An Uncertain Horizon

An Uncertain Horizon is the second in a trilogy by Miss Richards which fulfills and advances the Sullivan family saga from her original novel, Heart of Stones. Those who expect the same depth of character and intrigue won't be disappointed. Miss Richards has again crafted a rare novel recording an almost unknown demographic; abolitionists in the pre-Civil War South. Richards presents a rich and touching story of the Sullivan family, patriotic Mississippians, who own a large plantation, but don't believe people should own people. The interactions between whites and blacks. and abolitionists and slaveholders are beautifully crafted and hold the reader spellbound until the last paragraph. Fans of the antebellum South will be thrilled with this epic highly recommended story.
James R. Olson, award-winning author of The Vagabond Healer.



An Uncertain Horizon is the second novel in The Sullivan Family series. Abraham Sullivan has immigrated to Mississippi from Ireland with his family and has become one of the most prosperous citizens of Scottsville. His plantation, Oak Hollow, is the envy of many of the slaveholders on other plantations. Life has been good, but as the saga from Heart of Stones continues, secession and war loom on the horizon. Abe knows he can't fight in the war, and he is torn about sending his son and son-in-law into the conflict if war does come.

Sarah, his wife, wants to return to Ireland and take their married children with them. Abe has decisions to make. He has freed his slaves, but if he sells Oak Hollow, would the new owner treat them fairly? If the North wins, could they leave? If the South wins, would they be at the mercy of an unscrupulous owner?
What if his children don't want to relocate? Can the family survive separation, and if Abe and Sarah leave without them, would Abe be labeled a coward?

Tensions hang in the balance as Abe balances his options. Will they awaken to an Irish horizon or an American one?