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Som eldflugor på vintern
Två unga kvinnors kamp för överlevnad och kärlek i vildmarkens gränsland
Nova Scotia 1796. En grupp frigivna slavar från Jamaica anländer till den vackra men iskalla platsen, olik allt de tidigare upplevt. Fjortonåriga Cora och hennes adoptivmamma Leah tränger ihop sig med de andra för att hålla värmen.
Men någon rör sig ensam i vildmarken. Den skygga Agnes har också flytt slaveriet och lever nu gömd i skogen.
När Cora och Agnes möts får de båda något mer att kämpa för än sin egen överlevnad. Deras närhet växer ur kampen för frihet och blir både en styrka och en fara.
Alla kommer inte att överleva den här vintern.
Eleanor Shearers roman är en suggestiv och stark berättelse om kärleken till vildmarken i all dess obarmhärtiga skönhet, och om två kvinnor som vågar trotsa allt som håller dem fångna.
Nova Scotia 1796. En grupp frigivna slavar från Jamaica anländer till den vackra men iskalla platsen, olik allt de tidigare upplevt. Fjortonåriga Cora och hennes adoptivmamma Leah tränger ihop sig med de andra för att hålla värmen.
Men någon rör sig ensam i vildmarken. Den skygga Agnes har också flytt slaveriet och lever nu gömd i skogen.
När Cora och Agnes möts får de båda något mer att kämpa för än sin egen överlevnad. Deras närhet växer ur kampen för frihet och blir både en styrka och en fara.
Alla kommer inte att överleva den här vintern.
Eleanor Shearers roman är en suggestiv och stark berättelse om kärleken till vildmarken i all dess obarmhärtiga skönhet, och om två kvinnor som vågar trotsa allt som håller dem fångna.
297 pages, Hardcover
First published February 10, 2026
About the author
Eleanor Shearer
3 books626 followersEleanor Shearer is a mixed race writer from the UK. She splits her time between London and Ramsgate on the coast of Kent, so that she never has to go too long without seeing the sea.
As the granddaughter of Caribbean immigrants who came to the UK as part of the Windrush Generation, Eleanor has always been drawn to Caribbean history. Her first novel, RIVER SING ME HOME (Headline, UK & Berkley, USA) is inspired by the true stories of the brave woman who went looking for their stolen children after the abolition of slavery in 1834.
The novel draws on her time spent in the Caribbean, visiting family in St Lucia and Barbados. It was also informed by her Master's degree in Politics, where she focused on how slavery is remembered on the islands today. She travelled to the Caribbean and interviewed activists, historians and family members, and their reflections on what it really means to be free made her more determined than ever to bring the hidden stories of slavery to light.
As the granddaughter of Caribbean immigrants who came to the UK as part of the Windrush Generation, Eleanor has always been drawn to Caribbean history. Her first novel, RIVER SING ME HOME (Headline, UK & Berkley, USA) is inspired by the true stories of the brave woman who went looking for their stolen children after the abolition of slavery in 1834.
The novel draws on her time spent in the Caribbean, visiting family in St Lucia and Barbados. It was also informed by her Master's degree in Politics, where she focused on how slavery is remembered on the islands today. She travelled to the Caribbean and interviewed activists, historians and family members, and their reflections on what it really means to be free made her more determined than ever to bring the hidden stories of slavery to light.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 244 reviews
October 15, 2025
Simply luminous. Two young women find each other in the frozen landscape of eighteenth-century Nova Scotia: Cora, a free-born orphan newly arrived from Jamaica with her community, and Agnes, a mysterious forest-dweller on the run from her past. Eleanor Shearer powerfully explores the fragile spaces in history where Black citizens negotiate freedom, the harsh choices frequently forced upon them, and the powerful force of love within those spaces. A book to treasure.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I had been impressed by River Song Me Home, so was delighted to be given an advance copy of Shearer’s sophomore effort, Fireflies in Winter. But this book didn’t pull me in the way her debut did. The story takes place in late 18th century Halifax. A young woman, an orphaned Maroon, has recently arrived from Jamaica. I was unaware of the concept of Maroons and found it odd that Shearer only slowly explains the concept (and then just in spatters) and what brought them to Nova Scotia. I had to check Wikipedia to really get a grasp. Did she assume everyone knew the history? The book would be improved by a brief synopsis of their history before the book begins.
During the harsh winter, she meets another young black woman who is hiding out in the woods. She has never felt she belonged within her community and finds herself drawn to this stranger in the woods.
This is a slow moving story, going back and forth in its limited timeline. It doesn’t come together until it’s almost ⅔ over. It’s a dark story, focusing on the slippery slope of freedom for anyone not white.
