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Heroines Behind the Lines: Civil War #4
Spy of Richmond
Trust None. Risk all.
Richmond, Virginia, 1863. Compelled to atone for the sins of her slaveholding father, Union loyalist Sophie Kent risks everything to help end the war from within the Confederate capital and abolish slavery forever. But she can't do it alone.
Former slave Bella Jamison sacrifices her freedom to come to Richmond, where her Union soldier husband is imprisoned, and her twin sister still lives in bondage in Sophie's home. Though it may cost them their lives, they work with Sophie to betray Rebel authorities. Harrison Caldwell, a Northern freelance journalist who escorts Bella to Richmond, infiltrates the War Department as a clerk-but is conscripted to defend the city's fortifications.
As Sophie's spy network grows, she walks a tightrope of deception, using her father's position as newspaper editor and a suitor's position in the ordnance bureau for the advantage of the Union. One misstep could land her in prison, or worse. Suspicion hounds her until she barely even trusts herself. When her espionage endangers the people she loves, she makes a life-and-death gamble.
Will she follow her convictions even though it costs her everything-and everyone-she holds dear?
432 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2015
34 people are currently reading
1476 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
January 15, 2019
re-read. YEP! Harrison is still my jam.
( he looks like Eddie Redmayne)
( he looks like Eddie Redmayne)
June 26, 2020
Plot: Based on true stories, Sophie Kent is an abolitionist and Union spy in the capital of the Confederacy in Richmond, VA, in 1863. This is following her conscience and her faith in God. But it is dangerous as she’s being watched and courted by an officer from the local Libby Prison……and she must pretend to play the gene of liking him to stay safe and to gather information. Will she ever find happiness and safety? Will her bravery be for naught? What happens if her Southern loving father finds out?
Rating: 5.5 stars
Recommend: for readers ages 17+
What I thought: I loved it! It is the best Civil War novel I’ve read after Across Five April’s by Irene Hunt! Full of faith, love, danger, redemption, forgiveness and bravery! And it was inspired by the life of real life Union loyalist in Richmond, Elizabeth Van Lew.
Warning: graphic details about sexual harassment, flogging, mental insanity, an attempted seduction, out of wedlock pregnancy, and death by hanging.
Rating: 5.5 stars
Recommend: for readers ages 17+
What I thought: I loved it! It is the best Civil War novel I’ve read after Across Five April’s by Irene Hunt! Full of faith, love, danger, redemption, forgiveness and bravery! And it was inspired by the life of real life Union loyalist in Richmond, Elizabeth Van Lew.
Warning: graphic details about sexual harassment, flogging, mental insanity, an attempted seduction, out of wedlock pregnancy, and death by hanging.
November 21, 2014
What a satisfying way to conclude a four book series about the Heroines Behind the Lines of the Civil War.
Jocelyn Green has written with courage and grit. She doesn't shy away from the realities and horrors of war, yet writes about them with heart and humanity, drawing her reader into the story and making them feel what it must have been like for the characters.
Spy of Richmond was no exception.
This book pulled me in, causing me to feel invested in the lives of the characters. Green is a master at painting her characters into a corner, leaving the reader eager to learn how they find their way out. I stayed awake past a reasonable hour only to read one more chapter so I could know what happened to this or that character.
I've heard it said about Green that what readers appreciate about her writing is that the female protagonists are strong and don't rely on the men to bail them out. I think this is spot on. What I would add is that the female and male characters all rely of God to help them through their trials. Not only is that what makes this fiction inspiring, it's a way that the writing truly reflects the ideology of the Civil War era.
Also, in Spy of Richmond, Green writes about both Union and Confederate with dignity and without stereotypes. She shows both good and bad from both sides, which I appreciate. She humanized both sides of the war, something that is sorely lacking in other Civil War novels.
I recommend this series for any who enjoy page turning, historical fiction. It is also good for educators looking for creative ways to teach the Civil War (Green did her work researching for each of these 4 novels).
I also recommend that the series is read from the beginning as some characters have story lines in more than one book.
I'm glad I read the books and look forward to sharing them with my daughter in the future.
Jocelyn Green has written with courage and grit. She doesn't shy away from the realities and horrors of war, yet writes about them with heart and humanity, drawing her reader into the story and making them feel what it must have been like for the characters.
Spy of Richmond was no exception.
