Description

On a cold, snowy night, Haswell Magruder makes a decision that will have a profound effect on his own life as well as the lives of all those he loves. A wounded Confederate soldier appears at the family’s Virginia farm, and Haswell convinces his mother and sister to take the man in, despite the certain repercussions if the enemy Yankees were to catch them in such a “traitorous” act. Unfortunately, this is precisely what happens, setting off a horrific chain of events that leaves Haswell’s mother dead and the farmhouse burned to the ground.

After leading his younger sister to safety with relatives, Haswell sets out on his journey in search of his older brother, a Confederate soldier. His quest is also a passage into manhood, as he experiences the last bloody days of the Civil War. Skillful storytelling, well-developed characters, and a fast-paced plot distinguish this compelling family story by an award-winning author.

Forced to grow up overnight, can Haswell protect what’s left of his family in a country tearing itself apart?

A Perilous Journey: From the smoldering ruins of his Virginia farm, Haswell must lead his younger sister to safety and cross a war-torn landscape to find his only remaining brother. A Test of Family Bonds: Suddenly responsible for his little sister, Rachel, Haswell faces impossible choices where one wrong step could mean the end for them both. A Nation Divided: Experience the final, brutal days of the Civil War through the eyes of a boy caught between compassion and survival, where helping a stranger can cost you everything. Finding Hope in Hard Times: A powerful and moving story about loss, resilience, and the courage it takes to rebuild when all seems lost.