The writing is beautiful. Shearer does a great job providing a sense of time and place. I had a real feel for the absolute cold of the winter.
My thanks to Netgalley and Berkley Publishing for an advance copy of this book.
During the harsh winter, she meets another young black woman who is hiding out in the woods. She has never felt she belonged within her community and finds herself drawn to this stranger in the woods.
This is a slow moving story, going back and forth in its limited timeline. It doesn’t come together until it’s almost ⅔ over. It’s a dark story, focusing on the slippery slope of freedom for anyone not white.
The writing is beautiful. Shearer does a great job providing a sense of time and place. I had a real feel for the absolute cold of the winter.
My thanks to Netgalley and Berkley Publishing for an advance copy of this book.
February 25, 2026
'Freedom is an abstraction, beside the point. In the end, they are all free. It is power that is differentially distributed'.
The warm, sunny beaches of Jamaica feel like a long lost dream for Cora, as she trudges through the snow of Halifax in the late 18th Century. Although the Maroons may have secured 'freedom' from the British, the subsistence life in a wholly alien and harsh environment feels like a new kind of prison. But as Cora encounters both runaway and indentured slaves from America's South, she begins to realise that freedom, home and a sense of self is a nuanced web that is often what you make of it.
Fireflies in Winter is a novel that lingers with you, less for what happens than for how it feels while it's happening. Eleanor Shearer writes with a poetic intensity, crafting a narrative voice that moves with a slow, contemplative cadence. The prose has a haunted, hushed quality of winter snow in a lonesome forest.
Although based upon historical events, this is a book that leans decisively toward literary fiction. Shearer is less concerned with dramatic turns than with the quiet, interior shifts of her characters—the way grief settles into the body, and memory reshapes itself over time. It is a patient read that rewards attentiveness. That same patience, however, may test some readers, and I found it best to read in bites.
Overall, this is a beautifully written story that focuses on both an interesting time in history and delves into more philosophical thoughts. It’s a book for readers who appreciate mood over pace.
'Because what better measure of freedom is there than to help others rise'.
The warm, sunny beaches of Jamaica feel like a long lost dream for Cora, as she trudges through the snow of Halifax in the late 18th Century. Although the Maroons may have secured 'freedom' from the British, the subsistence life in a wholly alien and harsh environment feels like a new kind of prison. But as Cora encounters both runaway and indentured slaves from America's South, she begins to realise that freedom, home and a sense of self is a nuanced web that is often what you make of it.
Fireflies in Winter is a novel that lingers with you, less for what happens than for how it feels while it's happening. Eleanor Shearer writes with a poetic intensity, crafting a narrative voice that moves with a slow, contemplative cadence. The prose has a haunted, hushed quality of winter snow in a lonesome forest.
Although based upon historical events, this is a book that leans decisively toward literary fiction. Shearer is less concerned with dramatic turns than with the quiet, interior shifts of her characters—the way grief settles into the body, and memory reshapes itself over time. It is a patient read that rewards attentiveness. That same patience, however, may test some readers, and I found it best to read in bites.
Overall, this is a beautifully written story that focuses on both an interesting time in history and delves into more philosophical thoughts. It’s a book for readers who appreciate mood over pace.
'Because what better measure of freedom is there than to help others rise'.
February 3, 2026
This is a beautifully written novel about two women fighting for survival in the woods in Nova Scotia.
It is soo very cold in Nova Scotia when Cora arrives from Jamaica. She is an orphan but was free in Jamaica.
What will become of her in this new world?
She meets Thursday an indentured servant and a girl named Agnes living in the Wilderness.
This is a wonderful character driven story. The writing just drew me in. The descriptions of wilderness were breathtaking.
I just loved reading this book. It was a story of history that I knew little about.
The story begins with a trial in 1798 which the author kept bringing you back too. It made the story mysterious.
It is a compelling read. Perfect winter time book.
I have not had the opportunity to read this authors previous book, but will definitely read it now.
Thank you to Book Browse and Berkeley Publishers for this advanced readers copy through NetGalley.
It is soo very cold in Nova Scotia when Cora arrives from Jamaica. She is an orphan but was free in Jamaica.
What will become of her in this new world?
She meets Thursday an indentured servant and a girl named Agnes living in the Wilderness.
This is a wonderful character driven story. The writing just drew me in. The descriptions of wilderness were breathtaking.
I just loved reading this book. It was a story of history that I knew little about.
The story begins with a trial in 1798 which the author kept bringing you back too. It made the story mysterious.
