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The Unfinished Work
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New York Times
bestselling novelist Jeff Shaara brings to vivid life the man, public and private, who guided the U.S.A. through its most troubled, conflicted Abraham Lincoln.
"It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced." - The Gettysburg Address, 1863
New York Times bestselling novelist Jeff Shaara, renowned for his body of work exploring the conflicts and personalities surrounding key moments in American history, turns his attention to one of the most consequential figures during one of the most critical points in Abraham Lincoln. As only the finest of historical novelists can do, Shaara brings to life the travails and conflicts, victories and tragic defeats, the legends and the history, both personal and private of Lincoln during the country's most pivotal years.
Beginning with his election as President in 1860, through his time in the Oval Office, Shaara reveals the complexities behind the man who refused to let the deep divisions and conflicting emotions permanently sunder the country itself, at great personal cost.
The Unfinished Work is the finest work yet by one of the most popular, most acclaimed historical novelist of our time, a capstone to a life's work.
"It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced." - The Gettysburg Address, 1863
New York Times bestselling novelist Jeff Shaara, renowned for his body of work exploring the conflicts and personalities surrounding key moments in American history, turns his attention to one of the most consequential figures during one of the most critical points in Abraham Lincoln. As only the finest of historical novelists can do, Shaara brings to life the travails and conflicts, victories and tragic defeats, the legends and the history, both personal and private of Lincoln during the country's most pivotal years.
Beginning with his election as President in 1860, through his time in the Oval Office, Shaara reveals the complexities behind the man who refused to let the deep divisions and conflicting emotions permanently sunder the country itself, at great personal cost.
The Unfinished Work is the finest work yet by one of the most popular, most acclaimed historical novelist of our time, a capstone to a life's work.
592 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication December 1, 2026
About the author
Jeff Shaara
51 books2,260 followersJEFF SHAARA is the award-winning, New York Times, USA Today, Wall Street Journal and Publishers Weekly bestselling author of seventeen novels, including Rise to Rebellion and The Rising Tide, as well as Gods and Generals and The Last Full Measure—two novels that complete his father's Pulitzer Prize-winning classic, The Killer Angels. Shaara was born in New Brunswick, New Jersey, grew up in Tallahassee, Florida, and lives in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4 solid stars for a novel about Abraham Lincoln's life from election night, Nov. 1860, to the Gettysburg address in Nov. 1863.
The author explains that "this book is as true to history as I could make it." There are frequent quotes from speeches, letters and Lincoln anecdotes. He also mentions that "No single individual in American history has been written about as often as Abraham Lincoln. No American president is as well respected."
I believe that the author has accurately captured Lincoln's personality, along with his wife Mary, who may have been bipolar.
The prose flows smoothly, and I did not find it too long at 592 pages.
There are some new to me insights into Lincoln. He met with previous President Millard Fillmore in Buffalo, NY while en route to Washington, DC in February, 1860.
Thank You St. Martin's Press for sending me this eARC through NetGalley.
Pub Date Nov 10 2026
The author explains that "this book is as true to history as I could make it." There are frequent quotes from speeches, letters and Lincoln anecdotes. He also mentions that "No single individual in American history has been written about as often as Abraham Lincoln. No American president is as well respected."
I believe that the author has accurately captured Lincoln's personality, along with his wife Mary, who may have been bipolar.
The prose flows smoothly, and I did not find it too long at 592 pages.
There are some new to me insights into Lincoln. He met with previous President Millard Fillmore in Buffalo, NY while en route to Washington, DC in February, 1860.
Thank You St. Martin's Press for sending me this eARC through NetGalley.
Pub Date Nov 10 2026
August 27, 2026
I really enjoyed reading this historical novel by Jeff Shaara. The book begins with Lincoln winning the 1860 Presidential election, and concludes with the Gettysburg Address.
It was fascinating to read the "dialogue" between Lincoln and so many of the principals in this book--of course his wife Mary and sons, cabinet members Seward and Stanton (and others), Army generals, his personal secretaries John and Nicolay, and interactions with the staff of the Executive Mansion (as the author points out it was not called the White House until 1901). On a lighter note, many of Lincoln's "stories" and jokes are spread throughout the book, giving us a feel for the Lincoln personality.
Lincoln struggles to adapt to the Presidency, questioning his lack of experience with military matters, his own bouts with depression and sadness, and the difficulty in dealing with spouse Mary, who clearly suffered from her own form of depression and melancholy, especially the early loss of two young sons.
Shaara portrays Lincoln for what he is, a trusting and inexperienced politician learning how to become President at a time when the country is falling apart due to secession, slavery, and the Civil War. We see Lincoln growing in stature by 1862 and 1863, recognizing his role as Commander in Chief, and responsible for the fate of thousands of soldiers.
There are many poignant moments in the novel. HIs decision to move forward with the Emancipation Proclamation. His growing relationship to Secretary of State William Seward, a man many thought would be elected President in 1860 is delivered through many conversations. The same is true for Edwin Stanton and his role as Secretary of War. I was especially fascinated by an early conversation with former President Millard, Fillmore, and later ones with Frederick Douglas. Sadly, no direct conversations with Ulysses Grant made it in the book.
