An extraordinary novel about a strong-willed woman who disguises herself as a man in order to fight beside her husband, inspired by the letters of a remarkable female soldier who fought in the Civil War.Rosetta doesn’t want her new husband Jeremiah to enlist, but he joins up, hoping to make enough money that they’ll be able to afford their own farm. When Jeremiah leaves, Rosetta decides her true … decides her true place is by his side, no matter what that means, and to be with him, she follows him into war.
With the army desperate for recruits, Rosetta has no trouble volunteering, although she faces an incredulous husband. Her strong will clashes with Jeremiah’s, and their marriage is tested by broken conventions, constant danger, war, and the fear that Rosetta will be discovered.
Rich with historical details and inspired by more than 250 documented accounts of the women who fought in the Civil War while disguised as men, I Shall Be Near To You is a courageous adventure, a woman’s search for meaning and individuality, and a poignant story of enduring love.
Praise for I Shall Be Near to You
“Astounding.” —Glamour
“Compellingly authentic.” —Elle
“This fascinating historical novel is beautifully written and emotionally charged. Using a female soldier’s point of view for the narration makes McCabe’s story refreshingly unique.” —Romantic Times
“McCabe has created a tough, realistic woman who is equally committed to being a good soldier and a good wife. I Shall Be Near to You is both a poignant love story and a gritty war experience, and is highly recommended.” —Historical Novels Review
“A beautiful and powerful story that offers a rare perspective on those who fought in the Civil War…Following a pair of newlyweds, so brave and loving and committed, navigate the horrors of war is heart-wrenching. In her deceptively simple prose, McCabe has delivered an unforgettable, haunting and well-researched take on history that has a rightful place on bookshelves next to the most timeless and celebrated of sagas.” —Free Lance-Star
“A gripping story, and McCabe’s writing gives it considerable impact; I Shall Be Near to You is a memorable addition to the literature of the Civil War.” —San Jose Mercury News
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Excellent story that reveals the untold role of women I the War. Stellar character development.
I enjoyed the writing in this book. I did struggle a bit toward the end. I’ve read one too many war novels. However, I liked reading about the experience of women in the military. I’d give it a sound3.5 if I had the opportunity to break it down further.
Inspired by the actual letters of women who fought in the Civil War, Erin McCabe’s debut novel imagines the challenges faced by newlyweds Rosetta and Jeremiah Wakefield when she decides to join him in battle. Told in first person from the point of view of Rosetta, I Shall Be Near to You is an engaging read with dynamic characters. The beginning of …
Although this is fiction, I learned about the women who fought alongside men during the War Between the States. This part of the war was never covered in my American history class.
Rosetta Wakefield cannot bear the thought of her husband, Jeremiah, enlisting in the Union Army. When he and his friends do anyway, she decides to join him, presenting herself as Ross Stone to the men and officers of the 97th New York. Jeremiah is not best pleased, but then Rosetta never has been a conventional kind of girl. Together, then, they …
This is one of the most beautifully written books I’ve ever read. I loved the main character. There was a lot of depth and feeling in each character portrayed. It was descriptive and heart felt. I loved it.
I learned so much about women serving in the Civil War. The characters were so well developed I wanted the story to continue.
Enjoying this book. Believable characters presented in civil war brings this historical time to life
Well researched. Realistic situation, and real, well fleshed. out characters.
Historical – different than usual theme.
Historical fiction of the Civil War. Loved it!
Excellent read, very engaging and really holds ones attentio until the very end!
I found it amazing that this happened often in the Civil War.
Interesting for the history involved.
I am not finished yet but I am loving it. Different than anything o have read.
I loved this story!!! Great Civil war story about a woman’s love for her husband. Her love and courage are inspirational. The fact that it was based on other true stories made it an even better read. I highly recommend this book!,
A great topic to pursue. It’s great to finally read about what it must have been like for women who posed as men in the Civil War.
As a reader and a female, I wondered if I would have had the main character’s gumption.
Good book.
This was a fairly read. It kept my interest. It might have been a bit unrealistic in how the main characters kept her identity hidden so long but that did not distract from the general plot.