In The Demon of Unrest, Erik Larson dives into the chaotic five months between Abraham Lincoln’s 1860 election and the outbreak of the Civil War, with the focus squarely on Fort Sumter. Larson brings his trademark depth to the narrative, weaving together perspectives from key figures like Major Robert Anderson, a conflicted Union officer, and Mary Chesnut, a Southern diarist grappling with slavery and societal roles. Drawing from diaries, letters, and historical documents, Larson delivers a richly detailed account of how miscommunications and inflamed egos pushed the nation to the brink.
That said, this book didn’t quite land for me. While the level of detail is impressive, I found it a slog in parts. The meticulous descriptions of battles and strategies overshadowed the human side of the story. I wanted more insight into Lincoln’s personal struggles or Anderson’s moral conflict as a former slave owner loyal to the Union. Without those emotional threads, the book felt a little dry and better suited for academic research than casual reading.
Still, Larson’s exploration of the era’s political polarization and ideological divides is timely, offering a cautionary tale for modern readers. Fans of in-depth military history and Civil War buffs will probably appreciate this book, but those looking for a more character-driven narrative might find it underwhelming. A slow burn with moments of brilliance, but not my favorite Larson work. 3.5 stars.
** Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a comp copy in exchange for an unbiased review. The opinions expressed are my own.