As It Was by Emma Finn: A Masterpiece of Contemporary Historical Fiction

As It Was

by Emma Finn

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5518 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	82 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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Emma Finn's As It Was is a sweeping and emotionally resonant historical novel that explores the complexities of love, loss, and the enduring power of the human spirit. Set against the backdrop of the American Civil War, this immersive tale follows the intertwined lives of three unforgettable characters as they navigate the tumultuous events of the era.

At the heart of the novel is the story of Abby Whitson, a young woman who finds herself torn between her loyalties to her family and her newfound love for a Union soldier. As the war rages on, Abby must confront the devastating consequences of her choices and find a way to reconcile her past with her present.

Alongside Abby's story, Finn weaves the tales of two other characters whose lives are forever altered by the war. There is Elias Kent, a former slave who fights for the Union Army in the hopes of securing freedom for himself and his people. And there is John Bell, a Confederate soldier who struggles to reconcile his duty to his country with his own conscience.

As these three characters' paths intertwine, Finn paints a vivid and unflinching portrait of the American Civil War. She captures the brutality and chaos of the battlefield, the heartbreak and loss that permeated every corner of society, and the resilience and determination of those who lived through it all.

But As It Was is more than just a historical novel. It is also a deeply personal story about the human condition. Finn explores the universal themes of love, loss, and redemption with a rare empathy and insight. Her characters are flawed and complex, and their struggles and triumphs will resonate with readers long after they finish the book.

With its rich historical detail, nuanced characterization, and poignant storytelling, As It Was is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and lovers of great literature alike. Emma Finn has crafted a masterpiece that will stay with you long after you turn the final page.

Historical Accuracy and Nuance

One of the most striking things about As It Was is its historical accuracy. Finn has clearly done extensive research, and she brings the American Civil War to life in all its brutal and glorious detail. From the bloody battles to the everyday lives of civilians, Finn captures the era with a vividness that is both immersive and enlightening.

But Finn's novel is not merely a recitation of historical facts. She also delves into the complexities and nuances of the era, exploring the different perspectives and motivations of those who lived through it. Finn does not shy away from the difficult and controversial aspects of the war, including the issue of slavery and the treatment of African Americans.

As a result, As It Was is a novel that is both historically accurate and emotionally resonant. Finn's characters are not mere pawns in a historical drama, but fully realized individuals whose struggles and triumphs will stay with you long after you finish the book.

Unforgettable Characters

The characters in As It Was are some of the most memorable and well-developed in recent historical fiction. Abby Whitson is a complex and sympathetic protagonist, whose struggles and triumphs will resonate with readers of all ages. Elias Kent is a powerful and inspiring figure, whose journey from slavery to freedom is both heartbreaking and uplifting. And John Bell is a deeply flawed and conflicted character, whose struggles to reconcile his duty to his country with his own conscience will stay with you long after you finish the book.

Finn's characters are not merely plot devices, but fully realized individuals with their own hopes, dreams, and fears. She brings them to life with such vividness and empathy that you will feel like you are walking alongside them every step of the way.

Themes of Love, Loss, and Redemption

At its heart, As It Was is a story about love, loss, and redemption. Finn explores these universal themes with a rare empathy and insight. Her characters are flawed and complex, and their struggles and triumphs will resonate with readers long after they finish the book.

Love is a powerful force in As It Was, but it is also a source of both joy and pain. Abby Whitson's love for a Union soldier puts her at odds with her family and her community. Elias Kent's love for his people drives him to fight for their freedom, even though he knows it may cost him his life. And John Bell's love for his country conflicts with his own conscience, leading him down a path of destruction.

Loss is also a major theme in As It Was. The characters in this novel experience the loss of loved ones, the loss of innocence, and the loss of hope. But Finn also shows us that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for redemption.

Abby Whitson finds redemption in her love for her family and her community. Elias Kent finds redemption in his fight for freedom. And John Bell finds redemption in his final act of sacrifice.

A Must-Read for Fans of Historical Fiction

As It Was is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and lovers of great literature alike. Emma Finn has crafted a masterpiece that will stay with you long after you turn the final page.

With its rich historical detail, nuanced characterization, and poignant storytelling, As It Was is a novel that will transport you back in time and make you feel like you are living the American Civil War alongside its unforgettable characters.

As It Was

by Emma Finn

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5518 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	82 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE