I just finished reading this excellent book which covers an interesting time in early May of 1862 when President Lincoln travels to Fort Monroe to push General Wool and Flag Officer Goldsborough to retake Norfolk. The fall of Norfolk gives Josiah Tatnall no alternative other than to destroy the CSS Virginia. Lincoln plans the expedition, and suggests a place for Federal troops to land based on his personal reconnaissance. The episode plays an important part in the education of Lincoln as Commander-in-Chief. The book is well written by Steve Norder and thoroughly researched. I’ll cover the Tidewater area of Virginia next year in a series on Coastal Cities of Virginia which will include Norfolk, Portsmouth, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, and maybe a few more. Until then give this book a try you won’t be disappointed.