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Birdie's Song
448 pages, Paperback
Published July 18, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Birdie's Song is a story torn straight from the pages of history.
The story centers around a young woman, Josephine McKenzie, from North Carolina in the middle of the American Civil War. It being set in the Civil War, many readers will expect this is a book all about how slavery is bad (and it is) and how the Confederate cause was evil. Do not go into this book with these expectations. This book is merely set during the Civil War, and is more about the main character's personal struggles as the war rages around her rather than national issues. It is not about slavery of the physical kind, but rather that of slavery to fear.
Throughout this story Jo McKenzie faces the harsh realities of a true-to-history Southern setting. The humid heat, warm welcoming folks, and fierce familial loyalty are all true to life (this I can honestly tell you as a life-long historian of the Civil War and the Southern United States). From being utterly abandoned on her father's small farm to care for her two younger siblings, to her twelve-year-old brother's untimely conscription, to meeting deserter James Avery, and on into the difficult choice to try to save lives by exposing a coming attack on the nearby fort, Jo struggles with placing her trust in God even when His plans are not hers. Her fear and loneliness try to master her decision-making abilities, but through turning to her Heavenly Father rather than relying on circumstances, Jo makes it through one of the hardest years of her short life. Throughout the story I was charmed by all the wonderful characters, from Mr. Blankenship to Emmeline and all Jo's siblings! The romantic subplot that comes into play mainly in part 3 is so sweet and very clean, and all in all I loved reading about Jo, Avery, and the little town of Smithville. If you're a fan of Civil War fiction, you'll probably love this charming novel!
Historical note: Jo is a firm Confederate, largely due to her circumstance of living in NC during the Civil War. I think it is important for non-historians to note going into this story that not all Confederates fought because they wanted to or because they believed slavery was good. As in all wars, often men were conscripted to fight battles they had no desire to be in (take James Avery and Jo's brothers as an example of this in the story) and simply because if they didn't the opposing force would destroy homes, families, and livelihoods many of them had built up over generations. Women and children left behind consequently were loyal to the cause their kin were risking their lives for. While slavery is a major point of contention during the American Civil War it is important to note that those on the Confederate side of the battle were just as much human, Christian, and image-bearers of God as those on the winning side. That isn't, of course, to excuse the Confederates. They obviously held an evil practice far too close and thankfully were beaten by those who would abolish it; I simply say this all because too often people aren't willing to look beneath the surface of historical issues and discover why people did what they did.
Content Warnings: mild romance (never anything more than a kiss), characters being beaten, talk of shooting, a hanging briefly described.
The story centers around a young woman, Josephine McKenzie, from North Carolina in the middle of the American Civil War. It being set in the Civil War, many readers will expect this is a book all about how slavery is bad (and it is) and how the Confederate cause was evil. Do not go into this book with these expectations. This book is merely set during the Civil War, and is more about the main character's personal struggles as the war rages around her rather than national issues. It is not about slavery of the physical kind, but rather that of slavery to fear.
Throughout this story Jo McKenzie faces the harsh realities of a true-to-history Southern setting. The humid heat, warm welcoming folks, and fierce familial loyalty are all true to life (this I can honestly tell you as a life-long historian of the Civil War and the Southern United States). From being utterly abandoned on her father's small farm to care for her two younger siblings, to her twelve-year-old brother's untimely conscription, to meeting deserter James Avery, and on into the difficult choice to try to save lives by exposing a coming attack on the nearby fort, Jo struggles with placing her trust in God even when His plans are not hers. Her fear and loneliness try to master her decision-making abilities, but through turning to her Heavenly Father rather than relying on circumstances, Jo makes it through one of the hardest years of her short life. Throughout the story I was charmed by all the wonderful characters, from Mr. Blankenship to Emmeline and all Jo's siblings! The romantic subplot that comes into play mainly in part 3 is so sweet and very clean, and all in all I loved reading about Jo, Avery, and the little town of Smithville. If you're a fan of Civil War fiction, you'll probably love this charming novel!