Of course, we don't have historical transcripts of the actual conversations that took place among the characters, but it still provides for a fascinating presentation.
Personally, I would like to have seen the book continue past the Gettysburg Address. The final chapter does quickly detail the main points we know as Americans: Lee's surrender at Appomattox Courthouse; Lincoln's assassination at Ford's Theater (Shaara says Lincoln was shot twice by Booth?), the later deaths of Tad, Mary, and Robert Lincoln.
The author does not specify what constitutes the "unfinished work." The reader can of course make their own interpretations such as reconstruction and its failures, the re-unification of the Union, and so forth.
I want to thank the author, publisher, and NetGalley for an opportunity to read this historical novel. I give it 5/5 stars and recommend it to lovers of Civil War History and the Lincoln Presidency.
It was fascinating to read the "dialogue" between Lincoln and so many of the principals in this book--of course his wife Mary and sons, cabinet members Seward and Stanton (and others), Army generals, his personal secretaries John and Nicolay, and interactions with the staff of the Executive Mansion (as the author points out it was not called the White House until 1901). On a lighter note, many of Lincoln's "stories" and jokes are spread throughout the book, giving us a feel for the Lincoln personality.
Lincoln struggles to adapt to the Presidency, questioning his lack of experience with military matters, his own bouts with depression and sadness, and the difficulty in dealing with spouse Mary, who clearly suffered from her own form of depression and melancholy, especially the early loss of two young sons.
Shaara portrays Lincoln for what he is, a trusting and inexperienced politician learning how to become President at a time when the country is falling apart due to secession, slavery, and the Civil War. We see Lincoln growing in stature by 1862 and 1863, recognizing his role as Commander in Chief, and responsible for the fate of thousands of soldiers.
There are many poignant moments in the novel. HIs decision to move forward with the Emancipation Proclamation. His growing relationship to Secretary of State William Seward, a man many thought would be elected President in 1860 is delivered through many conversations. The same is true for Edwin Stanton and his role as Secretary of War. I was especially fascinated by an early conversation with former President Millard, Fillmore, and later ones with Frederick Douglas. Sadly, no direct conversations with Ulysses Grant made it in the book.
Of course, we don't have historical transcripts of the actual conversations that took place among the characters, but it still provides for a fascinating presentation.
Personally, I would like to have seen the book continue past the Gettysburg Address. The final chapter does quickly detail the main points we know as Americans: Lee's surrender at Appomattox Courthouse; Lincoln's assassination at Ford's Theater (Shaara says Lincoln was shot twice by Booth?), the later deaths of Tad, Mary, and Robert Lincoln.
The author does not specify what constitutes the "unfinished work." The reader can of course make their own interpretations such as reconstruction and its failures, the re-unification of the Union, and so forth.
I want to thank the author, publisher, and NetGalley for an opportunity to read this historical novel. I give it 5/5 stars and recommend it to lovers of Civil War History and the Lincoln Presidency.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley for the Advance Reader Copy (ARC) of The Unfinished Work: A Novel of Abraham Lincoln. Publication Date: Nov 10 2026.
Jeff Shaara specializes in turning historical events into historical fiction. I'd like to think that the things he writes about are true, but with historical fiction, I can't assume that.
Some distinctions Shaara highlights which you may not find in non-fiction histories include the complete lack of discipline of Lincoln's children; Tad's menagerie of animals in the White House; Mrs. Lincoln's compulsive shopping; Mrs. Lincoln's obsession with the occult; Mrs. Lincoln's devotion to wounded soldiers; Lincoln's close association with his secretaries, particularly Nicolay; and Lincoln's love of cats.
Shaara is fond of using sentence fragments, especially when he wants to accelerate the pace of the narrative. I'm not a fan of breaking grammatical rules, but evidently his editor has no problem with it. The fragments aren't as prolific in The Unfinished Work as in some of Shaara's previous books.
Shaara ends the story with a pinnacle moment: Lincoln's masterful speech, the Gettysburg Address. This is entirely fitting. Few literary works approach the perfection of this short but powerful oration. Shaara summarizes the rest of Lincoln's life and those of other major characters.
If you value immersion in the period and easily imagined scenes such as Lincoln propping his long legs on the presidential desk, you'll enjoy this fictional version of history.
Jeff Shaara specializes in turning historical events into historical fiction. I'd like to think that the things he writes about are true, but with historical fiction, I can't assume that.
Some distinctions Shaara highlights which you may not find in non-fiction histories include the complete lack of discipline of Lincoln's children; Tad's menagerie of animals in the White House; Mrs. Lincoln's compulsive shopping; Mrs. Lincoln's obsession with the occult; Mrs. Lincoln's devotion to wounded soldiers; Lincoln's close association with his secretaries, particularly Nicolay; and Lincoln's love of cats.
Shaara is fond of using sentence fragments, especially when he wants to accelerate the pace of the narrative. I'm not a fan of breaking grammatical rules, but evidently his editor has no problem with it. The fragments aren't as prolific in The Unfinished Work as in some of Shaara's previous books.