It is a compelling read. Perfect winter time book.
I have not had the opportunity to read this authors previous book, but will definitely read it now.
Thank you to Book Browse and Berkeley Publishers for this advanced readers copy through NetGalley.
November 2, 2025
A strong additional to the Caribbean historical fiction genre, impossible to put down
Set in 1796 between Nova Scotia and Jamaica, we meet Cora, an orphan experiencing her first winter. Cora’s adopted family are Maroons from Jamaica who made their way to Nova Scotia. She is far away from home and everything that feels familiar, her only anchor is her adopted mother and brother but she fears for her father and what he may do to her. Cora has never experienced winter or know what its like to be a free Black woman in 1796 in Nova Scotia.
One day, upon exploring the forest she runs into a young girl, Agnes and her dog who seems to live in the wild. Agnes does not talk about her previous life and why she seems to be in hiding but they form a bond. When Cora runs away from home, she does directly to Agnes as a safe haven, but their past catches up to them….
This was such an interesting read. I vaguely read about Jamaican Maroons living in Nova Scotia so when I heard the writer was doing a book on this, it was an instant must read. I knew there were Jamaicans who went to Sierra Leone but not Nova Scotia, because why Nova Scotia, and what was the change in weather like, that was explored perfectly. I loved the friendship and later love between Cora and Agnes, it was done in the most tender and beautiful way. What was also lovely was how the author spoke about nature and it may have been like in the 1790s, loved the inclusion of the whale scenes.
In the author’s note she said: I resist the idea that we should learn history in national silos, largely because European imperialism constructed a global system. Our ancestors wouldn’t have recognized a strict distinction between these places, and nor should we.
I do wish there was more about their journey from Jamaica to Nova Scotia, how this entire deal came to be, but this being my first time reading this in Caribbean literature, I am pleased with everything.
This is truly so important! I hope everyone reads this is and learn something new.
Set in 1796 between Nova Scotia and Jamaica, we meet Cora, an orphan experiencing her first winter. Cora’s adopted family are Maroons from Jamaica who made their way to Nova Scotia. She is far away from home and everything that feels familiar, her only anchor is her adopted mother and brother but she fears for her father and what he may do to her. Cora has never experienced winter or know what its like to be a free Black woman in 1796 in Nova Scotia.
One day, upon exploring the forest she runs into a young girl, Agnes and her dog who seems to live in the wild. Agnes does not talk about her previous life and why she seems to be in hiding but they form a bond. When Cora runs away from home, she does directly to Agnes as a safe haven, but their past catches up to them….
This was such an interesting read. I vaguely read about Jamaican Maroons living in Nova Scotia so when I heard the writer was doing a book on this, it was an instant must read. I knew there were Jamaicans who went to Sierra Leone but not Nova Scotia, because why Nova Scotia, and what was the change in weather like, that was explored perfectly. I loved the friendship and later love between Cora and Agnes, it was done in the most tender and beautiful way. What was also lovely was how the author spoke about nature and it may have been like in the 1790s, loved the inclusion of the whale scenes.
In the author’s note she said: I resist the idea that we should learn history in national silos, largely because European imperialism constructed a global system. Our ancestors wouldn’t have recognized a strict distinction between these places, and nor should we.
I do wish there was more about their journey from Jamaica to Nova Scotia, how this entire deal came to be, but this being my first time reading this in Caribbean literature, I am pleased with everything.
This is truly so important! I hope everyone reads this is and learn something new.
April 2, 2026
(2.5 stars)
Thank you to Berkley Publishing and Penguin Random House Audio for the chance to read and listen to a review copy of Fireflies in Winter by Eleanor Shearer.
I was quite looking forward to this book, as it takes place in a time and place that interests me: Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada in the 1790s, focusing on a population that is not well known - the Maroons from Jamaica. I, for one, knew nothing about them at all. Now I do, but unfortunately I learned more doing my own online research than I did from the book. I think that the story would have been richer if the author had included more information about this group, especially because their story is so interesting.
Anyway, I found the book to be slow paced, with lots of descriptions of the land, which provided great atmosphere but slowed down the plot quite a bit. Since this took place in the 1790s, there was a lot of emphasis on survival skills, as these immigrants (for lack of a better word) learned to deal with the unfamiliar and harsh climate, so different than their native Jamaica. Also interesting was the dichotomy between free blacks and slave blacks in the social hierarchy of the times and the place. There were also indentured servants, whose plight made me really mad. (Because they couldn’t read, people were lied to and taken advantage of.)
