I just finished a book that completely changed how I see the American Civil War. Henry Morford's Shoulder-Straps isn't set on a smoky battlefield. Instead, it takes us to the bustling, conflicted heart of New York City in 1862.

The Story

The story centers on a handful of wealthy young men. When the draft comes calling, they use a legal loophole—paying a substitute to fight in their place—to stay home. These 'shoulder-straps' (a slang term for these paid substitutes) now walk the streets of New York, going to parties and running their businesses while others sacrifice everything. We see their daily lives, the side-eyes from neighbors, and the quiet (and not-so-quiet) accusations of cowardice. The real tension isn't from cannons, but from the pressure building in their own social circles and within their own consciences.

Why You Should Read It

This book grabbed me because it's about a choice I hope I never have to make. Morford doesn't paint these men as simple villains. He shows their fear, their reasoning, and the immense social weight they carry. It makes you think: What would I have done? The setting feels alive—you can almost hear the carriages on Broadway and feel the city's divided loyalties. It's less about who wins the war and more about how a community survives when its moral compass is spinning.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone who thinks historical fiction is just dates and generals. This is a character-driven, gossipy, and surprisingly tense drama. If you liked the personal conflicts in Gone with the Wind but want a Northern perspective, or if you're fascinated by how ordinary people navigate impossible times, this is your next read. It's a forgotten gem that speaks loudly about privilege, duty, and the battles we fight at home.