Shaara ends the story with a pinnacle moment: Lincoln's masterful speech, the Gettysburg Address. This is entirely fitting. Few literary works approach the perfection of this short but powerful oration. Shaara summarizes the rest of Lincoln's life and those of other major characters.
If you value immersion in the period and easily imagined scenes such as Lincoln propping his long legs on the presidential desk, you'll enjoy this fictional version of history.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Jeff Shaara’s "The Unfinished Work" gave me something I didn’t realize I wanted: insight into Abraham Lincoln as a person rather than an icon. We all know the Great Emancipator, the Civil War president, and the man tragically assassinated just as the war ended. Shaara gives us a chance to spend time with the warm, witty, sometimes awkward man behind that familiar image. Lincoln has strong convictions, but with the exception of his two faithful secretaries, he’s hardly surrounded by people eager to follow them. Instead, he’s constantly criticized by politicians, generals, journalists, abolitionists, and others convinced that he’s moving either too quickly or nowhere near quickly enough.
The military side of the story was particularly fascinating: Lincoln’s patience with a parade of disappointing Union commanders becomes almost painful, particularly with General George McClellan, a talented organizer and self-promoter who was perpetually convinced that the Confederate army was far bigger, stronger, and more dangerous than it actually was. Again and again, Lincoln pushes for action while McClellan finds reasons to wait. Shaara also gives considerable attention to emancipation and the political and moral pressures surrounding it. The result is a Lincoln who isn’t simply issuing historic proclamations from behind a desk, but a relatable man who's struggling to hold together a country, an army, a cabinet, and his own principles while almost everyone gives him advice about what he’s doing wrong.
I also came away with a much fuller picture of Mary Todd Lincoln. Her fears for her family at times seem excessive - she was a fearful woman - but two of the Lincolns’ four sons died before reaching adulthood, and they lived in an era when childhood illness could turn frighteningly serious overnight. The Executive Mansion (later renamed the White House) feels surprisingly domestic, with unfettered boys and cats running everywhere, against the enormous tragedy unfolding outside its doors. "The Unfinished Work" occasionally feels longer than the story requires, and there were stretches where I already understood the point being laboriously made. Still, I enjoyed it quite a bit, expanding my understanding of Lincoln without diminishing the historical figure I already knew. It turns out that the awkward, funny, exhausted, stubborn human being is considerably more interesting than his larger-than-life monuments.
The military side of the story was particularly fascinating: Lincoln’s patience with a parade of disappointing Union commanders becomes almost painful, particularly with General George McClellan, a talented organizer and self-promoter who was perpetually convinced that the Confederate army was far bigger, stronger, and more dangerous than it actually was. Again and again, Lincoln pushes for action while McClellan finds reasons to wait. Shaara also gives considerable attention to emancipation and the political and moral pressures surrounding it. The result is a Lincoln who isn’t simply issuing historic proclamations from behind a desk, but a relatable man who's struggling to hold together a country, an army, a cabinet, and his own principles while almost everyone gives him advice about what he’s doing wrong.
I also came away with a much fuller picture of Mary Todd Lincoln. Her fears for her family at times seem excessive - she was a fearful woman - but two of the Lincolns’ four sons died before reaching adulthood, and they lived in an era when childhood illness could turn frighteningly serious overnight. The Executive Mansion (later renamed the White House) feels surprisingly domestic, with unfettered boys and cats running everywhere, against the enormous tragedy unfolding outside its doors. "The Unfinished Work" occasionally feels longer than the story requires, and there were stretches where I already understood the point being laboriously made. Still, I enjoyed it quite a bit, expanding my understanding of Lincoln without diminishing the historical figure I already knew. It turns out that the awkward, funny, exhausted, stubborn human being is considerably more interesting than his larger-than-life monuments.
June 2, 2026
I received an advance copy of this book. Having read many of Jeff Shaara’s books, I think this one is the best. It is unique and captivating as it tells the story of Lincoln’s presidency through Lincoln’s own perspective. The reader experiences the stresses, pain and Lincoln’s unique humor through the war’s events and family experiences and tragedies. Excellent
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I’m a fan of Jeff and Michael Shaara’s historical nonfiction and novelized nonfiction books. This one by the son is an interesting approach to President Abraham Lincoln, from his humble acceptance of the fledging nation's top job to leading it through Civil War. The facts are all true. What turns it into a novel is Shaara's liberal interpretation of dialogue and interior monologue on the part of the characters in this drama. He tells the story through several sets of eyes. Lincoln is primary, but also his troubled wife Mary, his reluctant Secretary of State Seward (best known for the purchase of Alaska called Seward's Folly), and then others. Through these viewpoints, we see Lincoln's common sense approach to the nation's difficulties, how he blended them into his own frenetic personal life, and the part wife Mary plays on his actions. She is consumed with the impact her husband's duties and demands will have on her and whether she will be well treated in her new Washington home. No matter how frivolous they may sound, Lincoln never fails to respect her and respond to her needs.
There are a few surprises. Lincoln like President Trump didn’t drink. Mary Todd Lincoln was a disturbed woman from Day One, something I hadn't realized. The outgoing President, Buchanan, was one of the many US presidents who served more as caretaker than problem solver, considered success when no one was mad at him. On the same morning Lincoln became President, Jefferson Davis was inaugurated president of the Confederate States of America. Lincoln called his wife mother and she called him father. That's a start. You'll find more.
