One aspect of the Civil War now of great interest to historians and general readers alike is the effect of the war on civilians. Using the besieged city of Winchester, Virginia, as a backdrop, Michael G. Mahon explores the impact of the Civil War on two Winchester women: Julia Chase and Laura Lee. Winchester Divided presents the diaries of Lee, a diehard Southerner, and Chase, a firm supporter of the Union. Both used their diaries to unflinchingly voice their strong opinions. By juxtaposing their two opposing viewpoints, Mahon allows today's reader to get a real sense of the deeply felt passions that the war inspired.