A reader who would enjoy When the Jessamine Grows by Donna Everhart likely appreciates Southern fiction, emotional depth, and stories of resilience. Fans of Delia Owens's Where the Crawdads Sing or Sue Monk Kidd's The Secret Life of Bees may find similar allure in Everhart's engaging, character-driven narrative.

When the Jessamine Grows by Donna Everhart follows a young woman in the American South as she navigates love, family, and secrets. Set against a backdrop of societal expectations, the story explores themes of identity, resilience, and self-discovery. Through personal struggles, the protagonist seeks truth and redemption while confronting the challenges of her environment.

Contemplative / Emotional / Melancholic / Nostalgic / Inspirational

**Joetta McBride**  
A compassionate and hardworking farm woman who is Ennis's wife and mother to Henry and Robert. She is devoted to her family and tries to remain neutral during the Civil War despite challenges.

**Rudean McBride**  
Ennis's father and a proud supporter of the Confederate cause who tells stories of war and is critical of Joetta. Despite his flaws, he shows moments of loyalty and compassion to his family.

**Robert McBride**  
The younger son of Joetta and Ennis, who admires his father and struggles with his mother's neutrality during wartime. He becomes protective of Charlie and assists his family with his skills in hunting and fishing.

**Charlie Hastings**  
An adopted son of Joetta and Ennis, found by Joetta after fleeing the Union Army. He grows to trust the McBrides and forms a strong bond with Robert, helping the family with his survival skills.

**Ennis McBride**  
A farmer and Joetta's husband who desires a peaceful life and remains neutral during the war. His strong relationships with Joetta and their sons drive him through the story.

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