Overall, this is an excellent read like all the Shaara books. I always looked forward to opening it when my free time came.
--Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC copy in return for my honest review
There are a few surprises. Lincoln like President Trump didn’t drink. Mary Todd Lincoln was a disturbed woman from Day One, something I hadn't realized. The outgoing President, Buchanan, was one of the many US presidents who served more as caretaker than problem solver, considered success when no one was mad at him. On the same morning Lincoln became President, Jefferson Davis was inaugurated president of the Confederate States of America. Lincoln called his wife mother and she called him father. That's a start. You'll find more.
Overall, this is an excellent read like all the Shaara books. I always looked forward to opening it when my free time came.
--Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC copy in return for my honest review
October 8, 2026
What an amazing, intimate portrait of Abraham Lincoln.
The Unfinished Work offers a fascinating glimpse into Lincoln’s thoughts, emotions, and the incredible pressures he faced during one of the most consequential periods of his life—from his election as president through the delivery of the Gettysburg Address.
Of course, this is historical fiction, and Shaara necessarily fills in the private moments that history cannot document. But he does so in a way that makes Lincoln feel remarkably human and real. I felt like I was getting to know the man behind the president—the weight he carried, the decisions he struggled with, and the people who surrounded him during those difficult years.
I especially enjoyed getting to know Lincoln’s family, his secretaries John Nicolay and John Hay, and the members of his household staff, including his valet and butler. Those relationships added another layer to the story and made the White House feel less like a distant historical setting and more like a home filled with people trying to navigate an extraordinary and often heartbreaking time.
Shaara has a wonderful ability to take history we think we know and make it feel personal. By the time Lincoln delivers the Gettysburg Address, I felt that moment carried even more weight—not simply because of its place in American history, but because I had spent the pages leading up to it with the man himself.
If you enjoy historical fiction, especially stories that bring well-known historical figures to life as real, complicated human beings, I highly recommend The Unfinished Work. It gave me a deeper appreciation for Abraham Lincoln—not just as the 16th President of the United States, but as a husband, father, friend, employer, and profoundly burdened man trying to lead a divided nation through its darkest hour.
Thank you to NetGalley for the Advance Readers Copy.
The Unfinished Work offers a fascinating glimpse into Lincoln’s thoughts, emotions, and the incredible pressures he faced during one of the most consequential periods of his life—from his election as president through the delivery of the Gettysburg Address.
Of course, this is historical fiction, and Shaara necessarily fills in the private moments that history cannot document. But he does so in a way that makes Lincoln feel remarkably human and real. I felt like I was getting to know the man behind the president—the weight he carried, the decisions he struggled with, and the people who surrounded him during those difficult years.
I especially enjoyed getting to know Lincoln’s family, his secretaries John Nicolay and John Hay, and the members of his household staff, including his valet and butler. Those relationships added another layer to the story and made the White House feel less like a distant historical setting and more like a home filled with people trying to navigate an extraordinary and often heartbreaking time.
Shaara has a wonderful ability to take history we think we know and make it feel personal. By the time Lincoln delivers the Gettysburg Address, I felt that moment carried even more weight—not simply because of its place in American history, but because I had spent the pages leading up to it with the man himself.
If you enjoy historical fiction, especially stories that bring well-known historical figures to life as real, complicated human beings, I highly recommend The Unfinished Work. It gave me a deeper appreciation for Abraham Lincoln—not just as the 16th President of the United States, but as a husband, father, friend, employer, and profoundly burdened man trying to lead a divided nation through its darkest hour.
Thank you to NetGalley for the Advance Readers Copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Rounded up from 4.5 stars.
HERE'S THE VIBE...
Pour a bourbon for whoever's your resident Civil War guy — or a strong cup of coffee in honor of a president who famously barely drank. This puts you right next to Lincoln walking home alone on gaslit Springfield streets to tell his wife he's won the Presidency, and by the end feels like saying goodbye to a friend.
READ (OR LISTEN TO) THIS WHEN...
you want to stop seeing the stovepipe hat and start seeing the man, told through close, documented history that earns its handful of emotional gut-punches instead of manufacturing them.
YOU WILL LIKE THIS IF you are open to having a historical fiction read that stays rigorously close to real documented sources rather than taking dramatic liberties — Shaara spent months in primary texts and clearly didn't want to invent much. You WON'T like it quite as much if you want a narrator who feels novelistic and quotable in his own head — this one reads more like thinking out loud than crafted prose, at least at first.
BOOK CLUB VIABILITY...
Or, read it with your dad/grandpa/uncle. A great one to hand across generations — someone's resident history buff can fill in what you don't know, and you compare notes, the same way the author clearly wants you to leave feeling like you knew the real man, not just the shadow on the penny.
I provide spoiler-free, vibe-forward historical fiction reviews with dashes of real history in order to enhance - but never spoil - your reading experience in the podcast. Listen to the episode for more in depth review and bits of history.
HERE'S THE VIBE...
