When the Jessamine Grows is a deeply moving historical novel that explores the emotional toll of the Civil War on those left behind.
Set in 19th-century North Carolina, Donna Everhart brings to life the struggles of Joetta McBride, a resilient woman caught between personal conviction and societal pressure.
As war threatens her family’s peace, Joetta’s courage and moral strength are tested in powerful, heartbreaking ways.
The characters are richly developed, especially Joetta—strong yet vulnerable, determined yet isolated.
Everhart masterfully weaves themes of loyalty, survival, and the cost of neutrality in a divided nation.
The writing is atmospheric and evocative, immersing the reader in the harsh realities of rural wartime life.
Perfect for book clubs, this novel invites discussion about family, principles, and the quiet heroism of ordinary people during extraordinary times.
Fans of Cold Mountain and Enemy Women will find this an unforgettable and compelling read.
