"Written from the Confederate point of view, this book details the one of the most surprising and humiliating defeats in United States' military history. The Red River Campaign began in early April when the Union army invaded the Red River Valley, anticipating little resistance from the Confederates. But when General Taylor launched a surprise attack near Mansfield, the Yankees were soon running for their lives."
This description sends up several red flags. First, "one of the most surprising . . . defeats in US military history." Surprising to who??? Nathaniel Banks vs Richard Taylor, and Banks getting whipped was a surprise??? Not to Abe Lincoln. Or to hardly anyone else, other than maybe Banks. And what about Bull Run? Little Big Horn? The Indianola affair?
Second, "The Red River Campaign began in early April . . ." Not unless March 10 has been moved to early April.
Third, when did the Battle of Mansfield become a "surprise attack"?
Fourth, "the Yankees were soon running for their lives." Really? The Yankees may have left with their tails between their legs, but "running for their lives?" Hardly. Don't like to admit it, but every time we went toe-to-toe with them after Mansfield, we got pretty well thumped. Monette's Ferry, Mansura, Yellow Bayou. It was more of an 800 pound gorilla leaving the yard being chased by a yapping chihuahua. Not exactly running for their lives.
Given Amazon's description of the book, it should make for interesting reading. As for informative reading, that jury is still out.
And this post really should be in the Book Review section, but since no one ever goes there, this is probably a better fit.