Pour a bourbon for whoever's your resident Civil War guy — or a strong cup of coffee in honor of a president who famously barely drank. This puts you right next to Lincoln walking home alone on gaslit Springfield streets to tell his wife he's won the Presidency, and by the end feels like saying goodbye to a friend.
READ (OR LISTEN TO) THIS WHEN...
you want to stop seeing the stovepipe hat and start seeing the man, told through close, documented history that earns its handful of emotional gut-punches instead of manufacturing them.
YOU WILL LIKE THIS IF you are open to having a historical fiction read that stays rigorously close to real documented sources rather than taking dramatic liberties — Shaara spent months in primary texts and clearly didn't want to invent much. You WON'T like it quite as much if you want a narrator who feels novelistic and quotable in his own head — this one reads more like thinking out loud than crafted prose, at least at first.
BOOK CLUB VIABILITY...
Or, read it with your dad/grandpa/uncle. A great one to hand across generations — someone's resident history buff can fill in what you don't know, and you compare notes, the same way the author clearly wants you to leave feeling like you knew the real man, not just the shadow on the penny.
I provide spoiler-free, vibe-forward historical fiction reviews with dashes of real history in order to enhance - but never spoil - your reading experience in the podcast. Listen to the episode for more in depth review and bits of history.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I have read many of Jeff Shaara's books, as well as the books of his father. When I was presented with the opportunity to read and review his newest work, I jumped at the opportunity.
I am a huge reader of the Civil War, having quite an extensive library, on individual battles and the leaders who guided their respective causes. My first experience with Lincoln was Carl Sandburg's six volume set that was in my home growing up. While I love historical fiction, I was a little hesitant when I started The Unfinished Work. I need not have been.
Sharra does an amazing job of of bringing Lincoln to life. His interactions with his boys, and with Mary Todd Lincoln move him from the dusty places of history and make him very real. This is a fast read due to Shaara's great writing style.
I am always fascinated what one author focuses on and leaves behind. This is the story of Lincoln the human, not the savior. If you want to understand his nuances, read Doris Kearns Goodwin's amazing book, but if you want to meet Lincoln, up close and personal, I highly recommend this book.
He ends the book with the Gettysburg Address, which is an interesting choice. The war is far from over (far from certainty who will win) and much of what makes Lincoln the mythological figure he becomes takes place after this even. But, through Shaara's narrative, we get Abraham Lincoln.
Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's press for the ARC.
I am a huge reader of the Civil War, having quite an extensive library, on individual battles and the leaders who guided their respective causes. My first experience with Lincoln was Carl Sandburg's six volume set that was in my home growing up. While I love historical fiction, I was a little hesitant when I started The Unfinished Work. I need not have been.
Sharra does an amazing job of of bringing Lincoln to life. His interactions with his boys, and with Mary Todd Lincoln move him from the dusty places of history and make him very real. This is a fast read due to Shaara's great writing style.
I am always fascinated what one author focuses on and leaves behind. This is the story of Lincoln the human, not the savior. If you want to understand his nuances, read Doris Kearns Goodwin's amazing book, but if you want to meet Lincoln, up close and personal, I highly recommend this book.
He ends the book with the Gettysburg Address, which is an interesting choice. The war is far from over (far from certainty who will win) and much of what makes Lincoln the mythological figure he becomes takes place after this even. But, through Shaara's narrative, we get Abraham Lincoln.
Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's press for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Jeff Shaara consistently delivers well-written, engaging books, and The Unfinished Work is no exception. The story flows smoothly from shortly before Lincoln’s election through the end of his life, with a welcome closing update on many of the people featured along the way.
Shaara does a wonderful job of conveying Lincoln’s frustration with his generals and presenting the major battles through the president’s perspective. I particularly enjoyed his portrayal of Mary Lincoln’s personality and her interactions with her husband and his staff. Weaving the press’s opinions into the narrative also adds depth, showing the public scrutiny Lincoln faced throughout the war.
The imagined dialogue and inner thoughts of the key figures make this historical fiction, yet it rarely feels like a novel. Based on the nonfiction books I’ve read, Shaara stays grounded in history while bringing these people and their struggles to life. Some might not appreciate how they are portrayed, but the characterizations struck me as consistent with my other reading.
My one wish was for more coverage of Grant. The years after Gettysburg felt compressed, and another ten pages could have added to that part of the story without slowing the book’s pace.
An excellent read that I would recommend to anyone interested in Lincoln or the Civil War. The manageable chapters and engaging storytelling make it accessible even to readers new to the subject—and keep you wanting to read just one more chapter.
Shaara does a wonderful job of conveying Lincoln’s frustration with his generals and presenting the major battles through the president’s perspective. I particularly enjoyed his portrayal of Mary Lincoln’s personality and her interactions with her husband and his staff. Weaving the press’s opinions into the narrative also adds depth, showing the public scrutiny Lincoln faced throughout the war.
The imagined dialogue and inner thoughts of the key figures make this historical fiction, yet it rarely feels like a novel. Based on the nonfiction books I’ve read, Shaara stays grounded in history while bringing these people and their struggles to life. Some might not appreciate how they are portrayed, but the characterizations struck me as consistent with my other reading.
My one wish was for more coverage of Grant. The years after Gettysburg felt compressed, and another ten pages could have added to that part of the story without slowing the book’s pace.
