Another fine historical novel by Jeff Shaara, whom I always enjoy. And how many novels about the Mexican-American War are there?! Are there any?! (And remember The Alamo took place long before the War). Most of the chapters are about Winfield Scott (as should be) and Robert E Lee, then a youngish engineer. He became a member of Scott's staff and his chief scout, having a large influence on Scott. There are other characters, including several future Civil War leaders. The story is interesting and well-written, as all of Shaara's books are, as well as historically accurate. Very little is written about the Mexican-American War, and this makes you want to read up more on it. I'm sure most people today don't even know that there was a war between the U.S. and Mexico. This is one of Shaara's earlier books (from 2000), but I recommend finding a copy and enjoying it. And previous knowledge of the War is not necessary! ( )

This book is good and I learned a lot about the Mexican War from it but I think his other books are better. Just in general though I don't think he reaches the level his dad did in Killer Angels. ( )

Such ANGST! Robert E. Lee was an engineer who graduated from West Point. Why does he sound like a 15-year-old girl? And why does he keep blushing for gods sake?

Another reviewer recommends [b:The Class of 1846: From West Point to Appomattox: Stonewall Jackson, George McClellan, and Their Brothers|477519|The Class of 1846 From West Point to Appomattox Stonewall Jackson, George McClellan, and Their Brothers|John C. Waugh|http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1320413537s/477519.jpg|465732] which sounds worth pursuing.

Sticking with fiction, you could get more than enough of the same general time period from [b:The Gates of the Alamo|1063298|The Gates of the Alamo|Stephen Harrigan|http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1347223847s/1063298.jpg|1049937] and more fun (with less angst) in [b:The Borderland|519026|The Borderland|Edwin Shrake|http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1348269970s/519026.jpg|506942]. ( )

Very interesting account of the US - Mexican war that took place just before our own civil war. I especially enjoyed the author's accounting of what happened to each of the principal characters afterwards. I was a bit surprised there was nothing mentioned of the famous "boy heroes", Mexican cadets, that lost their lives when Chapultepec fell. ( )

What a great book about the "Generals to be" in the American Civil War. Shaara discusses the impact of Robert. E. Lee on important battles with Mexico. He also mentions Grant and the possible meeting of the two men. They mention the Irish Brigade who sided with the Mexicans, as a result of their feelings toward the British and their taking of North Ireland, and when captured were shot for dissertion. A great read about early Imperialism of the USA.