The Virginian Who Might Have Saved Lincoln, A Book Review

“They had put the president’s health, well being and safety in my hands, under their threat to me. How had they put it? ‘We entrust the sacred life of Mr. Lincoln to your keeping. If you don’t protect it, never return to Illinois, or we will murder you on sight.’

I didn’t drop my guard or stop worrying about his safety. Believe me; it is not easy to protect someone who feels absolutely no need for protection.”

-Bob O’Connor, The Virginian Who Might Have Saved Lincoln

In Bob O’Connor’s historical fiction story told from the point-of-view of Abraham Lincoln’s “particular” friend, Ward Hill Lamon, we get a unique glimpse into the relationship between Lincoln and the man who was arguably the sixteenth President’s closest friend and confidant.

From the time that he was right out of school as an immature and inexperienced young lawyer, Southern-born Lamon was lucky enough to be taken under the wing of a tall, awkward Illinois lawyer named Abraham Lincoln. Lincoln taught “Hill” the ropes of the law, as well as a life lesson or two about topics such as honesty and women. The men went on to become law partners for a short time, and friends for life. Lamon followed Lincoln to Washington, becoming his personal bodyguard and a U.S. Marshal for the Capitol Prison during the Civil War. He stood by Lincoln’s side throughout the War, and often watched over the President at night, secretly as to not upset the proud Lincoln. Lamon fiercely and loyally supported the President until Lincoln’s untimely death, and even beyond.

This historical novel is a great read for those who enjoy stories about the Civil War period, or for those who enjoy reading tales that chronicle lives within iconic presidencies.

Bob O’Connor blogs weekly as Ward Hill Lamon on his blog: http://lincolnsbodyguardblog.blogspot.com/

You can also check out his website for more of his historical fiction and non-fiction books. www.boboconnorbooks.com.