The Battle of Wise's Fork (Five Stars)

This is an excellent book centered around the Battle of Wise's Forks, one of the last battles of the Civil War but one largely forgotten today.

Sokolosky and Smith set the stage for the reader, informing you about the strategic situation in North Carolina by March 1865. Sherman was already marching northward, having devastated Georgia and South Carolina on his way. General Johnston, CSA, had only the remnants of Confederate armies defeated on various fronts, including the Army of Tennessee (which had really defeated ITSELF under the command of Hood) whose epic journey from Mississippi to North Carolina is a story in itself. The Union also performed a miracle of logistics, moving the XXIII Corps from Tennessee to the Union bridgehead at New Bern by way of railroad and steamship.

The two sides met each other at Wise's Forks when the Union forces attempted a breakout at Kinston in order to meet with Sherman's army.

This book is well illustrated with photos and maps and tells the story through vignettes of the various commanders involved. A great book and a terrific addition to anyone's Civil War library.