Cora is the main female character, an orphan who arrived with the Jamaican Maroons. She never knew her parents but was raised by a loving woman who is also in Nova Scotia with her. Cora comes upon Agnes, a young woman living in the wilderness on her own and they strike up a friendship, which later turns to more. The story is interrupted a few times with bits and pieces of a trial, but we don’t know for a long time who is on trial and why. Eventually, everything becomes clear, but it was a slog to get there.
I just wasn’t pulled into the story the way I hoped I would be. I’m giving this an additional star because the audio was so lovely. Debra Michaels did a beautiful job with the Jamaican accents and non-Jamaican accents.
Thank you to Berkley Publishing and Penguin Random House Audio for the chance to read and listen to a review copy of Fireflies in Winter by Eleanor Shearer.
I was quite looking forward to this book, as it takes place in a time and place that interests me: Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada in the 1790s, focusing on a population that is not well known - the Maroons from Jamaica. I, for one, knew nothing about them at all. Now I do, but unfortunately I learned more doing my own online research than I did from the book. I think that the story would have been richer if the author had included more information about this group, especially because their story is so interesting.
Anyway, I found the book to be slow paced, with lots of descriptions of the land, which provided great atmosphere but slowed down the plot quite a bit. Since this took place in the 1790s, there was a lot of emphasis on survival skills, as these immigrants (for lack of a better word) learned to deal with the unfamiliar and harsh climate, so different than their native Jamaica. Also interesting was the dichotomy between free blacks and slave blacks in the social hierarchy of the times and the place. There were also indentured servants, whose plight made me really mad. (Because they couldn’t read, people were lied to and taken advantage of.)
Cora is the main female character, an orphan who arrived with the Jamaican Maroons. She never knew her parents but was raised by a loving woman who is also in Nova Scotia with her. Cora comes upon Agnes, a young woman living in the wilderness on her own and they strike up a friendship, which later turns to more. The story is interrupted a few times with bits and pieces of a trial, but we don’t know for a long time who is on trial and why. Eventually, everything becomes clear, but it was a slog to get there.
I just wasn’t pulled into the story the way I hoped I would be. I’m giving this an additional star because the audio was so lovely. Debra Michaels did a beautiful job with the Jamaican accents and non-Jamaican accents.
November 11, 2025
This is a beautifully written book set in Nova Scotia. It is based on a real event in history in which a group of former Jamaican slaves had been granted freedom by the British government. After a long voyage, they established a colony in a harsh cold climate, much different from their homeland. Fictional protagonist Cora is one of these Jamaicans. She meets Thursday, an indentured servant, and Agnes, a former slave living in the wilderness. It is a reflective character driven story of friendship, survival, love, freedom, hope, and the moral quandaries that arise when dealing with bondage.
Occasionally, I come across an author whose writing style speaks to me and is just what I look for in a book. Eleanor Shearer is one of those authors. Her prose is lyrical. She crafts a story that flows well and is satisfying in the end. I previously had read her debut (River Sing Me Home) and was extremely impressed. This, her second book, is equally impressive. I am adding Shearer to my list of favorite authors and will read anything she writes.
I received an advance reader’s copy from the publisher via NetGalley. The book is due to be released in February, 2026.
Occasionally, I come across an author whose writing style speaks to me and is just what I look for in a book. Eleanor Shearer is one of those authors. Her prose is lyrical. She crafts a story that flows well and is satisfying in the end. I previously had read her debut (River Sing Me Home) and was extremely impressed. This, her second book, is equally impressive. I am adding Shearer to my list of favorite authors and will read anything she writes.
I received an advance reader’s copy from the publisher via NetGalley. The book is due to be released in February, 2026.
April 28, 2026
Read the Author’s Note first. Sounds like this book is going to be all about race.
February 10, 2026
Thank you @berkleypub and @prhaudio for the free finished copy and ALC ♡
It’s giving The Call of the Wild and all of the Canadian winter atmosphere layered on top of the history of the migration of the Maroons (freed or exiled former slaves) from the Carribean isles to Nova Scotia.
We are introduced to life as a “free” Black in late 1700s Canada, and what a “good” life for a woman might look like. I found I enjoyed this more and more as the book went on.
Unlike her prior work it took me a bit to hook me. Initially slower pacing builds to a heart pounding conclusion. The wilderness feels alive — and lethal. The whales dancing in the waves will live in my memory. 🐋
link to my review on bookstagram
3.75⭐️
It’s giving The Call of the Wild and all of the Canadian winter atmosphere layered on top of the history of the migration of the Maroons (freed or exiled former slaves) from the Carribean isles to Nova Scotia.
