Have you ever done everything you knew to be right, but life still turned out all wrong?

That’s what happens to Erin Miles and Peter Kichline in my just-released book, Easton at the Crossroads. They’ve made critical decisions impacting themselves, their families, and community. They were careful. Deliberate. Still, the outcome isn’t favorable. What in the world is going on?

Revolution has come to Northampton County. Publication of Thomas Paine’s Common Sense has ignited many with patriotism. Others, however, are aflame with indignation — breaking away from Great Britain is sheer madness! Moravians and Mennonites stand apart, wanting to avoid armed conflict.

These are the times that try Peter’s soul. Some of his troops accuse him of not going far enough or fast enough toward independence. One Easton man accuses him of accepting a bribe to put the brakes on liberty. A far less experienced officer is chosen to command Northampton County’s Flying Camp. Peter must combat the rumor to save not only his character but the unit.

Meanwhile, General Washington is about to engage the British in New York as the Continental Congress declares independence. Will Peter recapture his standing in time, or will the untested novice lead the men to battle? Will he be home for the birth of his next child? What will become of him and the Flying Camp in the badly lopsided clash?

Erin is facing similar challenges. She’s always loved teaching, so why does she feel so out of place? And why does one student disdain, even threaten her? Her ailing parents can’t be in the same room together, and her preteen son develops an aversion for school and a fondness for cell phones. Her new church and Daughters of the American Revolution chapter aren’t what she’s used to. The man she might have a future with brings disappointment.

What Erin and Peter thought was going to be solid ground has become sinking sand. When you do the right thing, shouldn’t life fall into place? Not for them. Probably not for you.