I Shall Be Near to You: A Novel

Erin Lindsay McCabe

Jan 2014 · Sold by Crown

About this ebook

An extraordinary novel about a strong-willed woman who disguises herself as a man in order to fight beside her husband, inspired by the letters of a remarkable female soldier who fought in the Civil War.

Rosetta doesn't want her new husband Jeremiah to enlist, but he joins up, hoping to make enough money that they'll be able to afford their own farm. When Jeremiah leaves, Rosetta decides her true place is by his side, no matter what that means, and to be with him, she follows him into war.

With the army desperate for recruits, Rosetta has no trouble volunteering, although she faces an incredulous husband. Her strong will clashes with Jeremiah's, and their marriage is tested by broken conventions, constant danger, war, and the fear that Rosetta will be discovered.

Rich with historical details and inspired by more than 250 documented accounts of the women who fought in the Civil War while disguised as men, I Shall Be Near To You is a courageous adventure, a woman's search for meaning and individuality, and a poignant story of enduring love.

Praise for I Shall Be Near to You

“Astounding.” —Glamour
 
“Compellingly authentic.” —Elle

“This fascinating historical novel is beautifully written and emotionally charged. Using a female soldier’s point of view for the narration makes McCabe’s story refreshingly unique.” —Romantic Times

“McCabe has created a tough, realistic woman who is equally committed to being a good soldier and a good wife. I Shall Be Near to You is both a poignant love story and a gritty war experience, and is highly recommended.” —Historical Novels Review

“A beautiful and powerful story that offers a rare perspective on those who fought in the Civil War…Following a pair of newlyweds, so brave and loving and committed, navigate the horrors of war is heart-wrenching. In her deceptively simple prose, McCabe has delivered an unforgettable, haunting and well-researched take on history that has a rightful place on bookshelves next to the most timeless and celebrated of sagas.” —Free Lance-Star

“A gripping story, and McCabe's writing gives it considerable impact; I Shall Be Near to You is a memorable addition to the literature of the Civil War.” —San Jose Mercury News

Ratings and reviews

I'm not much for history but I couldn't stop turning the pages. History mixed with love had me right there with Rosetta. Sad yes, but still beautifully written. Excellent read.

This is a story that will remain with you long after you have finished reading it. I would love to have a sequel to have a bit more of Rosetta.

Very good read. Could not put this book down.

About the author

ERIN LINDSAY McCABE studied Literature at University of California, Santa Cruz, and taught high school English before completing her MFA at St. Mary's College of California in 2010. She has taught Composition at St. Mary's and Butte College and resides in Northern California with her husband and son and a small menagerie that includes one dog, four cats, two horses, ten chickens, and two goats.