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Customer Reviews for River North Wedded to War, Heroines Behind the Lines Series #1
River North Wedded to War, Heroines Behind the Lines Series #1
Format: eBook
Tending to the army's sick and wounded meant leading a life her mother does not understand and giving up a handsome and approved suitor. Yet Charlotte chooses a life of service over privilege, just as her childhood friend had done when he became a military doctor. She soon discovers that she's combatting more than just the rebellion by becoming a nurse. Will the two men who love her simply stand by and watch as she fights her own battles? Or will their desire for her wage war on her desire to serve God?
2013 Christy Award Two-Time Finalist/2013 AWSA Golden Scroll Novel of the Year Finalist
Average Customer Rating:
(40 Reviews) 40
Rating Snapshot (40 reviews)
5 stars
34
4 stars
5
3 stars
1
2 stars
0
1 star
0
40 out of 40100%customers would recommend this product to a friend.
Customer Reviews for Wedded to War, Heroines Behind the Lines Series #1
Review 1 for Wedded to War, Heroines Behind the Lines Series #1
Overall Rating:
Date:May 26, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Charlotte Waverly has all she needs to succeed in life - money, affluence and a considerate, patient suitor. When the Civil War breaks out, she feels as if she needs to do more than just sew uniforms and put together supplies for the war effort like all the other women are doing. Upon seeing an article in the newspaper reaching out to the public about the need for nurses, she quickly decides that it is something she can do. Despite the opposition of her mother, and to the horror of her beau, Phineas Hastings, she embarks on her journey.
What she discovers is not at all what she expected. She expected opposition, but not downright hate, disrespect, and resistance to female nurses. Between the overwhelming lack of supplies and medicices for the wounded, and the horrific unpreparedness of the Union Army's Medical Department; Charlotte knows she has found a worthy cause to be a part of despite the fact that her abilities, faith, and perseverance are sorely tested. Will she be able to press on toward a calling she believes she is destined to fulfill? Or will she crack under the strain of a profession no one believes she should have?
I know that nurses weren't always as highly respected as they are today. But I never realized just how hard it was to be a nurse during the Civil War. This novel was not only informative, but rich with history and heart. I found myself cheering Charlotte on, despite the opposition and hardship, and hoping she would succeed against all odds. A very enjoyable and well written novel from first-time author Green.
This book was provided by the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review.
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Review 2 for Wedded to War, Heroines Behind the Lines Series #1
Overall Rating:
Everything Christian Fiction should be.
Date:May 13, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Wedded to War has succeeded in being everything Christian historical fiction should be: a well written story set in a real time and place that explores serious subjects through unforgettable characters. In short: a great novel.
That is what Jocelyn Green's Wedded to War is...and this is her first novel! "Stunning!" comes to mind if I were told to give a one word review.
That is what Jocelyn Green's Wedded to War is...and this is her first novel! "Stunning!" comes to mind if I were told to give a one word review.
When I read about this series, the Heroines Behind the Lines Series, I though to myself "I bet these Civil War stories will really ring true because of the author's experiences as a military wife and because all her other books were for military families. After all, the thoughts and feelings, hopes and losses of those in the military and their families haven't really changed." It is so true... Mrs. Green has written about the Civil War with a depth that makes you love the characters and lets you experience their times.
Her writing is just plain beautiful, that is the best word I have for it. Whether she is writing a reflective scene that lets us see into Dr. Caleb Lansing's heart, or a hospital scene where Nurse Charlotte Waverly is tending the worst of the wounded, each scene is described so well that we are placed there in the moment. We are allowed to see everything fully, and the descriptions never weigh down the story.
In Wedded to War, Jocelyn Green has spun several stories into one novel, and she writes in the exact tone needed for each character so we can get to know them. Whether it is Irish girl Ruby O'Flannery or young chaplain Edward Goodrich, the characters live and breathe on these pages. They live life with passion, and they have many dimensions to their stories.
I am actually glad that I waited to read Wedded To War for so long...because the next book, Widow of Gettysburg has just released and I was able to begin the next volume right away. If you haven't read either, buy both together. They are worth every penny!
