WINNER OF THE 2005 GOVERNOR'S BOOK AWARD FROM THE MISSOURI HUMANITIES COUNCIL!
A treasure trove of gold is found buried next to a skeleton with a bullet hole in the skull. Allison Culbertson faces the toughest courtroom battle of her career to prove the gold belongs to her client, who found it buried in his basement. The secrets of the gold are revealed in an unforgettable story that transports the reader from a modern courtroom to the glory days of steamboating on the Mississippi, from a love story on the river to the perils of being in a Missouri border town during the Civil War.
Swingle's riveting tale brings the past to life - combining mystery, love, greed, romance, and courtroom drama into a suspenseful blend of history and fiction. Scott Turow meets James Michener.
"Move over Michener, here's Morley Swingle with high adventure on the Mississippi. It's the most amazing historical novel I've ever read, opening and closing with absorbing courtroom drama." Elmore Leonard, Former President, Mystery Writers of America
"I recommend this memorable historical novel to anyone interested in the Civil War, steamboating on the Mississippi, a good love story, or simply an exciting and entertaining read. Once you start it, be prepared to stay up late." Bill Bradley, Former U.S. Senator, Author, Time Present, Time Past
"Swingle is a gifted writer with a captivating novel - a tale of love, war, mystery, and drama with authentic history woven into every page. I highly recommend it. David Limbaugh, Author Absolute Power
" Morley Swingle proves that some lawyers can actually write entertainingly." Harry Levins, St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
