed as a novel the author has taken the known events, witness testimonies, and historical data to put together a realistic understanding of the events which molded much of what we know as Abraham Lincoln. It is true to form and not some wild imagining of the author. Everything may have, and probably really did happen just as Rawlins portrays it in the book.
The central point of the book is Lincoln’s spiritual growth and how those in his life helped develop that pivotal aspect of his life. Rawlins highlights how, although Lincoln never became part of a church, he had a very deep and abiding Spiritual walk. In fact, according to the facts related in the book, this aspect really guided his path and made him the man he became. It is a lesson all of us should take to heart.
SPOILER ALERT: Maybe the most captivating aspect of the book is the emotional turmoil which surrounded Lincoln’s life.
…there are other sections, particularly the key sections related to Ann Rutledge’s death, that brought me to tears. The pain Lincoln endured jumps out at the reader and draws the reader into the very fabric of the story.
The author has done his job well. He brings Abraham Lincoln to life for a new generation to get to know, understand, and admire.
Tom Law (Rated it Five Stars on Amazon and Goodreads)
Condensed from a longer review on Amazon and Goodreads and on his website, TomLaw.org/BookReviews