John Jakes — Heaven And Hell

Houghton Mifflin 1987 Hardback, 700pp. The saga of the Hazards of Pennsylvania and the Mains of South Carolina continues into the turbelent decade following the Civil War. And as the growing country struggles to unite vengeful victor and plundered loser, the survivors of the two families try to keep the faith. In Heaven and Hell, the battle between the Mains and Hazards—and Confederate and Union armies—comes to a brilliant end. The last days of the Civil War bring no peace for the Main and Hazard families. As the Mains’ South smolders in the ruins of defeat, the Hazards’ North pushes blindly for relentless industrial progress. Both the nation and the families’ long-standing bond hover on the brink of destruction. In the series’ epic conclusion, Jakes expertly blends personal conflict with historical events, crafting a haunting page-turner about America’s constant change and unyielding hope. (ISBN: 9780151310753). Very Good.