John Meeks had a simple dream, build up his farm, raise a family, grow old surrounded by grandchildren. Fort Sumter changed that dream. By May, 1861 he and others who opposed secession are rounded up, branded a traitors, and given a choice: volunteer to fight for the Confederacy or prison, he has little choice if he wants to protect his family and land.Philip and Paul Pearson have joined their new regiment encamped around Nashville, TN as winter sets in. Paul is volunteered for a new unit of pioneers and Philip settles into a routine of ministry amidst pro and anti-slavery conflicts of the officer class. A quiet time in winter camp is Philip's hope. Will Hunter catches up with the 1st Alabama Cavalry outside of Murfreesboro, TN only to find that he is most unwelcome. No command, no gladsome tidings, no place for him--Hunter is left to once again accept that he may never achieve anything above being a lowly Lieutenant of Cavalry. Far from a relaxing New Years celebration falling upon the Tennessee countryside, Rosecrans's Union army is preparing to march out of Nashville intent upon ousting Confederate General Bragg's Army of Tennessee from his base of supply, Murfreesboro, TN. Cold, wet, fog, rain, and plummeting temperatures mix with carbine and musket fire, canister and solid shot to tinge the waters of Stone's River red before the next five days are finished.