"Jessie" is the story of a young Philadelphia woman, born in 1840, coming of age during the American Civil War in the city, founded by Quakers, that is the center of the abolitionist movement and the first stop on the Underground Railroad. Jessie Ashmore is restless, opinionated, and delightful. She is often accused of being too serious. She is twenty-two years old--officially a spinster--and she's in a bit of a rush to figure out who she is and what she wants. When it comes to the choice between a husband and an adventure, Jessie wants both. When it comes to the fight for women's rights and an end to slavery, she wants to be involved. She's just not sure how much. When it comes to sex, she's pretty sure she likes it. You will struggle with her as she chooses between two men who have asked for her love and her hand in marriage. Jessie's story will keep you turning pages, and entries from her journal will show you her heart.