5.0

An excellent work of narrative nonfiction! I loved learning the stories of these four womens' lives as they worked as spies and soldiers (two for the union, two for the confederacy) during the civil war. The narrative takes the reader through their unique experiences from the beginning of the war and through its end. These women provided information to confederate and union armies that contributed to key victories for their respective armies. They fought valiantly for their causes in a society that didn't allow women to participate in the military, using different and various means to contribute in significant ways. Some were bold, and some worked in secret. This book gave an encompassing perspective on the Civil War by focusing on the experiences of these women and it was well-written, well-researched, interesting and an enjoyable read.