My award-winning Civil War novel, Dread Tribunal of Last Resort (Black Rose Writing), is available for purchase in softback, Kindle, and audiobook editions.

The novel was originally published in hardback by Five Star (a Cengage company), but was a casualty of COVID—first delayed, then buried by the lockdown. When Black Rose agreed to republish, offering affordable editions, I took the opportunity to revise the book in two important ways. I’d been bothered by what I regarded as my “unfair treatment” of a major character (Calista). And I wanted to tighten some of the more theme-driven scenes for clarity. I am more than pleased with the result.

The novel’s title comes from a quote by former Presidential candidate Adlai Stevenson: “Here, in the dread tribunal of last resort, valor contended against valor. Here brave men struggled and died for the right as God gave them to see the right.” The quote captures the notion that both sides of a complex conflict lay claim to virtue.

The reviews have been wonderful:

“The writing is superb and I feel that my words may not be enough to recommend this to every one of mature age.” ~Online Book Club

“A poignant and utterly compelling exploration of the human condition…Absolute stunner.” ~The Prairies Book Review

“Kaufman renders a spectacular portrayal of his characters…. History buffs will be captivated by this astounding read.” ~Reader’s Favorite

“Kaufman does an impressive job detailing the inner conflict of each character. The pace is quick and speedy…with a lot of lively secondary characters, there’s a lot here for readers to enjoy. Recommended.” ~Historical Novel Society

From what makes a hero and the consequences of decisions to the rebuilding of relationships after terrible loss and confrontation, Dread Tribunal of Last Resort creates a moving story that delves into the hearts and minds of those who are swept up in a war of ideals.” ~D. Donovan, Senior Reviewer, Midwest Book Review