Secessia
In 1862, New Orleans was under Union government, but its population was largely sympathetic to the Confederacy. Benjamin Butler, in charge of the city, became known as “The Beast” after his order that women spitting on Union military would be treated as common prostitutes. In addition to containing the local population, he conspired with his brother to find ways of deriving profit from wartime conditions. The novel’s most memorable character is Elise, introduced in a brief prologue set in 1844, when she bites off the ear of an overly eager suitor. At the time of main action, she is dealing with the suspicious death of her elderly husband and the dangers her young son faces roaming the streets of the city. Dr. Emile Sabatier aids her in efforts to clean up her husband’s body and hide her secrets. At the same time, the doctor aids Butler in public health efforts to head off yellow fever.
Imminent Southern victory is expected, and many of the women occupy themselves by sewing Confederate flags. Flags themselves become the battlefield when a man climbs the post office to destroy the symbol of federal dominance. This drama of America’s most crucial moment offers some unique features, being set in the country’s least American city. French and Spanish culture are always present, and the role of free people of color, some with hidden African blood, is at its most prominent here.
The language is sometimes opaque, particularly in the early stages. The love stories are not particularly absorbing, and the Civil War is only a distant rumor. Not recommended.
