A strong insight into one of the great US leaders of the 19th century
The book is extremely well written. It provides both military aspects of Hancock’s youth, time at West Point and as a young military officer as well as personal insights with family and friends. Mr. Kelly does an excellent job of providing insights into the person of Hancock. I was not familiar with the Mexican War and the book gave a good background. WELL DONE!!
by Jim S.
Accuracy and awareness of author Absolutely, good read. The author made the reader aware of the time, the characters, as well as the historic times. I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in American history and heroes.
by Thomas D.
Enjoyed reading this novel by James Kelly
Superbly written period thriller. Wonderful story of extraordinary American history, personal circumstance and military events. Looking forward to reading volume two.
by Patricia B
"Soldier “First and Always " Excellent book for all interested in Civil War history and the amazingly interesting people involved in the conflict. Hancock’s life is exquisitely documented.
by Kevin K.
Unknown insights revealed Interesting insights and easy to read. A must read for all historical enthusiasts.
by Judy S
Intense Moments Make Great Men “I AM A SOLDIER, FIRST, AND ALWAYS” THE DISTINGUISHED CAREER OF WINFIELD SCOTT HANCOCK: TURNING POINT by James Kelly is a well written book about the career of General Winfield Hancock. This is the second of two books covering the War in Pennsylvania, the overland battles, and the war with the Plains Indians. If the reader loves history and specifically the Civil War, there is much to love about his book. General Hancock distinguished himself not only at Gettysburg, which was a true turning point in his career, but also in the campaign overland. This would land him assignments in the war against the Plains Indians and then an assignment to help with Reconstruction in the south. His popularity was such that the Democrats ran him for President which he barely lost to President Garfield.
by Randy Hilton
Great piece of work Hancock's times come alive, the background and the details are balanced. The characters are well portrayed and the action is accurate, while Hancock's story has depth and shows the man and his perspective so well. In this setting, a chapter of American history is made quite real to the readers, sweeping them along with the journey through America's most trying time. Friend against friend, family against family, blood at a fast pace. Hancock's role has never been so explicitly illustrated, and his love of country still stands tall.
by Catherine Bond
James Harold Kelly's "These Sacred Lands" is a stunning and evocative exploration of the American Southwest and its indigenous cultures. Drawing on his own experiences, as well as extensive research and interviews with tribal leaders and members, Kelly provides a comprehensive look at the history, geography, and spiritual significance of the region.
One of the strengths of "These Sacred Lands" is Kelly's ability to capture the natural beauty of the Southwest. His descriptions of the landscape are vivid and poetic, conveying the majesty and power of the region's red rock formations, mesas, and canyons. He also writes eloquently about the flora and fauna of the Southwest, from the cacti and wildflowers that bloom in the desert to the eagles and coyotes that call the region home. Through his writing, Kelly creates a powerful connection between the reader and the environment, inviting us to see the Southwest as a sacred and vital part of the world.
Kelly's book is a tribute to these cultures, and he writes with deep respect and admiration for their traditions and values. He explores the complex relationships between these cultures and the dominant American society, tracing the history of colonization and the ongoing struggles of indigenous communities to protect their land, language, and heritage.
"These Sacred Lands" is a beautifully written and deeply insightful exploration of the American Southwest and its indigenous cultures. It is a book that will leave a lasting impression on its readers, inviting them to see the world in a new and more profound way. Whether you are interested in history, spirituality, or environmentalism, this book has something to offer, and it is sure to inspire and enlighten anyone who reads it. James Harold Kelly has created a true masterpiece, one that will stand the test of time and continue to captivate readers for years to come. I give it 5 out of 5 - amazing; one of the best books ever.
One of the strengths of "These Sacred Lands" is Kelly's ability to capture the natural beauty of the Southwest. His descriptions of the landscape are vivid and poetic, conveying the majesty and power of the region's red rock formations, mesas, and canyons. He also writes eloquently about the flora and fauna of the Southwest, from the cacti and wildflowers that bloom in the desert to the eagles and coyotes that call the region home. Through his writing, Kelly creates a powerful connection between the reader and the environment, inviting us to see the Southwest as a sacred and vital part of the world.
