by Jimmy Carter

Former president Jimmy Carter brings his literary and historical interests together in his first novel--the first ever, in fact, by an American president. Set in the South during the Revolutionary War, the story follows the lives of newlyweds Ethan and Epsey Pratt, who hope that even in the midst of turmoil they can lead a peaceful family life on the farm they create. But Ethan is finally unable to stay on the sidelines. He joins up with a rebel group, and Epsey must bear the consequences of his absence. Jimmy Carter's learned historical novel is full of information about the practices of the period, including the sex lives of the Indians and how to tar and feather someone.