I really enjoyed reading this book and how the historical fiction element worked with this. I was invested in what was happening and enjoyed from the overall feel of this. The characters had that element that I was looking for and was engaged with what was happening with them in this. C.W. Towarnicki was able to create a interesting concept and was glad I got to read this.

Though I rarely read historical fiction this was a worthwhile read! I loved all the different view points and completely believable scenarios that really made you feel a part of the time line. I was hoping for a happy ending......but I think the ending chosen was far more accurate.

This is a fascinating and very believable story during the American Civil War. It is a short story that will rip at your heart.

This was a fascinating read set during the American civilly war and set about real people during that time. I learnt so much and it was obvious that this is a well researched and historical facts are accurate . Historical fiction lovers will this book. I loved reading the authors note.
Thank you to Netgalley for an advanced copy of the this book, all opinions expressed are my own.

This debut novel feels like a real labour of love. As explained in the 'Notes from the Author' section, the story was inspired by local history and the life of a real Union soldier, William Henry Howe, who is buried close to the author's home in Pennsylvania. The author's extensive research on both Howe's life, and the American Civil War era more broadly, is clear throughout the story.

The tone is down-to-earth, and sometimes feels surprisingly gentle, noting subtle details, which adds to the sense of realism. It creates a vivid picture of time and place. I liked the empathy which the author has for Howe; he treats his subject kindly. This book is sure to appeal to Civil War history buffs, and I hope it finds a wider audience too.

'Notes from a Deserter' is not without its imperfections, but I really liked the ethos of the project, so on reflection I'm upping this to 5 ⭐

Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the advance copy.