For nearly 150 years, historians and Civil War enthusiasts have argued over the Dahlgren Papers. Found on the person of Col. Ulric Dahlgren after a failed Union raid, these orders directed Northern soldiers to sack the city of Richmond, and assassinate President Jefferson Davis and his entire cabinet. But so much remains unknown. Were the papers real or forgeries? Who wrote them? Why did Dahlgren carry them on his person?



The Dahlgren Papers is a historical novel that seeks to understand the possibilities surrounding this fascinating chapter in Civil War history. Duff Sawyer is a union spy sent to assess the Confederate forces. When he’s captured and sent to the dreaded Castle Thunder prison, Sawyer is thrust into the center of an investigation into the papers. After a harrowing escape and with the help of Union sympathizer Elizabeth Van Lew, Duff surmises there is a conspiracy afoot that goes beyond military victory by either side. Together, they surmise a sensational conspiracy that goes beyond Northern aggression. The plot seeks to overthrow the governments of both the North and South, in a shocking coup attempt.



Now, Sawyer must discover who is involved in the scheme. But his efforts might ultimately place the suspicion on himself. Can he get word to Washington and save his own skin—before it’s too late?



Meticulously researched and intricately drawn, The Dahlgren Papers will keep you guessing right up to the pulse-pounding finale.