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Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Our Lesser Angels: A Novel of the Elmira Civil War Prison Camp is a work of fiction in the historical fiction, interpersonal drama, and American literary subgenres. It is best suited to the general adult reading audience. Penned by author Mary Frailey Calland, this fascinating and heartfelt novel delves into the aftermath of the American Civil War through the eyes of diverse characters linked by the harsh realities of Elmira, New York, a notorious Confederate prisoner of war camp. A North Carolina widow embarks on a journey to confront the secrets surrounding her deceased husband's past, uncovering intertwined narratives from Rebel prisoners, Union guards, and local figures like John W. Jones, a fugitive slave responsible for burying Confederate soldiers.
Author Mary Frailey Calland has crafted a novel where character voice is at its strongest, offering unique perspectives that are well-realized to have realistic people leap from the pages of history into our hearts. Through these incredible voices, the novel explores the complexities of war, loyalty, and empathy, blurring the lines between enemy and friend in the face of suffering. As the characters' fates converge in the shadow of Elmira, the well-constructed plot threads achieve a perfect balance that never feels like anyone is left behind, and the pieces of the overall picture fit together so well. The result is a powerful and intimate portrayal of individuals grappling with the aftermath of conflict, highlighting the enduring bonds forged amidst the chaos of war and the resilience of the human spirit. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend Our Lesser Angels to fans of emotive and well-researched historical fiction everywhere.