This book pulled me in, causing me to feel invested in the lives of the characters. Green is a master at painting her characters into a corner, leaving the reader eager to learn how they find their way out. I stayed awake past a reasonable hour only to read one more chapter so I could know what happened to this or that character.
I've heard it said about Green that what readers appreciate about her writing is that the female protagonists are strong and don't rely on the men to bail them out. I think this is spot on. What I would add is that the female and male characters all rely of God to help them through their trials. Not only is that what makes this fiction inspiring, it's a way that the writing truly reflects the ideology of the Civil War era.
Also, in Spy of Richmond, Green writes about both Union and Confederate with dignity and without stereotypes. She shows both good and bad from both sides, which I appreciate. She humanized both sides of the war, something that is sorely lacking in other Civil War novels.
I recommend this series for any who enjoy page turning, historical fiction. It is also good for educators looking for creative ways to teach the Civil War (Green did her work researching for each of these 4 novels).
I also recommend that the series is read from the beginning as some characters have story lines in more than one book.
I'm glad I read the books and look forward to sharing them with my daughter in the future.
August 25, 2018
3 stars for this book; 3.5 stars for the series as a whole.
The drama and suffering in this story were a bit overwhelming. This was a compelling read but difficult at times, due to how challenging and thought-provoking it was. I enjoyed the multiple plot lines and the historical details. Given how sad this whole series was, I probably won't be reading it again. However, it moved me and reminded me of how utterly grateful I should be for the freedom I enjoy every day.
The drama and suffering in this story were a bit overwhelming. This was a compelling read but difficult at times, due to how challenging and thought-provoking it was. I enjoyed the multiple plot lines and the historical details. Given how sad this whole series was, I probably won't be reading it again. However, it moved me and reminded me of how utterly grateful I should be for the freedom I enjoy every day.
November 24, 2014
This conclusion to the Heroines Behind the Lines series is a page-turning thriller! Journey through the end of the war with Sophie Kent as she is caught in a tangled web of deception, all in the name of the country she loves. Green does a fantastic job in all her novels of weaving in historical facts and real people from the era. Spy is no exception.
Green also weaves in characters from each of the other books in the series, and it was a delight to re-connect with previous characters and see their stories played out. So be sure to pick up Wedded to War, Widow of Gettysburg, and Yankee in Altanta to read as well. You can read this book before the others, but it will certainly have more impact if you've read the other 3 first.
Green keeps us turning the pages as Sophie faces danger and impossible situations at every turn. She gives us an up-close look at a torn Virginia where loyalties were divided, and a city at the center of the South's war leadership. Featuring free people and slaves, Northerners and Southerners we learn how really no one was free.
I highly recommend this book! Pre-order now, and read the other 3 so you'll be ready for the March 1 release!
(I received an Advance Copy for my review. Opinions are all my own.)
Green also weaves in characters from each of the other books in the series, and it was a delight to re-connect with previous characters and see their stories played out. So be sure to pick up Wedded to War, Widow of Gettysburg, and Yankee in Altanta to read as well. You can read this book before the others, but it will certainly have more impact if you've read the other 3 first.
Green keeps us turning the pages as Sophie faces danger and impossible situations at every turn. She gives us an up-close look at a torn Virginia where loyalties were divided, and a city at the center of the South's war leadership. Featuring free people and slaves, Northerners and Southerners we learn how really no one was free.
I highly recommend this book! Pre-order now, and read the other 3 so you'll be ready for the March 1 release!
(I received an Advance Copy for my review. Opinions are all my own.)
March 4, 2015
When you pick up this novel, make sure you have plenty of time to read, because you won’t want to stop. Inspired by true stories of female Union spies, Spy of Richmond is a fascinating historical novel enriched by strong research. However, the suspenseful plot and sympathetic characters bring the story to life. Sophie, Bella, and Harrison have flaws and vulnerabilities like all of us, and their courage to do the right thing is inspirational. I adored this book!
March 23, 2015
The Spy of Richmond is not a book you read but one you experience. From heart-pounding suspense, to sweet romance, to the smelly, hopelessness of Libby Prison, you will experience the character's lives as you journey through the final days of the Civil War. Jocelyn Green does an incredible job of penning book 4 in her Heroines Behind the Line series.
March 2, 2015
As you open the pages of this book you are being transported to living in Richmond Virginia and landing right in the Civil War. You are about to spend some time in the infamous Libby Prison and we will learn first hand about the horrible conditions there.
