A Bend in the Straight and Narrow

A Woman's Journey into the Heart of the Florida Frontier

By: Sarah A. Younger

Narrated by: Debra Davenport

Finalist in the 2016 Royal Palm Literary Award Competition!

The bravest fighters are often not soldiers. Based on a true story of Civil War-era passion and sacrifice, this audiobook follows the life of Sally Ann Marsh.

Born to a poor but close-knit family, Sally is married off in 1859, at the age of 15, to a wealthy man twice her age. She is distraught, but determined to make the best of her life. She falls in love with her husband, and they create a blissful home together with their growing family. Their lives are upended when Sherman marches through Georgia.

Sally is forced to evacuate and leads a small group of women, children, and her elderly father-in-law to the Florida frontier. As their men are off fighting, the refugees rebuild their lives amidst the sweltering heat, mosquitoes, gnats, alligators, and poisonous snakes. But it is the two-legged varmints who threaten to cause the most harm. Sally manages to establish a community for her friends and family while they wait for the men, some of whom might never return.

©2015 Sarah Anne Younger (P)2019 Sarah Anne Younger

LOVED IT!

I'm so glad you were at the Sam's House Pioneer Day to introduce me to your books. My Grandmother loved Florida History books so I know she was sitting next to me listening along. What a wonderful family history you have. I would love to see pictures of them all. I have them all pictured in my mind with Jacob's blue eyes. Someone should make a mini series out of this. :-)

Enjoyable Florida historical fiction

Thoroughly enjoyed this story and narration of one woman’s lifelong journey of strength, emotion, and family incorporating Florida historical fiction.

Interesting history with an interesting storyline.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Real history told through the vehicle of historical fiction by a capable author is a winning combination. I am looking forward to immediately starting the next volume.