An excellent read that I would recommend to anyone interested in Lincoln or the Civil War. The manageable chapters and engaging storytelling make it accessible even to readers new to the subject—and keep you wanting to read just one more chapter.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Jeff Shaara delivers once again. The Unfinished Work allows the reader to sit in the room with one of our country's greatest presidents. Similar to his recent work on Teddy Roosevelt, Mr. Shaara’s storytelling provides a gripping, first-person account of Lincoln’s presidency.
While there are so many relationships in this book worth highlighting that it's difficult to pick a favorite, I particularly enjoyed the exploration of his dynamics with his generals. While I already had some familiarity with Lincoln’s frustrations with his military leadership during the Civil War, Shaara’s writing really enables you to better understand the era. He makes you realize that almost all of Lincoln's communications with the Military leadership were handled via letter or telegram, with very few face-to-face interactions.
The book does a masterful job of showing Lincoln’s evolution as a leader throughout his presidency, highlighting his early relationship with General McClellan as a stark contrast to his more decisive decision-making toward the end of the war.
Furthermore, without giving anything away, I truly appreciated the way the book ended. Shaara does a wonderful job of concluding the novel in a way that allows the reader to appreciate all the other facets of Lincoln's presidency highlighted earlier, without being abruptly pulled into the horrific and tragic end of his life.
While there are so many relationships in this book worth highlighting that it's difficult to pick a favorite, I particularly enjoyed the exploration of his dynamics with his generals. While I already had some familiarity with Lincoln’s frustrations with his military leadership during the Civil War, Shaara’s writing really enables you to better understand the era. He makes you realize that almost all of Lincoln's communications with the Military leadership were handled via letter or telegram, with very few face-to-face interactions.
The book does a masterful job of showing Lincoln’s evolution as a leader throughout his presidency, highlighting his early relationship with General McClellan as a stark contrast to his more decisive decision-making toward the end of the war.
Furthermore, without giving anything away, I truly appreciated the way the book ended. Shaara does a wonderful job of concluding the novel in a way that allows the reader to appreciate all the other facets of Lincoln's presidency highlighted earlier, without being abruptly pulled into the horrific and tragic end of his life.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
592 pages
5 stars
I didn’t really know very much about President Lincoln the man, and his wife Mary. I was excited to receive a copy of this book.
Mr. Shaara is well known for his research and scholarship. I knew this book would be as true to history as he could make it.
I was very taken with the author's portrayal of President Lincoln. He became President during a very unfortunate time in history. Lincoln loved the United States and held the Constitution sacred. He was kind and very contemplative; careful in his observations and decisions. He believed that all men were equal, regardless of their “color.”
Lincoln hated the war between the States. He worked very hard to resolve it - to see the reunification of the union - North and South into the United States once again. He struggled over the tough decisions he had to make about supplies, equipment, soldiers and Generals. Many times, he became impatient. He often questioned his own judgment. He leaned on his Cabinet and advisers listening carefully.
He was a very great man. He was elected at precisely the right time in history.
I want to thank NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for forwarding to me a copy of this remarkable book for me to read and enjoy. The onions expressed in this review are solely my own.
5 stars
I didn’t really know very much about President Lincoln the man, and his wife Mary. I was excited to receive a copy of this book.
Mr. Shaara is well known for his research and scholarship. I knew this book would be as true to history as he could make it.
I was very taken with the author's portrayal of President Lincoln. He became President during a very unfortunate time in history. Lincoln loved the United States and held the Constitution sacred. He was kind and very contemplative; careful in his observations and decisions. He believed that all men were equal, regardless of their “color.”
Lincoln hated the war between the States. He worked very hard to resolve it - to see the reunification of the union - North and South into the United States once again. He struggled over the tough decisions he had to make about supplies, equipment, soldiers and Generals. Many times, he became impatient. He often questioned his own judgment. He leaned on his Cabinet and advisers listening carefully.
He was a very great man. He was elected at precisely the right time in history.
I want to thank NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for forwarding to me a copy of this remarkable book for me to read and enjoy. The onions expressed in this review are solely my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Jeff Shaara’s Unfinished Work: A Novel of Abraham Lincoln is a compelling and deeply moving historical novel that brings Abraham Lincoln and the turbulent final years of the Civil War vividly to life. Shaara combines meticulous historical research with engaging storytelling, creating a portrait of Lincoln that feels both authentic and remarkably human.
What makes the novel especially effective is its focus not only on the enormous political and military challenges Lincoln faced, but also on the personal burdens he carried. Shaara captures Lincoln’s determination, compassion, humor, and profound sense of responsibility while showing the uncertainty surrounding the war’s outcome and the nation’s future.
The historical detail is impressive, but the book never feels like a textbook. Instead, the events and characters unfold naturally, drawing the reader into the era and making the stakes feel immediate. Shaara’s writing also provides thoughtful insight into Lincoln’s relationships and the difficult decisions that shaped the closing chapter of the Civil War.
Unfinished Work is an absorbing and thoughtful addition to the literature surrounding Lincoln. It should appeal to readers who enjoy historical fiction, Civil War history, or simply a well-told story about one of America’s most consequential presidents.