We spend most of our time in the shoes of Sophia Kent and her goal to become a reporter, being a woman, almost impossible. She abhors slavery, and although a southerner, her sympathies lie with the north. Being a southern lady and a slaveholder, not by choice, she makes a life changing decision to become a spy.
We also end up as a prisoner at Libby, and are there digging the tunnel, and barely breathing with the horrible smell. We feel our building shaking and smell the fires that are burning in Richmond, and all the while wondering who will survive the chaos and insanity of this war?
Although this is a terrible time in American History, the story telling is awesome and brings the story alive. Whether we are at the slave markets or market place or sending secrets, there is danger around each corner.
There is a bit of romance, and you will wonder whom Sophie will end up with. Also the prodigal daughter returns and is she really repentant, or is she out for Susan? I for one judged her, and didn’t like her at all.
I loved this story and hated it to end, of course I wanted to the war to be gone, and to my delight there is an epilogue at the end and wonderful updates. Enjoy!
I received this book through Net Galley and the publisher Moody, and was not required to give a positive review.
We spend most of our time in the shoes of Sophia Kent and her goal to become a reporter, being a woman, almost impossible. She abhors slavery, and although a southerner, her sympathies lie with the north. Being a southern lady and a slaveholder, not by choice, she makes a life changing decision to become a spy.
We also end up as a prisoner at Libby, and are there digging the tunnel, and barely breathing with the horrible smell. We feel our building shaking and smell the fires that are burning in Richmond, and all the while wondering who will survive the chaos and insanity of this war?
Although this is a terrible time in American History, the story telling is awesome and brings the story alive. Whether we are at the slave markets or market place or sending secrets, there is danger around each corner.
There is a bit of romance, and you will wonder whom Sophie will end up with. Also the prodigal daughter returns and is she really repentant, or is she out for Susan? I for one judged her, and didn’t like her at all.
I loved this story and hated it to end, of course I wanted to the war to be gone, and to my delight there is an epilogue at the end and wonderful updates. Enjoy!
I received this book through Net Galley and the publisher Moody, and was not required to give a positive review.
November 30, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. I thought it was interesting to see characters from all 3 of the previous novels in the series play a part in this final book of the series. (And yes, though each Heroine Behind the Line is a separate character not featured as even a secondary character in a previous book in the series, they really do need to be read in order of publication to get the full effect, and to avoid spoilers.)
I loved Sophie. I saw her anguish at trying to figure out the right course of action to defend the country she loved, while still also loving the city of Richmond, and her father, who were both staunchly Confederate. Her conflict about what was the right thing to do was completely understandable, and brings up many questions about what is right in a time of war, especially with regards to honesty and integrity.
I also loved seeing more of Harrison, who played such a pivotal (though minor-ish) role in 'Widow of Gettysburg'. The way his story and Sophie's wove in and around each other throughout the remaining 18 months of the war was absolutely riveting.
I'm not sure, but I think this may have been my favourite book of the series. At any rate, this series is definitely not one to miss!
I loved Sophie. I saw her anguish at trying to figure out the right course of action to defend the country she loved, while still also loving the city of Richmond, and her father, who were both staunchly Confederate. Her conflict about what was the right thing to do was completely understandable, and brings up many questions about what is right in a time of war, especially with regards to honesty and integrity.
I also loved seeing more of Harrison, who played such a pivotal (though minor-ish) role in 'Widow of Gettysburg'. The way his story and Sophie's wove in and around each other throughout the remaining 18 months of the war was absolutely riveting.
I'm not sure, but I think this may have been my favourite book of the series. At any rate, this series is definitely not one to miss!
February 23, 2022
I've come to expect a story layered with historical details and characters from Jocelyn Green. This was no exception. I really appreciated the historical note at the end clarifying which characters actually lived. I liked the quotes from Elizabeth Van Lew and others at the beginning of each act. This book was a satisfying conclusion to the series, but I just didn't love it. Somehow it felt rushed even though it also felt really long. I never really connected with Sophie. I really like Harrison as a hero, but that might have been because I met him earlier on in the series.
It had been so long since I read this series that I forgot that Susan was a character I should have recognized. It wasn't until the very end when she tells her father that she has a daughter that the storyline clicked.
Personal pet peeve: too much insight into the desires of the male mind. Rolling my eyes at Harrison saying he wants to "wed and bed" Sophie.
