The Demon of Unrest By Erik Larson Book Review
About this book in 50 words
The Demon of Unrest by Erik Larson is a gripping account of the five pivotal months between Abraham Lincoln’s election and the start of the Civil War.
Through compelling narratives of key figures, Larson reveals the chaos, egos, and decisions that pushed a divided nation to the brink of conflict.
Summary in 100 words
Erik Larson’s The Demon of Unrest explores the tumultuous period between Lincoln’s election on November 6, 1860, and the attack on Fort Sumter in April 1861.
As Southern states seceded, Lincoln faced mounting challenges to preserve the Union. Larson weaves the stories of figures like Major Robert Anderson, secessionist Edmund Ruffin, and conflicted planter’s wife Mary Chesnut.
Using diaries, letters, and records, he illuminates the tragic missteps, inflamed passions, and fractured leadership that led to inevitable war. With his masterful storytelling, Larson captures a nation spiraling toward a devastating conflict that would reshape American history forever.
| Book Name | The Demon of Unrest |
| Author-Publisher | Erik Larson – Crown Publishing Group |
| Release Date | April 30, 2024 |
| Audiobook Publisher | Random House Audio |
| Audiobook Duration | 13 hours and 56 minutes |
About the Author
Erik Larson is a bestselling author known for blending historical events with captivating narratives.
His works, including The Splendid and the Vile, Devil in the White City, and Dead Wake, have earned widespread acclaim for their meticulous research and engaging storytelling.
Larson excels at uncovering the human drama behind major historical events, often focusing on the intersection of leadership, crisis, and human nature.
His ability to bring historical figures and moments to life has made him a prominent voice in narrative nonfiction, drawing readers into the emotional core of history’s turning points.
