Cordelia Owens is beautiful inside and out. She has a unique way of telling stories. When her love, Phiness Dunn goes of to war, she wonders if anything will ever be the same again. This book is full of many different stories. It is well written and well put together. I enjoyed many of the friendships and relationships woven throughout this book. Some characters I loved and some not so much, but together they make a great story. I look forward to reading more from this author. I was given a copy of this book for my honest opinion.

Roseanna M. White is a name that I have come to associate with GOOD historical fiction. By this, I mean I know that not only will the stories be enjoyable, but they will be well researched and feel true to the time in which they were written. They will do a good job of making me understand the time and the people of that time, even if it's not a subject I'm particularly knowledgeable about. Dreams of Savannah- while taking place in a very different time and place from her other books I have read- is no different in that regards. It truly brought you back to the Civil War South--- the good, the bad and the ugly. Which is to say that it doesn't shy away from the fact that slavery existed in this time and place... in fact, our leading lady herself was a slave owner. While that is not a comfortable topic in current times, that does not change the reality of how things actually were in this time and place. Still, it may make it less enjoyable for some readers, I'm sure.

While well-written and researched, I must admit that I do prefer the other books I have read by the author more. I will say though, that in general my favorite historical fiction stories tend to take place during or around WWII, with the early 1900s being a close second. That's definitely more in line with her other series like The Codebreakers. Civil War and earlier stories while enjoyable, certainly just don't appeal to me quite as much. I think those readers who DO prefer this time period, will absolutely love this one.

**I received a complimentary copy of this book for consideration. All thoughts are my own.

This story courageously confronts the horrors of slavery head-on giving readers a glimpse into the past where people were treated horribly just because of the color of their skin. The reader gets to tag-along as both Phin and Delia's eyes are opened to what they have been taught about the slaves their families own. Many times change doesn't happen overnight, and it is a long steady process of choosing to think about the things we've just obeyed without thought because they have "always been this way." I thought Roseanna did a great job building a story with not only adventure and heroism, but also truth, awakening and change. I would definitely recommend this book.
***I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

What a beautiful story! I'm always amazed how well Roseanna M White can switch between different historical eras and still retain such well researched detail. I found this book quite different in storyline from her others but it was delightfully refreshing. I loved watching the characters mature and learn without losing the aspects that make them so dear. Also love the beautiful cover!

Dreams of Savannah by Roseanna M. White

Savannah, Georgia May 1861
Cordelia (Delia) Owens gives hope in the stories she loves to weave from most anything and shares them with her family and friends. When she learns that the man she loves is missing and may even be dead, she weaves a hope-filled, romantic and heroic story to reassure herself and his family. During the uncertain times, she comes to realize that everyone has a story to tell and begins searching out those stories which ultimately change her as she writes them. Often times these stories tell of heartbreak and injustice, love and family, redemption, sacrifice and faith.

Phineas Dunn leaves his family and the woman he loves behind when he goes off to war. He soon faces a dangerous, life-threatening situation far from home. Injured and barely alive, Phineas finds himself in a situation that awakens his dormant faith and opens his eyes to-and ultimately his position-of slavery that will forever change his life. The man who found and cares for Phineas is certainly a surprise to him in more ways than he would have imagined. I love that Luther Bromley, an English free black preacher in search of his kidnapped wife, Eva, nurses Phin back to health, to faith and the impact he has on his life.

Roseanna White has woven a fascinating story that portrays the difficulties of the Civil War and the impact war has on families, communities and lifestyles. The characters face many challenges, war and all it entails, grief, heartbreak and injustice; as well as love and family, redemption, sacrifice and faith. I enjoyed the secondary characters, especially Pastor Luther, and their stories. I also enjoyed the spiritual elements and scripture references woven within the story-line.

~I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher (no monetary gain were exchanged), this is my honest review~

Cordelia's fanciful imagination delights those around her. But with the War Between the States looming, she fears saying goodbye to Phineas Dunn, the man who has captured her heart. Will he return home safely? Do her ominous dreams hold any meaning in the real world?

