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Amanda Belle is a sophisticated Southern woman. She happens to meet Captain Kent and after many meetings in her father's church, she is secretly attracted to him. After a promise she made to her dying mother to take care of her siblings, she knows love for anyone is out of the question. Then to every one's horror the glorious America begins war against it's own brothers. The country is divided in two: Confederates against the Union. Amanda's brother enlists in the Confederate army to keep the sunny south independent. Captain Kent has enlisted in the Union army to keep America a united nation and fight against the view of slavery. Amanda is torn between her loyalty to her native land and brother and heart and Kent.
As the war progresses so does Amanda's love for Kent. She knows her situation is impossible, but nothing is too big for the Lord, right? Kent experiences the many horrors of war. The only thing that keeps him going is the beautiful memories of the woman he loves, Amanda. With the country divided and families on opposing sides, a marriage between the two is highly unlikely.
With the fear of loosing her brother or the man she loves, Amanda is in a constant state of fear of the unknown. She still has to care for her young sisters and father, oversee the slaves' work, and make supplies for the army. Through this time she begins to question God. She is confused on what side she is on. She believes cruel treatment of slaves is wrong, but she still owns them. What side is God on? When she does not receive any answers, she turns her back on God.
What will become of Amanda. Will her brother and the love of her life return to her? Will she ever be able to give herself to God completely again? Journey with this woman through one of the most uncivil times in history.
I thought this was a very sweet book. It was a nice, quiet read. It definitely did not have a fast pace rhythm but was still interesting. I thought the story was very complex and interesting; two opposing sides tugging at one woman's heart. This book was romantic, adventurous, and sad. After discussing with another reader about this novel, we both agreed that the author never clearly said what side Amanda was on. The book did not provide a satisfying ending. Too many questions left unanswered.
I would recommend this book to all those who enjoy a nice paced book and people who enjoy the Civil- War period. I would give this book a 4 out of 5.
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"May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
be pleasing in your sight,
O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer."
(Psalm 19:14)