I typically like stories about spies during wartime, but this one felt a little boring. If you too like books about spies, "Candle in the Darkness" by Lynn Austin and "The Messenger" by Siri Mitchell are both excellent.
I did really like this series, this was just my least favorite of all of them.
It had been so long since I read this series that I forgot that Susan was a character I should have recognized. It wasn't until the very end when she tells her father that she has a daughter that the storyline clicked.
Personal pet peeve: too much insight into the desires of the male mind. Rolling my eyes at Harrison saying he wants to "wed and bed" Sophie.
I typically like stories about spies during wartime, but this one felt a little boring. If you too like books about spies, "Candle in the Darkness" by Lynn Austin and "The Messenger" by Siri Mitchell are both excellent.
I did really like this series, this was just my least favorite of all of them.
March 26, 2015
This is a wonderful story and continuation of Jocelyn Green's Civil War Series. Her characters are so real and their situations so challenging it will grab your heart and keep you up late at night to see what happens. Jocelyn has done an excellent job weaving in historical information and inspiration into the story. I highly recommend it to all you enjoy historical novels, especially those set during the Civil War.
May 2, 2020
Finally read the series finale even though it was a bit difficult to read at times especially in the middle of a pandemic. The author vividly puts the reader in the middle of places like Libby Prison which no one should have experienced in real life. Thankfully, she highlights those that were doing their best to redeem the situation. Working real people and scenarios into historical fiction is one of my favorite genres. Even though it had been a while since I read the first 3 books in the series, the author did a great job of weaving in all the other players and tying up the story.
March 7, 2015
Awesome read! Why can't I give it 6 stars?! This is the fourth book in Jocelyn Green's series about women whose lives were forever altered by America's Civil War. These books really should be read in order. While any one can be enjoyed as a stand-alone novel, when taken together, they build a compelling set of stories about women - white and black, free and slave - who you can't help but admire.
Being the history geek that I am, the factual background through which these stories are woven, and the interaction of the fictional characters with real-life historical figures, pulls me ever deeper into each story. Jocelyn Green handles both aspects beautifully.
Sophie Kent is a native Virginian, born to a Virginian father and a northern mother. Educated in Pennsylvania, including a healthy dose of abolitionist teaching, she lives in Richmond even though she abhors the war and the reasons for it. Her father away with the Confederate Army, her mother lying in the grave, Sophie decides she needs to do ... something. What she never plans is the tightrope stretched between loyalties and principles that she'll have to walk to help bring the war to an end. Staying on top of that rope would be impossible without the assistance - and love - of people both black and white who pass through or live under her roof.
A perfect wrap-up of the series. I'm glad Jocelyn decided that a trilogy wasn't enough. Familiar characters will greet the reader like old friends and the ending satisfies the reader by bringing full circle the story lines we've come to treasure.
Being the history geek that I am, the factual background through which these stories are woven, and the interaction of the fictional characters with real-life historical figures, pulls me ever deeper into each story. Jocelyn Green handles both aspects beautifully.
Sophie Kent is a native Virginian, born to a Virginian father and a northern mother. Educated in Pennsylvania, including a healthy dose of abolitionist teaching, she lives in Richmond even though she abhors the war and the reasons for it. Her father away with the Confederate Army, her mother lying in the grave, Sophie decides she needs to do ... something. What she never plans is the tightrope stretched between loyalties and principles that she'll have to walk to help bring the war to an end. Staying on top of that rope would be impossible without the assistance - and love - of people both black and white who pass through or live under her roof.
A perfect wrap-up of the series. I'm glad Jocelyn decided that a trilogy wasn't enough. Familiar characters will greet the reader like old friends and the ending satisfies the reader by bringing full circle the story lines we've come to treasure.
December 30, 2014
I have been a fan of Jocelyn Green's from the very beginning of her Heroines behind the Lines series. With each new book, my love of her writing, her ability to craft well-rounded characters that will linger in your heart long after you finish the book, and weave history into a page turning plot grew. If someone were to ask me which book in the series was my favorite, I would not know which one to choose. They all have a special place in my heart and they are all equally my favorite. Though I must say, I really enjoyed the ending of Spy of Richmond specifically one particular spot and the epilogue was fantastic as well.
I look forward to reading more historical fiction from you, Jocelyn. You are a fabulous author and you inspire me with my own writing. Keep up the good work, Jocelyn!
