I SHALL BE NEAR TO YOU

McCabe's novel is based on documented accounts of women who fought in the Civil War, disguised as men. Allyson Ryan delivers Rosetta's story with the feisty energy of a woman who has the grit to do just that. In 1862, Rosetta's beau, Jeremiah, plans to enlist. Before he goes off to war, they marry. Ryan credibly delivers all the characters and is especially affecting as Rosetta decides to cut her hair, dress like a man, and enlist so she can be near her husband. Through subtle variations in tone, Ryan delivers period gender attitudes, the hardships of army life, the turmoil and misery of battle, and the tenderness of young love. This well-written, well-researched historical fiction makes fine listening. S.J.H. © AudioFile 2014, Portland, Maine [Published: FEBRUARY 2014]