Kelly's book is a tribute to these cultures, and he writes with deep respect and admiration for their traditions and values. He explores the complex relationships between these cultures and the dominant American society, tracing the history of colonization and the ongoing struggles of indigenous communities to protect their land, language, and heritage.
"These Sacred Lands" is a beautifully written and deeply insightful exploration of the American Southwest and its indigenous cultures. It is a book that will leave a lasting impression on its readers, inviting them to see the world in a new and more profound way. Whether you are interested in history, spirituality, or environmentalism, this book has something to offer, and it is sure to inspire and enlighten anyone who reads it. James Harold Kelly has created a true masterpiece, one that will stand the test of time and continue to captivate readers for years to come. I give it 5 out of 5 - amazing; one of the best books ever.
by Abdelmounim Ed-Damnati
Mr. Kelly has presented a very easily read novel, containing extensive description of the day-to-day activities of Individuals in both cultures while weaving those aspects into the historical facts of the Indian Wars. When recounting the actual movements of opposing military forces, the addition of maps and diagrams is most appreciated. Mr.Kelly has provided many such detailed maps.
by James Adie
When it comes to how the history of colonization is told from a predominantly Western perspective, as a young South African, I am accustomed to the African proverb, "until the lion learns how to write, every story will glorify the hunter." Kelly, however, successfully captures the native Indian identity, their values, and their agency. Their beauty and pride in who they are is not sacrificed in the story to justify imperialism. The resistance, war tactics, and victories of both sides are fairly documented to produce a well-written, well-researched and classic novel which should be prescribed in schools and lectures on Native American history and the importance of land to indigenous people.
When it comes to how the history of colonization is told from a predominantly Western perspective, as a young South African, I am accustomed to the African proverb, "until the lion learns how to write, every story will glorify the hunter." Kelly, however, successfully captures the native Indian identity, their values, and their agency. Their beauty and pride in who they are is not sacrificed in the story to justify imperialism. The resistance, war tactics, and victories of both sides are fairly documented to produce a well-written, well-researched and classic novel which should be prescribed in schools and lectures on Native American history and the importance of land to indigenous people.
When it comes to how the history of colonization is told from a predominantly Western perspective, as a young South African, I am accustomed to the African proverb, "until the lion learns how to write, every story will glorify the hunter." Kelly, however, successfully captures the native Indian identity, their values, and their agency. Their beauty and pride in who they are is not sacrificed in the story to justify imperialism. The resistance, war tactics, and victories of both sides are fairly documented to produce a well-written, well-researched and classic novel which should be prescribed in schools and lectures on Native American history and the importance of land to indigenous people.
by Sinoxolo Qeqe
This book was fantastic! The author managed to take both the American and Native American cultures and draw you into their worlds. The two young men who were from different worlds and lives, had a fantastic story of friendship, hardship and culture. The family dynamics in both cultures were fascinating and informative. Many of the battles were never discussed in modern school times so this book was also very informative as well. Kudos to the author for a fantastic novel!
I can not find any fault that this book has. Well written, Everything flowed in chronological order, all in all it was a great read. I am rating this 4 out of because it really got my attention and I could not put it down and 5 out of 5 because it was fantastically written and really captures your imagination!
I can not find any fault that this book has. Well written, Everything flowed in chronological order, all in all it was a great read. I am rating this 4 out of because it really got my attention and I could not put it down and 5 out of 5 because it was fantastically written and really captures your imagination!
by KATHYmn
What is impressive about this book is the way it expressed the agitation of the Indians. The dilemma of choosing between their way of life or embracing another way to let peace reign. Though this is a war story, it centers on the characters; their day-to-day experiences, and their perspective sentiments towards the war. Readers will enjoy the incessant diversions from violence.
The characters are well-developed. The attention to detail is captivating. I love the author's writing style, the simplicity, diction, and the imagery evoked. The book is professionally edited. Apart from some repetition of some points, for example, how the soldiers love training Joshua, their commander's first son, there is nothing to detest about These Sacred Lands. The book is worthy of a rating of 5 out of 5 stars, for it expresses the motive behind the war without being biased. For lovers of war stories and historical fiction, this book is enticing.
