If I Go by Emily Ann

Synopsis of the book: Beneath the sprawling limbs of southern oaks, where Spanish moss drapes like lace and the scent of salt lingers in the air, Eleanor Davis and Fred Jackson spend their childhood in the heart of 19th century Charleston, South Carolina. Their friendship is as constant as the tides, as warm as the Southern sun. But as the nation fractures, so does their world. When Fred’s family moves North, Eleanor is left behind as whispers of war grow into a deafening roar.

Now a young woman seeking purpose, she answers the call of duty as a Confederate nurse. But just as she finds her footing, Fred returns—not as the carefree boy she once knew, but as a Union soldier, shaped by hardship and bound by conviction.

Their reunion is a collision of past and present, stirring memories of a bond that once felt unshakable. Yet war leaves little room for sentiment, demanding sacrifice from all who stand in its path.

✨ My 12th read of 2025 and the 3rd read of my summer challenge✨

This book was wonderful! Between the masterful writing, story structure, and characterization, this novel was hard to put down once I started! I loved how this novel was structured, immersing in the childhood versions of Fred and Eleanor while displaying both viewpoints of the characters as well as the historical period. As my favorite romance trope, Fred and Eleanor are perfect for each other, being childhood friends. ❤️ This Civil War-era romance novel is filled with hardship and sacrifice, yet beauty and adorning romance also. I'm so excited to read this author's next novel as I fell in love with this story and her writing and storytelling! If I Go is one you don't want to leave sitting in your TBR!

✨ As Emily Ann's debut novel, If I Go is the first novel in the Valiant Devotion series, with the second book expected in early 2026. Suitable for young adult readers and older. ✨

Genres: Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction, Romance

My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Thank you for the complimentary copy, @authoremilyann

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