“Masterfully written, The Secrets of Mary #Bowser shines a new light onto our country’s darkest #history.” - Brunonia Barry, bestselling author of The Lace Reader. “Packed with #drama, #intrigue, #love, #loss, and most of all, the resilience of a remarkable #heroine….What a treat!” Kelly O'Connor McNees, author of The Lost Summer of Louisa May Alcott. Based on the remarkable #true story of a freed African American #slave who returned to Virginia at the onset of the #Civil #War to spy on the #Confederates, The Secrets of Mary Bowser is a masterful debut by an exciting new novelist. Author Lois Leveen combines fascinating facts and ingenious speculation to craft a historical novel that will enthrall readers of women’s #fiction, #historical fiction, and acclaimed works like Cane River and Cold Mountain that offer intimate looks at the twin nightmares of slavery and Civil War. A powerful and unforgettable story of a woman who risked her own freedom to bring #freedom to millions of others, The Secrets of Mary Bowser celebrates the courageous achievements of a little known but truly #inspirational American heroine.