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Conecuh
Bronze Medal Winner in Historical Fiction - 2020 eLit Awards for Literary Excellence
Emily Rose roamed through a country ravaged by war, a damaged land where the very grass blades drank the blood of brothers, cousins, and friends. Protected only by her growing wits and Nathaniel Whiteeagle, a slave with Cherokee blood, Emily swore she would find her fiancé and buy his freedom. But every clue she followed left her a step behind. Facing danger at each turn, would she ever find Caleb? Or would she and Nathaniel meet a violent end? And could Caleb endure the unthinkable cruelty of civil war prisons long enough for her to rescue him?
Conecuh (Cah-NECK-ah ) is a story woven around and through the actual events in the mysterious and ironic life of Private Caleb Garner, CSA. Whatever happened to Caleb? History has left us blind, but there are clues. Conecuh explores one very real possibility.
Conecuh was rated FIVE STARS by Reader's Favorite: "I enjoyed Conecuh, and it is clear that this author has quite a talent for writing historical fiction!"
Emily Rose roamed through a country ravaged by war, a damaged land where the very grass blades drank the blood of brothers, cousins, and friends. Protected only by her growing wits and Nathaniel Whiteeagle, a slave with Cherokee blood, Emily swore she would find her fiancé and buy his freedom. But every clue she followed left her a step behind. Facing danger at each turn, would she ever find Caleb? Or would she and Nathaniel meet a violent end? And could Caleb endure the unthinkable cruelty of civil war prisons long enough for her to rescue him?
Conecuh (Cah-NECK-ah ) is a story woven around and through the actual events in the mysterious and ironic life of Private Caleb Garner, CSA. Whatever happened to Caleb? History has left us blind, but there are clues. Conecuh explores one very real possibility.
Conecuh was rated FIVE STARS by Reader's Favorite: "I enjoyed Conecuh, and it is clear that this author has quite a talent for writing historical fiction!"
- GenresHistorical Fiction
340 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 26, 2019
About the author
Herb Hughes
20 books23 followersHerb Hughes is the author of nuerous novels, including his award-winning Civil War story, Conecuh.
His wide-ranging interests cover the battle-scarred fields of the Civil War, an abandoned prison planet in the far future, the suffering and resilience of the Polish people during World War II, millions of aliens materializing naked and hungry all over the Earth, a combination detective/spy series in the middle of the twenty-first century, and much more.
“I write in the present, that thin and ever-moving line between the past and the future, but I reach out in both directions for my stories, Historical Fiction and Science Fiction. I find both fascinating.” – Herb Hughes
His wide-ranging interests cover the battle-scarred fields of the Civil War, an abandoned prison planet in the far future, the suffering and resilience of the Polish people during World War II, millions of aliens materializing naked and hungry all over the Earth, a combination detective/spy series in the middle of the twenty-first century, and much more.
“I write in the present, that thin and ever-moving line between the past and the future, but I reach out in both directions for my stories, Historical Fiction and Science Fiction. I find both fascinating.” – Herb Hughes
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
January 23, 2020
Good Civil War Novel
I enjoyed the research that went into this novel. The characters were believable, some noble, some degenerate depending on how they responded to wartime experiences. I enjoyed this romance as the characters kept missing each other as they dealt with various difficulties. The main character was loosely based on the life of a historical person which added depth to the plot. A good read for those who enjoy Civil War stories.
I enjoyed the research that went into this novel. The characters were believable, some noble, some degenerate depending on how they responded to wartime experiences. I enjoyed this romance as the characters kept missing each other as they dealt with various difficulties. The main character was loosely based on the life of a historical person which added depth to the plot. A good read for those who enjoy Civil War stories.
May 20, 2020
Enjoyed reading this book. The ending was perfect
October 10, 2022
Emily turned silent. Just the mention of the word 'kill' did something inside her. Caleb was walking straight into a war, a place where people killed other people. It seemed so bad, so useless, so wasteful.
Many young men who go off to fight in a war know little of the real reasons for their fight, as was the case for the American Civil War. Very few soldiers and their families owned slaves, so the fight to uphold slavery from a young Confederate boy's outlook was, in truth, not his fight... but the allure of sacking a few Yankees and the supposed adventure caused thousands to enlist. Among the list, in actual history, is a young man named Caleb Garner from Conecuh County in Alabama whose actual history and fate is unknown; however, the author takes this bit of history and develops a story around what possibly happened to this young Private in the Confederate army, as well as his back history and the love of his life, Emily Rose.
