When Altars Burn
by Kay Arthur

A study of four generations, marked by finely drawn characterizations.

A child is caught in the conflict between her mother and grandmother, and the crisis is precipitated by her revelation of a long concealed truth.

As the beloved great grandmother dies in a climax of deep emotional intensity, the whole meaning of her life is disclosed, contrasting strongly with that of the irresponsible grandmother.

The effects of both good and evil actions, devolving from one generation to the next, are vividly dramatized.