Phin feels confident as he takes to the seas. Surely God will bless them as they protect their homes, their families. But hidden danger lurks, and aid may be found in a source he least expects.

I had a hard time getting into this novel. The characters are so blithe and naive at the beginning. However, both Cordelia and Phin go through challenges and grow tremendously as people, and the other point of view characters—Cordelia's slave Salina and a free black man named Luther—really helped draw me into the story.

The author tackles a lot of difficult subjects within these pages, slavery being the biggest one. I learned a lot about slave laws in Georgia which I had not known before. I think there is merit in having these discussions today, and I applaud White's willingness to tackle it. Although I personally found the moral discussions, about slavery or otherwise, a bit simplistic, I recognize that within the confines of a historical romance novel there is only so much room for deep conversation on such matters. This is a great starting point.

Overall, if you are interested in such discussions, or if you enjoy fiction set in the Civil War, you won't want to miss this newest release from a trusted author.

I received my copy of the book from the publisher. All thoughts in this review are my own.

Roseanna White is known for writing excellent historical fiction and Dreams of Savannah is no exception! A Georgia plantation is the setting for this book that covers the early years of the Civil War and I won't soon forget the fascinating characters and their moving story. Cordelia Owens dreams of a life that she and Phineas Dunn can share once he returns from the war. She is both a romantic and optimist and I love that, even though she has always lived with slaves, she truly believes that no one should be judged by their skin color. A startling revelation changes her life, deepens her convictions, and increases her desire to change the world through the stories that she loves to write. I so admire the hope and strength that sustains her as she waits for Phin but his return isn't what she thought it would be. He has changed physically and emotionally, and he questions the cause that he has been fighting for. Has this war forever crushed Delia's dreams?

There are many other wonderful characters in this story and White vividly relates the heartaches and struggles of Salina, River, Luther, and Eva. She says that this standalone novel won't turn into a series but I would love to know how their lives change over the years!

To say that I loved this book is an understatement! It has sweet romance, an inspiring faith message, and a poignant reminder that the issue of racism that plagued our nation in 1861 is just as relevant today. Oppression still exists and we must continue to fight it in any form!

I highly recommend Dreams of Savannah to all who enjoy Christian romance and historical fiction.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. I was under no obligation to write a favorable review and I am voluntarily sharing my own thoughts.

Whenever I hear of Savannah in connection with the Civil War, I think of Sherman’s March to the Sea of 1864. The Union General arrived in Savannah shortly before Christmas and made the city a gift for President Lincoln. So, when I heard of a novel about Savannah and the war, I presumed Sherman’s March would be the focus of it. I didn’t realize that the Confederacy had given up on the coastal city as early as 1862 and that was the time frame in which Dreams of Savannah would be set.

I’ve read several of Roseanna M. White’s previous books. They were all set in England and were connected to each other through the settings and characters. Dreams of Savannah is a one-off with no familiar faces for White’s long-time readers to appreciate, and, honestly, I really didn’t like Cordelia and Phin at first. They felt fake and insipid, with no real depth to them. I couldn’t find it in myself to care about them, or the story. It took until chapter six for the narrative to grab me, and that’s thanks to the introduction of Luther. I don’t want to describe him here, because he’s a major game changer, but I’d love to read a novel with him as the main character. What was his back story? How did he come to be the man readers get to know here?

Since this is a book about the south during the Civil War, there is naturally plenty of discourse regarding slavery. Delia’s “dearest friend” is a house slave assigned to her as a maid. She tends to take her for granted, believing the woman will always be with her. It’s only when secrets come to light that Delia starts seeing the slaves as human beings, and she starts gathering their stories. Phin’s opinion starts changing once he meets Luther and is drawn into his new friend’s situation. White doesn’t only look at how her main characters interact with those of a different skin color; she shares the historical reality of slavery in Georgia and how difficult it was to change the system. According to Dreams of Savannah, state laws made it almost impossible for benevolent owners to free slaves. I couldn’t immediately find information to back this up, but I knew from previous research on the issues that free men and women were often not allowed to stay in southern states or were permitted to enter states such as Georgia. This is something that features in Luther’s narrative. Many slaves made the hard decision to run towards Union encampments when they captured southern land, often leaving behind loved ones, and this is another aspect of slavery on which White focuses.