And then go connect with Jocelyn Green on her Facebook, Twitter, and websites: Heroines Behind the Lines and JocelynGreen.com so you can keep up with her writing news as she works on the next two books... Yankee of Atlanta and Spy of Richmond!
Thank you to Moody Press for my review copy of this book!
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Review 3 for Wedded to War, Heroines Behind the Lines Series #1
Overall Rating:
Wonderful book
Date:May 2, 2013
DMcVay
Age:35-44
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
This was a wonderful book to read, I had a hard time putting it down. I love the author's use of descriptive words and am amazed at all of the research that must have been done. The story kept me engaged, waiting to find out how everything would come out in the end. Great book!
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Review 4 for Wedded to War, Heroines Behind the Lines Series #1
Overall Rating:
Torn...
Date:March 5, 2013
ASC Photos and Designs
Location:NM
Age:18-24
Gender:female
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
3
out of
5
I was a little torn in two in the middle of Wedded to War. So I think I should list the pros and cons to give my true opinion. I loved the new things I learned historically. I loved the characters, mainly Charlotte, Jacob, and Alice. Charlotte is the type of woman I hope I would have been if I was born in the Civil War era, but most likely would not have been nearly as strong and brave. I loved the end of the book and how it wrapped up beautifully bringing justice to all parties.
Now I must tell you the things that, for lack of a better word, bothered me. This book is not for the faint of heart. I also think it shouldn't be read by people 15 and under at least. Some of the scenes are graphic, in my opinion, and this book is for the person who wants the reality of the Civil War to sink in. You will be SO angry when the baddest guy gets away with things (or at least I was), but keep reading for the end is well worth it. Overall I do recommend this book, just to a more mature audience. It really is a fabulous read all around and after I got past part three and a little of four I really enjoyed the majority of it. :)
While there where a few times I didn't want to go on, and I didn't think I wanted to continue in the series anymore. In the end this is a MUST READ for an older audience because it is filled with wonderful messages that can't be missed! :)
P.S. In the description it states that two men love her. I thought I knew who these men where, but after reading the book I think it is someone not even mentioned on the back. Read for yourself and see who you think the two are? ;)
My songs for Wedded to War are my findings from songs mentioned right out of the pages of Jocelyn's work: "Blessed Assurance" by Mark Howard, John Mock, Stuart Duncan, "Amazing Grace" by Mark Howard, John Mock, Stuart Duncan, "Amazing Grace" by Celtic Woman, and "Glory Glory Hallelujah" by Joan Baez
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Review 5 for Wedded to War, Heroines Behind the Lines Series #1
Overall Rating:
Date:February 25, 2013
During the Civil War
Charlotte Waverly is going to find out, in this story, how hard it is for a woman to become a nurse in 1861. Charlotte is determined and works her way into nursing. She will proof her worth—working from the lowest position of emptying chamber pots to real nursing.
Charlotte Waverly is going to find out, in this story, how hard it is for a woman to become a nurse in 1861. Charlotte is determined and works her way into nursing. She will proof her worth—working from the lowest position of emptying chamber pots to real nursing.
Coming from a rich family, Charlotte is not accustomed to hard work, but she will show that she is not afraid of hard and dirty work, and proof that a woman is also capable of nursing. Together with her sister Alice, Charlotte travels from New York to the battlefield to be close to her sister’s husband and to do her work in a hospital. Some time later an Irish woman will walk into their lives—Ruby—who has several secrets to hide. Somehow Ruby’s secret has to do with Charlotte’s suitor. Will Ruby ever find the courage to share her secret?
Jocelyn Green is a talented storyteller who has done a lot of research for this book. The historical details are nicely woven into this story. It was fascinating to see how difficult it was for women in those days to become a nurse. And like with almost every war story I have finished reading—I am so grateful to live in peace and have no personal knowledge of the horrors of war. After finishing this book I am also grateful for the medical help and supplies we have these days.
Lovers of Civil War fiction will enjoy reading this book!
Lovers of Civil War fiction will enjoy reading this book!
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Review 6 for Wedded to War, Heroines Behind the Lines Series #1
Overall Rating:
AMAZING!!!
Date:February 17, 2013
Beth
Location:N.C
Age:18-24
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Wedded to War follows the lives of four very different people, caught in the middle of the Civil War.
Charlotte is determined to make a difference in a man's work as a battlefield nurse. Dr. Caleb Lansing is a surgeon who has loved Charlotte since childhood but when he suddenly disappeared after her father's death they became nothing more than "old friends". Phineas Hastings, Charlotte's suitor is a man of dark secrets and dual personalities who is running from his poverty infested past. Ruby O'Flannery is an Irish immigrant living in the Five-Point slum of New York City. When her husband joins the Union army she must do what she can to survive,but the consequences and guilt are more than she can take, all she wants is a second chance. But her "second chance" comes with scandal and blackmail.
I don't want to reveal too much about the plot but it was AMAZING!!!
This is historical fiction at its best! It was gritty, believable, and extremely informative and insightful!
The research that was obviously put into this novel is immaculate! If you like historical fiction you HAVE to read this book!!!!!
I will be anxiously awaiting more historical fiction form Jocelyn Green!
Charlotte is determined to make a difference in a man's work as a battlefield nurse. Dr. Caleb Lansing is a surgeon who has loved Charlotte since childhood but when he suddenly disappeared after her father's death they became nothing more than "old friends". Phineas Hastings, Charlotte's suitor is a man of dark secrets and dual personalities who is running from his poverty infested past. Ruby O'Flannery is an Irish immigrant living in the Five-Point slum of New York City. When her husband joins the Union army she must do what she can to survive,but the consequences and guilt are more than she can take, all she wants is a second chance. But her "second chance" comes with scandal and blackmail.
I don't want to reveal too much about the plot but it was AMAZING!!!
This is historical fiction at its best! It was gritty, believable, and extremely informative and insightful!
The research that was obviously put into this novel is immaculate! If you like historical fiction you HAVE to read this book!!!!!
I will be anxiously awaiting more historical fiction form Jocelyn Green!
I received this book free from Moody Press in exchange for an honest review.
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Review 7 for Wedded to War, Heroines Behind the Lines Series #1
Overall Rating:
Wedded to War
Date:February 16, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Charlotte wants to become a nurse as her part in serving God and her country. It has nothing to do with money or status, far from it. She has to go against her mother, her beau and just about everyone that crosses her path in the struggle to become a nurse. The Army and the medical field do not want women in any way involved the war. The nurses were treated without respect by the majority of the doctors and at times to the point of putting there lives in danger. Women were suppose to stay at home and wait for the men to return and they were allowed ready supplies like bandages, socks, blankets and such to send to the soldiers.
Charlotte is one determined head strong woman and will not let anyone or anything stand in her way to become a nurse even if it does mean to be sent into the fields of battle to care for the wounded soldiers. Her childhood friend is a physician in the Army. He encourages her to go where God leads and to listen to God's voice. But her beau will stop at anything to bring her back home even if by force.
This book gripped my heart and angered me at the disrespect these devoted and loving women went through to help care for the soldiers. I could not put the book down. It was riveting! The author gives us intrigue, adventure, mystery, suspense, romance and a commitment to oneself and God.
I wanted to read more about these women that served with all there heart and soul, putting their lives on the line. I commend these steadfast loyal women that served and suffered during the Civil War.
I highly recommend this book.
I rated this book 5 out of 5.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book from Moody Publishing Newsroom for review. I was in no way compensated for this review. It is my honest opinion.
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Review 8 for Wedded to War, Heroines Behind the Lines Series #1
Overall Rating:
Gritty, realistic book. Great read!
Date:December 28, 2012
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
Jocelyn Green has written a wonderful book in her new "Heroines Behind the Lines" Civil War book series. This is a work of fiction, but is heavily based in fact. It was a fascinating read on the trials and horrors of the time. Charlotte wants to be more than just an empty-headed, pretty woman on some man's arm. Her greatest desire is to have her life count for something. She fights with everything she has against overwhelming obstacles to be able to work as a nurse during the civil war. She endures incomprehensible circumstances to be able to do that work. She can be overly strong and opinionated, but as the book progresses, you start to see some growth. I very much appreciated when Alice (her sister) calls her on her attitude towards men in authority, though I wish she had not let Charlotte get away with a couple of her nastier comments.
