Kirk Kirkland Releases Historical Fiction, RHODA

GAINESVILLE, Fla.

Inspired by his genealogical ties to the Battle of Olutsee - the largest Civil War battle fought in Florida - author Kirk Kirkland penned his new historical novel "Rhoda: A Story Based on the Life and Times of Rhoda Elizabeth Waller Kilcrease Gibbes" (published by iUniverse).

The story starts with Rhoda Elizabeth Waller Kilcrease Gibbs, an intellectually, socially and physically strong woman whose abilities border the superhuman in many ways. Throughout the book, she must overcome numerous obstacles including issues of slavery, war and death after she narrowly escapes catastrophe.

"Times may change, but challenges to everyday life remain with us," Kirkland says. "(The book) is a fast-moving story, excelling in accurate history of slave issues, political issues and the dynamics of life as the country transitioned through the war between states."

An excerpt from "Rhoda":

"Rhoda had held her tears, but at last could contain them no longer. They welled in her eyes and streamed down her cheeks. After more than fifty years, seventy-nine year old Rhoda Elizabeth Waller Kilcrease Gibbes finally released her grief."

"Rhoda"
By Kirk Kirkland
Hardcover | 5.5 x 8.5 in | 130 pages | ISBN 9781475992410
Softcover | 5.5 x 8.5 in | 130 pages | ISBN 9781475992397
E-Book | 130 pages | ISBN 9781475992403
Available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble

About the Author
Kirk Kirkland was a boy when he moved to Olustee, a town in north central Florida that was the focal point of a major Civil War battle. He earned a bachelor's degree in criminal justice from Rollins College and a master's degree from American University. He retired as a major from the U.S. Air Force, after serving in World War II and the Korean War. He lives with his wife near the University of Florida, in Gainesville.

iUniverse, an Author Solutions, LLC, self-publishing imprint, is the leading book marketing, editorial services, and supported self-publishing provider. iUniverse has a strategic alliance with Indigo Books & Music, Inc. in Canada, and titles accepted into the iUniverse Rising Star program are featured in a special collection on BarnesandNoble.com. iUniverse recognizes excellence in book publishing through the Star, Reader's Choice, Rising Star and Editor's Choice designations-self-publishing's only such awards program. Headquartered in Bloomington, Indiana, iUniverse also operates offices in Indianapolis. For more information or to publish a book, please visit iuniverse.com or call 1-800-AUTHORS. For the latest, follow @iuniversebooks on Twitter.

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