It was truly a sad day as I read about the passing of one of our local gems, Stafford County Sun and Front Porch Magazine columnist, Derval Brown. Apparently, it has been a few weeks since this lovely woman had succumbed to her illness and I made this belated discovery while searching the Internet for some of her most recent work. Unfortunately, there will be no more commentaries to read, or opportunities to share in her wonderful wit and candor. Thankfully, we will always have her memory to cherish.

My first introduction to Derval was pretty self-centered on my part. When my first book on Stonewall Jackson was released, I sent her a complimentary copy and a sappy letter begging for a review. Being the local authors go-to-girl for honest insight and analysis, I had always enjoyed her Between the Lines critiques and was anxious to get my book out there by using her talents as a journalistic springboard.

My material was not the norm for Derval, but I took a chance anyway. Not only did she take the time to read and review my book, she also went above and beyond the call of duty and phoned me up on several occasions to discuss her own thoughts on the subject. Each time, our conversations drifted beyond the subject matter, as she spared no words in telling me that this particular topic provided a unique challenge for her. An adamant pacifist, Derval did not support any war (regardless of the time and place) and was not moved by desperate charges and violent victories. It was not the kind of thing a budding Civil War historian wanted to hear.

However, she agreed to give it a try and took the time out of her busy schedule to read a biography on one of the fiercest warriors in military history. She then found a way to graciously compliment my work without compromising her own convictions. Derval later explained to me that it wasn't dignified to promote or glorify the act of war, but that she appreciated the unique approach I used in portraying Jackson as a Christian first and a soldier second. It turned out to be one of my favorite reviews and I still treasure her praise.

I had planned to send her copies of my other books, but I have missed that opportunity. Unfortunately, I was anticipating our phone discussions more than her review and looked forward to debating the battlefield heroics of JEB Stuart. Perhaps that argument is still to come - at another time - in a much better place.

As depressing as it was to discover her passing, I did find comfort in the countless tributes posted online by her colleagues and peers. Ironically, it is the reviewer herself now receiving rave reviews -- all well deserved. Those of us lucky enough to know Derval were truly blessed by her presence, and I hope her legacy will live on in the archived pages of the publications she wrote for.  Derval Brown was a great writer, but more importantly, she was a great lady.

Michael Aubrecht lives in Spotsylvania.  Epilogue is our final Between the Lines column.