Historical note: Jo is a firm Confederate, largely due to her circumstance of living in NC during the Civil War. I think it is important for non-historians to note going into this story that not all Confederates fought because they wanted to or because they believed slavery was good. As in all wars, often men were conscripted to fight battles they had no desire to be in (take James Avery and Jo's brothers as an example of this in the story) and simply because if they didn't the opposing force would destroy homes, families, and livelihoods many of them had built up over generations. Women and children left behind consequently were loyal to the cause their kin were risking their lives for. While slavery is a major point of contention during the American Civil War it is important to note that those on the Confederate side of the battle were just as much human, Christian, and image-bearers of God as those on the winning side. That isn't, of course, to excuse the Confederates. They obviously held an evil practice far too close and thankfully were beaten by those who would abolish it; I simply say this all because too often people aren't willing to look beneath the surface of historical issues and discover why people did what they did.
Content Warnings: mild romance (never anything more than a kiss), characters being beaten, talk of shooting, a hanging briefly described.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Addison Crissone’s World War II historical fiction book, The Yellow Badge, was one of my favorite reads of the last year, so when I learned she was releasing another historical fiction book, this time set during the American Civil War, I was excited to give it a try! Overall, I really liked it!
The American Civil War is a very, ahem, controversial topic. I grew up in southeast Missouri, where there are still some very strong opinions on the subject! Anyway, I don’t think I can go too deep into all the issues of the war in this review, but I will say that it’s a historical fact that while, yes, there were large plantations worked by slaves in the South, many southerners–in fact, the majority–did not own slaves. Many families in the South were poor and worked their farms themselves, and I liked how this book covered the war from that perspective, the perspective of a lower-class farming family in North Carolina.
I loved the strong family relationships! And as a girl with younger siblings myself, I could definitely relate to the main character, Josephine’s desire to protect her younger brother and sister.
I also loved the theme of God providing and the reminder to not be anxious! The theme verses in Matthew 6 are some of my favorites. It’s beautifully written, with lovely quotes, hymns, and poems woven into the story as well. When I read the quote, “Every act of courage carries a cost,” I immediately thought of my favorite movie, Bonhoeffer: Pastor. Spy. Assassin. I found out that the author had watched it and said it was one of the best movies she’d ever seen, and that she’d never been affected and challenged by a movie more, an assessment I wholeheartedly share! (That movie was also very inspirational to me in writing Trains and Tulips and my current work-in-progress Light Behind the Clouds!).
This book was very thought-provoking, as I think good stories should be. I was questioning the wisdom and logic of some characters’ decisions, but I thought the characters were very well-developed, and their motivations were understandable, regardless of whether you agree with everything they did.
It is historical fiction; there are elements of the story that are more speculation than fact, but I very much appreciate that the author sought to make it historically accurate.
There were two quick kisses–I personally thought these characters were too early in their relationship for a kiss–but overall, it was a very wholesome, pure read. It is set during wartime and deals with themes of grief and loss, but it’s written with hope and trust in God’s goodness. There’s some very mild violence, but no actual battles onscreen or anything gory.
Oh, and the cover and interior formatting of this book is lovely! I just love pretty books!
Overall, I thought this was a beautifully written, history-rich story of family, courage, and trust in God!
The American Civil War is a very, ahem, controversial topic. I grew up in southeast Missouri, where there are still some very strong opinions on the subject! Anyway, I don’t think I can go too deep into all the issues of the war in this review, but I will say that it’s a historical fact that while, yes, there were large plantations worked by slaves in the South, many southerners–in fact, the majority–did not own slaves. Many families in the South were poor and worked their farms themselves, and I liked how this book covered the war from that perspective, the perspective of a lower-class farming family in North Carolina.
I loved the strong family relationships! And as a girl with younger siblings myself, I could definitely relate to the main character, Josephine’s desire to protect her younger brother and sister.
I also loved the theme of God providing and the reminder to not be anxious! The theme verses in Matthew 6 are some of my favorites. It’s beautifully written, with lovely quotes, hymns, and poems woven into the story as well. When I read the quote, “Every act of courage carries a cost,” I immediately thought of my favorite movie, Bonhoeffer: Pastor. Spy. Assassin. I found out that the author had watched it and said it was one of the best movies she’d ever seen, and that she’d never been affected and challenged by a movie more, an assessment I wholeheartedly share! (That movie was also very inspirational to me in writing Trains and Tulips and my current work-in-progress Light Behind the Clouds!).
This book was very thought-provoking, as I think good stories should be. I was questioning the wisdom and logic of some characters’ decisions, but I thought the characters were very well-developed, and their motivations were understandable, regardless of whether you agree with everything they did.
