Eileen Dougherty Troxell

Fiona Eileen Dougherty Troxell

"The Ritners are known to be abolitionists, but they are good people," a townsperson assures Fiona McKenna when she goes to work at Mrs. Mary Ritner's boardinghouse. Fiona doesn't care about the Ritners' political affiliations. As the daughter of an Irish immigrant, she is used to her fair share of prejudice. Her father settled in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, to escape the anti-Irish riots in Philadelphia.



As the country races into the mid-1800s, abolition is becoming more and more of an issue in America. When abolitionist, preacher, and activist John Brown books a room at the boardinghouse, Fiona will be forced to confront the problems tearing the country apart.



It is just the first step of many on her new journey. Against the backdrop of the Civil War, Fiona will find passion and purpose. Love and life continue, even as the war rages on. Fiona must decide what is truly worth fighting for.



Author Eileen Dougherty Troxell combines meticulously researched history with a compelling, compassionate heroine for a powerful read. Her portrait of a woman and her courage during a devastating war will resonate with readers.