John Surratt: The Lincoln Assassin Who Got Away

by Michael Schein

Previous books and films have focused on the triggerman, John Wilkes Booth, or the military trial of the conspirators and the hanging of Mary E. Surratt, John's mother, but no major book has focused on John Surratt. Surratt was John Wilkes Booth's closest associate during the four months leading up to the assassination, and a known member of the Confederate Secret Service with ties to the highest levels of CSA Government. Adding to the intrigue, Surratt's two-year run from the law is a fascinating adventure, spanning the globe from New York to Canada, England, Italy and Egypt. When in Italy he went into hiding as a member of the Papal Zouaves - the Pope's mercenary army.

Genres: History, Civil War, Nonfiction, American History

360 pages, Paperback

First published April 15, 2015

About the author

Michael Schein is an attorney, historian, and author of the historical nonfiction work, JOHN SURRATT: THE LINCOLN ASSASSIN WHO GOT AWAY (April 2015), as well as two historical novels: BONES BENEATH OUR FEET (2011) (a Pacific NW Booksellers’ featured choice), and JUST DECEITS: A HISTORICAL COURTROOM MYSTERY (2008) (a #1-seller on KINDLE). Mr. Schein taught American Legal History at Seattle University Law School for 15 years. He is a frequent speaker for Humanities Washington, at conventions and at writers’ conferences, and serves as Director of the annual LiTFUSE Poets’ Workshop. His poetry has been nominated three times for a Pushcart Prize.

Reviews

[Linda Bittle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent addition to the record. I thought I knew quite a bit about the Lincoln assassination. Turns out there were threads to this story that I'd never heard...for instance, I was unaware that the Confederates had allies in both Canada and England. And I was surprised that the Catholic Church gave shelter and financial assistance to Surratt as he avoided arrest.

This book is thoroughly researched, with expansive notes. Mr. Schein's background in law allows him to write about the trial and to explain the evidence against Surratt in a way that makes sense to the layman. I enjoyed this book very much.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book and learned so much that I didn't know about the event. The research involved in writing the book is very evident. Very engaging.

[Christopher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Meticulously researched with extensive end chapter notes and comments. It presents a compelling case in an entertaining informal manner with some occasional very witty asides. I didn't have a particularly strong interest in the subject going into it, but was thoroughly engrossed. Highly recommended.