#unfinishedwork #netgalley
What makes the novel especially effective is its focus not only on the enormous political and military challenges Lincoln faced, but also on the personal burdens he carried. Shaara captures Lincoln’s determination, compassion, humor, and profound sense of responsibility while showing the uncertainty surrounding the war’s outcome and the nation’s future.
The historical detail is impressive, but the book never feels like a textbook. Instead, the events and characters unfold naturally, drawing the reader into the era and making the stakes feel immediate. Shaara’s writing also provides thoughtful insight into Lincoln’s relationships and the difficult decisions that shaped the closing chapter of the Civil War.
Unfinished Work is an absorbing and thoughtful addition to the literature surrounding Lincoln. It should appeal to readers who enjoy historical fiction, Civil War history, or simply a well-told story about one of America’s most consequential presidents.
#unfinishedwork #netgalley
August 18, 2026
Having read many of Jeff Shaara's books previously, such his Civil War books as well as his book in the Mexican American War and his two volume series in the American Revolution and others, I leaped at the opportunity to read his latest offering, An Unfinished Work, focusing on Lincoln's Presidency up the end of the Gettysburg Address.
All I can say is that I had a difficult time putting this book down, as I rate it among his very best. Much if what he covers in the book is well known, but the personal touch of each individual character he adds is what, to me, drives the narrative of this book.
Perhaps the best compliment I can pay any author, is that in their writing, they take you to the exact time, place and location in which they are writing and immerse you completely in it. Shaara's writing in all of his books I have read succeed in doing so and this book in no exception.
Having read Doris Kearns Goodwin's Team of Rivals, which Shaara acknowledges at the end of this book and Gore Vidal's Lincoln, which I rate as two of the best, this offering from Shaara is every bit the equal of these two books.
All I can say is that I had a difficult time putting this book down, as I rate it among his very best. Much if what he covers in the book is well known, but the personal touch of each individual character he adds is what, to me, drives the narrative of this book.
Perhaps the best compliment I can pay any author, is that in their writing, they take you to the exact time, place and location in which they are writing and immerse you completely in it. Shaara's writing in all of his books I have read succeed in doing so and this book in no exception.
Having read Doris Kearns Goodwin's Team of Rivals, which Shaara acknowledges at the end of this book and Gore Vidal's Lincoln, which I rate as two of the best, this offering from Shaara is every bit the equal of these two books.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Jeff Shaara (& his father Michael) is one of my favorite authors, so I was pleased to be able to read an advance copy of his newest book about Abraham Lincoln. Shaara’s pens the story of the 3 years from Lincoln’s election to his delivery of his Gettysburg Address. Shaara’s well research writing shares Lincoln’s perspective of the politics, military leadership or lack of abolishment of slavery and war that almost tore our country apart. Shaara’s story helps the reader understand what made Lincoln one of our greatest presidents. Lincoln’s kindness, patience, astuteness, shrewdness, intelligence and love of the Constitution is brought to life in the dialogue with others and in his mind. So many good nonfiction books have been written about Lincoln’s life and presidency, Shaara’s novelization of Lincoln can proudly stand alongside those titles.
Jeff Shaara (& his father Michael) is one of my favorite authors, so I was pleased to be able to read an advance copy of his newest book about Abraham Lincoln. Shaara’s pens the story of the 3 years from Lincoln’s election to his delivery of his Gettysburg Address. Shaara’s well research writing shares Lincoln’s perspective of the politics, military leadership or lack of abolishment of slavery and war that almost tore our country apart. Shaara’s story helps the reader understand what made Lincoln one of our greatest presidents. Lincoln’s kindness, patience, astuteness, shrewdness, intelligence and love of the Constitution is brought to life in the dialogue with others and in his mind. So many good nonfiction books have been written about Lincoln’s life and presidency, Shaara’s novelization of Lincoln can proudly stand alongside those titles.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to St. Martin's Press for the chance to read this pre-pub on NetGalley.
"The Unfinished Work" is absolutely riveting. I've never read Jeff Shaara, but now I have a new author on my favorites list.
Much like Spielberg's "Lincoln," which gave a cinematic glimpse into the struggles of Lincoln, here, too, Shaara exposes the vulnerable, kind, bewildered, and oftentimes melancholy heart of a great man.
Walking through the day-by-day, never-ending struggles of Lincoln's first term and ending quite appropriately at Gettysburg, I was entranced by the authenticity of every word, every sentence of dialogue, and every emotion laid bare that Shaara wrote.
For anyone who wants to be inside the mind of Lincoln, and others he was surrounded by during this time, The Unfinished Work is an astounding piece of historical fiction.
"The Unfinished Work" is absolutely riveting. I've never read Jeff Shaara, but now I have a new author on my favorites list.
Much like Spielberg's "Lincoln," which gave a cinematic glimpse into the struggles of Lincoln, here, too, Shaara exposes the vulnerable, kind, bewildered, and oftentimes melancholy heart of a great man.
Walking through the day-by-day, never-ending struggles of Lincoln's first term and ending quite appropriately at Gettysburg, I was entranced by the authenticity of every word, every sentence of dialogue, and every emotion laid bare that Shaara wrote.