We are introduced to life as a “free” Black in late 1700s Canada, and what a “good” life for a woman might look like. I found I enjoyed this more and more as the book went on.
Unlike her prior work it took me a bit to hook me. Initially slower pacing builds to a heart pounding conclusion. The wilderness feels alive — and lethal. The whales dancing in the waves will live in my memory. 🐋
link to my review on bookstagram
3.75⭐️
February 5, 2026
While Eleanor Shearer’s prose is descriptive, Fireflies in Winter often gets bogged down. I found myself wading through a significant amount of "filler"—details and subplots that didn't feel essential to the core arc. When a story is rich in historical potential, you want every sentence to build toward the climax, but here, the pacing often felt stalled by information that didn't move the needle.
One of my biggest hurdles was the lack of context regarding the Maroons of Jamaica. The Maroons have a fascinating, complex history of resistance and independence, but the narrative seems to operate on the assumption that the reader is already well-versed in their story.
Interestingly, Shearer mentions in her acknowledgments that she wasn't initially familiar with this history herself. It’s a bit of a missed opportunity; rather than bringing the reader along on that journey of discovery, the book leaves a gap where foundational world-building should have been.
The book finds its stride in the latter half. From about the 60% mark to the 85% mark, the story gains the momentum I was looking for. During this stretch, the stakes felt higher, the character motivations were clearer, and the "fluff" fell away to reveal the heart of the story. If the rest of the book had maintained this level of energy and focus, it would have been a much stronger read.
One of my biggest hurdles was the lack of context regarding the Maroons of Jamaica. The Maroons have a fascinating, complex history of resistance and independence, but the narrative seems to operate on the assumption that the reader is already well-versed in their story.
Interestingly, Shearer mentions in her acknowledgments that she wasn't initially familiar with this history herself. It’s a bit of a missed opportunity; rather than bringing the reader along on that journey of discovery, the book leaves a gap where foundational world-building should have been.
The book finds its stride in the latter half. From about the 60% mark to the 85% mark, the story gains the momentum I was looking for. During this stretch, the stakes felt higher, the character motivations were clearer, and the "fluff" fell away to reveal the heart of the story. If the rest of the book had maintained this level of energy and focus, it would have been a much stronger read.
July 17, 2026
Vuurvliegjes in Nova Scotia speelt zich af in Nova Scotia in 1976. De jonge Cora, een wees die net vanuit Jamaica is aangekomen, moet wennen aan een wereld die totaal anders is dan ze kent. De ijzige kou en de uitgestrekte, besneeuwde bossen maken haar onzeker. Wanneer ze in het bos mysterieuze sporen ontdekt, blijkt dat ze niet de enige is die daar ronddwaalt.
Agnes is op de vlucht en verschuilt zich diep in de wildernis. Ze leeft van dag tot dag, waar één verkeerde beslissing grote gevolgen kan hebben. Als de paden van Cora en Agnes elkaar kruisen, ontstaat er voorzichtig een bijzondere band. Tussen de cederbomen vinden ze steun, vertrouwen en hoop. Maar wanneer Agnes' verleden hen inhaalt, worden ze gedwongen moeilijke keuzes te maken en ontdekken ze wat de prijs van vrijheid en liefde werkelijk is.
Eleanor Shearar heeft een indrukwekkende en sfeervolle roman geschreven over vrijheid, liefde en het vinden van je eigen plek in de wereld. Het verhaal laat zien hoeveel moed er nodig is om opnieuw te beginnen en hoe belangrijk het is om mensen om je heen te hebben die je accepteren zoals je bent. De prachtige natuurbeschrijvingen en de sterke emoties maken dit boek meeslepend en ontroerend.
Agnes is op de vlucht en verschuilt zich diep in de wildernis. Ze leeft van dag tot dag, waar één verkeerde beslissing grote gevolgen kan hebben. Als de paden van Cora en Agnes elkaar kruisen, ontstaat er voorzichtig een bijzondere band. Tussen de cederbomen vinden ze steun, vertrouwen en hoop. Maar wanneer Agnes' verleden hen inhaalt, worden ze gedwongen moeilijke keuzes te maken en ontdekken ze wat de prijs van vrijheid en liefde werkelijk is.
Eleanor Shearar heeft een indrukwekkende en sfeervolle roman geschreven over vrijheid, liefde en het vinden van je eigen plek in de wereld. Het verhaal laat zien hoeveel moed er nodig is om opnieuw te beginnen en hoe belangrijk het is om mensen om je heen te hebben die je accepteren zoals je bent. De prachtige natuurbeschrijvingen en de sterke emoties maken dit boek meeslepend en ontroerend.
