Amazon River City Books Category:  Literary Fiction Publisher: River City Books ISBN-10:  0967567300 Type: Fiction Pages: 265 Copyright: 2000 In 1842 the summary hanging of the son of the Secretary of War sparked a national controversy. A sea story of intrigue and suspense on a U. S. Navy sail ship. CHAPTER 1 Elizabeth Spencer bit her lip to hold back tears. She paced the parlor floor, but never strayed far from the window that allowed her to watch for her husband, John, to come home. She could depend on John to resolve family issues in a prompt and wise manner. Secretary of War John Spencer, controlled every facet of his life. He also controlled the life of his family and the lives of everyone who he had contact with. One glaring exception was his son, Philip. Always rebellious, but now as an 18 year old midshipman in the Navy, Philip’s misdeeds were more grievous than ever. John and Elizabeth could not know then that in exactly three months their wayward son would burden them with unbearable heartache that would forever alter their lives. Excerpt September 8, 1842 To my son, Philip With broken heart I take pen in hand to write this to you, for what I’m about to write may be the last earthly word from this bereaved mother to the son she bore. I can no longer endure your deeds of iniquity.... ....I realized finally that you have not one shred of decency or conscience in your being.

Wisconsin Bookwatch
“In his debut novel, Bob Brown has paid meticulous attention to historical detail in writing his terrific story replete with memorable characters and page-turning excitement.” James A. Cox, Wisconsin Bookwatch.

The Oak Ridger
“Bob Brown has created a fascinating work of fiction based on these real historical events, which sparked national controversy and murder charges against Capt. Mackenzie.” Dot Seen, The Oak Ridger.