The characters are well-developed. The attention to detail is captivating. I love the author's writing style, the simplicity, diction, and the imagery evoked. The book is professionally edited. Apart from some repetition of some points, for example, how the soldiers love training Joshua, their commander's first son, there is nothing to detest about These Sacred Lands. The book is worthy of a rating of 5 out of 5 stars, for it expresses the motive behind the war without being biased. For lovers of war stories and historical fiction, this book is enticing.
by Adeoye Toheeb
"These Sacred Lands by James Harold Kelly is a historical fiction about the Great Sioux War, a series of battles over vast land territories, between two peoples of different languages, cultures and lifestyles: the Lakota (Sioux) people, led by war chiefs and native to the land, are nomads, hunters and warriors by nature; and the Americans, led by the Army, who are on a conquest, dubbed 'Manifest Destiny', to expand their territory.
The novel is simply a great work of art. Harold's attention to detail and vivid descriptions is top-notch, painting a clear picture inside the reader's mind that places reader at the battle scenes as if witnessing first hand. It keeps one glued to the narrative, following closely, anxious to see what happens next. His neutrality is also noteworthy, as he doesn't lean towards one side more than the other. He balances appropriately between the 2 sides, giving equal attention to the lives of the two major characters Joshua and Hawk. He does a superb job of drawing parallels between the 2 youngsters' individual journeys encompassing their relationships with elders and family, their 'careers', and their transformation from boys to men, each corresponding to their people's ways and standards.
The character introduction and development for both major and minor characters is spot on. The pace of the plot development is steady, neither too fast nor too slow. The author also creates a healthy air of balance, breaking what would otherwise be the monotony of war by touching on the family lives of the two sides, away from the battlefields. Like a qualified physician, Harold prescribes just the right dosage of romance, never overdoing it. This prevents the story from becoming boring. I loved the humor when Captain Jedidiah 'freezes' his hand in order to use it in waking young Joshua up before embarking on one of his routine patrols with his cavalry. I found this historical account highly educative as it teaches about coexistence and tolerance between people of diverse culture, lifestyle and divergent views. I highly recommend this book to fans of historical and action/war thrillers.
The novel is simply a great work of art. Harold's attention to detail and vivid descriptions is top-notch, painting a clear picture inside the reader's mind that places reader at the battle scenes as if witnessing first hand. It keeps one glued to the narrative, following closely, anxious to see what happens next. His neutrality is also noteworthy, as he doesn't lean towards one side more than the other. He balances appropriately between the 2 sides, giving equal attention to the lives of the two major characters Joshua and Hawk. He does a superb job of drawing parallels between the 2 youngsters' individual journeys encompassing their relationships with elders and family, their 'careers', and their transformation from boys to men, each corresponding to their people's ways and standards.
The character introduction and development for both major and minor characters is spot on. The pace of the plot development is steady, neither too fast nor too slow. The author also creates a healthy air of balance, breaking what would otherwise be the monotony of war by touching on the family lives of the two sides, away from the battlefields. Like a qualified physician, Harold prescribes just the right dosage of romance, never overdoing it. This prevents the story from becoming boring. I loved the humor when Captain Jedidiah 'freezes' his hand in order to use it in waking young Joshua up before embarking on one of his routine patrols with his cavalry. I found this historical account highly educative as it teaches about coexistence and tolerance between people of diverse culture, lifestyle and divergent views. I highly recommend this book to fans of historical and action/war thrillers.
by It was ALL written though
I would honestly buy this book myself, I also feel like it could have potential for a future film. I really did enjoy the read and it was hard for me to stop, I did read for long periods of time and not many books I give my full attention to. I am very happy that I got to read it and i do hope it grows well in the future. The book was very descriptive and down to detail with the building up to events and how they all played out.
by Sam Aitken
"I Am a Soldier, First and Always" offers readers a captivating glimpse into the life and career of one of America's most esteemed military figures, Winfield Scott Hancock. Authored with meticulous research and a deep appreciation for history, this biography pays tribute to a man whose dedication to duty and honor left an indelible mark on the nation.
The book skillfully navigates through the life of Winfield Scott Hancock, from his early days as a young cadet at West Point to his distinguished service during the American Civil War and beyond. The author's attention to detail is commendable, as they meticulously reconstruct the historical context in which Hancock lived and the challenges he faced.
Furthermore, the author's writing style is engaging and accessible, making it suitable for both history enthusiasts and general readers. The narrative flows smoothly, and the incorporation of primary sources and anecdotes from Hancock's contemporaries adds authenticity to the storytelling. "I Am a Soldier, First and Always" is a fitting tribute to a remarkable military figure in American history. Winfield Scott Hancock's unwavering dedication to his country and his legacy as a soldier of honor are vividly brought to life in this biography. While it may require some patience due to its level of detail, it offers a compelling and informative exploration of a man whose contributions to the nation should not be forgotten. If you have an interest in the Civil War era and the lives of influential military leaders, this book is a worthy addition to your reading list.
The book skillfully navigates through the life of Winfield Scott Hancock, from his early days as a young cadet at West Point to his distinguished service during the American Civil War and beyond. The author's attention to detail is commendable, as they meticulously reconstruct the historical context in which Hancock lived and the challenges he faced.
Furthermore, the author's writing style is engaging and accessible, making it suitable for both history enthusiasts and general readers. The narrative flows smoothly, and the incorporation of primary sources and anecdotes from Hancock's contemporaries adds authenticity to the storytelling. "I Am a Soldier, First and Always" is a fitting tribute to a remarkable military figure in American history. Winfield Scott Hancock's unwavering dedication to his country and his legacy as a soldier of honor are vividly brought to life in this biography. While it may require some patience due to its level of detail, it offers a compelling and informative exploration of a man whose contributions to the nation should not be forgotten. If you have an interest in the Civil War era and the lives of influential military leaders, this book is a worthy addition to your reading list.
by Ezzeldin Abozied
"I Am a Soldier, First and Always": The Distinguished Career of Winfield Scott Hancock by James Harold Kelly is a gripping historical fiction military story featuring the life and career of Lieutenant General Winfield Scott Hancock. From the first page, I knew this was going to be an action-packed story, and I was not let down at all! Filled with battle scenes and military tactics, this book was gripping.
The writing created scenes that were so real, I could visualize them. I was extremely impressed with the author's ability to create these pictures with his words. The author, James Harold Kelly, is a student of military history, and his knowledge showed in his impressive writing.
I rated "I Am a Soldier, First and Always": The Distinguished Career of Winfield Scott Hancock by James Harold Kelly a four out of four stars because it is well-written and creates a gripping tale for the reader. I found this book to be well-edited and did not see any grammatical errors.
The writing created scenes that were so real, I could visualize them. I was extremely impressed with the author's ability to create these pictures with his words. The author, James Harold Kelly, is a student of military history, and his knowledge showed in his impressive writing.
I rated "I Am a Soldier, First and Always": The Distinguished Career of Winfield Scott Hancock by James Harold Kelly a four out of four stars because it is well-written and creates a gripping tale for the reader. I found this book to be well-edited and did not see any grammatical errors.
by shejustlovesbooks
"I am a Soldier, First and Always": The Distinguished Career of Winfield Scott Hancock by James Harold Kelly is an impassioned portrait of the logistics and emotions of war. Centered on a respected general and his pathway through the Civil War, the book highlights the perspectives of opposing armies as they navigate these historical events. Both the wonders and horrors of war are captured among the despair, death, and hope rendered by Kelly.
It is difficult to pinpoint what I like most about the book. Kelly's extensive academic research supports a profoundly realistic tone. He writes a richness within the characters that rounds out the full context of the story. Every soldier reflects the mindset of the time. The steady presence of the general's thoughts and prayers for his wife and children back home is where I find my strongest personal connection to the book as a whole. The most powerful moment for me is a particularly poetically illustrated death in battle.
I did not dislike anything about this book. The demonstration of the depth of the characters engages the reader in each event. It cannot be emphasized enough how thorough the consideration of historical elements is throughout the writing. Kelly's voice is brilliant and articulate as he manages to capture an impressively wide scope of the time period and its occupants.
It is difficult to pinpoint what I like most about the book. Kelly's extensive academic research supports a profoundly realistic tone. He writes a richness within the characters that rounds out the full context of the story. Every soldier reflects the mindset of the time. The steady presence of the general's thoughts and prayers for his wife and children back home is where I find my strongest personal connection to the book as a whole. The most powerful moment for me is a particularly poetically illustrated death in battle.
