Hiram Walker

Hiram Walker is the novel’s protagonist. His mother Rose was a slave, and his father was Howell Walker, the slave owner. Hiram’s conception was likely the result of Howell raping Rose. Hiram was born into slavery in Virginia and was cared for by Rose until he was about nine years old. At that time, Howell then sold Rose to another slave owner, and Hiram never saw her again. Because Hiram was technically Howell’s son, and because Hiram was born with a nearly perfect memory, Howell decided to have Hiram educated. However, Hiram still had to live and work as a slave on his father’s estate.

At the age of 19, Hiram attempts to escape with Sophia, a fellow slave whom he loves. Unfortunately, they are caught. However, Hiram is then freed by members of the Underground Railroad and is recruited as an operative for...