I look forward to reading more historical fiction from you, Jocelyn. You are a fabulous author and you inspire me with my own writing. Keep up the good work, Jocelyn!
January 23, 2015
History buffs: TAKE NOTICE!
Wow. If every fictional novel had this much history in it, we wouldn’t need school! Jocelyn does an incredible job of intertwining fictional and real characters in this story about the last years of the Confederacy.
Sophia Kent is living in Richmond, the Capitol of the Confederacy. Her father is a rebel soldier and she cannot bring herself to agree with the ideas of southern slavery. Joining a spy ring (based on the real deal), she leads a double life: charming the rebels and sharing important information with the North. It is a dangerous journey and she must decide if faith and listening to her heart are worth the risks.
Wonderful book. It is fourth in the series: Heroines Behind the Lines.
Thank so much, netgalley, for giving me this book! As always, I’ve given my honest opinion. Here’s to many more!!
Wow. If every fictional novel had this much history in it, we wouldn’t need school! Jocelyn does an incredible job of intertwining fictional and real characters in this story about the last years of the Confederacy.
Sophia Kent is living in Richmond, the Capitol of the Confederacy. Her father is a rebel soldier and she cannot bring herself to agree with the ideas of southern slavery. Joining a spy ring (based on the real deal), she leads a double life: charming the rebels and sharing important information with the North. It is a dangerous journey and she must decide if faith and listening to her heart are worth the risks.
Wonderful book. It is fourth in the series: Heroines Behind the Lines.
Thank so much, netgalley, for giving me this book! As always, I’ve given my honest opinion. Here’s to many more!!
December 11, 2023
I was eagerly awaiting this book on espionage! It isn’t perhaps as action-packed as some espionage books I’ve read in the past (think Roseanna White), but it didn’t disappoint. The characters were complex and interesting.
I really appreciate the historical depth and realistic characters. Like the other books in the series, sensitive readers may find the elements of men taking advantage of women (or the allusion to it) a bit much.
As a Southerner and Civil War researcher, I find the Northern views of the war to be a bit exaggerated (historically, not so many people were actually fighting slavery). But, I could still appreciate the book for what it was.
I really appreciate the historical depth and realistic characters. Like the other books in the series, sensitive readers may find the elements of men taking advantage of women (or the allusion to it) a bit much.
As a Southerner and Civil War researcher, I find the Northern views of the war to be a bit exaggerated (historically, not so many people were actually fighting slavery). But, I could still appreciate the book for what it was.
November 26, 2018
Has some amazingness, but I didn't love it as much as Yankee in Atlanta. There were bits here and there that I didn't much care for. Still, I'm looking forward to reading the last book I haven't read in this series, Widow of Gettysburg!
More thoughts to come, hopefully!
More thoughts to come, hopefully!
September 28, 2024
This is a decent work of historical fiction set in Richmond towards the end of the Civil War. The book features an abolitionist female spy who returned to her native Richmond after being educated in the North and a cast of characters including soldiers, journalists, freedmen and slaves.
July 21, 2024
Love love and love this story!! What a beautiful reminder that God has placed us right where He wants us to be, even when it doesn't make any sense at the time. We just have to trust that His plans will always unfold the way that He intended them.
June 30, 2021
I enjoyed how this book wrapped up the Heroines Behind the Lines series, and look forward to exploring more information on the website.
February 18, 2015
No boredom here.
Have you ever wondered what it might have been like to be in a Civil War prison? Have you thought about your stand on slavery and what you might do about it if you had lived then? This book is so wonderfully written that you'll feel these are actual people and you're going about their lives with them in Richmond, Virginia, 1863. In fact, several characters interspersed throughout the book were real people. The author has definitely done her homework.
Union loyalist Sophie Kent's father has left them to fight with the Rebels. Her mother, from the North originally, has just died. Sophie feels that it is her mission to go to Libby Prison and help care for all those she can. Which does not make her popular, but a loyalist Ordnance worker comes to her rescue. How long can she string him on?
Bella Jamison is a former slave who travels from relative safety in the North to Sophie's home, bringing quinine to her twin sister. Her husband is in Libby Prison.
Harrison Caldwell, a freelance journalist and friend of Sophie's, accompanies Bella. He doesn't get the proper travel pass and ends up in the same prison. But he's always on the lookout for a good story.
