The Keepers of the House

By Shirley Ann Grau

For seven generations, the Howlands have been the pillars of their Southern town.  But when Abigail Howland Mason discovers the secret between her grandfather, William, and Margaret, his black housekeeper, racism and revenge surround her home and family.  But Abigail is not going down without a fight.

Excellent book -- it deserved the Pulitzer Prize in 1965. The ending is especially good.