Every house has a story to tell...

Award-winning Civil War romance author Jessica James returns with a powerful book club novel about love and loss, roots and belonging...and spirits of the past that refuse to be quieted.

Winner of the 2020 John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction

Two people trying to escape their pasts, find a connection through an old house and a destiny through the secrets it shares.

MOVING TO A SMALL TOWN is a big change for New York socialite Katie McCain. But when she stumbles across Lacewood, an abandoned 200-year-old mansion in small-town Virginia, she’s enthralled by the enduring beauty of the neglected estate—and captivated by the haunting portrait of a woman in mourning she finds there. Katie buys the house on a whim and throws herself into befriending the colorful characters in the southern town of New Hope.

THE PAST AND PRESENT converge when military veteran and hometown hero Will Durham returns and begins his own healing process by helping restore the memory-filled Lacewood house to its former glory.

As Katie delves deeper into the mystery of the beautiful "widow of Lacewood," her ownership of the acreage around the estate comes into question. When developers begin work to destroy the beautiful rural landscape, the southern charm of New Hope is threatened...and the townsfolk see her as the cause.

But destiny has bigger plans for Lacewood. To fulfill them, Katie and Will need to piece together the previous owner’s heartrending story, uncover secrets the house has held for centuries, and find the faith to accept their own painful pasts.

Part contemporary romance and part Civil War historical romance, Lacewood: A Novel of Time and Place is an unforgettable book club novel about love and loss, roots and belonging…and spirits of the past that refuse to be quieted.

A haunting story that connects the past with the present—and the present with eternity.

"Strong storytelling prose." - The BookLife Prize

"Highly recommended for lovers of romantic stories full of history, mystery, faith, and most of all, true hearts." -Virginia Campbell, Goodreads reviewer

"What a wonderfully absorbing read! The story is very good as it masterfully unfolds and draws the reader into the past history of an old abandoned home." - Jan, Amazon reviewer

"This is a lovely story of healing & hope with a hint of spiritual guidance in the paranormal as well as Providential sense." - BookBub reviewer

The Scarlet Pimpernel meets Gone with the Wind in this suspenseful Civil War novel that leaves the lives of two men—and the destiny of a nation—in one woman's hands.

One woman holds the fate of the country in her hands. Can she allow her brother to die so that others might live?

Winner of the 2019 John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction

AS THE CIVIL WAR grinds into its second year, a mysterious figure known only as THE LION OF THE SOUTH emerges from the shadows to rekindle the Confederacy's spirit of defiance.

JULIA DANDRIDGE returns to the Virginia home where she was raised, only to discover that the war has changed everything—and everyone—once dear to her.

With no one to turn to and nowhere to turn, Julia is caught in a tangled web of secrets and deception. The only way to save her beloved brother from the hangman's noose is to unmask the Lion—but who is he?

When she finally discovers the enigmatic hero's true identity, Julia sets off on a desperate journey to stop the vengeful plot she helped set in motion, determined to save the two men whose lives hang in the balance—and redeem herself from the deadly mistake she has made.

From award-winning author Jessica James comes another suspenseful historical fiction novel that will keep you turning pages.

An unsuspecting First Lady must rely on a Secret Service agent to discover who can be trusted—and who will do anything to keep control. From award-winning author Jessica James comes a new novel of page-turning political intrigue.

When a shy, country girl from Virginia marries a prominent Georgetown attorney, her life is bound to change. But when that attorney is catapulted to the office of President of the United States, she is thrust into the position of First Lady—and uncovers a world of secrets and betrayals that alters everything she once knew.

After recovering from her initial missteps and negotiating the obstacles of her new public life, the First Lady begins to understand the nature of politics. But as another election approaches, turmoil in the White House intensifies. Leaks. Lies.  Deceit. Deception. People the First Lady thought were friends desert her and the true character of people she thought she knew is revealed.

When the stakes become life and death, the First Lady uncovers the ultimate betrayal and is forced to come to terms with her own role in the political process. Only with the help of Secret Service Agent Clint Brody can she hope to find her way out of danger—and uncover the identity of the real traitor in the White House.

Readers who enjoy espionage and intrigue will enjoy the twists and turns of this novel set within the nefarious world of politics.

What they're saying about Jessica James books:

"Very engaging. Hard to put down." - Billy Allmon, Retired Navy SEAL

"Readers will find themselves turning pages and not wanting to put the book down." - InD'tale Magazine

"James's patriotic mystery features solid prose and moves at a rapid pace that will grab readers." - BookLife Prize

“An endearing page-turner offering a unique view of military life.” – Publishers Weekly

“A fast-paced and exciting read, and it's most highly recommended.” – Readers’ Favorite

“A tapestry of emotion deeply set inside the bravest of Americans: the soldier.” — Military Writers Society of America

“Expertly crafted from beginning to end. A truly extraordinary read. Would prove to be an enduringly popular addition to library collections.” — Midwest Book Review

“Realistic, moving, and uplifting. Shows the meaning of commitment—to country and to love.” – Jocelyn Green, Award-Winning Author

“A love story that portrays honor and devotion to the call of duty. Captivating and mesmerizing.” – Readers’ Favorite

“Spot on with characters and descriptions. Strong women. Larger than life men. Well done.” – Lynnette Bukowski, LZ-Grace Warriors Retreat CEO and Ombudsman to Special Operation NSW Commands

“...Makes a compelling case to land on the summer reading lists of those who enjoy a heart-tugging, well-written novel they won’t want to put down until the last, bittersweet page.” – Kate Maisel, Stars and Stripes

What do you do when the person you most want to protect is the one risking everything to make sure you survive?

"This gripping, epic novel mesmerizes readers..." - InD'tale Magazine

READER ALERT: If you loved GONE WITH THE WIND, fall in love again with this epic Civil War Serial Trilogy: SHADES OF GRAY.

“Rivals Gone With the Wind as my favorite novel of all time. I can think of no better way to describe it.” – Amazon reviewer

“Five stars does not do this book justice as it is well beyond that rating for me. It is so well written and the characters have such depth that it brought me to tears many times.” – Terri D

“It is a book that I think could have the impact of a Gone With the Wind.” –   Jonathan A. Noyalas, Former Assistant Professor of History and Director for Civil War Studies, Lord Fairfax Community College

Honor and conviction clash with loyalty and love in this poignant Civil War tale that pits brother against brother.

This is a classic tale of courage, honor, and enduring love during that American Civil War that has been praised by both men and women—from professors of history to avid romance readers.

Shades of Gray Civil War Serial Trilogy consists of three books: Duty Bound, Honor Bound, and Glory Bound, as well as an Epilogue that can be requested from the author. Books can be purchased separately or all in one volume.

This is a Serial Trilogy. Don't start reading if you don't want to get hooked and read the entire series.

Duty Bound: Takes readers across the rolling hills of Virginia in a page-turning tale of action and adventure as a Union spy spars with a renowned Confederate cavalry commander. Gallantry and chivalry are put to the test when Colonel Alexander Hunter discovers that Andrea Evans is not only the woman he promised his dying brother he would protect, but is the Union spy he has vowed to his men he would destroy.

What they said about Shades of Gray:

“The best Civil War fiction book since Cold Mountain.” – J. Bibb, SCV, Trimble Camp 1836

“If you want to read a book you will never forget and will think about for months after reading it, read Shades of Gray. The book took my breath away. Honestly, you will not sleep.” – A Bookworm’s Dinner Blog

“A classic love story as much as it is a war story.” – Civil War Book Review

“Andrea and Alex will surely take the place in my heart of Rhett and Scarlett as the perfect Civil War fictional love story!” – A. Deyarmin, Reviewer

"I am reluctant to admit I enjoyed it (Shades of Gray) more than Gone With the Wind! This book takes you through so many emotions!" – Amazon Reviewer

"Not since reading Gone With the Wind have I enjoyed a book so much as Jessica James's Shades of Gray! I could not put Shades of Gray down, from start to finish!" - S. Winch

"This is what epic stores are made of. Do yourself a favor and pick up this book ... especially if you love The Civil War. I will not get rid of this one. It is a keeper that I will read time and time again." – T. Weatherby

"I'm a civil war historian with roots deep in the southern states and I couldn't put this book down. I'm not usually into books with a romantic element, but Shades of Gray really is that good!" – B. Webb

Shades of Gray, first published in 2008, was later published as Noble Cause, with a new happily-ever-after ending.

Called the “greatest love story ever told” when it was first released in 2008, Shades of Gray has been expanded and improved in this new three-book series that has dozens of new chapters and introduces new characters. Fall in love again and discover the fine line between friends and enemies in this emotional Civil War love story.

Shades of Gray Civil War Serial Trilogy consists of three books: Duty Bound, Honor Bound, and Glory Bound, as well as an Epilogue that you can request from the author.

Honor and conviction clash with loyalty and love in this epic Civil War novel that pits brother against brother. This is a classic tale of courage, honor, and enduring love that has been praised by both men and women—from professors of history to avid romance readers.

Author Jessica James uniquely blends elements of romantic and historical fiction in this deeply personal and poignant tale that, according to one reviewer, “transcends the pages to settle in the very marrow of the reader’s bones.” 

Duty Bound: Takes readers across the rolling hills of Virginia in a page-turning tale of action and adventure as a Union spy spars with a renowned Confederate cavalry commander. Gallantry and chivalry are put to the test when Colonel Alexander Hunter discovers that Andrea Evans is not only the woman he promised his dying brother he would protect, but is the Union spy he has vowed to his men he would destroy.

Honor Bound: This volume follows Union Spy Andrea Evans as she finds herself recuperating from an injury in the home of her enemy, Colonel Alexander Hunter. Readers will discover the fine line between friends and enemies when the lives of these two tenacious foes cross by the fates of war and their destinies become entwined forever.

Glory Bound: The series culminates in this emotional final volume that reflects the sacrifices of both sides and proves there can be no bond stronger than that which unites enemies. Immortal love, whence it flows, can never die.

What they said about Shades of Gray:

“It is a book that I think could have the impact of a ‘Gone With the Wind.” – J. Noyalas, Assistant Professor of History

“The best Civil War fiction book since Cold Mountain.” – J. Bibb, SCV, Trimble Camp 1836

“A classic love story as much as it is a war story.” – Civil War Book Review“Andrea and Alex will surely take the place in my heart of Rhett and Scarlett as the perfect Civil War fictional love story!” – A. Deyarmin, Reviewer

"I am reluctant to admit I enjoyed it (Shades of Gray) more than Gone With the Wind! This book takes you through so many emotions!" – Amazon Reviewer

"Not since reading Gone With the Wind have I enjoyed a book so much as Jessica James's Shades of Gray! I could not put Shades of Gray down, from start to finish!" - S. Winch

"This is what epic stores are made of. Do yourself a favor and pick up this book ... especially if you love The Civil War. I will not get rid of this one. It is a keeper that I will read time and time again." – T. Weatherby

"I'm a civil war historian with roots deep in the southern states and I couldn't put this book down. I'm not usually into books with a romantic element, but Shades of Gray really is that good!" – B. Webb

Shades of Gray, first published in 2008, was later published as Noble Cause, with a new happily-ever-after ending.

"Very engaging. Hard to put down." - Billy Allmon, U.S. Navy SEAL (Retired)

Called the “greatest love story ever told” when it was first released in 2008, Shades of Gray has been expanded and improved in this new three-book series that has dozens of new chapters and introduces new characters. Fall in love again and discover the fine line between friends and enemies in this emotional Civil War love story.

Shades of Gray Civil War Serial Trilogy consists of three books: Duty Bound, Honor Bound, and Glory Bound, as well as an Epilogue that you can request from the author.

Honor and conviction clash with loyalty and love in this epic Civil War novel that pits brother against brother. This is a classic tale of courage, honor, and enduring love that has been praised by both men and women—from professors of history to avid romance readers.

Author Jessica James uniquely blends elements of romantic and historical fiction in this deeply personal and poignant tale that, according to one reviewer, “transcends the pages to settle in the very marrow of the reader’s bones.” 

Duty Bound: Takes readers across the rolling hills of Virginia in a page-turning tale of action and adventure as a Union spy spars with a renowned Confederate cavalry commander. Gallantry and chivalry are put to the test when Colonel Alexander Hunter discovers that Andrea Evans is not only the woman he promised his dying brother he would protect, but is the Union spy he has vowed to his men he would destroy.

Honor Bound: This volume follows Union Spy Andrea Evans as she finds herself recuperating from an injury in the home of her enemy, Colonel Alexander Hunter. Readers will discover the fine line between friends and enemies when the lives of these two tenacious foes cross by the fates of war and their destinies become entwined forever.

Glory Bound: The series culminates in this emotional final volume that reflects the sacrifices of both sides and proves there can be no bond stronger than that which unites enemies. Immortal love, whence it flows, can never die.

What they said about Shades of Gray:

“It is a book that I think could have the impact of a ‘Gone With the Wind.” – J. Noyalas, Assistant Professor of History

“The best Civil War fiction book since Cold Mountain.” – J. Bibb, SCV, Trimble Camp 1836

“A classic love story as much as it is a war story.” – Civil War Book Review“Andrea and Alex will surely take the place in my heart of Rhett and Scarlett as the perfect Civil War fictional love story!” – A. Deyarmin, Reviewer

"I am reluctant to admit I enjoyed it (Shades of Gray) more than Gone With the Wind! This book takes you through so many emotions!" – Amazon Reviewer

"Not since reading Gone With the Wind have I enjoyed a book so much as Jessica James's Shades of Gray! I could not put Shades of Gray down, from start to finish!" - S. Winch

"This is what epic stores are made of. Do yourself a favor and pick up this book ... especially if you love The Civil War. I will not get rid of this one. It is a keeper that I will read time and time again." – T. Weatherby

"I'm a civil war historian with roots deep in the southern states and I couldn't put this book down. I'm not usually into books with a romantic element, but Shades of Gray really is that good!" – B. Webb

Shades of Gray, first published in 2008, was later published as Noble Cause, with a new happily-ever-after ending.

