"An exciting who-done-it"
In 1862 the American Civil War heats up with the Northern
Army nearing the Confederate capital of Richmond. However,
a greater threat to the lives of military in the area and
the citizens of Richmond occurs when small pox is the cause
of a death. Soon other deaths and accusations of germ
warfare follow. Southern nurse Narcissa Powers, English reporter Brit
Wallace, and former slave healer Judah Daniel look for the
source of the deadly disease. As they separately dig
deeper, each one shares the findings with the other. No
segment of the city from the elite to the slums or of the
two armies escape their evaluation as the trio tries to
prevent an epidemic from happening. Fans of Civil War novels will, upon reading CIVIL BLOOD,
play trumpets in tribute to the author for an entertaining
historical who-done-it. The story line starts off very
powerfully as a vividly graphic opening hooks the audience
while introducing the lead characters. The tale slows down
a bit during the investigation because the key players
literally exchange notes from their respective interviews
even though that technique smoothly blends into the main
theme. However, the story line ends with an incredible
finish that will fully satisfy the audience, sending them
marching to the nearest bookstore to purchase Ann
McMillan's previous historical mysteries. Harriet Klausner
Reviewed by PNR Group Member
Posted July 2, 2001
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