The text covers the various acts of guerilla warfare in Missouri, both the Union and Confederate policy regarding the actions, and the actions of women who served as guerilla participants. It also addresses both sides' attitudes about the guerilla action during and after the Civil War.

Before the war -- Terror and a sense of justice : civilians in guerrilla war -- Official attitudes -- Brither killers : guerrillas and Union troops -- Women as victims and participants -- After the war.