List $29.95

Written by John Jakes - Audio book performed by Dylan Baker with an introduction by John Jakes - Abridged Fiction - 5 COMPACT DISCS - 6 hours

Publisher, Simon & Schuster Audioworks (October 2004)

The author of sixteen consecutive New York Times bestsellers sets his sights on the jewel of the South -- Savannah -- and brings it to life in his inimitable style.

Georgia, 1864: Sherman's army marches from Atlanta to the sea. In its path, the charming old city of Savannah where the Lester ladies -- attractive widowed Sara and her feisty twelve-year-old daughter Hattie -- struggle to save the family rice plantation. When Sherman offers the conquered city to President Lincoln as "a Christmas gift," Hattie and the feared general find themselves on a collision course that will astonish both of them.

In this rousing new tale, "the godfather of the historical novel" -- (Los Angeles Times) -- tells a story of battlefield danger, wartime romance, and indomitable courage. The rich cast of characters includes a corrupt judge; a fast-talking, piano-playing reporter from New York; a pair of thwarted young lovers; a raffish Indiana cavalryman; a valiant former slave; and a whole bagful of rascals, rebels, and real soldiers who marched with Sherman.

Together they bring to life an almost-forgotten moment in the Civil War -- a season of simmering hostilities, rising hopes, and empty stockings -- perhaps the most strife-torn yet heartwarming Christmas in all of American history.

About the Author: John Jakes is the author of sixteen consecutive New York Times bestsellers. His most recent work, Charleston, was his top-selling hardcover novel of the last ten years and appeared on bestseller lists coast to coast. He divides his time between Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, and Florida.

About the Performer: Dylan Baker's films include Happiness, Along Came A Spider, and 13 Days. He starred on the TV series Feds and Murder One. Mr. Baker's theater credits include La Bete (Tony & Drama Desk nominations), Eastern Standard (Theatre World Award), and Not About Heroes (Obie Award).