This is a hard review to write without giving spoilers. The author wrote a very gritty, realistic book, but there were times when it felt she was pushing a little too hard--going for shock factor. I also had a hard time with the fact that Charlotte stands there while her fiance verbally attacks, with no discernable reason (at least to Charlotte at the time) Ruby, the woman she has taken under her wing and she doesn't really do anything. This from the girl that stands up to everyone--sometimes to her detriment. Ruby's story is woven throughout the book adding even more depth to the story.
I love a book that makes me root for the characters, and this one certainly did. The added bonus is the "History Behind the Story" at the end that gives a short sketch of the characters that were taken from history, and the bibliography to help anyone who would like to read more on the subjects in the book. Very well done book. I look forward to reading the sequels as they come out!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for the purpose of this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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Review 9 for Wedded to War, Heroines Behind the Lines Series #1
Overall Rating:
Inspirational and Gripping
Date:December 14, 2012
Called2serve
Location:Kansas City, MO
Gender:female
After finishing, "Wedded to War," all I could say was, "Wow!" Jocelyn Green placed herself next to my other favorite historical authors: Lynn Austin and Francine Rivers. The suspenseful love story is relatable on numerous levels as Jocelyn breathes life into history. Determination, compassion, shame, deception, search for love, and honor to country are just a few of the attributes found in Jocelyn's characters. Her historical exactness, poignant theme, and keen descriptions of the smells, sounds, and sites dropped me right into the era's scenarios as if I were traveling the civil war's streets myself. I'm a nurse, and Jocelyn gifted me with such a great appreciation for those women pioneers who paved the way for those desiring a medical profession in a male-dominated world. Jocelyn's gentle, nonjudgmental Christian witness invites all who experience fearful and challenging situations to find hope. Her adventurous settings, relatable characters, and unforgettable story line will leave you sad that it has to end. I can't wait until Jocelyn's next book in the series releases!
Penny Monetti
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Review 10 for Wedded to War, Heroines Behind the Lines Series #1
Overall Rating:
Very well written!
Date:November 26, 2012
SarahO
Age:25-34
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I really enjoyed Wedded To War. It was extremely well written, which you can't always say in the Christian fiction world. The story was gripping and the characters believable. The dialogue was also great! I definitely recommend this book to anyone, especially those who love historical fiction!
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Review 11 for Wedded to War, Heroines Behind the Lines Series #1
Overall Rating:
Enjoyable AND educational!
Date:November 26, 2012
AnnMargret Hovsepian
Location:Montreal, Canada
Age:35-44
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
There are a few reasons I should NOT have enjoyed this book as much as I did: I'm Canadian and can't relate to the Civil War, I've never been interested in war-time stories, I've never been interested in reading about history. And yet I truly enjoyed Wedded to War from cover to cover.
I was fascinated by the rich historical facts about the challenges the first female nurses and doctors faced. I was moved to read about how tough life was for the average American during the war, as well as for the new immigrants and the slaves. I was challenged to consider how much I take for granted in my peaceful, affluent country today when so many before me and in different places faced unbelievable hardships and fought to make this shared land the wonderful place that it is.
And then I was uplifted by the experiences of the story's characters, even if most of them were fictional, and the reminders of how God works in our lives when we're faithful and obedient, when we trust Him even when it doesn't make sense.
I also fell in love with the characters. Even the nasty ones were fascinating! The people in these stories are real and I love how the author never tried to paint any of them as perfect or having it all together. Each one fought his or her own inner battles and had to make things right with God.
For a debut novel, this is a great success by Jocelyn Green. I eagerly look forward to the next book in the series.
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Review 12 for Wedded to War, Heroines Behind the Lines Series #1
Overall Rating:
A book that ups the standard of Christian Fiction!
Date:November 22, 2012
Peter L
Location:Boise, ID
Age:35-44
Gender:male
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Jocelyn Green's incredible research, deep characters, compelling story, and brilliant writing has upped the standard of Christian Fiction. This gritty tale takes the reader into hospitals where passion and pain mix. Love and devotion, depravity, death, and hope are found on every page. Don't miss this remarkable story.
Peter Leavell, Award Winning Author of 'Gideon's Call.'
