In wars eighty years apart, two young women living on the same Appalachian estate determine to aid soldiers dear to them and fight for justice, no matter the cost.
1944. When a violent storm rips through the Belvidere attic in No Creek, North Carolina, exposing a hidden room and trunk long forgotten, secrets dating back to the Civil War are revealed. Celia Percy, whose family lives and works in the home, suspects the truth could transform the future for her friend Marshall, now fighting overseas, whose ancestors were once enslaved by the Belvidere family. When Marshall's Army friend, Joe, returns to No Creek with shocking news for Marshall's family, Celia determines to right a long-standing wrong, whether or not the town is ready for it.

1861. After her mother's death, Minnie Belvidere works desperately to keep her household running and her family together as North Carolina secedes. Her beloved older brother clings to his Union loyalties, despite grave danger, while her hotheaded younger brother entangles himself and the family's finances within the Confederacy. As the country and her own home are torn in two, Minnie risks her life and her future in a desperate fight to gain liberty and land for those her parents intended to free, before it's too late.

With depictions of a small Southern town "reminiscent of writings by Lisa Wingate" (Booklist on Night Bird Calling), Cathy Gohlke delivers a gripping, emotive story about friendship and the enduring promise of justice.

My Review:

Oh my goodness, there is nothing quite like Cathy Gohlke’s writing and I always know I’m in for a powerful read when I pick one of hers up. This one was absolutely no exception. She’s not afraid to tackle seemingly impossible topics with emotional journeys that help heal, convict, challenge, and even encourage the reader on multiple levels.

Although this book has been published as a standalone, I would strongly suggest reading her novel Night Bird Calling first. Although it’s possible to read individually, the setting of No Creek is shared between the two and there are backstories to many of the characters that I think are important to get from the previous read. But no worries, because I HIGHLY recommend that one as well.

This one gripped my heart from the very beginning and held me captive until the very end. Desperately needing to know how both timelines would both turn out and ultimately weave together kept the pages frantically turning. There’s no doubt that this one had my heart. I can’t understand Celia and Marshall’s battles, but through the pages I feel I got a glimpse of the cost of injustice they endured. 

This was such an amazing read and one I know is going to stay with me. I highly highly recommend!

*I purchased a copy of this book. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.