In wars eighty years apart, two young women living on the same Appalachian estate determine to aid soldiers dear to them and fight for justice, no matter the cost.
1944. When a violent storm rips through the Belvidere attic in No Creek, North Carolina, exposing a hidden room and trunk long forgotten, secrets dating back to the Civil War are revealed. Celia Percy, whose family lives and works in the home, suspects the truth could transform the future for her friend Marshall, now fighting overseas, whose ancestors were once enslaved by the Belvidere family. When Marshall's Army friend, Joe, returns to No Creek with shocking news for Marshall's family, Celia determines to right a long-standing wrong, whether or not the town is ready for it.
1861. After her mother's death, Minnie Belvidere works desperately to keep her household running and her family together as North Carolina secedes. Her beloved older brother clings to his Union loyalties, despite grave danger, while her hotheaded younger brother entangles himself and the family's finances within the Confederacy. As the country and her own home are torn in two, Minnie risks her life and her future in a desperate fight to gain liberty and land for those her parents intended to free, before it's too late.
With depictions of a small Southern town reminiscent of writings by Lisa Wingate (Booklist on Night Bird Calling), Cathy Gohlke delivers a gripping, emotive story about friendship and the enduring promise of justice.
THE SHADOW OF A FACE IN THE WINDOW. THE QUILT ON THE LINE. HOWLING DOGS. THREATENING INTRUDERS AND A RAILROAD THAT RUNS UNDERGROUND.
Thirteen-year-old Robert had known little of these things growing up. His southern adolescence consisted of his mother, who viewed slavery as a natural part of life, and his father, whose late-night disappearances were becoming more frequent and disruptive.
Then there is William Henry, Robert's best friend. They did everything together-until the summer of 1859. That's when Robert realizes William Henry knows more about these late-night mysteries than he does. It's also when Robert is told that William Henry is less than human . . . because he is black.
Now Robert must decide for himself where he stands on slavery. With his loved ones pitted against each other, he struggles to understand justice and wonders how high a price he is willing to pay for it.
And then he gets the chance to find out.