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Review 13 for Wedded to War, Heroines Behind the Lines Series #1
Overall Rating:
A MUST read!
Date:October 15, 2012
TLindsey
Age:25-34
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Jocelyn Green did a wonderful job writing Wedded to War! I have not read too many historical fiction books, but am super glad I chose this one. She made the Civil War come alive for me and I am anxious to continue reading the series. I was inspired by Charlotte’s determination and outspokenness and how she really proved herself to everyone who doubted her (or the female race in general). I really appreciated how she integrated God’s love into the characters and how they were reminded throughout the story to follow God’s Word. I highly recommend this book to anyone wanting to read about romance, suspense, danger, faith, history….it’s got it all!
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Review 14 for Wedded to War, Heroines Behind the Lines Series #1
Overall Rating:
Great historical fiction
Date:October 2, 2012
Taisha
Location:Columbus, Oh
Age:25-34
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Wedded to War is a book filled with lots of history, love, courage, and strength. Jocelyn Green is a talented and anointed author, Her books leave you begging for more
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Review 15 for Wedded to War, Heroines Behind the Lines Series #1
Overall Rating:
Bullseye Civil War novel
Date:September 20, 2012
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Jocelyn Green is on my figurative dart board. She has written the consummate portrait of a Civil War nurse, and that riles me, as a long-time student and writer of Civil War era fiction. Her attention to detail and stellar research truly saturate each page of this story. Her debut fiction novel is based on the diary of Georgeanna Woolsey, a young lady of privilege from Manhattan who leaves behind her posh salons and world-class dining and theater to forge the way for women to serve the war effort. So my first dart aimed at this author is, I admit, aimed in pure jealousy, because I long to write with that level of immersion.
But the next dart I aimed, instead of jealousy, is all admiration. She has set the bar high, and I aim to meet it. Her heroine Charlotte Waverly has all the pluck necessary to not only leave her pampered life behind, but to take on the most odious work for the Union Sanitary Commission, all under intense persecution from men who view women like her as interlopers, inept and easily dismissed. the background story of love interests, courtship, social and gender prejudices, and of course epic war, keep the tension sizzling on every page.
My dart arsenal fires again for the romance thread--a dead bullseye. She creates a wonderful hero in Caleb Lansing, Charlotte's long-time friend who now serves as a Federal army surgeon. Though we don't get to see him much due to Charlotte's engrossing story and a full cast of characters and subplots, Caleb's presence is felt throughout. He is the one she longs for, the one who represents comfort and goodness and the pursuit of her dreams. His acceptance and encouragement of her avocation in a world dominated by men makes him truly heroic--the reader will keep going to the very end to see how they overcome courtship rivalry, war logistics, sickness, and their own insecurities to find their happily ever after.
And finally, one last dart aimed at Ms. Green's way of making each character three dimensional and sympathetic--even the antagonistic Mr. Phineas Hastings. I loved her treatment of the Irish immigrant, Ruby, whose husband serves in the NY "Fighting" 69th. Since my own great grandfather John Cronin served in the 69th it held personal interest to me. Glimpses into Frederick Law Olmsted, the head of the Sanitary Commission, and also the hospital chaplain Edward Goodrich add dimension to the story.
This really is a must read for any student of the Civil War, of women's rights, and of the advent of modern medicine. Meticulously researched and engaging, Wedded to War hits the mark on every score.
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Review 16 for Wedded to War, Heroines Behind the Lines Series #1
Overall Rating:
Expertly crafted debut novel!
Date:August 30, 2012
April
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I must honestly admit that Christian fiction is not my favorite genre. I often find the characters weak, storylines predictable and plots following an almost too perfect rhythm. And then came Wedded to War.
Expertly crafted with a depth of knowledge on the subject matter obvious from page one, it was clear Jocelyn Green took painstaking effort to afford the reader an authentic experience. I felt transported to the era!! Charlotte's character is unique in that she strives to break the mold of traditional expectations NOT in a spirit of rebellion but an effort to embrace her own humanity. Very refreshing!! Great read-I was excited to send my mom a copy!
