ARE YOU FOR THE KING OR THE REVOLUTION?

It's mid-1780 in the American colonies. Georgia and South Carolina have fallen as the British plan to take the South progresses. Meanwhile, Zebulon Mitchell drives wagons to customers in North Carolina. As a coming of age New Garden Quaker man, he worries about the drama enveloping his stepfather's wainwright business. Will British exports smother it if they win?

Against his pacifist creed, Zeb joins the militia with two Moravians, an enslaved man Abraham, and young master George. Zeb's sister Sara aids the troops but they all suffer horrors as the militia defends against Loyalists seeking to ambush Continental ammunition. Along the way, a romance develops between Zeb and a young Moravian named Yohanna.

Zeb's fate comes down to the Continental army. Washington's last chance in the South is Maj Gen Nathanael Greene. The august British army weakens from chasing Greene to Virginia, yet insufficient firepower could doom Greene in battle. If the Continentals cede North Carolina, the North may fall. Will Zeb's company of artificers come through with a large store of ammo?

Zebulon's Oath introduces compelling characters who draw you into their lives. While historical non-fiction tells, this book tugs at the reader's feelings. This isn't a rehash of the Patriot-Loyalist struggle. It's about how pacifist Quakers and Moravians got caught up in the intrigue.

Parallel to Zebulon's story, the true historically accurate skirmishes and timeline of the Revolutionary War in the South lead up to a climatic, full staging of the Battle of Guilford Courthouse. The crucial battles of Camden, Kings Mountain, and Cowpens echo through the book in a prelude to the fall of British power in Americas. Interspersed with maps, chapter notes, and bibliography to enrich your reading experience.

DAVID R. DOWDY