First Friday Author Line Up - Paul Brueske "The Last Siege" & Sharon Harkness "Reflections of God's Grace"

Reflection's of God's Grace - Sharon Harkness

This book reveals so many miracles that God has shown me and my family during the passing of our parents .The miracle that stands out the most, is the morning when my mother went to Heaven. At that moment, the room was filled with the radiant sunlight and loving warmth, which I have never experienced before. The room seemed to be in grandeur, so much that I fell to my knees in praise. I felt, as if I were in the presence of God, Almighty. I was filled with great joy and horrific sorrow, at the same time. I wanted to share with my family the beautiful sun shining in the room, so I took a photo of the window. A few days later, I saw what looked to be God, opening the Heavenly realms, for us to see .What we saw took us by amazement. It was an angel by my mother's side, comforting her, and little glowing beings above her, as to protect her from evil that was in the atmosphere. Luke16:22 tells us, how God sends the angels to escort us to Heaven. To this day, God has placed his grace on me and my family that is, beyond all understanding. . We know that it is not good-bye, but see you soon .We know mom and dad are in paradise today. To God be the glory!

The Last Siege - Paul Brueske

It has long been acknowledged that General Robert E. Lee's surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia ended the civil war at the Battle of Appomattox in April 1865.

However, the often overlooked last siege of the war was the Mobile campaign, crucial to securing a complete victory and the final surrender of the last Confederate force east of the Mississippi River.

The Last Siege explores the events surrounding this siege and capture of Mobile, Alabama. The Union victory at the battle of Mobile Bay in 1864 ended blockade running from the port of Mobile. Uncaptured, the city remained a priority for the Confederates to defend and the Federals to attack. This book gives a new perspective on the strategic importance of Mobile as a logistical center which had access to vital rail lines and two major river systems, essential in moving forces and supplies. Included are the most detailed accounts ever written on Union and Confederate camp life in the weeks prior to the invasion, cavalry operations of both sides during the expedition, the Federal feint movement at Cedar Point, the crippling effect of torpedoes on U.S. naval operations in Mobile Bay, the tread-way escape from Spanish Fort, and the evacuation of Mobile. The entrance of Federals into the city and the reaction of the citizenry are featured. In doing so evidence is presented that contradicts the popular notion that Mobile wholeheartedly welcomed the Federals and was a predominately pro-Union town.

Using a variety of primary sources, this book highlights the bravery of the men who were still trying to win by utilizing evolved military tactics against the strong defensive fortifications at Mobile. Many acts of heroism occurred in this, the Confederacy's last campaign which ended in the final surrender at Citronelle, Alabama in May.