Expertly crafted with a depth of knowledge on the subject matter obvious from page one, it was clear Jocelyn Green took painstaking effort to afford the reader an authentic experience. I felt transported to the era!! Charlotte's character is unique in that she strives to break the mold of traditional expectations NOT in a spirit of rebellion but an effort to embrace her own humanity. Very refreshing!! Great read-I was excited to send my mom a copy!
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Review 17 for Wedded to War, Heroines Behind the Lines Series #1
Overall Rating:
Great story!
Date:August 25, 2012
Cathy Allen
Location:Dennison, IL
Age:55-65
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
As a nurse and interested in Civil War, I found this book to be very interesting and enthralling. Loved it! Had trouble putting it down. The characters are excellently described and a true picture of soceity's view of women and nurses. Looking forward to the next book in the series. I gave my copy to our local library staff to read so they will carry Ms. Green's novels.
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Review 18 for Wedded to War, Heroines Behind the Lines Series #1
Overall Rating:
Couldn't Put It Down!
Date:August 25, 2012
Crys H
Location:Pawtucket, RI
Age:25-34
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I found "Wedded to War" quite by accident, but being fascinated by all things Civil War I decided to give it a try. I have to say, Jocelyn Green is now among one of my new favorite authors! I literally couldn't put this novel down! How many times have you read a book/watched a documentary on the Civil War, only to have it focus on the brave men who fought & gave their lives in the ultimate sacrifice to God and their country? For once, it is so refreshing to read a tale about the brave WOMEN who gave their service in the bloodiest war our country has ever known. The fact that it is based on an actual woman is most fascinating of all! These events actually happened, and there were strong, independent, BRAVE women, right there with our brave troops!
And as if that wasn't enough to convince you already, the characters are extremely well thought out, and very likeable. You will get emotionally involved with the characters (I promise!), and find yourself cheering on Charlotte, Alice, Ruby & Caleb each step of the way, through each of their triumphs and heartaches, alike.
I would HIGHLY recommend this novel to anyone interested in, not only the Civil War, but the plight of women to find some semblance of equality in our country, long before Suffragism had even been thought of. This is an amazing (and accurate) historical account of how a handful of brave women really can make a difference in the world! Kudos to Jocelyn Green on writing such a great novel, and I truly look forward to her next work in the "Heroines Behind the Lines" series!!
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Review 19 for Wedded to War, Heroines Behind the Lines Series #1
Overall Rating:
I couldn't put it down
Date:August 16, 2012
Cheri Cowell
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I read this book in three days because I couldn't put it down. I love history and loved "seeing the civil war in DC" while learning about this brave women whose character is based upon the woman who started the Red Cross. If you want to be inspired as a woman, and if you want to see how close we came to not having the America we enjoy today if it had not been for these amazingly braze women (and a few good men) then you must read this book. Jocelyn has written a compelling story. I can't wait for the next one in this series.
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Review 20 for Wedded to War, Heroines Behind the Lines Series #1
Overall Rating:
Promising debut novel
Date:August 15, 2012
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
GENRE: HISTORICAL
PUBLISHER: RIVER NORTH
PUBLICATION DATE: JULY 1, 2012
RATING: 3.5 OUT OF 5 - GOOD
PUBLISHER: RIVER NORTH
PUBLICATION DATE: JULY 1, 2012
RATING: 3.5 OUT OF 5 - GOOD
PROS: Well-researched; easy to read; relatively unexplored topic in Christian historical fiction
CONS: Historical details often feel dumped rather than woven into story; third love interest feels unnecessary; Ruby's story feels unfinished; too many perspectives
When the opportunity arises to train as a nurse to aid the Civil War effort, privileged Charlotte Waverly feels called to volunteer. But despite her desire to offer her services, her family and the doctors she works beside are disapproving and unreceptive to her efforts. As her mother and beau continue to be scandalised by her new occupation, Charlotte finds the hospitals where she offers her aid begin to relent and admit that they require the assistance of nurses, even if they are female. But as the war drags on, it becomes apparent that Charlotte will not be returning to her family in New York any time soon. The pressure from her mother and beau piles on, and Charlotte has to consider whether nursing is God's ultimate plan for her or if she should give up her job in order to marry. But could she really marry someone who is so disapproving of the work she feels called to? When a man from her past reappears, Charlotte feels even more challenged about the direction in which she should take her life.
