by Norman Lock
Reviewed by Linda:
This eloquently written novel depicts the breakdown of the social fabric of antebellum America, as observed by an army chaplain who served in the Mexican War and the Mormon Rebellion. Robert Winters (a fictitious character) was raised in Amherst and became enamored of Emily Dickinson upon meeting her when she was a young woman. She enjoys his company but does not return his affections, and he embarks on a military career, writing to her often and returning regularly to Amherst. The book offers an intimate look - yet another perspective! - at Dickinson’s Amherst.