John Jakes

Part history, part novel, this book chronicles two great American dynasties over three generations. Though brought together in a friendship that neither jealousy nor violence could shatter, the Hazards and the Mains are torn apart by the storm of events that has divided the nation.

The last days of the Civil War bring no peace for the Main and Hazard families. As the Mains’ South smolders in the ruins of defeat, the Hazards’ North pushes blindly for relentless industrial progress. Both the nation and the families’ long-standing bond hover on the brink of destruction. In the series’ epic conclusion, Jakes expertly blends personal conflict with historical events, crafting a haunting page-turner about America’s constant change and unyielding hope.

"A gem . . . John Jakes personalizes (Sherman's March) with his trademark brisk plotting, exhaustive research, realistic characters and generous humor." — Cleveland Plain Dealer Georgia 1864: Sherman's army marches inexorably from Atlanta to the sea. In its the charming old city of Savannah, where the Lester ladies-attractive widow Sara and her feisty twelve-year-old daughter Hattie-struggle to save the family rice plantation. When Sherman offers the conquered city to President Lincoln as "a Christmas gift," Hattie and the feared general find themselves on a collision course that will astonish both of them.

A novel based around the exploits of various spies during the American Civil War. Lon supports the north, works for the War Department and is offered a job in the National Detective Police force. Margaret supports the south and works for her father until her outspokenness lands her in prison.

The Hazards and the Mains—the first fatal shot fired at Fort Sumter divided them irrevocably with loyalties more powerful than family ties. The young would clash on the bloody battlefields of Bull Run and Fredericksburg, while in intrigue-ridden Washington and Richmond strong-willed men and beautiful women would defend their principles with their lives...or satisfy illicit cravings with schemes that could destroy friends and enemies alike.This surging drama is the second part of the trilogy that includes NORTH AND SOUTH and HEAVEN AND HELL