I'm about 1/2 thru the book now. I like how WC Davis presents most of the Confederate politicians as moderates, even Unionists, save a few fire-eaters like Cobb, Rhett, et al. (But Rhett had some good ideas, too....free trade!)
There are, of course, many faults of the Confederate government, but it was born and bred in the time of fire. Davis wanted control over everything and drew on much of his experience as a commander to lead the Confederacy.