For a better future, study the past.
For a better future, study the past.
Thanks for taking time to read my book review of In Freedom’s Shadow written by Robert Hilliard.
Hilliard, Robert. In Freedom’s Shadow. Available through the Kindle Store. $4.99.
From the opening pages, author Rob Hilliard draws you into the world of John Scobell and the horrible realities of slave life, and the lives of Freedmen, during the start of the American Civil War. Part true story, part fiction, Hilliard weaves a story brining us to a 19th century reality that in many ways our country has still not faced up to.
We follow Scobell from his harrowing trail north, escaping the bonds of slavery, through forced recruitment into Allen Pinkerton’s spying efforts behind Confederate lines. Scobell is paired with a White woman to gather information on troop locations and counts, and whatever other information can be attained in Confederate Richmond. In Richmond we cross paths with many characters who may or may not be loyal to Union or Confederate causes. We find many are loyal to themselves. Scobell’s ultimate goal becomes acquiring a Confederate cypher disk, which will allow Pinkerton, and the Union military, the ability to translate coded Confederate messages. Without this disk, Scobell may not be able to remain free. The question of freedom, and what it means, is one that is examined throughout the story.
Along the way there is plenty of action, a love story, and multiple plot twists that will keep you guessing as to who can be trusted and what is going to
happen next. Some of the action can become violent as would have happened in real life. Slaves were property. In most instances they were barely considered people. The story of the Loyal League is fascinating. Family plays an important part to the story as we learn more of Scobell’s backstory and the story itself play out.
Whether Scobell and his partner are successful in their mission is in doubt until the end of the story with plenty of action, suspense, and surprises awaiting both the participants and readers.
For those with further interest in the story of John Scobell, Mr. Hilliard includes an informative chapter at the conclusion of his story, detailing what is considered fact and how he used that information to create this fast paced, thriller of a story. Hilliard does not hide behind “what ifs” and “could have been.” He tells you where he filled in.
Well researched and well written, In Freedom’s Shadow is an enjoyable read and recommended mature teens and adults. While accessible for younger readers, some parents could take issue with the true to life violence portrayed. This violence is not gratuitous, but if it was not included the book would not ring true. No knowledge of the Civil War is required to enjoy this story.
In Freedom’s Shadow is author Rob Hilliard’s first novel and has received several awards including the 2024 International Firebird Book Award. Be sure to keep up with all of Rob’s work through his website and by subscribing to his newsletter.
For those interested in more information, Pinkerton has a page about Scobell on their website. CLICK HERE to access it.
Mr. Hilliard kindly provided a digital copy of In Freedom’s Shadow for my consideration. A review, or positive review, were not promised for this. This review is based upon my reading of the book only.
