TIDE OF A SOUTHERN DREAM is a novel depicting intense love and tragedy. The personal story unfolds during the era of the American Civil War. However, it is much more than a mere informative unveiling of human struggle during a period of military conflict. The youthful years of an eccentric Naval cadet are traced through a unique intricate maze of life. A time of maturing when aspirations and dreams of glorified deeds are not always fulfilled in the desire of an idealistic heart. Finding one's way in life can often prove difficult. For an orphan aspiring noble purpose the obstacles can seem unsurmountable. Especially when the threat of war looms as a shadowing eclipse over a dimming peace. For Cadet Josey Yates life becomes a search for the deeper meaning of love. He further seeks a calm of the turbulence within himself. He is a romantic guided by a conscience torn in loyalty between both the North and the South. Happiness he learns can become lost as a ship gone aground. Or like a spring breeze lost in a wind of fury. For some the journey of life is more painful and deeply felt. Such are the encounters of his voyage in spirit and upon the sea. The backdrop of this fictional story portrays actual historical events intended to enhance interest in the subject of the Civil War. Yet more explicitly to fervently promote the importance of those values which lend credence to our better sides and the treasure of love. A radiance of blessing which we all seek but only a few find in the blessing of fulfillment.