by 
The Civil War was one of the most tragic periods in American history.
Hundreds of thousands were killed, and one thing I’ve noticed when people look back on history and rattle off numbers and facts is that they often forget these were real people – real people who were working hard, falling in love, having children, and creating families.
In this historical romance set during the Civil War era, we get to see two people who, against all odds, nurture their love for each other.
It’s often harrowing, and sometimes they even find themselves on opposite sides of the divide.
But the common thread between them is their love for one another, and they are both willing to do whatever it takes to be in each other’s lives.
I recently decided to finally read Gone with the Wind, and to be honest, that’s what inspired this post.
After reading another historical romance set during the Civil War era and being absolutely blown away, I wanted to share some of the ones I’ve read and absolutely enjoyed.
And that’s how this list was created.
The Abolitionist’s Daughter by Kathleen L. Maher
Marietta is bold and passionate, determined to fight for what’s right, even if it means making enemies.
But things get complicated when she falls for one of the twin brothers whose livelihood clashes with her beliefs.
With the war tearing people apart, love becomes both a comfort and a challenge.
This story really shows how war can twist even the strongest bonds and how love can still survive it all.
I found myself rooting so hard for them to find peace in all the heartbreak.
Dearest Enemy by Nan Ryan
Susanna has lost so much to the war – her family, her home, her heart.
So she decides to fight back the only way she can: by spying.
But when she falls in love with the very man she’s using, things get painful.
Her choices leave deep wounds, and now he’s coming back into her life – not as a lover, but with a plan for revenge.
This one is steamy, dramatic, and full of heartbreak.
I felt torn for both of them, because their story is messy, but so real.
Alana by Monica Barrie
Alana’s world crumbled during the war, but her spirit stayed strong.
She’s determined to rebuild her plantation and reclaim her future.
When Rafe rides into her life with her broken fiancé in tow, she’s not prepared for the intense feelings he stirs up.
This story is fiery and full of emotions.
I really admired Alana’s strength.
It’s a love story about healing, power, and choosing yourself when everything feels lost.
A River Between Us by Jocelyn Green
Cora Mae’s life is turned upside down when she’s accused of treason and taken far from home.
She only wants to protect a little girl and survive.
Ethan, the soldier who arrests her, is battling his own guilt and sorrow.
Their paths shouldn’t cross again, but they do, and something tender grows between them.
I loved how forgiveness slowly bloomed here.
To Whisper Her Name by Tamera Alexander
Olivia is trying to escape a painful past, and Ridley is fighting his own war inside.
They meet at Belle Meade Plantation, where horses are raised and hearts begin to heal.
Ridley wants to learn a secret skill from a freed man, and Olivia just wants a new start.
Their story is quiet and deep, with sweet, growing trust.
I really liked how both characters had to learn to open up.
It’s a slow burn with lots of heart.
An Extraordinary Union by Alyssa Cole
Elle is incredibly brave – she gives up her freedom to go undercover for the Union.
Malcolm is a spy too, and when they meet, sparks fly even though the danger is all around them.
Together, they uncover secrets that could change the war.
This one is full of action, but also passion and purpose.
I loved how strong Elle was.
Their love felt so powerful and almost like it could truly change the world.
Never Look Back by Lesley Pearse
Matilda goes from being a poor flower girl in London to traveling across America during the Civil War.
Her journey is wild – she meets new people, faces danger, and falls in love with a brave man named James.
What I loved most is how Matilda never gives up.
She’s tough, but kind, and she keeps going no matter what.
This book made me feel like I was on the journey with her, through every twist and turn.
Enemy Women by Paulette Jiles
Adair just wants to stay out of the war, but it pulls her in anyway.
After she’s thrown into a horrible prison, she finds hope in the last place she expects – her enemy, a Union officer.
He sees her pain, and something beautiful starts to grow between them.
But war is cruel, and they’re separated.
Her journey to find freedom and home again is powerful.
This one made me tear up more than once – it’s raw but full of hope.
The Flame of New Orleans by Frances Patton Statham
Set in beautiful, dangerous New Orleans, this story follows a brave Confederate spy who falls in love with someone she maybe shouldn’t.
I don’t want to give too much away, but it’s dramatic, passionate, and full of tension.
I really enjoyed the mix of danger and romance – it made every page exciting.
It’s a love story wrapped up in secrets, and it swept me away.
Always to Remember by Lorraine Heath
Clayton refuses to fight in a war he doesn’t believe in, and for that, he’s branded a traitor.
When he comes back home, everyone turns their back on him – except for Meg, whose brother died in the war.
At first, she wants to hate him, but love starts to bloom instead.
This story really touched me.
It’s about courage, forgiveness, and how sometimes the bravest choice is to stand alone.
And it’s so soft, moving, and full of heart.
So, let me know – do you have a favorite historical romance novel set during the Civil War era?
Share it in the comments below!
And if you’d like to read more amazing posts, be sure to check out the ones linked below.
