The Jackal’s Mistress is a beautifully written historical novel about supposed enemies making impossibly brave decisions during a time of war. It's a finely woven blend of introspection, character development, and action sequences. It works remarkably well, and brings to life a handful of people caught up in a terrible time, making choices of conscience that could doom them all at any moment. The book is fascinating, moving, and thought-provoking. It’s impossible to put down

Thank you so much for allowing me to review an early copy of this book.
What a wonderful book!
I have already shared to my personal Facebook page a recommendation for this book!
Excellent!

The Jackal’s Mistress by Chris Bahjalian, It’s 1864, deep in the Shenandoah Valley a woman waits for her husband Peter with their two servants Joseph and Sally and her own 12 year-old niece Jubilee. Since the war began they’ve already suffered loss when Jubilee’s mother died and all Libby knows about her husband Peter as he was captured and thrown in a POW camp in Atlanta. while waiting for the war to come to their valley they also have other things to fret such as marauders and even soldiers, weather Confederate or Yankee. So when Joseph‘s wife Sally comes home it says she heard a man yelling for help they decide to wait until night to go see what’s the problem and who needs help. This is when they meet the Yankee soldier, captain Andrew who jubilee will later name Jackal. taking care of a Yankee soldier could cost Libby and her family a lot but he is a sad site down to one leg and a hand and a half and she would want a northern woman to risk it all for her husband Peter so she does the Christian thing and brings him to her house. Libby will do lots of questionable things including a trip to Harpers Ferry but it’s all done hoping to aid her husband Peter’s homecoming or at least get a bit of news about him. The kindness will cause each of them and some more than others but ultimately they did with lots of people in the Civil War and other wars he had to do they did what was in front of them and kept going until it was over. This is the most original type of romance and it’s supposed to be based on a true story and that is a story I would love to read. there’s so much to love and load about the story but it is all interesting in a book you will not want to put down. Historical fiction romance is my favorite genre and this one did not at all disappoint I loved it and highly highly recommended. I loved the epilogue and there’s so much I want to say about that lol but as not to give anything away I will not. Just know this is a great great book.#NetGalley, #TheBlindReviewer, #MyHonestReview, #ChrisBohjalian, #TheJackalsMistress,

The Jackal's Mistress is based on a true story. Bohjalian does historical fiction exceptionally well. I was immediately drawn into this gripping story. I couldn't put it down.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the digital review copy.

It's 1864 and Libby Steadman fears every day that her land will become the battleground between the Union and the Confederates. Her husband Peter was captured and held in a Union prison camp but his letters have long since stopped coming and she fears him dead. She's left running his gristmill with only her young niece and two freed slaves. When she finds Union captain Jonathan Weybridge gravely injured and left for dead she risks everything to save his life.
This story was tense and full of action, with the fear of discovery on every turn of the page. Based on true events, this is a story of courage and heroism. It's well written and the characters are well developed. I've loved every book I've read by this author and this one was no exception. I recommend this to anyone who likes historical fiction.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I was assigned this book so I could moderate a book club discussion at BookBrowse.com. I consequently didn't write up an in-depth review on it.

I've read a number of Bohjalian's novels and I've always enjoyed them; this one is no exception. His research is always top=notch, and I appreciate that about his historical fiction very much. However, I felt that this novel lacked the depth I've found in his other books. It wasn't as impactful as The Sandcastle Girls, for example, nor was it as exciting as The Lioness. Beyond that, it just never felt like much of a story - or perhaps the story was just much simpler than many of the others he tackles. I'm not sorry I read it, but I'm also not going out of my way to recommend it, either.

Commentary: The Duality of War—Horror and Redemption

At its core, The Jackal’s Mistress is not simply a war story or a forbidden love story. It is about the way war distorts human relationships—turning friends into foes, reducing people to labels, and forcing individuals to commit unspeakable acts in the name of survival. But it is also a story of redemption—of how love, understanding, and shared suffering can break down those barriers.
Dehumanization and Recognition

Libby begins the novel as a woman who believes herself morally upright, but she still harbors ingrained biases. She sympathizes with Joseph and Sally but has never fully considered what freedom means for them. Likewise, she sees Union soldiers as faceless enemies—until Jonathan becomes more than just a Yankee officer. Through these relationships, she comes to understand that people cannot be reduced to categories.