I did not dislike anything about this book. The demonstration of the depth of the characters engages the reader in each event. It cannot be emphasized enough how thorough the consideration of historical elements is throughout the writing. Kelly's voice is brilliant and articulate as he manages to capture an impressively wide scope of the time period and its occupants.
by Dissettedanielle
I am a Soldier, First and Always; The Distinguished Career of Winfield Scott Hancock, Vol. II, Turning Point by James Harold Kelly follows the major events in General Hancock's career from the battles at Gettysburg to his final promotion to Lieutenant General on his deathbed. Hancock oversaw the execution of Mary Stuart and other conspirators after President Lincoln's assassination. He was placed in command of the Department of Missouri for a time and later sent to New Orleans to govern the Reconstruction. He served in the Department of Dakota where he contributed to the creation of Yellowstone National Park. He ran for President against Garfield. His career ended in New York on Governors Island. He lost his grandson, daughter, son, and faithful aide, William Mackenzie, to the fever along the way and succumbed to complications of diabetes in 1886.
I give this book a 4 out of 4 stars though I found several errors near the end. They are minor; a missing word here, a wrong letter there. Some transitions between place and time were abrupt, though I understood when and where we had moved. I don't think they are worth removing a whole star. Kelly did an extensive amount of research and presented it in an engaging format. I expected a list of dates and accomplishments. What I found was an understanding of how warriors and soldiers thought, of how strategies were planned on the run, and how the toll of endless battles shaped the men involved. He made the people come alive through their manners, actions, and failings.
I give this book a 4 out of 4 stars though I found several errors near the end. They are minor; a missing word here, a wrong letter there. Some transitions between place and time were abrupt, though I understood when and where we had moved. I don't think they are worth removing a whole star. Kelly did an extensive amount of research and presented it in an engaging format. I expected a list of dates and accomplishments. What I found was an understanding of how warriors and soldiers thought, of how strategies were planned on the run, and how the toll of endless battles shaped the men involved. He made the people come alive through their manners, actions, and failings.
by Tam Rose
"I am a Soldier, First and Always," The Distinguished Career of Winfield Scott Hancock, Volume II: Turning Point, is a story about the title-mentioned Winfield Scott Hancock. In this volume of the novel, readers follow the distinguished soldier through the battle of Gettysburg to, his dealings with the Native Americans in the Midwest, and, finally, his career in politics. Each turn offers new insight into the depth of character of the esteemed soldier and patriot of the young United States of America.
I really enjoyed the narrative of this book. The way the author presented the storyline impressed me. James Kelly iterated the details of battle as though you and he were soldiers experiencing all that raged around you. I also appreciated the perspectives of both armies given in the book. The back and forth made it feel like you were, again, there on the battlefield with the soldiers.
Furthermore, Kelly included the occasional map to help his readers visualize the battle lines as they were formed, and how each army moved toward one another in each conflict. Finally, the author painted well the ugliness of war. While the engagement of war is severe enough, the toll it takes on its individual participants is just as intense, if not more so. Kelly prudently shed light on that toll.
I give this book 4 out of 4 stars. The story was very well told, not perfect grammatically, but I have yet to find a book that is without grammatical or typographical errors. However, as previously mentioned, James Kelly writes as though he was there and does a phenomenal job of pulling his readers into the scene with him.
I would recommend this book for readers 18 and older. The book is necessarily graphic in some places--as war is as graphic as Kelly portrays it. I would also recommend this book for anyone who appreciates history and the lives of the soldiers who have made our freedom possible.
In conclusion, this book is a great read. It will go on my list of favorite books ever read, and I will keep my eyes open for more books by this author.
I really enjoyed the narrative of this book. The way the author presented the storyline impressed me. James Kelly iterated the details of battle as though you and he were soldiers experiencing all that raged around you. I also appreciated the perspectives of both armies given in the book. The back and forth made it feel like you were, again, there on the battlefield with the soldiers.