This is a fascinating and deeply woven story of these characters, their personal drive and how they adapt to the constantly shifting circumstances they are forced through. It's the fourth in a series. I did not need to read the other books to enjoy this one, but now I want to go back and read the rest. Love the cover too.
Quote from the book: "But remember this: we must work as hard as we can at what we've been called to do and leave the outcome up to God. If we don't, we'll lose hope. And that is one thing we must never do."
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Moody Publishers - Netgalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Have you ever wondered what it might have been like to be in a Civil War prison? Have you thought about your stand on slavery and what you might do about it if you had lived then? This book is so wonderfully written that you'll feel these are actual people and you're going about their lives with them in Richmond, Virginia, 1863. In fact, several characters interspersed throughout the book were real people. The author has definitely done her homework.
Union loyalist Sophie Kent's father has left them to fight with the Rebels. Her mother, from the North originally, has just died. Sophie feels that it is her mission to go to Libby Prison and help care for all those she can. Which does not make her popular, but a loyalist Ordnance worker comes to her rescue. How long can she string him on?
Bella Jamison is a former slave who travels from relative safety in the North to Sophie's home, bringing quinine to her twin sister. Her husband is in Libby Prison.
Harrison Caldwell, a freelance journalist and friend of Sophie's, accompanies Bella. He doesn't get the proper travel pass and ends up in the same prison. But he's always on the lookout for a good story.
This is a fascinating and deeply woven story of these characters, their personal drive and how they adapt to the constantly shifting circumstances they are forced through. It's the fourth in a series. I did not need to read the other books to enjoy this one, but now I want to go back and read the rest. Love the cover too.
Quote from the book: "But remember this: we must work as hard as we can at what we've been called to do and leave the outcome up to God. If we don't, we'll lose hope. And that is one thing we must never do."
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Moody Publishers - Netgalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
October 20, 2014
This is the fourth book in Jocelyn Green’s Heroines Behind the Lines Civil War series. Although I have only read the first so far, this story is complete and is enjoyable without previously reading the others. It is historical fiction based on the spy rings that flourished in Richmond during the Civil War.
Sophia Kent is a southern belle who is appalled by the injustice that she sees being endured by both the slaves in the South and the Union soldiers at Libby Prison. Thwarted by her father in her attempt to release her personal slaves, she treats them with kindness and compassion. Horrified by the lack of good food and the filth and cruelty suffered by the Union prisoners, she devises a way to get food to them. Still, she wants to do more and it becomes apparent that the only way for this to end is the Civil War must conclude with a northern victory. She is enlisted by Elizabeth Van Lew along with others in a dangerous ring of espionage that keeps her one step away from the hangman’s noose.
I enjoyed the thought provoking, moral dilemmas that the author presented. The characters must make difficult choices that put their lives and their loved ones in danger. It tests their faith as they learn to lean on God. She weaves a believable story with credible characters and historical facts to make a delightful book to curl up with. Don’t pass up this or the rest of the series.
Sophia Kent is a southern belle who is appalled by the injustice that she sees being endured by both the slaves in the South and the Union soldiers at Libby Prison. Thwarted by her father in her attempt to release her personal slaves, she treats them with kindness and compassion. Horrified by the lack of good food and the filth and cruelty suffered by the Union prisoners, she devises a way to get food to them. Still, she wants to do more and it becomes apparent that the only way for this to end is the Civil War must conclude with a northern victory. She is enlisted by Elizabeth Van Lew along with others in a dangerous ring of espionage that keeps her one step away from the hangman’s noose.
I enjoyed the thought provoking, moral dilemmas that the author presented. The characters must make difficult choices that put their lives and their loved ones in danger. It tests their faith as they learn to lean on God. She weaves a believable story with credible characters and historical facts to make a delightful book to curl up with. Don’t pass up this or the rest of the series.
January 27, 2016
Thanks to Netgalley and publishers for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I preordered this book as soon as I was able to. And the only reason I requested it on netgalley was because I am too impatient to wait until March to read it!
I actually read the second book in this series first, and LOVING it, I read the first and the third as soon as it was released. I love historical fiction set during the Civil War and I have loved this series especially because it focused on the females who lived and survived the Civil War. This series is just as good as Lynn Austin's Civil War series. And those are some of my all time favorite books.