Meanwhile, Irish immigrant Ruby O'Flannery has waved her husband off to war and is still struggling to make ends meet. Her husband's military wages have yet to arrive, and Ruby can't pay her rent with the meagre money she makes from her sewing. As the days turn to weeks, and still no news comes from her husband, she is forced to move out of her apartment and look for other options. Life as a servant appears to be her best option, but after a horrific occurrence, Ruby is forced to leave her place of employment and turn towards a career that only the hopeless choose. When she receives some devastating news, a female doctor takes pity on her and sends her to Washington to aid Charlotte and the other female nurses. Ruby's life looks like it might take a turn for the better. Could this second chance rekindle her faith in God?
Although I spent my entire senior year of high school studying the US Civil War, I don't think I've actually read many fictional accounts of the war. But Jocelyn Green's novel appealed to me as I like to read about unconventional woman, and despite how incredibly squeamish I am, my mother has been a nurse for over twenty years. Wedded to War satisfied the historian in me to some extent, and I could tell from the start that the novel had been meticulously researched. This isn't your typical historical romance novel with a couple of facts hastily thrown in to make it feel authentic. The romance itself isn't at the forefront of the novel, and I appreciated being able to witness Charlotte's character development before she ultimately made the decision on whether or not she should marry.
That said, some readers may be frustrated at the way the historical facts are presented in Wedded to War. As a student of history, I could appreciate how much research Jocelyn had done, and enjoyed reading her notes about the inspiration for the story. But even I felt that the historical details were, at times, not as gently woven into the story as they could have been. I enjoyed the extracts from Georgeanna Woolsey's letters that were interspersed throughout the novel, but there were times when characters quoted from reports and newspapers that felt a bit forced and awkward. I would have preferred to have seen the filth and devastation of some of the hospitals, rather than have a character read a report on the matter. Since I do spend a fair amount of my time reading primary source documents, I like to read a fictional account of history when I pick up a novel, not a regurgitation of a document that I could probably gain access to if I tried. For those who aren't scholars of history, this might not be so much of an issue, but I do hope that the smoother integration of history and fiction is something that Jocelyn focuses on in her next novel.
In her attempts to present as many perspectives on the US Civil War as possible, Jocelyn introduced far more characters than I expected. As well as Charlotte and Ruby, we also have Phineas, Charlotte's beau, her sister and her husband, a doctor and a chaplain. While each of these characters did provide details on different elements of the war experience, I did sometimes feel that I connected with certain characters more than others. While I sympathised with Charlotte and Ruby in particular, and grew to hate Phineas, I never truly got to know Caleb, the doctor, or Edward, the chaplain. In fact, Edward's perspective sometimes felt unnecessary, and I wasn't entirely sure why he was introduced as a third love-interest for Charlotte.
At times, I almost felt that I enjoyed Ruby's sections of the story more than Charlotte's. It was empowering to see Charlotte forcing herself to stay strong despite the horrors she witnessed in her nursing endeavours, but Ruby's situation was so much more precarious. I appreciated that Jocelyn chose to write about women in Ruby's position, who were sometimes forced to turn towards disreputable work in order to support themselves and their families. The treatment of one event in particular and Ruby's guilt and disgrace afterward really evoked sympathy for all the women who were forced to remain silent about the way they'd been treated for fear of social ruin. I was pleased that Ruby's story had an optimistic ending, but did feel that her story was left unfinished. I would have preferred a more conclusive ending to Ruby's story.
Despite the amount of research Jocelyn put into her novel, Wedded to War makes for a surprisingly easy read. I sped through it far faster than I expected, and although some details are a little gruesome, I really got a feel for how it was to be a nurse during the Civil War. As a fiction debut, Wedded to War shows a lot of promise, and I hope that Jocelyn's writing matures as the Heroines Behind the Lines series develops. Wedded to War won't be joining my list of favourite historical novels due to my gripes with the presentation of historical facts and some story-telling elements, but I'm glad that I had the opportunity to learn about some of the lesser known elements of the Civil War. I'm sure that anyone who reads this novel will come out with a greater respect for the women who fought to become nurses.
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