Although this novel has numerous characters, Margaret Reeves O'Neill, a skinny, intelligent, fifteen-year-old is the major protagonist and narrator. During a short four months, Reeves records her impressions about the American Civil War's impact on her family, their slaves, and their neighbors. Another major character is Hector, the handsome, well-spoken, and loyal fifteenyear-old son of Juneau. Gradually Hector's and Reeves' relationship changes from that of slave and master to an understanding and acceptance of each other as friends.

Their friendship provides a major theme in this novel, in addition to themes of slavery, conflict, deceit, war, and finally their maturation.

The opening scene quickly places the reader amidst Reeves' parents discussing their conflicting views about slavery. Vashti, her mother, questions Gaylan's new will that will free their slaves, no matter which side wins the war. Vashti declares that the slaves will not be freed...