In this book, set in the waning months of the civil war on a plantation in Georgia was a fascinating read. Far from your usual civil war fare, featuring romance, dashing soldiers in uniform, and helpless damsels in distress, this book presents a picture of three very strong women. Unfortunately, one of the three is not nearly as strong in her mental health as she is in her physical health, and therein lies the crux of the story.
Someone is trying to kill our protagonist. Or are they? Is she simply imagining things? Or are all these close calls the precursors to a successful murder? And if so, who is the culprit? Is it one of her two aunts? Or maybe her charming cousin? Or that nervous-looking but always watching slave girl? And exactly who can she trust?
To be sure, there is romance to be found in this book, if a bit faltering and delayed. But the true story is the mystery of who wants our young, beautiful protagonist dead, and why. If you are looking for a social commentary, this is your book. While the slavery issue is not addressed, the issue of the treatment of prisoners of war is often front and center. On the other hand, if you are looking for a smashing good read and a page-turning mystery, this is also your book. I highly recommend this book and give it a 4.5 out of 5.
I received an electronic review copy of this book from the publisher. This did not affect this review.
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