March 11, 2026
Eleanor Shearer is a beautiful writer… she simply is.
Her sophomore novel, "Fireflies in Winter" was a joy to read. Like her first book, I was moved not only by the characters she creates but also by the elegance of her prose.
Set in 1796 Nova Scotia, the story unfolds within a community of Black Loyalists who resettled there after the American Revolutionary War. The novel follows Cora, a young woman from Jamaica’s Maroon community who, after being orphaned, relocates. There she discovers a mysterious young woman, formerly enslaved, living alone in the wilderness. What follows is a powerful story of survival and the hard-won pursuit of freedom.
Yet for me, this book is ultimately about love … an exploration of love in its many forms. Love that binds us even when it defies reason. Love of self. Love for others. Love for the natural world.
Mother Nature feels like another character in the novel. The book is structured around the seasons, and Shearer’s descriptions of the landscape, the elements, the woodland creatures, and the flora and fauna are so vivid.
She has a remarkable gift for writing historical fiction that echoes the migration experience, transcends national borders, and reminds us how connected our histories truly are. That feels especially important in society right now.
I’m surprised this book isn’t rated higher. It does move at a slower pace, but the reward is a story rich in beauty and emotional depth. It is one that captures the full complexity of its characters, both their goodness and their flaws.
4.5 stars for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for the opportunity to read this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Her sophomore novel, "Fireflies in Winter" was a joy to read. Like her first book, I was moved not only by the characters she creates but also by the elegance of her prose.
Set in 1796 Nova Scotia, the story unfolds within a community of Black Loyalists who resettled there after the American Revolutionary War. The novel follows Cora, a young woman from Jamaica’s Maroon community who, after being orphaned, relocates. There she discovers a mysterious young woman, formerly enslaved, living alone in the wilderness. What follows is a powerful story of survival and the hard-won pursuit of freedom.
Yet for me, this book is ultimately about love … an exploration of love in its many forms. Love that binds us even when it defies reason. Love of self. Love for others. Love for the natural world.
Mother Nature feels like another character in the novel. The book is structured around the seasons, and Shearer’s descriptions of the landscape, the elements, the woodland creatures, and the flora and fauna are so vivid.
She has a remarkable gift for writing historical fiction that echoes the migration experience, transcends national borders, and reminds us how connected our histories truly are. That feels especially important in society right now.
I’m surprised this book isn’t rated higher. It does move at a slower pace, but the reward is a story rich in beauty and emotional depth. It is one that captures the full complexity of its characters, both their goodness and their flaws.
4.5 stars for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for the opportunity to read this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Did Not Finish
April 9, 2026I've put this on the DNF shelf for now but I might go back to it. It's beautifully written but it's not gripping me at the moment. I think I just haven't had time recently to focus on it.
January 8, 2026
I loved this author’s debut novel (River Sing Me Home), so I was excited for her second historical fiction novel which I enjoyed even more. It is a well written story about slavery in 1796, the price of freedom and love, survival and resilience.
Thank you @BerkleyPub and Eleanor Shearer for the Goodreads Giveaway. Publishing date: 2/10/26. I look forward to reading more books by this author.
Thank you @BerkleyPub and Eleanor Shearer for the Goodreads Giveaway. Publishing date: 2/10/26. I look forward to reading more books by this author.
June 24, 2026
Een meeslepend verhaal over veerkracht, moed en de prijs van vrijheid
Nova Scotia, 1796. Wanneer de jonge Cora, pas aangekomen uit Jamaica, een schim tussen de bomen ziet, denkt ze eerst dat de kou haar parten speelt. Maar de sporen in de sneeuw zijn echt.
Die sporen leiden naar Agnes, een vrouw op de vlucht, verborgen in de onherbergzame wildernis. Overleven betekent voor haar: geen fouten maken, niemand vertrouwen. Toch raken Cora en Agnes onvermijdelijk met elkaar verbonden. Tussen de ceders bouwen ze aan een plek die veilig voelt. Maar wanneer Agnes’ verleden hen inhaalt, ontdekken ze dat vrijheid nooit zonder offers komt en dat liefde soms de grootste moed vraagt.
Mijn ervaring:
Wat een indringende historische roman over vrijheid, identiteit, overleven en liefde. In het ruige Nova Scotia van 1796 volgen we de levens van Cora en Agnes, twee sterke vrouwen die onlosmakelijk met elkaar verbonden raken. Eleanor Shearer heeft een beeldende, sfeervolle en toegankelijke schrijfstijl. Ze weet het koude Canadese landschap zo tastbaar te beschrijven dat je de wind door de bomen hoort razen en de eenzaamheid van de wildernis voelt. Tegelijkertijd schrijft ze met veel warmte en empathie, waardoor emotionele momenten echt binnenkomen.
