The best Civil War book ever. I bought the audible. Sears first starts out laying out the political atmosphere of the times. It's important so the readers or listeners can understand why Lincoln did not like the "Little Napoleon." After the groundwork, Sears does a remarkable job of putting you at the battle of Antietam. He puts in words vivid details of what the soldiers on both sides endured. It was horrific what these soldiers and animals suffered. This book should be a must read for those who want to disrespect our nation's flag. What these men did for their country should never be forgotten. This book should be on required reading list of all US high schools.