By Thomas J. Berry
They had fought for their freedom from colonial rule, but fighting the British was one thing, fighting each other, well, that was something else entirely. With the South’s talk of secession and the North’s urgent need to keep the United States together, the possibility of war is imminent. But what will civil war mean for this fledgling country? Can unity be maintained, and if so, at what cost?
Until now, the stories of Paul Revere, Morton Tower, and Elizabeth Van Lew have been confined to history, but Thomas J. Berry’s Blue Line to Richmond has revitalized them. This is their story, told through their perspectives. It is a story of war, suffering and unwavering hope. It is a story of those who wished to preserve the Union, regardless of the costs or the dangers to themselves. This story will leave an everlasting mark on those who read it.
Courage is the central theme of the narrative. The Revere brothers and Morton Tower’s courage is shaped by their political ideology, as they fight for what they believe in, regardless of the consequences. Even in the face of disease, desertion, and forced imprisonment, they continue their unwavering commitment to the Union and therefore to the war. Their lives are in constant danger, and they witness harrowing trauma every day — it’s not just the enemy’s arsenal that they have to worry about, but also the relentless spread of diseases such as typhus, malaria, and dysentery in their camps. Berry boldly portrays the terrors of war, the unsanitary conditions in the camps, and the absolute desolation of life in a Confederate prison. Despite whatever hardships come their way, they discover the courage to press forward, refusing to surrender, even in their darkest moments. Berry also portrays another kind of courage when he introduces Miss Elizabeth Van Lew to the story. Van Lew exhibits courage comparable to that of the men who are fighting. Despite not being directly involved in battles, her clandestine fight is equally significant to the Union’s ultimate success. Many of the women of her social standing are somewhat egocentric, they fail to see the bigger picture of what will happen if the Confederates do win the war. Van Lew possesses a comprehensive understanding of the importance of national unity and is committed to doing whatever it takes to secure victory for the Union, even if it puts her own life at risk. The protagonists in this novel stand out because of Berry’s comprehension of the various forms that courage takes.
The story is centred around a constant symbol, a medallion forged by Paul Revere, a silversmith and American Revolution hero. Whoever has possession of the medallion has control of the narrative. Terra de Libera (Land of the Free), is inscribed on the medallion and therefore has a symbolic significance to the story. The medallion inspires those who are in possession of it, and for several characters in this novel, it is a reminder of home and something tangible they can hold onto when their faith is shaken.
This story covers the entirety of the American Civil War. Similar to John Jakes’s memorable North & South series, Berry’s novel is an epic saga that captivates and keeps the reader engaged. By showcasing the war through the experiences of those who were there, means this book remains firmly rooted in reality. Despite fighting for the same cause, each protagonist brings a distinct perspective to the tale. But a universal truth in this book is that the characters’ lives are at the mercy of men who prioritize bravery above reason, and a president who lacks skilled generals for a large-scale Southern assault. As a result, the protagonists are left vulnerable to such incompetence. As the narrative advances, the plot grows with the inclusion of more generals - McClellan, Burnside, Hooker, and Grant – all step into the limelight, and all leave a distinct scar on the men they lead. As do the battles of Antietam, Gettysburg, and Chancellorsville, to name but a few. Berry does not avoid the grim truth of the era, vividly illustrating scenes of suffering, battlefield injuries, sickness, and death. However, there are also moments of reflection, correspondence from loved ones, forged friendships, and an undying sense of patriotism.
Berry’s depiction of the Confederate prisons serves as a chilling reminder of the grim fate that awaited northern prisoners of war. Most particular attention is paid to the notorious Libby Prison, in Richmond. This is a place where even the bravest men could have their resilience crushed. No heat, no beds, not enough food, and very little medical attention, are described in vivid detail. Yet, there was also the sheer monotony of having absolutely nothing to occupy oneself with. The overcrowding inadvertently triggered rampant theft and violence. It’s impossible not to be afraid for the courageous protagonist trapped in such a dire situation. It is only fitting that Berry’s portrayal of Libby Prison elicits a sobering response.
The way Richmond, the capital of the Confederacy, is described skilfully highlights its historical context and wartime significance. Berry reminds his readers that not only was it the Confederacy’s capital city, but it also had the dual role of both a distribution centre for weapons, supplies, and troops, as well as a large residential community. If Richmond fell so would the South. Both the general public and the upper class experience the economic consequences of war, including the rationing of goods. This story emphasizes the fact that war may end with a victor, but it causes immense suffering to society’s most vulnerable.
While not the main subject, slavery is addressed and discussed by the characters. Lincoln’s promise of freedom in the Emancipation Proclamation was a threat to the powerful landowners who backed secession. With a Union victory, their way of life would be forever altered. During the Union’s struggle to reunite the country, the South fought to preserve their perceived right to uphold their Peculiar Institution. Their continued resistance, even when defeat was evident, reflects both desperation and misguided pride. Berry truly breathed life into the city and its inhabitants during this era.
Blue Line to Richmond by Thomas J. Berry is a must-read for fans of historical fiction set in the Civil War era. Berry’s meticulous attention to historical detail is unparalleled, and despite its length, the strong writing keeps the reader engaged. This is a book that is certainly deserving of a place on your bookshelf.
Blue Line to Richmond
