Carole J. (PianoLady357) reviewed on 1/28/2019 + 157 more book reviews

With This Pledge is a masterpiece â a literary work of art that, like an intricate painting, engages your senses as you discover more and more through its complexity, and it forever lingers in your thoughts. Through what must have been exhaustive research, Tamera Alexander has fleshed out real-life events and characters into a novel that entertains, resonates with the reader, and challenges your thinking. With This Pledge ranks among the most moving of Alexander's novels and is the first to go on this year's âbest of the bestâ list.

Odd how war had a way of leveling life. Of making what once seemed so important â not quite so significant. And in turn, it made what truly mattered â people, taking care of one another, life â of utmost urgency.

Set in Franklin, Tennessee, With This Pledge is a story of hope in the midst of tragedy, multilayered in both characters and plot. Viewing a devastating battle in the distance from the balcony of the plantation where she works as governess, Lizzie is drawn into the harsh aftermath of war as the home becomes a hospital. The atmosphere of tragedy, grief and loss is palpable â as is that of strength, courage and sacrifice. Through Alexander's exquisite writing, the romance of Roland and Lizzie is a touching bright spot in the midst of turmoil.

In a war where North and South both believed God was on their side, where atrocities were committed on both sides, Alexander's writing challenges conventional thinking about the morality of slavery and leaves readers with much to reflect upon. And so relevant for us today is the fact that believing in God doesn't prevent asking the timeless question of Where is God in the midst of all this?

Very highly recommended.

I received a copy of this book through JustRead Tours. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

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