This mirrors the larger reality of war: people who might have lived peacefully side by side before the conflict are now forced to view one another as threats. Yet when they interact on a personal level, the distinctions between “us” and “them” blur.
Love and Survival in a Time of War

The romance between Libby and Jonathan is not just about physical attraction; it is about two people clinging to each other in the darkness. Their love is real, but it is not the kind of love that demands destruction. In a different world, they might have had a life together. But in this world, love must sometimes bow to duty.

Likewise, the relationship between Libby, Joseph, and Sally transforms into something deeper than employer and servants. By the end of the novel, they are bound not by obligation, but by mutual respect and shared suffering.
The Complexity of Morality

No character in this novel is wholly good or wholly evil. Even those who commit acts of cruelty do so believing they are protecting their way of life. War pushes people to justify the unjustifiable, and The Jackal’s Mistress does not shy away from showing how fear and desperation drive people to act in ways they never thought possible.
A Hopeful Yet Realistic Ending

The conclusion is not a fairy tale, nor is it a tragedy. Jonathan does not win Libby’s heart, but he does not need to. The love between them exists, but so does the love Libby still holds for Peter. Similarly, Joseph and Sally do not suddenly find equality in a society that resents their freedom, but they do carve out a life of dignity. The war changes everyone, but it does not erase the connections they have built.

In the end, The Jackal’s Mistress is about the resilience of the human spirit. War may tear people apart, but love—whether romantic, familial, or simply the recognition of another’s humanity—has the power to heal.

(Note: I used ChatGPT to organize this review from my own commentary)

The tang of gun powder in the air, the echo of cannons bouncing off the hills, the cry of men as they fall to the ground. I enjoy learning about the Civil War and yet I have read very few books on the topic. This book demands your attention from the first sentence. The way in which some men behave during war is truly horrifying. Just because an opportunity lays before you does not mean it is yours for the taking. Chris Bohjalian captured Virginia in 1864. The anxiety that courses through the character's blood, the constant scanning of the horizon, always being on guard. I loved that The Jackal was a Green Mountain Boy. You know I am a sucker for Vermont, it helps that Chris Bohjalian is a local author here!

Libby Steadman's is running her husband's gristmill. It is backbreaking work, but someone must get the flour out to the military. Her husband is fighting for the Confederate Army and last she heard he was taken prisoner. Libby, her young niece, Jubilee, and two freed slaves, Alice and Joseph, all live on the property. Depend on one another and listen to what the other has to say. When Union Solider Captain Jonathan Weybridge is left in an abandoned house, with one leg missing and a few of his left fingers blown to smithereens. Alice hears a man's cry, and they go back to see if there is someone hurt. What they discover is a man in desperate need of help. Will they be able to get him the help he needs since they are in Rebel territory and not get themselves killed in the process?

I loved every single one of the characters. They added depth, wisdom, unique thoughts due to the way they grew up. Jubilee was my favorite; she is spunky and does not let anything stop her from speaking her mind. Libby is someone you do not want to take on. She demands your respect; she too is young, spunky and wishes she could hear her husband's voice. Jonathan always the professor is wise beyond his years. Joseph and Alice both added depth to this book. Making you think outside the normal Civil War read. Thank you to Chris Bohjalian and Doubleday for my gifted copy.

First time reading this author and I must say I enjoyed it! It was a slow burn, not necessarily boring, but a simple plot with slow pacing. It however works though. I really haven’t read much about the civil war, so the history of it was a learning experience too. I enjoyed the characters and there were a few events they were shocking that I really liked. Most books don’t do that, so that was refreshing. I really liked the ending as well and the authors notes of his research. Will definitely recommend and look forward to reading another of his books! Thanks to Netgalley for an early read!

The author put an amazing amount of research into this Civil War romance that captured my attention right from the start. The characters were well developed expressing all their thoughts and feelings freely with each other. They created a strong bond as they cared for the wounded Union soldier and nursed him back to life disregarding which side of the war he was on. Their freed slaves became part of the family as they worked the gristmill This is an emotional story as lives were lost, life threatening risks taken as they tried to move forward after the war and find out what happened to their loved ones. Thank you to Penguin Random House and NetGalley for an advanced eGalley of the book. All opinions expressed are my own. #TheJackal’sMistress #ChrisBohjalian #NetGalley

Set during the Civil War 1864 in Virginia, Libby Steadman is left to run the gristmill while her husband is away in a war camp. She has her young niece and two freed slaves to help her manage everything. They find a wounded yankee soldiers and decide to nurse him back to health despite risking their lives to do so. What transpires is a real life friendship across enemy lines.