For anyone who wants to be inside the mind of Lincoln, and others he was surrounded by during this time, The Unfinished Work is an astounding piece of historical fiction.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review via NetGalley *
5 stars.
The book follows Abe Lincoln’s life between his presidential election and the Gettysburg Address, driven by letters, journals, and historical accounts. Blending the Civil War with the turmoil within the Executive Mansion helps bring a new light to the world Lincoln was forced to tread daily.
What better way to dive into one of my favorite historical figures than with a novel done by one of my favorite authors, Jeff Shaara. While I know some of not most of the personal conversations are not 100% accurate, it helps paint a beautiful portrait of what it must have been like for Lincoln to take office and immediately deal with the chaos of the Civil War. Spellbinding and driven storytelling made this an incredible read.
5 stars.
The book follows Abe Lincoln’s life between his presidential election and the Gettysburg Address, driven by letters, journals, and historical accounts. Blending the Civil War with the turmoil within the Executive Mansion helps bring a new light to the world Lincoln was forced to tread daily.
What better way to dive into one of my favorite historical figures than with a novel done by one of my favorite authors, Jeff Shaara. While I know some of not most of the personal conversations are not 100% accurate, it helps paint a beautiful portrait of what it must have been like for Lincoln to take office and immediately deal with the chaos of the Civil War. Spellbinding and driven storytelling made this an incredible read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Jeff Shaara has always been, and will always be my favorite historical fiction writer. He has proven this once again with this wonderfully written, touching story of our beloved 16th president.
Mr. Shaara takes Abraham Lincoln from the start of his first presidential win up until and including his iconic Gettysburg address. He constructs an intimate portrait of a man thrust into the center of a growing union crisis as well as personal events that he must navigate through, usually by himself. All in all, a flawed human being dealing with astronomical circumstances and dealing with them the best he can.
This book is due to be released in November, 2026. I recommend it highly and hope you add it to your reading list.
Mr. Shaara takes Abraham Lincoln from the start of his first presidential win up until and including his iconic Gettysburg address. He constructs an intimate portrait of a man thrust into the center of a growing union crisis as well as personal events that he must navigate through, usually by himself. All in all, a flawed human being dealing with astronomical circumstances and dealing with them the best he can.
This book is due to be released in November, 2026. I recommend it highly and hope you add it to your reading list.
August 27, 2026
It should be noted that this review is of a uncorrected galley proof supplied by NetGalley in exchange for this review.
This is an interesting way of dealing with a familiar story, with a seemingly inexhaustible fund of extraordinary dramatic power.
It is unlikely that we will ever reach a full understanding of the extraordinary personality. That was Abraham Lincoln. This work makes a determined effort. This galley proof requires further editing, as it is playing by minor type of typographical errors throughout, the author also has the annoying habit of describing a characters thought process using commas as connectives, which seems an odd stylistic choice. Also, a book ends abruptly at the Gettysburg address, four reasons that are not readily apparent and are really not explained.
This is an interesting way of dealing with a familiar story, with a seemingly inexhaustible fund of extraordinary dramatic power.
It is unlikely that we will ever reach a full understanding of the extraordinary personality. That was Abraham Lincoln. This work makes a determined effort. This galley proof requires further editing, as it is playing by minor type of typographical errors throughout, the author also has the annoying habit of describing a characters thought process using commas as connectives, which seems an odd stylistic choice. Also, a book ends abruptly at the Gettysburg address, four reasons that are not readily apparent and are really not explained.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
An excellent book about Abraham Lincoln! This book gives the reader a peek at the anguish Lincoln went through during one of the toughest times in United States history. It is so well written-at times, I felt like I was there. It also introduces readers to the men that were around him and helping to make the hard decisions. Several times, I went to google in order to learn more. I also liked the way he included Lincoln's family. It was interesting to read about Mary Todd Lincoln and their sons. I am not sure how they survived the death of their sons as well as running the country. If you like books about Lincoln, I highly recommend this book. It is a masterpiece! I plan to read more from this author!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
My thanks to NetGalley for the advanced reading copy of this book. Once again, Jeff Shaara does not fail to give an awesome rendering of Abraham Lincoln. He takes us from the election of Abraham Lincoln and his first term through the early days and months of the Civil War. He shows the suffering that Lincoln endured as he tried to hold the country together. He gives amazing detail about Mary, Todd Lincoln, and those around him but the best by far is his description of what Abraham Lincoln must’ve gone through during his first and the most of his second term. It would make a an amazing movie Bravo, sir.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
Jeff Shaara's greatest work to date...an exceptional read!!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I would like to thank Net Galley for the opportunity to read this as an ARC. This is a very well written and well researched book about Abraham Lincoln. It deals with a specific period of time, 1860- 1863. It is fiction, but based on fact . Lincoln became President knowing that the South would surely leave the Union, and war would follow. He took on the job, knowing that he would be leading a fractured nation. He wanted to be President, and succeeded in spite of all odds.He had problems in the country, with his cabinet, with his family. He had recalcitrant Generals, who would not listen to him. He suffered the loss of a son.This book attempts to paint a full picture of Lincoln, the good and the bad. I really enjoyed it.
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