Cease firing

by Mary Johnston

"Cease Firing" by Mary Johnston is a historical novel set during the tumultuous period of the American Civil War, likely written in the early 20th century. The book examines the harrowing experiences of soldiers and civilians amid the conflict, focusing on themes of duty, love, and loss. The narrative introduces the character Edward Cary, a private in the Confederate army, who navigates the challenges of war while grappling with personal emotions and relationships. The opening of the novel sets a richly detailed backdrop of the Mississippi River in December 1862, illustrating a landscape transformed by the ravages of war. Edward Cary's detachment, caught in the mud and rain, faces both physical exhaustion and emotional turmoil as they march towards the dangerous front lines. The text captures the camaraderie and humor among the soldiers amid the adversity, while also introducing Cary's thoughts of home and love, particularly centering on Désirée Gaillard, a strong-willed woman striving to protect her home and people from the floodwaters of both nature and war. This early section effectively establishes the mood and tension of the story, promising a blend of personal and historical narratives in the chapters to come.