Journal of a Cavalry Bugler

Just days before President Lincoln's assassination, Charlie Dickey rejoices with family and friends over Union victories, but Lincoln's death shatters their hopes. General Joe Johnston still commands rebels in the field, as do three other Confederate generals-battle-hardened men, unwilling to concede defeat.
Journal of a Cavalry Bugler is historical fiction based on the Civil War experiences of Charles Henry Dickey. His father, T. Lyle Dickey, was a longtime friend of Abraham Lincoln's, and while growing up Charlie enjoyed Mr. Lincoln's affection for children. When Fort Sumter falls, Charlie musters into the 4th Illinois Cavalry, serves as a bugler, member of General Grant's escort and fights alongside African American troops. When he falls in love with a beautiful southern belle, life descends into chaos. The brutal northern occupation of the South threatens to destroy Charlie's happiness. When President Lincoln is assassinated, the nation loses its best chance for reconciliation, and war may become a thing of permanence.