I loved Libby and she is a strong female character. Her 12 year old niece Jubilee was sassy and great character as well. This is based on real people and I always like learning more about a time in history. I don’t know if I’ve read a Civil War story before but it was interesting. I love Chris Bohjalian books and was happy to get an arc for review. Thanks to @netgalley and the publisher.

Thank you to the author, Doubleday Books and PRHAudio for the #gifted book and audiobook.

This historical novel set against the backdrop of the Civil War is absolutely stunning.

At the heart of the story lies the remarkable and unlikely friendship between a Union soldier, Captain Jonathan Weybridge, and a Confederate woman, Libby Steadman. Rooted in true events, the narrative powerfully explores the profound struggles of war and the resilience of the human spirit.

With its compelling storytelling and beautifully crafted prose, this novel draws you in from the very first page. Chris Bohjalian’s masterful storytelling shines as he vividly illustrates the far-reaching effects of war on both the soldiers and those left behind. The detailed research behind this book is truly impressive, and the characters, especially Libby and Jonathan, are layered with complexity and emotional depth. I was particularly enchanted by Libby’s spirited teenage niece, Jubilee, whose boldness adds a delightful dimension to the tale.

The narrator's performance brings the characters to life in an unforgettable way, enhancing the emotional stakes of the story. Jubilee, with her fearless attitude, truly stood out as a favorite.

For anyone who appreciates rich, evocative writing—all wrapped in a historical fiction package with a touch of romance—this book is an absolute must-read. You won’t want to miss it!

A solid 4.5 Stars, rounded up to 5. I love the historical fiction genre. I love the research involved in creating a broad and profound adventure that combines authentic life events with well-developed characters. This book has it all.

I love that this genre takes the reader to a place and time that now only lives in history. This Civil War based novel tells the story of a little known battle fought in Berryville, Virginia, and it does not disappoint!!! The pacing of the story is nearly perfect in its balance between description and character dialogue. I found myself devouring this novel, and I truly loved every minute of it. It’s my first of Chris Bohjalian’s books, but it definitely will not be my last.

Thank you to author, Chris Bohjalian; Publisher, Doubleday; and Netgalley for honoring me with the ARC of this wonderful novel in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are wholly my own. It is due to be published on 3/11/25. Get it!! I promise you’ll enjoy it!

** spoiler alert ** Bohjalian is a great storyteller, and he does his research - I was an international cabin crew member when I first read The Flight Attendant (funny enough, someone left it on the plane), and I thought the novel was written by a colleague or at least someone who worked in the industry in some capacity - so good were the details and the minutia of that life that he managed to capture.

I can't judge the accuracy of the Civil War depiction with the same (or any) level of expertise, but in the afterword, Bohjalian mentions that the novel is based on a real story and lists the resources and experts that helped him bring it to life.

The novel is a quick read once you get past the slow-ish start (maybe it was just my indifference to the war/battle descriptions). I loved the characters and enjoyed the pace and progression of the story.

The only thing that rubbed me the wrong way is that we don't really hear anything about Joseph in the end - how he fared once the group got to the Yankee side of the war. There is a line that Jubilee says to the Captain, asking him about the fact that even his side is not treating the African-Americans as equals while fighting for their freedom. Weybridge does not have a good answer to it. Omitting Joseph's story resolution feels like both a confirmation of that lack of equity and a strange choice on the author's part.

Another great read from Bohjalian - both if you like his storytelling style specifically and if you are not familiar with it but enjoy historical fiction in general.

Thank you, NetGalley and Doubleday Books, for sharing an advanced reader's copy in exchange for my honest review.

A compelling and captivating story in a time when communication could take weeks or months, injury most often resulted in death, and trusting the wrong person could be the difference between this life and the next.

Chris Bohjalian is a master story teller and this time he takes us to 1864 in the Shenandoah Valley during the Civil War where households have been turned upside down, those left behind live in fear as they struggle to survive every day. Who can be trusted? Do you have enough supplies to survive, defend, and protect yourself? We all know how the war ends but to understand the impact and fate of the Jackal, Libby Steadman, and the other folks in this valley you will have to read until the very last page.

