Knud Hermansen

Walking to Hell: The Story of a Confederate Soldier is a sweeping, emotionally charged novel that blends historical fiction with the intimacy of memoir. Told through the eyes of Ezekial McNair, a centenarian reflecting on his youth as a Confederate soldier, this story spans generations, wars, and the haunting legacy of violence. With vivid detail and raw honesty, McNair recounts the brutality of battle, the bonds of friendship, and the ghosts that never left him. 

Author Knud E. Hermansen masterfully weaves humor, heartbreak, and humanity into a narrative that feels both epic and deeply personal. 

Perfect for readers who love character-driven historical fiction, this book is not just about war—it’s about memory, redemption, and the stories we leave behind.

A soldier’s truth, told without glory. Hard Living, Easy Dying continues the fictional memoir of Ezekial McNair, a Confederate cavalryman whose voice is as raw and real as the war he survived. From the muddy roads of retreat to the chaos of ambushes and the quiet heartbreak of loss, McNair’s story is a deeply human account of camaraderie, courage, and the cost of command. 

With vivid detail and dark humor, Knud E. Hermansen brings the Civil War to life—not as a grand narrative, but as a series of unforgettable moments lived by ordinary men. 

For readers who crave immersive historical fiction with grit, heart, and authenticity, this novel delivers a powerful ride through one man’s war-torn youth.