As in the previous books, Green does a marvelous job weaving historical facts into the story. I felt like I was in the tunnels under Libby Prison digging a way out! I was so wrapped up I was horrified and saddened when Richmond burned and rode the rollercoaster of emotions as the end of a horrible war drew near with the Sophie and Bella. I loved reading more about Libby and Silas and Charlotte and Dr. Lansing. Even Noah and Caitlin had a part in this story And it all flowed together. This book and the Widow of Gettysburg are my two favorites of the series. Highly recommended for history lovers and anyone interested in learning more about the Civil War.
I preordered this book as soon as I was able to. And the only reason I requested it on netgalley was because I am too impatient to wait until March to read it!
I actually read the second book in this series first, and LOVING it, I read the first and the third as soon as it was released. I love historical fiction set during the Civil War and I have loved this series especially because it focused on the females who lived and survived the Civil War. This series is just as good as Lynn Austin's Civil War series. And those are some of my all time favorite books.
As in the previous books, Green does a marvelous job weaving historical facts into the story. I felt like I was in the tunnels under Libby Prison digging a way out! I was so wrapped up I was horrified and saddened when Richmond burned and rode the rollercoaster of emotions as the end of a horrible war drew near with the Sophie and Bella. I loved reading more about Libby and Silas and Charlotte and Dr. Lansing. Even Noah and Caitlin had a part in this story And it all flowed together. This book and the Widow of Gettysburg are my two favorites of the series. Highly recommended for history lovers and anyone interested in learning more about the Civil War.
November 30, 2014
The fourth book in the wonderfully written Heroines Behind The Lines is expertly written, characters are very well thought out, they have grit, stamina, and will do anything they can to put an end to the war, sometimes at great risk for their safety.
Jocelyn Green has done extensive research for all the books in this series. Some of the characters are based on people that lived the experience of the Civil War. The historical details make the reader feel they are right there in the midst of the struggles.
Sophie Kent is determined to do her part in ending the war, she is learning how to be a spy, knowing full well she has put not only herself, but her household under the watchful eye of the enemy, but she needs to atone for the fact her father is a slaveholder and he refused to free any of their slaves. Bella Jamison has been living free, but now finds herself back in slave territory, she agrees to pretend to be her twin sister, who was a slave to Sophie, but has died. Plus Bella's husband is a prisoner in Libby prison. It will also take the help of a reporter friend who finds himself a prisoner, he decides to do what he can as a journalist.
Women did what they needed to do to survive the Civil War, they didn't start the war, but they did what they could and needed to do to help stop the destruction.
Jocelyn Green has done extensive research for all the books in this series. Some of the characters are based on people that lived the experience of the Civil War. The historical details make the reader feel they are right there in the midst of the struggles.
Sophie Kent is determined to do her part in ending the war, she is learning how to be a spy, knowing full well she has put not only herself, but her household under the watchful eye of the enemy, but she needs to atone for the fact her father is a slaveholder and he refused to free any of their slaves. Bella Jamison has been living free, but now finds herself back in slave territory, she agrees to pretend to be her twin sister, who was a slave to Sophie, but has died. Plus Bella's husband is a prisoner in Libby prison. It will also take the help of a reporter friend who finds himself a prisoner, he decides to do what he can as a journalist.
Women did what they needed to do to survive the Civil War, they didn't start the war, but they did what they could and needed to do to help stop the destruction.
April 18, 2017
This review is also posted on Book by Book.
Finally, I had the chance to read Spy of Richmond - and I absolutely loved it. As the fourth book in the Heroines Behind the Lines series, it explores another female perspective of the Civil War, and it is wholly fascinating and vivid and wonderful. Sophie Kent takes the female lead in this story as a Southern set against slavery and takes the risks to secure freedom from her Richmond home. She interacts with familiar characters, like former slave Bella Jamison and journalist Harrison Caldwell, and her story is engaging, compelling, and inspiring. It’s a perfect addition to the series, but can easily be read on its own. I highly recommend it to fans of historical fiction and now, look forward to reading more from Jocelyn Green in the future.
