Title: Season of Life
Author: Jeff Janoda
Publisher: Friesen Press
ISBN: 9781999172336
Pages: 236
Genre: Historical Fiction
Reviewer: Abigail Sutton

Read Book Review

Writing a historical fiction novel can be quite the challenge for any author, especially when creating a story which is both historically accurate and also has a touch of fictional aspects which makes the story that much more intriguing and otherworldly. But that is precisely what you’re going to get, and then some, in Season of Life by Jeff Janoda. It will take you on an action-packed ride through the American Civil War in particular, the Battle of Gettysburg where a free Black farmer, a Union spymaster, and a “fiery” young nurse will find their journeys and lives interwoven suddenly due to an ancient trickster spirit.

When we are introduced to Basil Biggs, a now-free Black man who was driven from his farm by the Confederate Army, he has hidden in a neighboring farm’s barn until the aftermath of Gettysburg. Later, he meets Cornelia Hancock, a love-lorn nurse who is struggling with the love she has for her sister’s husband, a doctor at horrific field hospitals. The way that Janoda seamlessly introduces us to real historical figures in this story like General Meade, for example with the fictional characters we have come to know throughout this tale is truly a masterclass in writing a historical, character-driven story with a fast-paced plot to boot.

Biggs, who was raised by his mystically-gifted mother, just wants to get home after all that he has endured. He comes across different people, including an infamous Confederate and dying soldier by the name of Wesley Culp that claims he was visited by Biggs’ deceased mother, Rosalie. But he’s not the only one who mentions a visitation from her during Biggs’ journey. When he meets Union spymaster John Babcock, he hears a similar tale about his mother. This is where we begin to learn more about the ancient trickster spirit who takes on the form of corpses to help with his trickster ways.

The addition of a supernatural element is an even more intriguing aspect of this story. Incorporating elements that are otherworldly with an otherwise very historically accurate detailed recounting of the Battle of Gettysburg of 1863 as well as the aftermath makes for a very unique and exciting read. Janoda does not shy away from the dark and grim realities of war, especially back then. From the cries of dying soldiers, to the racial tensions, to the barbaric medical practices of those times, you feel as though you are right in the thick of the war yourself.

This is an excellent read for any history-enthusiasts who appreciate a dash of fantasy and the supernatural thrown into their historical fiction reads. You will find yourself eagerly wanting to see what happens next to this diverse cast of characters with the backdrop of the era’s intense and dark history of war. Run, don’t walk, and pick up your copy of Season of Life by Jeff Janoda today!