Delia’s stories didn’t appeal to me. I appreciated her imaginative writing, but her sharing what some might call “flights of whimsy” struck me as childish and maybe misleading. After all, if Phin hadn’t come home might she have been accused of giving his family false hope? She also spent a lot of time daydreaming about her handsome prince, when my experience has taught me to appreciate reality. Again, what if Phin hadn’t returned? Phin, on the other hand, learned fast to be grounded in what was real, even if it did feel overwhelming at times.

Overall, before the end I thought that this was an okay book but not one that excited me. And then I got to the end and discovered something had happened on a subconscious level. I didn’t think this book would emotionally grab me as much as it did, and I got a lump in my throat. The ending is a moment of hope and reassurance, something that IS needed during dark times. Fort Pulaski falls in the final chapter, but I got the feeling that, despite everything, Delia and Phin would be alright. And that’s why I give this book a top rating.

Disclaimer: Although I received a copy of this book from the publisher, the opinions above are my own.

When Phin goes off to war, he does so hoping to come back a hero so he can marry the woman of his dreams. But war is nothing like he imagined it to be or how it is portrayed in stories and it's the dreams of Delia and home that keep him going.

When he's injured shortly after he joins up, it is the dreams that keep him alive. Meanwhile, his sweetheart remains in Savannah dreaming of him and spinning great tales about his adventures at sea.

But Savannah is changing. As the Union soldiers draw closer, both Phin and Delia have to decide what they believe in this conflict between the states...and what will happen to them if they are caught pulling for the wrong side.

This is the first book I've read by Roseanna White and I love her writing. She did a great job portraying the views of the slave owners and those who wanted the abolition of slavery. As in every conflict, there are varying shades of grey-things aren't as stark as they may first appear.

There was a lot of conflict in this book that forced me to think about how appearances can skew our perspective. We look at people and we see the color of their skin, we judge them to be beautiful or not, we make judgements about their social status. We think if those things are pleasing to the eye, then they are trustworthy and good.

Both Delia and Phin had to re-evaluate how they judged people. They had to learn to see people a little more like how God sees them instead of judging them based on what society said about them.

I loved the romance between those two characters. Delia wanted a romantic hero and though Phin didn't think he fit the bill, that's exactly what he was. He understood her heart and because he did, he encouraged her to be the best version of herself she could be. She encouraged him to be a better man and that's always a good thing.

I received an advanced reader's copy from the publishers through NetGalley; a positive review was not required.

I didn't love this book as much as I love Roseanna's other books. The race relations theme seemed staged, and I didn't relate to or enjoy the main characters as much as I usually do.

All of the characters had great arcs. Luther especially, I really liked his character. The growth of Phinn and Delia as compassionate people who feel slavery is wrong, was great, and believable given the circumstances they went through.
The relationships in this were complicated, from Salina and her father, to Luther and Phinn.

I chose to read/review this book because I'm a native Georgian and absolutely love the city of Savannah. The novel felt kind of Gone with the Wind-esque, with Cordelia being a bit dramatic like Scarlet O'hara. Just like Scarlet, Delia has to grow up as the horrors of the Civil War become a reality. While I appreciated Delia's character growth and was moved by some moments she had with other characters, I struggled with connecting with her. She seemed so out of touch with reality and lost in her fictional world, that I had trouble rooting for her. With the hero, Phin, I liked that he was grounded and strong. He faced a life-threatening injury and experienced a physical and spiritual transformation through it. This book also addresses the evils of slavery in several ways. It could just be the climate of our nation right now, but these aspects were particularly hard to read. I know this was the reality in Georgia in the 1800s, but there is part of this prejudice and evil that rings true today. I didn't particularly enjoy it in a pleasure/escape read. Overall, this wasn't the book I was expecting to read, but that was my fault. I should've read the summary better. I would still characterize Roseanna M. White's writing as stellar, as she knows how to evoke emotion in the reader. There was a build up of tension, which I appreciated. Readers of Civil War historical fiction would probably enjoy this book, but it has a different tone than her previous Code Breakers series.

*I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in order to share my honest opinion, which I did.*

I’ve read books by this author before and enjoyed them, so I knew I would probably like this one, and what a lovely read!

Everything is beautifully described and it’s easy to picture what the people and places look like. One of the things I really enjoyed in this book was how Cordelia would start imagining how people might look if they were a fictional character in one of her stories. I found it very amusing how detailed she got sometimes, often losing track of what was going on around her, much to the chagrin of her mother!

And I also want to throw out how much I appreciated Cordelia honoring her parents as she should. Even when they were wrong, she still obeyed them and honored their authority over her, which I found refreshing as most heroines these days are depicted as rebellious and do whatever they feel is right, especially if others are wrong.

This book’s spiritual standpoint is spot on for me. It was filled with scriptures and prayers that melded seamlessly into the storyline, not forced, overly flowery, or unnatural. They didn’t drag on or feel out of place—it was a beautiful addition to this story, especially seeing the spiritual growth of the characters in the process.

I think my favorite aspect about this book is how it tells more of the full story of the Civil War, that it wasn’t just about, or even started because of, slavery. This book clearly describes the terribleness of slavery, as it should, but also tells the viewpoint of southerners who were fighting for rights that had nothing to do with slavery. I also learned quite a few things that I did not previously know, something I LOVE in a historical fiction novel!

As far as content, I would consider this a clean book (but not squeaky). There is some kissing and some things discussed, but not in detail: Sailors discussing free-time on land and “enjoying and evening” with the local women where they make port, but it’s never known if they mean “intimately” or just being in their company—Phin is shown to be of good, gentlemanly character here and refuses to participate or even discuss it. There is talk of “Masters” having relations with some of their female slaves. (which is a huge part of one of the character’s storylines) and talk of slaves “breeding”. One slave character is almost raped, but is able to get away before anything terrible happens, though she is violently grabbed and pushed around before she gets away.

There is no foul language used, but a character does say, “Where the devil” and Cordelia’s mother uses a “choice phrase” about the Yankees (because of the lack of store goods) that we later find out was the d-word (though it is never used fully) Cordelia later says “Blasted Yankees.” in her head, nearly says the d-word version, then goes on to mention that she can’t even think the word.

All in all, I really enjoyed this book and had a hard time putting it down! I loved how the author stayed true to the time period while painting a vivid picture, but not too vivid, of the atrocities that occurred. If you love clean reads, Historical Fiction, and this time period in particular, you will enjoy this book!

* I received an advanced copy of this book from the publishers, through Netgalley, in return for an honest review. I was not obligated to leave a positive review. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.

I was so excited for a new Roseanna White book; I love her series "The Codebreakers" and "Shadows over England." This book unfortunately just didn't do it for me, alas.

The main characters frustrated me, and I didn't find them relatable or particularly likable. I don't know how much of it stemmed from being a book told from an (originally) Confederate POV, but the ongoing attitudes toward slavery (and slaves)--while effective and eye-opening into the American South at that time--just depressed and distressed me. (Which probably just illustrated the point, but after a while, it just was not something I enjoyed reading.) Change came, but was too slow in coming for my taste.

Also, as others have noted, allusions to physical and sexual violence are included in this book. Again, very real and accurate of its time! Simply more than I wanted to read in this particular novel.

I received an eARC of the book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Dreams of Savannah is another good read by Roseanna M. White. I enjoyed this story of faith, hope and love. I loved Cordelia right from the start. The historical details of her story made me feel as though I was living with her. She was a brave and courageous woman. I was not sure what to think of Phineas at first but he quickly grew on me. After reading about the first 50 pages, I was completely hooked and could not put it down until I read the last page.

