You are most welcome. Personally I would recommend starting with DiLorenzo's book first, as the Kennedy brothers have a writing style that may strike you as a bit over-the-top and strident in the beginning. Once you know exactly why they're so angry, though, you'll understand why- and Prof. DiLorenzo's book will show you.

There is also Lincoln Unmasked, by Thomas DiLorenzo, which I have not read but which should also prove to be rather good.

In addition, my father recently bought a book called "The Politically Incorrect Guide to the Civil War" and the little that I read discussed secessionism and its legality.

Ah yes, I forgot about that one. That's another very good and very readable guide, highly recommended.

the founding fathers themselves heavily encouraged when it needed to be done

Indeed they did. Thomas Jefferson, writing to John C. Breckinridge, Aug. 12 1803:

"Besides, if it should become the great interest of those nations to separate from this, if their happiness should depend on it so strongly as to induce them to go through that convulsion, why should the Atlantic States dread it? But especially why should we, their present inhabitants, take side in such a question?…The future inhabitants of the Atlantic & Missipi [sic] States will be our sons. We leave them in distinct but bordering establishments. We think we see their happiness in their union, & we wish it. Events may prove it otherwise; and if they see their interest in separation, why should we take side with our Atlantic rather than our Missipi descendants? It is the elder and the younger son differing. God bless them both, & keep them in union, if it be for their good, but separate them, if it be better."

Some of thing the things you mention echo what I heard from the few conservatives I know that detest Lincoln. In addition, my father recently bought a book called "The Politically Incorrect Guide to the Civil War" and the little that I read discussed secessionism and its legality. That was actually a real eye-opener, especially the fact that the founding fathers themselves heavily encouraged when it needed to be done. You mentioned some of the same things. Those books you mentioned are definitely added to my reading list now. Thanks again.