A review by melissasbookshelf
Dreams of Savannah by Roseanna M. White

4.0

Whenever I read a Civil War romance, I can't help but hear characters from Gone With the Wind in my mind, often because the characters seem to be somewhat one dimensional. This book was a refreshing surprise for me. When I received a complimentary net galley copy of this book for my honest review, I was amazed at how much I really enjoyed it. (All opinions expressed are entirely my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.) The characters both Black and White were intelligently written, thoughtful, and well rounded. The story was very compelling and had me staying up late into the night to read "just one more chapter."

This story of the struggle of the Civil War was enhanced by the strong cast of characters and the interesting plot. There was the free Black man from England who was well educated searching for his wife mistakenly sold into slavery, the Southern gentleman fighting for states' rights yet fighting his own views of slavery and the war, the evil rogue who disrespects all women, the obtuse father who loves his daughters including one from his relationship with a slave, the Southern wife who overlooks her husband's flaws, the idealistic daughter who can't wait for her soldier to return and lives to write fantasy novels all the while becoming increasingly aware of the brutal reality surrounding her, the daughter who is half Black half White but doesn't fit neatly in either world, the slave who pretends he is less intelligent than he is yet willing to risk his life for others, and those who are just trying to find ways to survive as the war comes ever closer to Savannah.

Filled with romance, suspense, betrayal, and the ever soul-wrenching conflict of the Civil War, this book tells the struggles of several couples both Black and White in epic proportions. It is a must read for all those who enjoy historical religious fiction. The religious aspects of the story are nicely woven in throughout the story and are a natural part of the characters' lives. Highly recommend this book and hope that a sequel is in store because I can't wait to see what happens to these characters.