A review by shelleys_book_nook
When the Jessamine Grows by Donna Everhart

adventurous challenging dark emotional hopeful informative inspiring reflective sad tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

 This has to be one of my favourite books so far this year. I have read every single book by Donna Everhart and she has never disappointed me. Historical Southern Fiction is one of my favourite genres and Donna Everhart is the Queen. I am not a history buff but Ms. Everhart makes me a fan and leaves me wanting to learn more. Her writing style is captivating and the internal thoughts of our protagonist made me feel like I knew her personally. The best part of this book is our leading lady, Joetta. She is one strong woman I tell you and the losses she experiences I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy.

Although this story revolves around The Civil War it is mostly about staying true to one’s self and your convictions. Joetta refuses to take a side, she finds the war a useless endeavour and because of this, she loses friends and the respect of her youngest son, who can’t even look her in the eye. The research was impeccable and I learned a lot about the war, farm life and what it was like to live in the South during that time period. All. The. Stars.