Review: "A Chain of Thunder" by Jeff Shaara

Chain of Thunder is another page-turning, epic Civil War saga from Jeff Shaara. It is the second in his latest trilogy and it does not disappoint. As in A Blaze of Glory, it follows both the North and South as they continue their battle in the Western Theater. It picks up the account after the Battle of Shiloh and continues through the siege of Vicksburg. The voices of Grant, Sherman and Bauer are back from the first book along with the new narratives of Pemberton and Spence for the southern prospective.

I enjoyed this book. I like Mr. Shaara’s approach of telling the story from many different perspectives ranging from generals, privates and citizens in Vicksburg. It brings the battle to life and I can understand more clearly just how the conflict affects everyone. It is a great teaching tool and helps me comprehend what actually took place in terms that I can understand.

I recommend this book to anyone who has an interest in the western theater of the Civil War. Although it is considered historical fiction, it is a unique blend of fact and creative writing that leaves the reader with a better understanding of what actually happened without tedious details that cause a reader to lose interest. Although it is the second in the trilogy, it can be read and enjoyed by itself also.