Cora en Agnes zijn krachtige, intrigerende en indrukwekkende personages die allesbehalve doorsnee zijn. Het zijn realistische, complexe en gelaagde vrouwen met hun eigen kwetsbaarheden en gebreken. Cora ontwikkelt zich van een jonge vrouw die haar plek in een onbekende wereld probeert te vinden tot iemand die haar eigen keuzes durft te maken. Agnes draagt de littekens van haar verleden met zich mee en wordt gedreven door een diep verlangen naar vrijheid. Hun angsten, verlangens en twijfels maken hen geloofwaardig en voelbaar. Ook de bijpersonages voegen veel toe aan het verhaal en laten zien hoe verschillend mensen omgaan met onderdrukking, verlies en hoop.
Het verhaal kent een rustige opbouw die goed past bij deze roman. Eleanor Shearer neemt de tijd om haar personages en hun onderlinge band zorgvuldig uit te werken. Daardoor wordt de spanning geleidelijk opgebouwd en maken de latere gebeurtenissen des te meer indruk. Thema's als vrijheid, veerkracht, racisme, identiteit, verbondenheid en liefde vormen het hart van het verhaal. Wat begint als een verhaal over vlucht en overleven, ontvouwt zich tot een intense en aangrijpende roman die je niet onberoerd laat.
Vooral de vraag wat vrijheid werkelijk betekent, vormt de kern van dit verhaal. Eleanor Shearer laat zien dat vrijheid niet alleen een fysieke toestand is, maar ook iets wat diep van binnen gevoeld en bevochten moet worden. Het verhaal wist me emotioneel echt te raken. Zowel Cora als Agnes sloten zich in mijn hart en ik voelde hun onzekerheid, hoop en verlangen. Hun zoektocht naar een veilige plek en een eigen toekomst maakte grote indruk op me. De combinatie van historische feiten, sterke karakterontwikkeling en een ontroerende liefdesgeschiedenis zorgde ervoor dat ik volledig in het verhaal werd meegezogen.
Vuurvliegjes in Nova Scotia is een indringende, meeslepende en indrukwekkende historische roman. Het verhaal is beeldend en sfeervol geschreven, de personages zijn psychologisch gelaagd, complex en overtuigend uitgewerkt en de thema's weten je diep te raken. Dit is zo'n boek dat je niet alleen leest, maar ook voelt. Een verhaal dat indruk op me maakte en waarbij ik intens meeleefde met Cora en Agnes.
Nova Scotia, 1796. Wanneer de jonge Cora, pas aangekomen uit Jamaica, een schim tussen de bomen ziet, denkt ze eerst dat de kou haar parten speelt. Maar de sporen in de sneeuw zijn echt.
Die sporen leiden naar Agnes, een vrouw op de vlucht, verborgen in de onherbergzame wildernis. Overleven betekent voor haar: geen fouten maken, niemand vertrouwen. Toch raken Cora en Agnes onvermijdelijk met elkaar verbonden. Tussen de ceders bouwen ze aan een plek die veilig voelt. Maar wanneer Agnes’ verleden hen inhaalt, ontdekken ze dat vrijheid nooit zonder offers komt en dat liefde soms de grootste moed vraagt.
Mijn ervaring:
Wat een indringende historische roman over vrijheid, identiteit, overleven en liefde. In het ruige Nova Scotia van 1796 volgen we de levens van Cora en Agnes, twee sterke vrouwen die onlosmakelijk met elkaar verbonden raken. Eleanor Shearer heeft een beeldende, sfeervolle en toegankelijke schrijfstijl. Ze weet het koude Canadese landschap zo tastbaar te beschrijven dat je de wind door de bomen hoort razen en de eenzaamheid van de wildernis voelt. Tegelijkertijd schrijft ze met veel warmte en empathie, waardoor emotionele momenten echt binnenkomen.
Cora en Agnes zijn krachtige, intrigerende en indrukwekkende personages die allesbehalve doorsnee zijn. Het zijn realistische, complexe en gelaagde vrouwen met hun eigen kwetsbaarheden en gebreken. Cora ontwikkelt zich van een jonge vrouw die haar plek in een onbekende wereld probeert te vinden tot iemand die haar eigen keuzes durft te maken. Agnes draagt de littekens van haar verleden met zich mee en wordt gedreven door een diep verlangen naar vrijheid. Hun angsten, verlangens en twijfels maken hen geloofwaardig en voelbaar. Ook de bijpersonages voegen veel toe aan het verhaal en laten zien hoe verschillend mensen omgaan met onderdrukking, verlies en hoop.
