Courting Eden

Zebra Date: July 1996
ISBN:0-8217-5353-3

A sensual historical romance set in North Carolina/Georgia, immediately after the Civil War. Eden Clayborne is penniless and pregnant--left only with the Yankee pride that drove her to follow her husband to the South when the war began. Now he's dead, and Eden blames the man who sent him into battle: Major Jesse Bainbridge.

Although wounded, Jesse rides into the North Carolina hills to find Eden and beg her forgiveness. Instead he collapses at her cabin door, leaving Eden no choice but to care for him. Jesse and Eden find it impossible to fight the attraction between them -- but their guilt and pride are equally as strong. Can love find a way to shatter the barriers between them?

Reviews:

"A marvelous story from the very talented Elizabeth Graham. She never fails to entertain."
- Kristina Wright, The Literary Times

"Sensitive portrait of the post-Civil War South sure to win readers' hearts."
- Kathe Robin, Romantic Times

"Americana romance readers will absolutely cherish Courting Eden. Civil War buffs as well as romance readers will enjoy this book." 4\ Stars.
- Harriet Klausner, Affaire De Coeur

"With a deft hand at creating the atmosphere and lifestyle of the hill people, Ms. Graham has crafted a sweet tale of two people torn by love and obligation, family loyalties and personal yearnings."
- Bonnee Pierson, CIS Literary Reviews : RWA On-Line Chapter

COURTING EDEN (Historical)
Elizabeth Graham
7/96- Zebra
Backlist: Sweet Enchantment

Jesse Bainbridge has come to this ridge in North Carolina because of guilt. As company commander, he feels responsible for the death of Alston Clayborne and when he finds out that Alston’s widow is pregnant, that only deepens his guilt. But Eden Clayborne is a Yankee and he can’t hide the resentment he feels toward the Yankees that destroyed the South. At the same time, he can’t deny that he feels something for Eden, despite the fact that she is carrying another man’s child. Even after he leaves her and returns to his own home and fiance in Georgia, Jesse can’t forget Eden and can’t stop worrying about how she will manage as her pregnancy progresses.

Eden has learned how to survive on her own since her husband’s death. Her mother-in-law Hannah is bed ridden, slowly wasting away as she grieves for her son. So it is up to Eden to do all the chores and keep things running. She was anxious for Jesse to leave, but she can’t forget the kiss they shared before he left. It’s silly of her to think about Jesse, especially since they share the guilt of Alston’s death. She never really loved her husband as a wife should and she can’t forgive herself for letting him return to battle. No matter what she might have felt for Jesse in those few brief days, it doesn’t matter because she will never see him again.

When Jesse and his cousin Cade return to North Carolina it is because Jesse is determined to help Eden until the baby comes. Eden is angry that he thinks she can’t survive on her own, but she is also a little relieved to have help. Having Jesse and Cade around seems to help Hannah’s health, so Eden agrees to let them stay for a little while. The problem is, the feelings between Jesse and Eden won’t go away. Despite their differences, they share a bond that is deeper and stronger than either of them has ever felt. But will Eden send Jesse away or will he be able to convince her to let him stay?

"Elizabeth Graham dazzles us again! Her characters ring true and her attention to historical detail makes for a fascinating glimpse into the past!"

"A touching story of two people from different worlds who find love! A romantic and heartwarming tale sure to be noticed!"

"A marvelous story from the very talented Elizabeth Graham! She never fails to entertain and historical fans will love her settings! She paints a picture with words that lingers long after the last page!"

-Kristina Wright, The Literary Times

Excerpt

"Why, Eden?" Jesse repeated, his voice even softer. "You know why! There's something between us we can't let continue. It's not right!"

From the walnut tree, a mockingbird began singing a night song. Across the clearing, another joined in. An evening breeze brought a tantalizing scent of honeysuckle. Jesse remembered the day he'd left to return to Georgia. Remembered the honeysuckle...the unforgettable kiss they'd exchanged.

"Eden," he breathed, moving a step toward her.

"No! Don't come any closer. If you're going to stay here, we have to keep away from each other. Not be alone -- ever."

His mind knew all too well she was right. But his body was giving him a different message. "How do you know what we feel is wrong? Maybe it's not wrong at all." He heard her indrawn breath.

"We don't even like each other! You think I'm a cold Yankee and I--" Jesse put his hands on the rough bark on either side of Eden's face, hemming her in. "Oh, no," he murmured, close to her ear. "I don't think you're cold."

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