They started as sworn enemies. Can they open their hearts to love?

Colonel Alexander Hunter would sooner die than see the Union set foot on his beloved Virginia soil. And while he holds the line against Northern aggression with consummate skill, a treacherous boy on horseback always thwarts his offensives. But his allegiance is tested when the traitor he unmasks is the woman he once swore to his brother he would protect.

Andrea Monroe would do anything to make her country whole again. A Southern-born Union spy, she’s dedicated to undermining the arrogant Confederate officer. But when she’s badly injured and taken captive, Andrea is shocked her nemesis allows her to recover in his beautiful Southern mansion, rather than prison.

As prisoner and captor spend time together, their mutual loyalty grows into unexpected devotion. But as fresh conflicts arise, they cross swords again.

Can two adversaries reach beyond the battle lines to unite in the midst of war?

Discover the fine line between friends and enemies when the lives of these two tenacious foes cross by the fates of war and their destinies become entwined forever.

Shades of Gray is a powerful exploration into a defining era of American history. If you like emotional journeys, rich Southern backdrops, and epic stories of devotion, then you’ll adore Jessica James’s captivating Civil War adventure.

Buy Shades of Gray and feel the raw emotion and passion today!

“It is a book that I think could have the impact of a ‘Gone With the Wind.” – J. Noyalas, Assistant Professor of History

“The best Civil War fiction book since Cold Mountain.” – J. Bibb, SCV, Trimble Camp 1836

“A classic love story as much as it is a war story.” – Civil War Book Review

READER ALERT: The expanded version of SHADES OF GRAY is here! Fall in love again with this epic Civil War Serial Trilogy: SHADES OF GRAY (Duty Bound, Honor Bound, Glory Bound)

Called the “greatest love story ever told” when it was first released in 2008, Shades of Gray has been expanded at the request of readers to include dozens of new chapters in this complete trilogy set.

The original title has more than 1,000 5-STAR REVIEWS like this:

“Rivals Gone With the Wind as my favorite novel of all time. I can think of no better way to describe it.” – Amazon reviewer

“Five stars does not do this book justice as it is well beyond that rating for me. It is so well written and the characters have such depth that it brought me to tears many times.” – Terri D

“It is a book that I think could have the impact of a Gone With the Wind.” –   Jonathan A. Noyalas, Former Assistant Professor of History and Director for Civil War Studies, Lord Fairfax Community College

Honor and conviction clash with loyalty and love in this poignant Civil War tale that pits brother against brother. Readers will discover the fine line between friends and enemies when the lives of two tenacious foes cross by the fates of war and their destinies become entwined forever. A classic tale of courage, honor, and enduring love that has been praised by both men and women—from professors of history to avid romance readers.

Author Jessica James uniquely blends elements of romantic and historical fiction in this deeply personal and poignant tale that, according to one reviewer, “transcends the pages to settle in the very marrow of the reader’s bones.” Winner of numerous national awards, James has received critical acclaim for this page-turning story of courage, honor, and enduring love.

Duty Bound: Takes readers across the rolling hills of Virginia in a page-turning tale of action and adventure as a Union spy spars with a renowned Confederate cavalry commander. Gallantry and chivalry are put to the test when Colonel Alexander Hunter discovers that Andrea Evans is not only the woman he promised his dying brother he would protect, but is the Union spy he has vowed to his men he would destroy.

Honor Bound: This volume follows Union Spy Andrea Evans as she finds herself recuperating from an injury in the home of her enemy, Colonel Alexander Hunter. Readers will discover the fine line between friends and enemies when the lives of these two tenacious foes cross by the fates of war and their destinies become entwined forever.

Glory Bound: The series culminates in this emotional final volume that reflects the sacrifices of both sides and proves there can be no bond stronger than that which unites enemies. Immortal love, whence it flows, can never die.

What they said about the original Shades of Gray:

“The best Civil War fiction book since Cold Mountain.” – J. Bibb, SCV, Trimble Camp 1836

“If you want to read a book you will never forget and will think about for months after reading it, read Shades of Gray. The book took my breath away. Honestly, you will not sleep.” – A Bookworm’s Dinner Blog

“A classic love story as much as it is a war story.” – Civil War Book Review

“Andrea and Alex will surely take the place in my heart of Rhett and Scarlett as the perfect Civil War fictional love story!” – A.

He wants to keep her safe. She needs to keep her secrets. With danger looming and lives at stake, a former Navy SEAL must find a way to protect his client—and guard his heart.