he first link in a chain of evils… the loss of America” is how Sir Henry Clinton,
  Britain’s commander-in-chief in the Colonies, described the battle of Kings Mountain. Joe Epley’s fact-based novel brings the events leading to the battle into sharp focus through the highly personal experiences of those who shaped its outcome.

     Gripping, visceral, and full of intensity, A Passel of Hate is as historically fascinating as it is emotionally satisfying, capturing the heartache of a war that often pits brother against brother, neighbor against neighbor. This saga of the Kings Mountain campaign in 1780 is a powder keg of highly charged personal feelings and military significance.

     Through the eyes of Jacob Godley, A Passel of Hate brings to life the hardships and challenges of frontier living where there is a constant threat from Indians, partisan raiders and British invaders. Without government orders or formal training, mountain and piedmont patriots join together with their own weapons and horses to expel a Loyalist army plundering the western Carolina countryside and delivering harsh retribution to those supporting rebellion.

     Jacob and his 15-year-old brother enter the savage fighting with the Liberty Men and a dread of having to face their three Loyalist brothers on the battlefield. The overwhelming victory at Kings Mountain is bitter sweet for Jacob who suffers a crushing personal tragedy during he conflict. In addition, his nemesis, the notorious Tory raider Rance Miller escapes, and Jacob, consumed by hatred, tracks the terrorist through the Carolina backcountry and seek the revenge he so desperately needs.

     Thomas Jefferson calls the battle, “The turn of the tide of success.” Kings Mountain is not only historically important, but Epley’s fact-based fictional tale uses it to his greatest emotional advantage. Brutal in its depiction of the harrowing nature of war and the price paid by our revolutionary ancestors, his spot-on emotional terrain and breakneck pacing forge a relentless adventure full of bravery and horrific violence. Exciting and action-packed, A Passel of Hate is first-rate historical-action entertainment.