It is historical fiction; there are elements of the story that are more speculation than fact, but I very much appreciate that the author sought to make it historically accurate.
There were two quick kisses–I personally thought these characters were too early in their relationship for a kiss–but overall, it was a very wholesome, pure read. It is set during wartime and deals with themes of grief and loss, but it’s written with hope and trust in God’s goodness. There’s some very mild violence, but no actual battles onscreen or anything gory.
Oh, and the cover and interior formatting of this book is lovely! I just love pretty books!
Overall, I thought this was a beautifully written, history-rich story of family, courage, and trust in God!
August 3, 2026
The 7 Principles of Healing Trauma Revised is a compassionate and encouraging book for readers seeking healing through a biblical perspective. Lisa H. Eady combines Scripture, personal insight, and practical reflection to create a resource that speaks to those carrying emotional wounds and longing to move forward in faith.
What I appreciated most was the book's emphasis on hope. Rather than dwelling on past pain, the author focuses on the possibility of restoration, reminding readers that healing is a journey and that lasting change is possible. The seven principles provide a clear framework that encourages readers to reflect on their experiences while strengthening their relationship with God.
The writing is warm, sincere, and easy to follow. Lisa shares her message with compassion, making the book feel more like guidance from someone who genuinely wants to help than a lecture. I also liked the strong emphasis on identity in Christ and the importance of allowing God to reshape the way we see ourselves after painful experiences.
Although the book approaches trauma from a Christian perspective, it doesn't promise instant solutions or minimize the reality of emotional pain. Instead, it encourages readers to take intentional steps toward healing while relying on faith and the work of the Holy Spirit. I found that balanced approach both encouraging and practical.
Overall, The 7 Principles of Healing Trauma Revised is an uplifting and faith-filled resource for anyone looking to begin or continue a journey of emotional and spiritual healing. Whether you're seeking personal encouragement or looking for a devotional-style guide to accompany your faith journey, this book offers thoughtful insights and a hopeful message that healing is possible. I would gladly recommend it to readers interested in biblical encouragement and personal spiritual growth.
What I appreciated most was the book's emphasis on hope. Rather than dwelling on past pain, the author focuses on the possibility of restoration, reminding readers that healing is a journey and that lasting change is possible. The seven principles provide a clear framework that encourages readers to reflect on their experiences while strengthening their relationship with God.
The writing is warm, sincere, and easy to follow. Lisa shares her message with compassion, making the book feel more like guidance from someone who genuinely wants to help than a lecture. I also liked the strong emphasis on identity in Christ and the importance of allowing God to reshape the way we see ourselves after painful experiences.
Although the book approaches trauma from a Christian perspective, it doesn't promise instant solutions or minimize the reality of emotional pain. Instead, it encourages readers to take intentional steps toward healing while relying on faith and the work of the Holy Spirit. I found that balanced approach both encouraging and practical.
Overall, The 7 Principles of Healing Trauma Revised is an uplifting and faith-filled resource for anyone looking to begin or continue a journey of emotional and spiritual healing. Whether you're seeking personal encouragement or looking for a devotional-style guide to accompany your faith journey, this book offers thoughtful insights and a hopeful message that healing is possible. I would gladly recommend it to readers interested in biblical encouragement and personal spiritual growth.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Birdie’s Song is another beautifully written historical fiction book by Addison Crissone. Unlike the other books written by Addison this book takes place during the Civil War. Birdie’s Song is about Jo and her families will to survive during difficult times. It’s also about Jo finding her place amongst it all in these uncertain times and how God can use you wherever you are as long as you are willing. The author continues with the theme of faith, family and courage. This book is a wonderful book and I highly recommend it!
July 20, 2026
This story is beautifully written and looks at the Civil War in a different way.
When Jo's Father and brothers join the Confedracy and then her brother John is injured in battle and Jo's Mother goes to Charleston to take care of John and Jo is left alone to take care of her younger brother Lewis and baby sister Maggie.Jo also befriends James Avery a deserter
Who isn't what he appears to be.
I highly recommend reading this book.
When Jo's Father and brothers join the Confedracy and then her brother John is injured in battle and Jo's Mother goes to Charleston to take care of John and Jo is left alone to take care of her younger brother Lewis and baby sister Maggie.Jo also befriends James Avery a deserter
Who isn't what he appears to be.
I highly recommend reading this book.
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews