Nashborough

by Elsie Burch Donald

A novel of unusual grace and intelligence, Nashborough is the story of two aristocratic Southern families -- their triumphs and tragedies -- set against the backdrop of an era of sweeping changes and new ideals.

For generations, the Nash and Douglas families have been the leading citizens of the town of Nashborough. In the 1920s, the comfortable traditions and entrenched hierarchies of the South seem firmly fixed in place. The younger generation has no reason to think that life will not go on like this forever.

But buffeting changes are about to sweep across the American landscape. Over the next three decades, the Depression, World War II, the rising influence of Hollywood, and the burgeoning Civil Rights movement will have a profound effect on both families. Yet the most shattering effects of all will come from an increasing desire for personal freedom and its resulting clash with traditional family life.

Seneca Nash, a brilliant lawyer, and his beautiful, courageous, but thoroughly undomesticated wife, Dartania née Douglas, epitomize the rising generation. Theirs is a marriage built upon a compelling infatuation -- for each other and, equally, for their own individual longings. As the country moves further into the modern century, the Nashes and Douglases are witness to enormous change and upheaval that threaten a fast-disappearing way of life.

With Nashborough, Elsie Burch Donald has created a richly imagined tale, weaving together historical events, compelling characters, and a gripping plot in an unforgettable story of the power of family.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction

420 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2001

Reviews

[Ginger · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed it. A great saga of 2 families in the South from 1920 to 1960's, with all the twist and turns in families. True to life sayings, superstitions and beliefs of the South. Made you feel like you were there with the characters. I have read several Southern Plantation style novels, so even though I knew the timeline of the book I had to keep reminding myself until the latter part of the book. That was my on misgivings though, nothing to do with the authors writing. In the last few chapters, Mrs. Donald wrote in a way to make you feel as if it was a true to life story instead of fiction. Great weaving of fact and fiction.

[The Reading Cove Book Club ❦ · Rating 1 out of 5]

19th: NASHBOROUGH - Elsie B. Donald
Chosen By: Roberta
Trivia Winner - Connie S.

~COVE OPINION: D, Poor story

[Eileen]

The book was okay. It was hard to find any of the family members to like. The families were so dysfunctional.

[Melissa (Always Behind) · Rating 1 out of 5]

Tried to be a big epic saga, succeeded somewhat but long, wordy, too many characters. Many characters were introduced and then went nowhere.