Thanks to Moody Publishers, I received a copy of Spy of Richmond and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
Finally, I had the chance to read Spy of Richmond - and I absolutely loved it. As the fourth book in the Heroines Behind the Lines series, it explores another female perspective of the Civil War, and it is wholly fascinating and vivid and wonderful. Sophie Kent takes the female lead in this story as a Southern set against slavery and takes the risks to secure freedom from her Richmond home. She interacts with familiar characters, like former slave Bella Jamison and journalist Harrison Caldwell, and her story is engaging, compelling, and inspiring. It’s a perfect addition to the series, but can easily be read on its own. I highly recommend it to fans of historical fiction and now, look forward to reading more from Jocelyn Green in the future.
Thanks to Moody Publishers, I received a copy of Spy of Richmond and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
January 18, 2017
This is a wonderful conclusion to the Heroines Behind the Lines Civil War series. We are reacquainted with some of the characters from prior books. Sophie Kent lives in Richmond, Virginia, the daughter of slave owners. Unbeknown to her father, she and her mother participate in the Underground Railroad. After her mother's death and her father's enlistment in the confederate army, Sophie rebels against slavery, first in small ways, then in more dangerous ways. She is soon tangled in a web of deceit, along with her friend Harrison Caldwell and Bella (who we first met in Widow of Gettysburg). How long will it be before the dashing Confederate officer, Captain Russell, discovers she is using him instead of falling in love with him? Things get even more complicated when Sophie's father returns from a Union prison and her long-lost sister, Susan (who we met in Yankee in Atlanta) returns home. Reading these books that don't sugarcoat the horribleness of the Civil War is not for the faint of heart; however I highly recommend the whole series for anyone who wants to gain a better understanding of this war, and especially of the contributions made by women.
May 13, 2015
If there is one thing Jocelyn Green knows how to do, it is history that captures your attention. This book did not disappoint. I have felt with every book of her's that I have read, like I was living and experiencing the events.
I loved how it tells the story from so many angles and views. It gives an accurate view of how the women who lost loved ones felt from the Union and Rebel side. It also shows the slavery side of it and how they were feeling as well.
Most of all, I loved how the history of the media was brought forth in this book, while bringing the characters from previous books walking throughout. Susan, Charlotte, and Dr. Lansing all had roles throughout.
If you are looking for a historical read, look no further.
I loved how it tells the story from so many angles and views. It gives an accurate view of how the women who lost loved ones felt from the Union and Rebel side. It also shows the slavery side of it and how they were feeling as well.
Most of all, I loved how the history of the media was brought forth in this book, while bringing the characters from previous books walking throughout. Susan, Charlotte, and Dr. Lansing all had roles throughout.
If you are looking for a historical read, look no further.
December 24, 2014
Jocelyn Green combines historical fact with well-woven fiction to bring a period of time to life. Sophie and Harrison are Unionists trapped in Richmond during the second half of the Civil War. They risk their lives to spy for the Union. The details given in the book are amazing. The description of conditions in Libby Prison were interesting and you can read with assurance that author Green has been doing her homework. I'm sure there are some inconsistencies, but all the books in this Heroines Behind the Lines series have been fact-filled and deep with story. For a look into the life of Richmond women during the war, pick up this book and you'll surely enjoy it.
Jocelyn Green
Jocelyn Green
March 30, 2015
The Heroines Behind the Lines series is a fabulous look at the role of women in the Civil War. Jocelyn does an excellent job of blending historical details into her story line.
In the fourth and final book of the series, The Spy of Richmond, the main characters are Sophie Kent and Harrison Caldwell, both spies for the Union. I really liked how Jocelyn finalized the characters from other books in the series during this fourth book. It was incredibly interesting to learn about the Libby Prison and other aspects about life in Richmond during the Civil War.
I highly recommend the entire series for those that enjoy historical fiction.
In the fourth and final book of the series, The Spy of Richmond, the main characters are Sophie Kent and Harrison Caldwell, both spies for the Union. I really liked how Jocelyn finalized the characters from other books in the series during this fourth book. It was incredibly interesting to learn about the Libby Prison and other aspects about life in Richmond during the Civil War.
I highly recommend the entire series for those that enjoy historical fiction.
October 16, 2016
Another page turner that had me sitting on the edge of my chair, holding my breath or whispering please no. I rarely read the end of any book but with one hundred pages to go I will admit I scanned the epilogue. Please let the names of my heroine(s) - hero(s) be there. I closed this last book and wondered -- could I have done anything one of these courageous and strong women did?? I really don't know. This was an awesome series, in fact the best I have ever read. I would highly recommend it. As a side note while these books/stories can stand on their own one will get the most out of the series if read in order.
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