Book Review: Murder at Manassas

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

Murder at Manassas     Amazon US PB Amazon US HC Amazon Canada PB Amazon Canada HC
Michael Kilian
Class/Genre:   Mystery   Historical
Series: Harrison Raines Civil War Mysteries # 1
Berkley, Jan 2000, $21.95,320 pp.

By July 1861, Fort Sumter is part of the history books and the country is preparing for the battle that will mark the savagery of the Civil War. Everyone knows that a battle is set for Manassas, but there is a festive atmosphere surrounding the upcoming event. Both sides plan victory parties and entourages make the fight appear to be a carnival not a bloody engagement.

Harrison “Harry” Raines is a Virginia blue blood who broke ranks with his family over the slavery issue. He observes the battle with a different perspective because he knows hell is about to enter the no longer United States. He watches a northern major George Pleasants act the role of hero, but the South wins and the man is dead. The DC crowd blames George for the debacle. However, some powerful individuals ask Harry to discover the truth about how George really died.

Michael Killian has triumphantly opened his Civil War mystery series at the BATTLE OF MANASSAS. The story line reflects strong research that includes trivia that adds period depth to the plot. The flawed and guilt-ridden Harry is a wonderful hero who sub-genre fans will adore. Civil War buffs will gain much pleasure from this novel. The author’s Herculean task to write a series of mysteries that chronologically follow the war to its conclusion gives this series a fascinating twist.

Harriet Klausner

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner