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Riding With Forrest: The Memoir of John Barrett, Escort Company, Forrest's Cavalry, CSA, during the War Between the States

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Eager to prove himself, John joins the cavalry of Nathan Bedford Forrest, a crafty, audacious, and well-known Civil War commander. But will John become disillusioned by the reality of war before he finds glory?Riding off to war with a good friend and the idealism of youth, John Barrett soon finds himself under the command of the bravest, boldest, and most righteous commander of the Civil War.

Nathan Bedford Forrest terrifies his enemies but endears himself to his comrades. At the military camps, he is a firm but caring leader who ensures his men are following orders, taking care of their horses, and taking care of themselves. On the battlefield, he becomes an instrument of destruction. His thundering orders slice through the chaos of war and spur his soldiers to action.

At first, John craves the thrill of action and becomes restless at the military camp. However, after embarking on countless midnight raids, fighting through drawn-out, bloody battles, and experiencing the deprivation of war, his original excitement begins to fade.

John Barrett follows Nathan Bedford Forrest to the bitter end, but what will it cost him?

Riding with Forrest is a fictional historical memoir that tells the coming-of-age story of its narrator while also providing insight into the bleak realities of war.

Order your copy now to join John's journey through the struggles of war and bonds of friendship.

401 pages, ebook

Published April 16, 2023

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597 people want to read

About the author

L.E. Denton

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1,637 reviews127 followers
June 17, 2024
“Riding With Forrest” is an absorbing and poignant fictional memoir that immerses readers in the tumultuous era of the Civil War through the eyes of its protagonist, John Barrett. The novel seamlessly blends historical detail with a deeply personal narrative, creating a vivid portrayal of war and the human spirit.

From the outset, the book captures the essence of youthful idealism and the allure of military glory that drives John and his best friend David to join the war. The author skillfully evokes the excitement and naivety of these young men as they set off to fight, only to be confronted with the harsh realities of war. The narrative is marked by a gradual but profound transformation in John’s perspective, as initial enthusiasm gives way to the sobering understanding of war’s brutality.

One of the novel’s most compelling aspects is its depiction of Nathan Bedford Forrest, a legendary figure in Civil War history. Forrest’s character is masterfully crafted, showing him as a bold and fearless leader who inspires both admiration and fear. The author delves into the complexities of Forrest’s personality, portraying him as a tactical genius on the battlefield and a mentor to his soldiers. John’s interactions with Forrest offer a nuanced view of this controversial figure, adding depth to the story.

The book excels in its vivid descriptions of military life, from the camaraderie in the camps to the adrenaline-fueled chaos of battle. Readers are transported to the heart of the conflict, experiencing the sights, sounds, and emotions of the battlefield. The author’s attention to historical accuracy and detail enriches the narrative, making it both educational and engaging.

“Riding With Forrest” also explores themes of friendship, loss, love, and the transformative power of war. John’s journey is marked by profound experiences that shape his character, from the loss of his best friend to the love he finds amidst the turmoil. These personal elements add emotional resonance to the story, making it more than just a historical account.

In conclusion, “Riding With Forrest” is a beautifully written and compelling novel that offers a unique perspective on the Civil War. It is a story of growth, resilience, and the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity. This book is highly recommended for readers who enjoy historical fiction, character-driven narratives, and a thoughtful exploration of one of the most defining periods in American history.
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