See my review of North and South. ( )

This sequel was everything I had hoped it would be and so much more. I laughed...I cried...I cried much more than I laughed, but I'm ok with that. One should probably cry more than laugh when reading a book that takes place during the American Civil War. All of the beloved characters from North and South are back, and a few are added to the cast. My personal favorites being Mrs. Augusta "Gus" Barclay and Jane. I love that Jakes can write such strong female characters who can maintain their femininity. The reason I'm giving this book 4 stars as opposed to 5 is that it does kind of lag in the middle. Other than that, it lived up to the first book and I'm looking forward to the concluding novel, Heaven and Hell. ( )

Among the best historical novels I have read; I appreciate the insights and inclusion of lesser known tidbits in the big picture. It's an immersion experience. ( )

See my review of North and South. ( )

A little history mixed with a lot of drama in this Civil War epic. ( )