I was extremely hesitant to pick this up as I don't care for Civil War era historical fiction as a general rule, but what I've learned over many years of reading Chris Bohjalian's books is that while I might not know what to expect (his books have been wildly different from each other), I can trust that the storytelling will be there. And that's the case in this one, with a story that feels strikingly relevant and valuable, with heart-pounding moments and insight into human character.

It was nearing the end of the Civil War. Libby lived in the South and though she and her husband did not believe in keeping slaves, he still had to fight as part of the southern army. The family was already disparaged for their anti-slave sentiments and for freeing the slaves that they inherited. When Libby discovers a near-dead Union soldier, she drags him home. Libby wants to help Jonathon get well--she takes care of him because if her husband was dying, she would want this for him. Libby, her niece and the freed couple are placed in serious danger having a Union soldier at their home. It is remarkable--the actions she took to protect and care for the soldier and her family. The author placed me in those pages and I thought a lot about the decisions that had to be made, the brave woman that Libby had to have been and the fear and ugliness of the war. Thank you to NetGalley and Doubleday for the complimentary digital ARC. I am truly honored to have been able to read an advance copy. This review is my actual, true opinion and not coerced in any way.

I love historical fiction, and it had been a while since I read any set around the time of the US Civil War. Filled with well-drawn, strong, realistic characters, this book is about so many things - friendship, love, commitment, and doing the right thing even though it's the hard thing. It has action and suspense, believable dialog, and an excellent sense of time and place, whether it's on a farm or a battlefield. Chris Bohjalian is one of those writers I keep meaning to get back to - I've read a couple of his books, and have several more in my library. Reading this book was a bit of a wake up call for me - a reminder that I most definitely need to start catching up on those unread books, because this one was wonderful, and I need more.
Thanks to Netgalley and Doubleday Books for providing a digital copy for an unbiased review.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Random House Doubleday for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest book by a favorite, Chris Bohjalian. All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

It's 1864 in Virginia, during the end of the Civil War. Libby Steadman's husband is presumed dead in a Union prison camp. She spends her days trying to continue to operate their gristmill along with her teenage niece, Jubilee, a hired hand and his wife. All the grain they produce is taken by the Confederate Army. When a gravely-injured Union officer, Captain Jonathan Weybridge, is found left for dead in a neighbor's house, Libby makes the decision to bring him to their home to try and save him, in the hopes that someone would do the same for her husband. But just what is she willing to risk for a stranger?

Based on a true-life story (be sure and read the author's note), this book showcases how good can triumph over evil. It was a gripping story, with characters you won't soon forget. The writing will transport you back in time, where every day is life or death, and decisions can have long-reaching consequences. I loved the strong women characters - Libby, Jubilee, and Sally - and how hard they fought to do the right things, especially when it wasn't easy. As with most stories about war, it's both horrifying and hopeful, showcasing our human resiliency and strength - a definite must read!

“The Jackal's Mistress,” by Chris Bohjalian, Doubleday, 336 pages, March 11, 2025.

It is September 1864 in Virginia. Libby Steadman’s husband, Peter, has been away for a long time. He is now in a Union prison camp after being wounded and captured at Gettysburg.

Libby’s days are spent running a gristmill with her teenage niece, Jubilee, a freedman, Joseph, and his wife, Sally. All the grain they can produce is requisitioned by the Confederate Army.

Lt. Henry Morgan of the Sixth Virginia Calvary is the grandson of one of her neighbors, Leveritt Covington. When Morgan arrives to take Joseph with them, Libby points out that Joseph is over 60 and without him she will have trouble running the mill. They don’t conscript Joseph.

Union Captain Jonathan Weybridge of the Vermont Brigade, a former college professor, had enlisted. He and his men are to occupy a hilltop near Berryville. Weybridge is severely injured in the battle and one of his legs is amputated.

His unit leaves him in a confiscated house alone when they move on. Libby finds Weybridge. She hopes that her husband was humanely treated when he was wounded and she thinks she may be able to trade Weybridge for Peter. Libby and Weybridge slowly form a friendship.

This was inspired by a true story. It is a story of surviving war and depicts the best and worst of humanity. The novel accurately depicts the Civil War and medical care of the time. Chris Bohjalian is an excellent storyteller and I am a fan of everything he writes. You will root for the characters and cheer at the ending.

I rate it five out of five stars.

In accordance with FTC guidelines, the advance reader's edition of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a review.