The Bonfire

Reviews

“Wortman’s very absorbing account of the Battle of Atlanta draws on the perspectives of individuals on both sides of the conflict…Fascinating.”

“Next to Richmond, Atlanta was the most important Confederate city by 1864. Its fall in September of that year signaled the beginning of the end for the Confederacy. Among the many books about General William T. Sherman’s Atlanta campaign, The Bonfire stands out for its focus on the experience of Atlantans themselves. Marc Wortman’s vivid narrative proves that war is indeed hell.”

“The Bonfire is a tour de force of American Civil War history, with everything a reader could want: Extraordinary original research, vivid prose, and old-fashioned suspense.”

“[An] admirable account of the circumstances leading to the fall of the city.”

“Offers military annihilation as Shakespearean tragedy.”

“Marc Wortman goes beyond the legend to reveal a history that is more complicated, but no less dramatic, than anything that came from Margaret Mitchell’s pen…His ability to create a deft, rich picture of Atlanta during this tumultuous period is what makes The Bonfire both invaluable history and a gripping read.”

“The rich context Wortman provides for this singular event in America’s history does much to explain why Atlanta’s fate was critical for both sides. It’s a thoughtful work, as vivid and certainly more exact than the movies.”

“A chilling narrative.”

“[A] compelling history of a city in wartime.”

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