Within The Enemy's Lines

"Within The Enemy's Lines" by Oliver Optic is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The book is part of "The Blue and the Gray Series," focusing on themes around the American Civil War. The story likely revolves around family connections and opposing allegiances, particularly following Cornelius (Corny) Passford, who finds himself navigating complex relationships as a young soldier caught between the Union and Confederate sides. The opening of the novel introduces Cornelius Passford as he unexpectedly visits his uncle, Captain Horatio Passford, in New York while having recently served in the Confederate army. The narrative starts with a palpable tension regarding his presence as Captain Passford is puzzled by the absence of letters from Corny's family, hinting at the strain the war has put on familial bonds. The chapter highlights Corny's awkwardness about his situation, the pain of the ongoing conflict, and hints at his desires to connect with his family while exploring the consequences of civil conflict on personal relationships. The stage is set for a series of adventures as Corny interacts with his Union family and navigates his complex identity during a tumultuous historical period. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

William Taylor Adams, pseudonym Oliver Optic, was an academic, author, and a member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives.