Set against the backdrop of the Civil War comes a tale of love lost and found…Mary Thomson is no ordinary woman. She works alongside her husband William cutting firewood to sell in the city, earning herself the nickname “The Woodcutter’s Wife.” She kills a bear with her bare hands. And she prefers plowing a field to cooking a meal. The one thing she cannot seem to handle is the melancholy that has enveloped her. Mary lost four children before they were a year old, and the doctor says she will no longer be able to conceive.Mary’s world flies apart when William disappears, leaving her with the arduous task of tending their farm by herself. Using her fierce independent spirit to cope as the war rages around her, she finds help in the form of a freed slave. But after fate throws her another dramatic curve, Mary is forced to make the most difficult choice of her life. David Johnson, author of the bestselling Tucker Series, has written another of his signature “Books with Heart” that will sweep you into its whirlwind of emotion and leave you sad to see the story end. ***** Beautifully Written Tale of Love And Loss And Love!! David has a way of effortlessly bringing his characters to life and pulling you into their story from the get go. This story was no different. An emotional rollercoaster at times, this book made me laugh, cry, worry, rejoice, and finally turn the last page feeling peaceful and optimistic. Do yourself a favor and grab this book! **** Enthralling Civil War era story Mary & William had lost all of their babies in infancy. The Civil War was in progress. William refused to take sides but was kidnapped and forced to fight. This started a series of events that changed the lives of many. I got so into Mary's life of survival that I forgot I was only a reader! ***** fantastic historical fiction If you loved Where the Crawdad's Sing, or the Tucker's Way series, this book by David Johnson is your next escape.... Enjoy! With a literary legacy spanning eighteen published works, and sales nearing the impressive one-million mark, David Johnson has firmly established himself as a master storyteller renowned for crafting "books with heart." His narratives are a testament to his gift for creating resilient and unforgettable characters, often hailing from humble beginnings, who navigate the unpredictable twists of everyday life with grace and tenacity.   Beyond the pages of his novels, David Johnson brings nearly five decades of experience in guiding people on their life journey, first as a schoolteacher, then as a Youth and Family Minister, and for the past thirty years as a professional counselor, earning him a well-deserved constellation of commendations and awards.   But beyond his career life, David is a devoted family man, having cherished fifty years of marriage to his beloved wife, Brenda. Together, they share a deep passion for the great outdoors, spending memorable moments camping and immersing themselves in the beauty of nature.   When he's not penning stories or lending his expertise as the Clinical Director of an outpatient opiate addiction program, you're likely to find him traipsing through the woods, a favorite place to be where inspiration often strikes.   David Johnson invites you to connect with him, the creative mind behind the acclaimed "Tucker" series—a captivating world where ordinary individuals face extraordinary challenges, and where heartwarming tales of resilience and hope come to life.   You can find him on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.