The Leper

In 1918, Marine Captain John Severson led the battered remnants of his company deeper into a gloomy German forest, desperately seeking a way past enemy lines; instead he led his men straight into a forgotten Leper colony. After the war he accomplishes his dream of becoming a school teacher. It is a perfect year for him; he loves teaching, enjoys being home in Minnesota, and falls in love with a beautiful young woman who agrees to marry him. All his plans are torn asunder with the first leprous lesion which brings the health board chasing after him. The next years are spent in a hellish Louisiana Leper colony. Severson's decency spurs him to stand up for the rights of fellow patients and begin reforms. A raging flood and murderous Klansmen lead to his escape. He doesn't remain free long, he ends up in Molokai, the infamous Hawaiian Leper Colony.

You will find yourself rooting for John Severson, a noble man trying to make the best of a life blighted by a disease which automatically makes one an outcast. The story is suspenseful and full of interesting historical details. If you enjoyed Molokai by Alan Brennert, you will love The Leper by Steve Thayer.