Furthermore, Kelly included the occasional map to help his readers visualize the battle lines as they were formed, and how each army moved toward one another in each conflict. Finally, the author painted well the ugliness of war. While the engagement of war is severe enough, the toll it takes on its individual participants is just as intense, if not more so. Kelly prudently shed light on that toll.
I give this book 4 out of 4 stars. The story was very well told, not perfect grammatically, but I have yet to find a book that is without grammatical or typographical errors. However, as previously mentioned, James Kelly writes as though he was there and does a phenomenal job of pulling his readers into the scene with him.
I would recommend this book for readers 18 and older. The book is necessarily graphic in some places--as war is as graphic as Kelly portrays it. I would also recommend this book for anyone who appreciates history and the lives of the soldiers who have made our freedom possible.
In conclusion, this book is a great read. It will go on my list of favorite books ever read, and I will keep my eyes open for more books by this author.
by Kendra Tompkins
This novel was exciting as the author depicted the fighting scenes and the camaraderie among the soldiers. There were conversations shared that helped the reader to understand the feelings of those involved in the fight. I liked that the author, James Harold Kelly, inserted maps of the area and the army's position and course. I found the descriptions of the war and the soldiers' fatigue and wounds very believable.
I found the story to be fascinating. I rate I Am Soldier, First and Always: The Distinguished Career of Winfield Scott Hancock five out of five stars. This book had only one error, proving it was well-edited. I felt that the storyline was very well described. The events, scenery, and characters were adequately portrayed.
I am recommending this book for readers of all walks of life. I think the young reader can glean historical information regarding the Civil War, and the mature reader will enjoy the camaraderie of the soldiers. All will be able to appreciate the life of a soldier and all that our country went through during this time.
I found the story to be fascinating. I rate I Am Soldier, First and Always: The Distinguished Career of Winfield Scott Hancock five out of five stars. This book had only one error, proving it was well-edited. I felt that the storyline was very well described. The events, scenery, and characters were adequately portrayed.
I am recommending this book for readers of all walks of life. I think the young reader can glean historical information regarding the Civil War, and the mature reader will enjoy the camaraderie of the soldiers. All will be able to appreciate the life of a soldier and all that our country went through during this time.
by Lisa Thomason
I particularly liked this book because the background story of General Hancock was weaved into a chapter of American history and some of America's most trying times. Winfield's love of country is quite obvious to the reader. Winfield was loved by his family, revered by his soldiers, and feared by his enemies. I enjoyed reading about Winfield meeting Miss Almira Russell at a social function. They were immediately smitten with each other. They were married in 1850 in her father's house. They later had two children. They were devoted to each other, and she followed him back and forth across the country. This book was exceptionally well edited.
I gave the book 5 out of 5 stars. The description of the Battle of Fredericksburg was one of the most interesting parts. Bureaucratic delays and poor decisions from General Burnside prevented the Union army from getting to their destination soon enough. They had to cross under fire from the Confederate army because the Confederates already had their trenches in place. The Confederate Army was entrenched along the sunken wall on the heights behind the city. The Union army suffered more than twice the casualties of the Confederate Army. General Burnside was relieved of his command.
I highly recommend this book especially if you are a lover of Civil War history and admirer of heroes. I enjoyed reading about the Mexican War, as I didn't know much about it previously. The Civil War history is well-written and amazing. There is more to come in a second volume I will surely read. General Hancock was energized by the excitement and terror of battle, while others appeared battle worn. His career spanned 4 decades.
I gave the book 5 out of 5 stars. The description of the Battle of Fredericksburg was one of the most interesting parts. Bureaucratic delays and poor decisions from General Burnside prevented the Union army from getting to their destination soon enough. They had to cross under fire from the Confederate army because the Confederates already had their trenches in place. The Confederate Army was entrenched along the sunken wall on the heights behind the city. The Union army suffered more than twice the casualties of the Confederate Army. General Burnside was relieved of his command.
I highly recommend this book especially if you are a lover of Civil War history and admirer of heroes. I enjoyed reading about the Mexican War, as I didn't know much about it previously. The Civil War history is well-written and amazing. There is more to come in a second volume I will surely read. General Hancock was energized by the excitement and terror of battle, while others appeared battle worn. His career spanned 4 decades.
by Sally Haley Thurman
I rate this book a 5 out of 5. "I Am a Soldier, First and Always: The Distinguished Career of Winfield Scott Hancock" by James Harold Kelly is an exceptional biography that delves into the remarkable life of one of America's most distinguished military figures. Kelly's meticulous research and engaging narrative style bring to life the incredible journey of Winfield Scott Hancock, leaving readers inspired and enlightened.