Dreams of Savannah is getting four and a half stars from me. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy reading full of faith and clean historical fiction. I look forward to more like this one from Roseanna M. White in the future.

I received Dreams of Savannah from the publisher, but was not required to write a review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

Dreams of Savannah, by Roseanna M. White, is a beautifully written historical novel! Emotionally stirring, wonderfully descriptive, genuinely intriguing, and thoroughly engaging, this book is utterly enjoyable. With a thoughtful blend of history, romance, and suspense, this story is meaningful and remarkably moving.

From the historic setting, to the compelling characters, to the riveting plot, Ms. White once again delivers a story that is immensely satisfying! Set primarily in Savannah, Georgia during the first years of the American Civil War, the story captivates with its diverse cast of characters. Living under the shadow and uncertainty of war, the characters attempt to carry on with their lives while grappling with loss, unexpected revelations, and surprising realizations. And in so doing, they must face their fears, address their insecurities, pursue redemption, renew their hope, and nurture their faith even as their dreams and futures are threatened.

Dreams of Savannah is certainly a special book! Very well-researched, contemplative, and exceptionally well-written, it is a novel that inspires even as it entertains. Page after page, this novel is thought-provoking, memorable, and worthy. It is definitely a novel I can eagerly recommend.

*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher and NetGalley. A review was not required. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.

Dreams of Savannah was a story that I absolutely loved. I've been a fan of Roseanne M. White's novels ever since the Culper Ring series and it seems like every new story is another favorite...but this one takes the cake. It was just SO amazing!

The characters were fantastic. Cordelia was probably my favorite - as her love of stories was endearing and I also loved her strength. Phineas was a wonderful hero and the romance between him and Cordelia was the best.

All in all, Dreams of Savannah is going on my "favorites" shelf and I highly recommend it. Well worth the read and I can see myself rereading it very soon. :)

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.*

Dreams of Savannah provides a thought provoking look at the differing perspectives of the South during the Civil War period, sweeping romance, and the return adventure of a lost sailor who finds a new outlook when he is given another chance at life. Roseanna M. White perfectly balances three engaging storylines that merge beautifully into a sweeping saga that continues with satisfying suspense until the very last pages. I enjoyed savoring every page!

I really enjoy Roseanna White’s writing, so though I’ve never been a fan of civil war era books I decided to give it a try.

I liked the twists and turns that the story took and the growth of the characters. I felt like the author wrestled with some hard topics with honesty and resisted the need to wrap a neat bow around complicated realities. The story ended on a hopeful note, though it ended at a critical moment in the war leaving much to the imagination.

It’s not my favourite of her books, but I think it was well done.

I received a free digital copy of this novel in exchange for my honest opinion.
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This book touched my heart. There are very few authors that I trust to write a historically accurate Civil War novel, but I’ve read many of Roseanna White’s books and felt like she could accomplish this. I was not disappointed. I think this book accurately portrays the difficulties surrounding this war. It’s also a beautifully written romance of two people who love each other; find themselves separated because of the war; and separately come to realize that some of the ideas with which they’ve been raised need to be challenged and reevaluated.

Cordelia Owens (Delia) is a delightfully compassionate, bubbly, and imaginative young woman who has a talent for creating stories and has a desire to hopefully write a book and share them with the world. She is also in love with a fine young man, Phineas Dunn, and is waiting for him to come back from the war. However, a tragic circumstance delays his return, and Delia finds her sheltered world being changed by the war. I also greatly admired Luther, an English freeman and pastor, who becomes friends with Phineas. As they search for Luther’s wife in Savannah, both Phineas and Delia confront some of the different attitudes and opinions that prevail in Savannah. As the war draws closer and closer to Savannah, they must make some serious decisions about their future together. There’s intrigue, mystery, romance, and some suspense in this storyline that keep me reading every spare moment I could find.

I’ll be thinking for some time about this beautiful story and the message of faith, hope, and love that permeates the book.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.