Charles Chilton Moore (1837-1906) was a grandson of Barton W. Stone, who along with Alexander Campbell, established what was to become the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), churches of Christ, and independent Christian Church/Church of Christ faith groups in America.

Moore graduated from Bethany (then Virginia, now West Virginia) College in 1858 and for a few years was a minister of the gospel in Kentucky. He left his ministry after becoming a self-described "infidel," leading eventually to his being owner and publisher of the newspaper Blue Grass Blade, beginning in 1884. The paper's contents eventually led to Moore being convicted of sending "obscene matter" through the mail, and he served five months in federal prison for the crime.

The author chronicles the life of Moore and attempts to provide the reader with an understanding of the "what," where," "when," and "why" of Moore's beliefs, dis-beliefs, and actions. From what I know about Moore and related facts, I believe the author succeeds on all fronts.

Persons interested in learning more about their Stone-Campbell religious heritage should find the book to be thought provoking and of value. I did. The author reflects good research with numerous footnotes throughout the book. The book also includes a handful of photos, a wonderful bibliography, and an index. ( )