Chapter 16 "Blood-Burning Moon" Summary

"Blood-Burning Moon" describes the violent outcome of an interracial love triangle. The story is set at night under a full moon. Louisa, a young black girl, is on her way home from the Stone's home, where she works in the kitchen. She sings quietly as she walks and thinks of Bob Stone, the son of her employer. Bob Stone loves Louisa and Louisa is also fond of Bob.

Tom Burwell is in love with Louisa as well. Tom is a black field worker who tries to court Louisa at night when he has time after work. Called Big Boy, Tom is physically strong and emotionally rugged. To Louisa, Tom's brute strength is attractive, particularly when she thinks of Tom in comparison to Bob Stone.

As she walks home, she considers Tom and Bob together. She thinks about...