The Sweetness of Water (Oprah’s Book Club)

In Nathan Harris's acclaimed debut novel, The Sweetness of Water, set during the final days of the Civil War, two freedmen brothers, Prentiss and Landry, find refuge on the farm of George Walker and his wife, Isabelle. As these characters forge an unexpected bond amidst their personal struggles, they confront themes of grief and hope, while a forbidden romance between Confederate soldiers introduces turmoil to the community of Old Ox. With rich narrative depth and a poignant exploration of humanity, the novel captures the complexities of life during Reconstruction, ultimately highlighting resilience and the pursuit of connection.