Whenever I hear a book described as 'epic' or a 'tour de force' it immediately has me running for the hills. What those phrases generally mean, in real terms, is that the book is overly-long, overwritten and will take about three weeks to read and won't be enjoyable.

THIS IS NOT THE CASE HERE!

As a fan of American politics, a novel about John Wilkes Booth and the assassination of Abraham Lincoln was never going to pass me by. What makes this novel so brilliant is the slow burning, insights into the lives of the Booth family, all ten children (four who died young) from the perspectives of a number of them. How their lives growing up in America in the 1800's shaped their lives and that of John Wilkes.

Whilst this is a book which is inevitably not for everyone, anyone who loves historical fiction will find themselves getting lost in it and won't put it down until its finished.

A fantastic novel and would encourage everyone to read it.

Thanks to Serpent's Tail / Viper / Profile Books, Serpent's Tail and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review

3.5 stars

This reads like one of those crazy families that has too many children to remember their names,and each one (that survives) brings drama to the fold.
The fact its based on a real famy,that is famous thanks mainly due to one of the sons is quite something.
It's full of unusual characters,who move location at the drop of a hat,that it felt as if I'd blinked,I'd have missed it.
Broken up by reports on Lincoln,it felt like that was a countdown to a collision.
It's a good sized book,and some bits do drag a little,but it has warmth and humour enough to keep you going.
Enjoyable.