Why observing the ragged, filthy, animalistic Confederate soldiers was so popular among the town's female population was beyond John Murray's comprehension. The Rebels were not attractive, well-bred, or well-groomed gentlemen. The animals the Southern soldiers had become, in most cases always had been, were disgusting to look at, the lowest of the low. It made no sense. But, sense or not, the ladies crowded onto the enterprising observation towers that had been set up outside Barracks Number Three, built on platforms high enough to afford a good view over the prison wall.
When Caleb goes missing, Emily Rose makes the dangerous decision to go in search of him, along with Nathaniel Whiteeagle, a half-black, half-Cherokee emancipated slave, and she determines she will do whatever it takes to find him.
No longer able to endure the rigors of battle, Caleb was not required to return to the front. He was a free man. But what good was being free when he could not get back to Alabama? All Caleb wanted was to see his home again, to see his mother and father and to stand out on the orange soil that made them work so hard. And, most of all, to hug Emily Rose and find out if she still wanted this half-broken man. But at ever turn, something seemed to stand in the way of reaching Conecuh County. He was beginning to wonder, as he had done many times in battle and even more so in prison, if he would ever see his home again.
Mr Hughes does a good job in providing a reader with an entertaining story, wrapping the possible history of this young man with details of some of the more famous battles of the Civil War, along with the grim nature of the POW camps after Caleb is taken prisoner. Is is when Emily receives word of his capture and imprisonment that she decides to procure his release, but afterwards, dangers still follows them as a renegade Yankee soldier seeks to continue the battle on a more personal level.
She looked up at a flock of blackbirds taking to the air, going out for the day. The birds didn't care about war, about the ugly scars men cut into the earth, cut into themselves and their hearts. Their existence was so simple. They flew out every morning in search of food. They congregated at night to rest.
For fans of Charles Frazier's Cold Mountain, this is another adventure into how the Civil War changed lives and separated families and lovers. Mr Hughes's writing is very fluid and descriptive, an easy book to read in one sitting, and the characters truly come to life in the pages of this book. Using the different characters in comparison and in relation to each other – a true Southern belle, a ravaged Confederate soldier, a vengeful Yankee, and a insightful and brave Cherokee slave – Hughes definitely gives us an insight into how alike people really are and that injustice and inequality is wrong. Also, if you are a fan of Gone With the Wind, you will see a bit of the Scarlet-like grit in Emily, but you will definitely get the undertones of Inman and Ada's story from Frazier's book.
*****
“Conecuh” by Herb Hughes receives 4.25 stars from The Historical Fiction Company
Many young men who go off to fight in a war know little of the real reasons for their fight, as was the case for the American Civil War. Very few soldiers and their families owned slaves, so the fight to uphold slavery from a young Confederate boy's outlook was, in truth, not his fight... but the allure of sacking a few Yankees and the supposed adventure caused thousands to enlist. Among the list, in actual history, is a young man named Caleb Garner from Conecuh County in Alabama whose actual history and fate is unknown; however, the author takes this bit of history and develops a story around what possibly happened to this young Private in the Confederate army, as well as his back history and the love of his life, Emily Rose.
Why observing the ragged, filthy, animalistic Confederate soldiers was so popular among the town's female population was beyond John Murray's comprehension. The Rebels were not attractive, well-bred, or well-groomed gentlemen. The animals the Southern soldiers had become, in most cases always had been, were disgusting to look at, the lowest of the low. It made no sense. But, sense or not, the ladies crowded onto the enterprising observation towers that had been set up outside Barracks Number Three, built on platforms high enough to afford a good view over the prison wall.
When Caleb goes missing, Emily Rose makes the dangerous decision to go in search of him, along with Nathaniel Whiteeagle, a half-black, half-Cherokee emancipated slave, and she determines she will do whatever it takes to find him.
