Aftermath

They have mules. The past is more stubborn.

Aftermath is a story spun from persistent memories of the Civil War and its violent sequels, from Appalachian culture and the often tragic history of the South. Cynthia and J.P. Kinsor, both survivors, each face seemingly impossible challenges. Cynthia, wearing a mysterious past as she lives her struggle, journeys well beyond the realm of conventional behavior. Still, the unlikely couple confronts their troubles with mutual affection. All with the support of colorful neighbors and friends — who make up a well-developed cast of characters who stand opposed to the violence of night-riding terrorists, the "Whitecappers," agents of bigotry and hate.

The late Paul M. Pruitt, Sr. has written a novel of moral ambiguity and personal justification, a tale that reaches out from his past to our present....