Sometimes a house is more than just a home; it's a living memory. Kristin was looking forward to spending a weekend away at the historical mansion of Valley View. Just hours into her stay in the gorgeous 19th Century home, she is swept away into the life of Mrs. Julianna Ryan. Julianna Ryan was a woman both of her time and slightly ahead of it. Raised to be the epitome of a Southern Lady, Julianna was forced to face hardship twice in her life. First, when her family's plantation burned to the ground leaving her the only survivor, she had to turn to the slightly seedier side of New Orleans to find an income. Ever the lady, though, Julianna soon found her Southern Gentleman in Benjamin Ryan. Planting magnolias, as a symbol of they growing and enduring love, at Valley View, their marital home, Julianna and Benjamin had only a few years together before they would be separated. This time it was not fire that would leave Julianna alone, but war. Regardless of their personal politics, the Confederate Army saw a fine officer in Benjamin Ryan and he left his wife in charge of their plantation while he went off to fight a war no one was quite sure they agreed with. Where the Magnolias Grew tells the hidden story of the Civil War. This is not one of major battles and grand speeches, but of the wives and daughters left behind to defend their homes from friend and foe alike. Where once they thought of balls and grand dresses, these strong southern women must now find a way to feed their growing families as the nation changes around them. Julianna is determined that Valley View remains standing, as the battles rage around it. As people leave on the promise of freedom, and others stay in the hope of personal safety, all turn to the formidable Julianna Ryan who offers respect and safety to all those in need. Left on her own, Julianna soon realizes that life, as she knows it is changing, and she better find a way to change with it if she is going to survive.