“A tight, lively package, assembled with conviction and genuine suspense.” — The Toronto Star

Stuck with a wife he doesn't like and a job that he hates, Dock Bass could use some good news.

So when he learns that he's inherited an ancient house from a deceased relative he never knew existed, he is ready to make a move.

He quickly discovers a newfound solace in tearing it down to its elegant, pre-Civil War foundations, but in stripping away the drywall and lathe, he discovers a doorway in the rock face.

Behind it, Dock stumbles upon a treasure trove of Civil War memorabilia squirreled away in an old root cellar, including pictures and possibly even a recording of Abraham Lincoln at Gettysburg.

However, it’s not long before Dock’s discovery brings him more attention and press than he can bear.

As the onslaught of collectors, history buffs, and media hounds descends - including an easy-on-the-eyes television reporter - Dock needs every stubborn and independent bone in his body to fight of the hustlers and scam artists.

When the opportunists start crawling out of the woodwork, will there be anyone left that Dock can trust?

Or will he end up losing everything once more?

Praise for Brad Smith

“With dialogue that crackles like musket fire, Brad Smith’s novel is true to Gettysburg’s heroic past and madcap present, and a deliciously entertaining tale of uncivil war over the legacy of America’s greatest conflict” — Tony Horowitz, author of Confederates In the Attic

“Hugely enjoyable.” — Michael Redhill, The Globe and Mall (Toronto)

“[A] witty new satire.” — The Denver Post

Brad Smith is the author of Busted Flush, All Hat, and One-Eyed Jacks, which was nominated for the Dashiell Hammett Prize and the Arthur Ellis Award. He lives in a farmhouse near Dunnville, Ontario.