The Virginia Valley

The Virginia Valley is an historical novel set in the 1840s that chronicles the journey of an Irish blacksmith, Aidan Smith, and his family to labor alongside African American slaves at High Meadows plantation in Virginia as indentured servants. The Smiths are generally accepted in their new culture, and feel a closeness to the slaves, nurtured by common faith. But that faith is tested by events that threaten to destroy the owners of the plantation, Aidan, and the closest of his new friends and allies.

A gifted storyteller and songwriter, Douglas Malcolm has been drawn to the issue of improving race relations for much of his life. From the memorable experience of befriending the servant of his host family as an exchange student in South Africa during the height of apartheid, to enjoying inner-city ministry in his native Pittsburgh, he has sought to bring God's love to those scorned by prejudice. This book is the result of years on in-depth study of slavery, and seeking God's insight into how we can learn to love, value, and truly enjoy one another. All races are offered affirmation and things to think about within these pages. And Douglas reveals an amazing discovery in the life of Moses that discredits all who attempt to use the Bible to discriminate.