No longer able to endure the rigors of battle, Caleb was not required to return to the front. He was a free man. But what good was being free when he could not get back to Alabama? All Caleb wanted was to see his home again, to see his mother and father and to stand out on the orange soil that made them work so hard. And, most of all, to hug Emily Rose and find out if she still wanted this half-broken man. But at ever turn, something seemed to stand in the way of reaching Conecuh County. He was beginning to wonder, as he had done many times in battle and even more so in prison, if he would ever see his home again.
Mr Hughes does a good job in providing a reader with an entertaining story, wrapping the possible history of this young man with details of some of the more famous battles of the Civil War, along with the grim nature of the POW camps after Caleb is taken prisoner. Is is when Emily receives word of his capture and imprisonment that she decides to procure his release, but afterwards, dangers still follows them as a renegade Yankee soldier seeks to continue the battle on a more personal level.
She looked up at a flock of blackbirds taking to the air, going out for the day. The birds didn't care about war, about the ugly scars men cut into the earth, cut into themselves and their hearts. Their existence was so simple. They flew out every morning in search of food. They congregated at night to rest.
For fans of Charles Frazier's Cold Mountain, this is another adventure into how the Civil War changed lives and separated families and lovers. Mr Hughes's writing is very fluid and descriptive, an easy book to read in one sitting, and the characters truly come to life in the pages of this book. Using the different characters in comparison and in relation to each other – a true Southern belle, a ravaged Confederate soldier, a vengeful Yankee, and a insightful and brave Cherokee slave – Hughes definitely gives us an insight into how alike people really are and that injustice and inequality is wrong. Also, if you are a fan of Gone With the Wind, you will see a bit of the Scarlet-like grit in Emily, but you will definitely get the undertones of Inman and Ada's story from Frazier's book.
*****
“Conecuh” by Herb Hughes receives 4.25 stars from The Historical Fiction Company
January 3, 2020
Held my attention from the first page to the last
March 14, 2022
I have been avoiding civil war books for a few years now because the whole thing was so sickening. Glad I broke away for this one. Yes it has some of the some of the gut wrenching action but also some of the positive human side and a good plot line with some attention getting twists.
December 11, 2023
Conecuh, penned by Herb Hughes, takes readers on a gripping journey through the harrowing and tumultuous backdrop of the American Civil War. Set in a ravaged land where the very earth seems to thirst for the blood of brothers and friends, the novel follows the determined Emily Rose and her unlikely ally, Nathaniel Whiteeagle, a slave with Cherokee heritage. Together, they embark on a perilous quest to find Emily’s fiancé, Caleb, and secure his freedom.
As Emily navigates the treacherous terrain of a war-torn nation, danger lurks at every turn, and each clue she uncovers seems to push her further away from her ultimate goal. The central question lingers throughout the narrative: will Emily ever reunite with Caleb, and can Caleb survive the unimaginable horrors of Civil War prisons long enough for her to rescue him? Or will their journey end in violence?
Conecuh weaves its narrative around the enigmatic life of Private Caleb Garner, CSA, during this turbulent period in American history. The mystery of Caleb’s fate is a compelling thread that drives the story forward, offering readers a fresh perspective on a lesser-known aspect of the Civil War. Herb Hughes’s commitment to historical accuracy shines through, as his meticulous research forms the foundation upon which this enthralling tale is built.
One of the novel’s standout features is its vivid portrayal of Emily Rose, a character whose fortitude and determination are reminiscent of Scarlett O’Hara from the classic Civil War-era novel “Gone with the Wind.” Emily’s resilience and unwavering commitment to her mission make her a captivating protagonist who leaves a lasting impression on readers.
While Conecuh delves into the darkest aspects of war and human suffering, the author handles these heart-wrenching passages with great care and sensitivity. This balance between historical accuracy and emotional depth adds a layer of authenticity to the narrative, making it a truly immersive reading experience.
Conecuh is a meticulously researched and compelling work of historical fiction that transports readers to the turbulent era of the Civil War. Herb Hughes’s skillful storytelling and the resilient character of Emily Rose breathe life into this captivating tale. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply a lover of well-crafted historical fiction, Conecuh is a novel that should not be missed.
I received a copy of the book for a book tour. This review is my honest, unbiased opinion.
As Emily navigates the treacherous terrain of a war-torn nation, danger lurks at every turn, and each clue she uncovers seems to push her further away from her ultimate goal. The central question lingers throughout the narrative: will Emily ever reunite with Caleb, and can Caleb survive the unimaginable horrors of Civil War prisons long enough for her to rescue him? Or will their journey end in violence?
Conecuh weaves its narrative around the enigmatic life of Private Caleb Garner, CSA, during this turbulent period in American history. The mystery of Caleb’s fate is a compelling thread that drives the story forward, offering readers a fresh perspective on a lesser-known aspect of the Civil War. Herb Hughes’s commitment to historical accuracy shines through, as his meticulous research forms the foundation upon which this enthralling tale is built.
One of the novel’s standout features is its vivid portrayal of Emily Rose, a character whose fortitude and determination are reminiscent of Scarlett O’Hara from the classic Civil War-era novel “Gone with the Wind.” Emily’s resilience and unwavering commitment to her mission make her a captivating protagonist who leaves a lasting impression on readers.
While Conecuh delves into the darkest aspects of war and human suffering, the author handles these heart-wrenching passages with great care and sensitivity. This balance between historical accuracy and emotional depth adds a layer of authenticity to the narrative, making it a truly immersive reading experience.
Conecuh is a meticulously researched and compelling work of historical fiction that transports readers to the turbulent era of the Civil War. Herb Hughes’s skillful storytelling and the resilient character of Emily Rose breathe life into this captivating tale. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply a lover of well-crafted historical fiction, Conecuh is a novel that should not be missed.
I received a copy of the book for a book tour. This review is my honest, unbiased opinion.
September 19, 2023
Conecuh Brings Readers More Than Another Civil War Story. I am not generally a fan of war novels--no matter the war they concern nor the side the story represents. I am happy that I opted to read this book; however. The author takes readers into the human elements of the Civil War--from reasons for enlistment to the emotional toll war takes on both soldiers and the families left behind. With believable characters, a well-crafted storyline, a well-researched history, and plenty of twists, turns, and action, Hughes keeps readers interested from the very first page to the end.
The Author Offers Characters To Love in an Engaging Story. From the first few pages, it's impossible not to root for a happy ending for Emily and Caleb. The author gives readers insights into the settings, motivations, and emotions driving his characters and plot flow. Expect various characters with various backgrounds--each facing and responding to the Civil War in very human ways. The novel shows the good, the bad, the ugly--but also the hopeful and the strong as he tells Caleb's story.
Would I Recommend Conecuh by Herb Hughes? I'm not too fond of unnecessary language or graphic violence simply done for shock value. While a couple of early scenes made me wonder if this novel was my cup of tea, I can honestly say that it was. Readers can expect an emotional story with a plot driven by the perils of war and characters and settings well placed in the historical context of the Civil War. You will enjoy this novel if you enjoy historical fiction and strong, emotional storylines. I enjoyed the author's writing style and character development. I will definitely look for other books from this author in the future.
I received a copy of this book from the author or publisher. All opinions are my own.
The Author Offers Characters To Love in an Engaging Story. From the first few pages, it's impossible not to root for a happy ending for Emily and Caleb. The author gives readers insights into the settings, motivations, and emotions driving his characters and plot flow. Expect various characters with various backgrounds--each facing and responding to the Civil War in very human ways. The novel shows the good, the bad, the ugly--but also the hopeful and the strong as he tells Caleb's story.
Would I Recommend Conecuh by Herb Hughes? I'm not too fond of unnecessary language or graphic violence simply done for shock value. While a couple of early scenes made me wonder if this novel was my cup of tea, I can honestly say that it was. Readers can expect an emotional story with a plot driven by the perils of war and characters and settings well placed in the historical context of the Civil War. You will enjoy this novel if you enjoy historical fiction and strong, emotional storylines. I enjoyed the author's writing style and character development. I will definitely look for other books from this author in the future.
I received a copy of this book from the author or publisher. All opinions are my own.
September 23, 2023
American historical fiction is one of my favorite genres, so I was happy to read Conecuh. I was not disappointed. The story is told from the views of Caleb Garner, Emily Rose, and occasionally, John Murray.
After Caleb joins the Confederate army, Emily stays at home until she finds out he's been captured by the Union. Her journey to find him and buy his freedom is fraught with danger. I know she was hardheaded, but it was hard for me to believe her parents let her go even with the protection of their beloved slave, Nathaniel!
In the meantime, Caleb ends up a POW, and it doesn't look like the war will end in time for him to make it home. The conditions are terrible. It's hard to believe we treated our own people so horribly (although I know we did). He not only has to deal with his own health problems but the loss of close friends.
John Murray, a Union soldier, is a good example of the worst of humankind. These people always seem to come out when there's a disaster, whether it's war or something caused by nature such as a tornado or hurricane. They do whatever they can do to further their own cause with no thought about the consequences for others.
Conecuh is a story that is difficult to put down at times. The characters well developed and entertaining sometimes, even during this difficult war. The fact that this story is based on the story of an actual private.
After Caleb joins the Confederate army, Emily stays at home until she finds out he's been captured by the Union. Her journey to find him and buy his freedom is fraught with danger. I know she was hardheaded, but it was hard for me to believe her parents let her go even with the protection of their beloved slave, Nathaniel!
In the meantime, Caleb ends up a POW, and it doesn't look like the war will end in time for him to make it home. The conditions are terrible. It's hard to believe we treated our own people so horribly (although I know we did). He not only has to deal with his own health problems but the loss of close friends.
John Murray, a Union soldier, is a good example of the worst of humankind. These people always seem to come out when there's a disaster, whether it's war or something caused by nature such as a tornado or hurricane. They do whatever they can do to further their own cause with no thought about the consequences for others.
Conecuh is a story that is difficult to put down at times. The characters well developed and entertaining sometimes, even during this difficult war. The fact that this story is based on the story of an actual private.
September 5, 2023
I have read other books from Herb Hughes. Conecuh was one that I was looking forward to reading. I was honored to have the opportunity to read it. I thought it was a pretty good novel. It is set during my favorite time period in history. Before I started, I was surprised that this story was based on a true story, and I was intrigued to find out what the author had in store with the characters. I enjoyed going on this journey with them. I thought the author did a fantastic job with the details of the time and I could vividly imagine being right there as events unfolded. I wanted to keep reading to see what would come of Emily Rose and Caleb. It was not one easy to put down. Overall, it was a great story to read and wonderful way to spend some time away from the chaos of every day life and going back in time for a little while.
I am giving Conecuh a very well deserved five plus stars. I believe fans and readers who enjoy reading historical fiction, particularly set post American Civil War. I would love to read more books like this one by the talented author, Herb Hughes, in the future to see where else his imagination will go to next.
I received a paperback copy of Herb Hughes’ Conecuh from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
I am giving Conecuh a very well deserved five plus stars. I believe fans and readers who enjoy reading historical fiction, particularly set post American Civil War. I would love to read more books like this one by the talented author, Herb Hughes, in the future to see where else his imagination will go to next.
I received a paperback copy of Herb Hughes’ Conecuh from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
September 13, 2023
This book had me engaged from the start and it's clear that a lot of research has gone into writing it as it is based on actual events. I enjoyed the romance and the fact that the two characters kept just missing each other, it made me scream with frustration a few times. The danger and the combat of the war made me read with my heart in my throat and I was praying for a good outcome and for the war to be over. I love the writing style and I can tell the author has a talent for writing historical fiction. With plenty of action it's a enjoyable book and one that I can highly recommend for civil war lovers.
September 12, 2023
I really enjoyed this interesting and fascinating book about Private Caleb Garner. I was fascinated by the descriptions of the Yankee prison camps during the Civil War. I loved the feelings between Caleb and Emily. I felt Nathaniel was a very distinguished and honorable man. I received a copy of the book from the publisher for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
February 12, 2020
Review of Conecuh
Conecuh is a novel based on the Civil War. The book is historical correct. The book is a love story where the main characters find each other after the war.
Conecuh is a novel based on the Civil War. The book is historical correct. The book is a love story where the main characters find each other after the war.
March 8, 2024
Wonderful
Being from South Alabama myself this book touched my heart and knowing all the landmarks made it personal. Thanks for a great book.
Being from South Alabama myself this book touched my heart and knowing all the landmarks made it personal. Thanks for a great book.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews