Stern's book caters to all readers, regardless if interested in the Civil War. The author recounts the main actions of each year of the war before delving into some unique stories. As a reviewer mentions, the book attests to many naval escapades. Of the 24 stories recounted, nine deal with naval events. Others revolve around female spying, cavalry raids, explosives, the attempts by the South to burn New York City, prison escapes, and the Draft Riots. All stories are interesting, but since these are first hand accounts, there is the exaggeration, embellishment, and arrogance associated with the desire to make one's contribution to the war much more than what it really was. Case in point is the story on Belle Boyd, the southern belle who believed that her intelligence spying contributed to Stonewall Jackson's victory at Front Royal. Well, that really wasn't the case, though her account makes it seem to be case. Anyone can locate documentation countering either side of this story, though more of it leans toward dispelling any real contribution on her part. Nevertheless, to read the first-person account helps immerse one into the 19th century and makes for a fascinating read.

Any casual reader can appreciate this book and read it within one or two days. If one is interested in a more in depth analysis of intelligence activities, take a look at Edwin Fishel's "The Secret War for the Union," a massive and impressive 594-page treatment on the subject.