Step into the early nineteenth century and witness the extraordinary life of Thomas Higgins, a man whose journey defied the odds.
From the rough streets of New Bedford, Massachusetts, to the wild frontiers of Florida, Thomas’s story is one of grit, courage, and transformation. Follow him as he rises from a hard childhood to become:
a canny street fighter
a talented blacksmith,
a fearless whaleboat crewman,
and ultimately, a legendary Black Seminole warrior.
Through desperate struggle, fierce battles, and moments of profound redemption, Exile brings to life the tale of a man whose spirit could not be broken.
This sweeping historical narrative is not only a thrilling adventure, it is the unforgettable story of survival, vengeance, and triumph.
The book is published by Panthera Publishing. It is available in both paper and kindle versions. Follow Patrick and his often times co-author wife, Patricia, HERE.
I’m excited to read this. It looks like it will be an exciting book. A regular book review will be coming in the near future.
If you are interested in historical fiction, please consider reading my review of In Freedom’s Shadow, which is a Civil War spy thriller.
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Thanks for taking time to read my book review of In Freedom’s Shadow written by Robert Hilliard.
In Freedom’s Shadow
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 bringing 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 his 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 plays 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 for 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, and 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 HEREto 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.
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Click the image above to support this site through Buy Me A Coffee. Your help pays for website fees and maintenance, research fees for blog and book writing, photo usage and rights fees, and other associated costs. It might go to buying a bag of coffee, keeping me focused on the research topic at hand.
This post may contain affiliate links. If you click these links and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. This commission does not affect any price that you pay. Affiliate programs or sponsors providing products do not influence my views and opinions.
Step into the early nineteenth century and witness the extraordinary life of Thomas Higgins, a man whose journey defied the odds.
Support small businesses. Click this link to purchase from bookshop.org and help support my blogging efforts. I appreciate your support.
