The Circumstance of Death Author:Barbara Smith The Circumstance of Death focuses on a family separated for many years but drawn back into contact because of a dramatic death. Set in Appalachia amidst poverty and family tensions a murder has been committed...or has it? A novel of suspense, family, and the human spirit. The first chapter of The Circumstance of Death was originally published... more » by Antietam Review and was nominated for the Pushcart Prize in Short Fiction.« less