I have read Alyssa Cole before so I came into this book with high expectations especially with it being set in this historical period surrounding the conflicts of the Civil War. For the most part there were many redeemable qualities about this story, there is great histrical context, the characters are in depth and captivating and so very unique. However for some reason the writing didn't grab me. Now I had read Cole's contemporary romance not too long ago and LOVED it. So I just didn't expect to struggle with this one. I ended up having to skim through most of it, I probably would have set it aside earlier, but I really wanted to give this one a chance and it was also a ARC via Netgalley. I still plan on reading this author in the future, it probably was just me since everyone else has raved about this book!! I will say that this book offers many qualities that will appeal to a variety of readers especially if you are looking for a story steeped in history and real life characters...then you will enjoy this one!!