When the Jessamine Grows : A Captivating Historical Novel Perfect for Book Clubs by Donna Everhart

The novel "The Saints of Swallow Hill" by its description promises a rich exploration of family, principles, and survival amidst the turmoil of the Civil War era in rural North Carolina. Here’s a summary based on the provided excerpt:

Set against the backdrop of impending war in 19th century North Carolina, Joetta McBride and her husband Ennis lead a modest life on their farm with their two sons, Henry and Robert. Despite the growing tensions over slavery and the Confederacy's stance, Joetta remains neutral, focused on keeping her family united and their farm running.

However, their neutrality is challenged when Henry, influenced by his Confederate-supporting grandfather Rudean, runs away to join the war. This prompts Ennis to leave in search of their son, leaving Joetta alone to manage the farm under increasingly difficult circumstances as the war escalates.

Joetta finds herself isolated and at odds with her community, struggling against societal pressures and the physical strain of farm work. Amidst these challenges, a single act of kindness risks bringing further trouble to her family. Despite facing adversity and ostracization, Joetta holds steadfast to her beliefs and determination to keep her family together.

As the war continues to unfold, testing the fabric of the nation and the resilience of individuals like Joetta, the novel promises a morally complex exploration of loyalty, survival, and the enduring power of conviction in a time of profound historical upheaval.

In essence, "The Saints of Swallow Hill" appears to offer a deeply human narrative set against a tumultuous period in American history, echoing themes of resilience and moral integrity reminiscent of acclaimed works like "Cold Mountain" and "Enemy Women."