Loyalty

This novel takes place in the South during the Civil War. Hence, the loyalty of the characters in the book is constantly tested by the war and the people around them. In the beginning, Susan's mother refuses to allow her to join a sewing circle because she is afraid Susan will hear and possibly be influenced by gossip regarding her brother. Lucien is a strong opponent to slavery and therefore has refused to join the Confederate army to fight for this outdated institution. This has caused a great deal of gossip and disapproval among the social elite in Richmond.

As the novel progresses, Susan does all she can to prove she is a staunch supporter of the Confederate Cause, even nursing a young North Carolina soldier who was injured in the Battle of Manassas. However, no matter how hard Susan works, her mother continues to question her loyalties...