Official Launch Release: The Ghosts of Gumbo Flats
Third book from the Kansas-born novelist continues his exploration of place, memory, and moral reckoning
January 3, 2026 – The Ghosts of Gumbo Flats, a richly layered work of historical fiction, has been officially released by author Mace Thornton. His latest work is firmly rooted in post-Civil-War Kansas and Missouri and is a stand-alone novel, while building on the world introduced in Thornton’s debut novel, Jawbone Holler.
While readers familiar with Jawbone Holler will recognize echoes of its themes and legacy characters, The Ghosts of Gumbo Flats stands firmly on its own—offering a haunting story of family, adventure and loyalty.
Thornton’s latest release is a post–Civil War novel that follows Moses Watson, a freedman farmer in Kansas, as he sets out to rescue his wife and children taken from him by slavery. Joined by close friends Perry Adams and Pete Fontaine, Watson travels south into hostile territory, where the men confront the lingering violence, moral reckoning, and unresolved truths of a nation struggling to rebuild.
Award-winning author David Crow calls the work a “gritty tale (that) is a triumph of the human spirit in the most perilous times.” Noted Kansas writer John Schlageck calls Gumbo Flats a “unique tale well-told, full of life, trials and love.”
Thornton’s fiction is known for its strong sense of place, morally complex characters, and deep respect for rural America. Drawing from his midwestern roots and a lifelong interest in history, his novels explore how land, lineage, and personal choices intersect.
The Ghosts of Gumbo Flats, published by Personal Chapters Publishing, is available at popular online booksellers and select bookstores.
Thornton’s novels are shaped by his background in agriculture and strategic communications. His character-driven storytelling blends historical grounding with an accessible style that resonates with both historical fiction readers and general audiences. He is a partner at Stratovation Group, a firm focused on research, marketing and communications across the broad food and agriculture value chain.
Thornton is currently booking interviews and in-person author events for the formal launch of The Ghosts of Gumbo Flats. Inquiries may be sent to macethornton@gmail.com. More information about Thornton’s work can be found on this website: www.macethornton.com.
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