Lovers of historical fiction will devour this Civil War-era story that takes place in North Carolina. When everyone is taking sides in the war, Joetta McBride and her husband choose to stay neutral, but when their oldest son leaves against their wishes to join the Confederacy, they are forced to get involved. Joetta is left to run their farm and house while Ennis goes off to hopefully find and bring back their 15-year-old son. Readers will love Joetta’s strong convictions and determination to keep things afloat in the midst of war and upheaval. A great read!
When the Jessamine Grows by Donna Everhart, (List Price: $17.95, Kensington, 9781496740700, January 2024)
Reviewed by Mary Patterson, The Little Bookshop in Midlothian, Virginia