Set in Alabama in the 1960s, Southern Crossfire tells the story of a white Auburn University student, Duke, who becomes involved in the black voter registration project in nearby Tuskegee. Since he has several friends from Tuskegee, the project leaders convince him to use these relationships to supply information about the plans and activities of local Klansmen. As the story unfolds, Duke encounters many of the social issues that made the '60s such a tumultuous time-loosening sexual practices, drugs, abortion, interracial relationships, even a passing reference to homosexuality. The story has elements of intrigue and betrayal, violence and romance, philosophy and frivolity. Historical characters appear and lend realism to this fictional story-that just could have happened.