Author Robert Hicks presents his historical novel, A Separate Country.

Set in New Orleans in the years after the Civil War, A Separate Country is based on the life of John Bell Hood, arguably one of the most controversial generals of the Confederate Army – and one of the most tragic figures. Robert E. Lee promoted him to major general after the Battle of Antietam, but promotion did not protect him. Hood lost the use of his arm at Gettysburg and his right leg was amputated after the Battle of Chickamauga. Attempting a fresh start after the war, Hood married and fathered 11 children, but was crippled by his war wounds and yellow fever, as well as devastated by financial misfortunes.

Some historians praised Hood’s military leadership while others depicted him as a one who had little concern for his troops. Hicks tells the story of a decent and good man who struggled with his inability to admit his failures, but managed to create a life in New Orleans following the war. Hicks is also author of The Widow of the South.