From the very first page, Kelly skillfully paints a vivid portrait of Hancock's early years, allowing readers to understand the influences and experiences that shaped his character. The book takes us through Hancock's impressive military career, highlighting his pivotal role in various significant battles, including the Mexican-American War and the Civil War. Kelly's attention to detail and ability to capture the intensity of these historic events make the book a gripping and immersive read.
Kelly's writing style is both engaging and accessible, making complex military strategies and historical contexts easy to comprehend. Whether you're a history enthusiast or a casual reader, "I Am a Soldier, First and Always" keeps you captivated from start to finish. The seamless blend of historical facts and personal anecdotes creates an intimate connection with Hancock, allowing readers to appreciate his contributions to American history truly.
In conclusion, "I Am a Soldier, First and Always: The Distinguished Career of Winfield Scott Hancock" is a triumph in biographical literature. James Harold Kelly's thorough research, engaging storytelling, and thoughtful presentation of Winfield Scott Hancock's life make this book a must-read for anyone interested in American history, military leadership, or the inspiring stories of individuals who shaped our nation. It is a fitting tribute to a remarkable man and his enduring legacy.
From the very first page, Kelly skillfully paints a vivid portrait of Hancock's early years, allowing readers to understand the influences and experiences that shaped his character. The book takes us through Hancock's impressive military career, highlighting his pivotal role in various significant battles, including the Mexican-American War and the Civil War. Kelly's attention to detail and ability to capture the intensity of these historic events make the book a gripping and immersive read.
Kelly's writing style is both engaging and accessible, making complex military strategies and historical contexts easy to comprehend. Whether you're a history enthusiast or a casual reader, "I Am a Soldier, First and Always" keeps you captivated from start to finish. The seamless blend of historical facts and personal anecdotes creates an intimate connection with Hancock, allowing readers to appreciate his contributions to American history truly.
In conclusion, "I Am a Soldier, First and Always: The Distinguished Career of Winfield Scott Hancock" is a triumph in biographical literature. James Harold Kelly's thorough research, engaging storytelling, and thoughtful presentation of Winfield Scott Hancock's life make this book a must-read for anyone interested in American history, military leadership, or the inspiring stories of individuals who shaped our nation. It is a fitting tribute to a remarkable man and his enduring legacy.
by Riley Flaningan
The book is a treat for fans of historical fiction and military novels, as the author does an impeccable job recreating events from the past using a mix of thorough research and creativity to fill in the gaps. This first volume is divided into two parts: "The Soldier," which goes over Hancock's education and first years of service, and "Rebellion," which covers his participation in the Civil War before the Battle of Gettysburg. There are twenty-eight chapters in total.
"I am a soldier, first and always": The Distinguished Career of Major General Winfield Scott Hancock delivers precisely what it promises: engaging lessons in military history with some literary flavor. The novel is also exceptionally edited, as I've only found one minor error. Though the number of characters intimidated me, readers familiar with the period or willing to do some research should have an easier time following the story. For this reason, I rate the book 4 out of 4 stars. Due to the violence and occasional profanities, I don't recommend it to younger audiences. You might also want to skip this if reading about military maneuvers in detail is boring. On the other hand, fans of military history should find plenty to enjoy, especially those interested in the American Civil War.
"I am a soldier, first and always": The Distinguished Career of Major General Winfield Scott Hancock delivers precisely what it promises: engaging lessons in military history with some literary flavor. The novel is also exceptionally edited, as I've only found one minor error. Though the number of characters intimidated me, readers familiar with the period or willing to do some research should have an easier time following the story. For this reason, I rate the book 4 out of 4 stars. Due to the violence and occasional profanities, I don't recommend it to younger audiences. You might also want to skip this if reading about military maneuvers in detail is boring. On the other hand, fans of military history should find plenty to enjoy, especially those interested in the American Civil War.
by Tomah