Het verhaal kent een rustige opbouw die goed past bij deze roman. Eleanor Shearer neemt de tijd om haar personages en hun onderlinge band zorgvuldig uit te werken. Daardoor wordt de spanning geleidelijk opgebouwd en maken de latere gebeurtenissen des te meer indruk. Thema's als vrijheid, veerkracht, racisme, identiteit, verbondenheid en liefde vormen het hart van het verhaal. Wat begint als een verhaal over vlucht en overleven, ontvouwt zich tot een intense en aangrijpende roman die je niet onberoerd laat.
Vooral de vraag wat vrijheid werkelijk betekent, vormt de kern van dit verhaal. Eleanor Shearer laat zien dat vrijheid niet alleen een fysieke toestand is, maar ook iets wat diep van binnen gevoeld en bevochten moet worden. Het verhaal wist me emotioneel echt te raken. Zowel Cora als Agnes sloten zich in mijn hart en ik voelde hun onzekerheid, hoop en verlangen. Hun zoektocht naar een veilige plek en een eigen toekomst maakte grote indruk op me. De combinatie van historische feiten, sterke karakterontwikkeling en een ontroerende liefdesgeschiedenis zorgde ervoor dat ik volledig in het verhaal werd meegezogen.
Vuurvliegjes in Nova Scotia is een indringende, meeslepende en indrukwekkende historische roman. Het verhaal is beeldend en sfeervol geschreven, de personages zijn psychologisch gelaagd, complex en overtuigend uitgewerkt en de thema's weten je diep te raken. Dit is zo'n boek dat je niet alleen leest, maar ook voelt. Een verhaal dat indruk op me maakte en waarbij ik intens meeleefde met Cora en Agnes.
February 10, 2026
Fireflies in Winter by Eleanor Shearer is a historical fiction novel following a Jamaican woman, Cora, who relocates to Nova Scotia and forms a bond with a woman living in the wilderness. Set in the 18th century, the story explores themes of survival, freedom, and love.
What I Loved:
This was a beautiful story with eloquent prose. Shearer’s writing is quite vivid and descriptive, allowing one to immerse themselves into the story, the environment, and time period. After the 20% mark, I really couldn’t put the book down. Winter in the Canadian wilderness is no joke, and Shearer does a great job in writing a story that encapsulates what it takes to survive it.
Most importantly, I just love what this book represents. Fireflies in Winter is a slow burning story of freedom, love, and survival. It is a story of place making and identity shaping. Cora, a long way from Jamaica, is just trying to make way and ‘be’ in the reality while navigating loss, grief, and love. Cora’s relationship with Agnes, a woman who has been surviving in the wilderness, pulled on every heart string possible. I loved the unfolding of their relationship, the will they/won’t they, and how the author shows how they start to care for each other over time. It was a well written slow burn.
What I Wished Was Different
First, I would have liked a sort of brief history of Jamaica, Maroons, and Canada in the 18th Century. In Fireflies in Winter, identity is a core part of the story. As the story unfolded, I have to admit that I frequently visited the Internet to learn more about Maroons and Jamaican history. On the bright side, this speaks to how much of an interesting story that this one is.
My only other critique is the dual timeline. Most of the time, I felt that the present-day chapters were out of place. After the first chapter, I did not think that the book needed to switch back and forth.
If you like historical fiction, this is a book for you.
Rating 4.25/5
Many thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the advanced readers copy. Fireflies in Winter is out TODAY!!
What I Loved:
This was a beautiful story with eloquent prose. Shearer’s writing is quite vivid and descriptive, allowing one to immerse themselves into the story, the environment, and time period. After the 20% mark, I really couldn’t put the book down. Winter in the Canadian wilderness is no joke, and Shearer does a great job in writing a story that encapsulates what it takes to survive it.
Most importantly, I just love what this book represents. Fireflies in Winter is a slow burning story of freedom, love, and survival. It is a story of place making and identity shaping. Cora, a long way from Jamaica, is just trying to make way and ‘be’ in the reality while navigating loss, grief, and love. Cora’s relationship with Agnes, a woman who has been surviving in the wilderness, pulled on every heart string possible. I loved the unfolding of their relationship, the will they/won’t they, and how the author shows how they start to care for each other over time. It was a well written slow burn.
What I Wished Was Different
First, I would have liked a sort of brief history of Jamaica, Maroons, and Canada in the 18th Century. In Fireflies in Winter, identity is a core part of the story. As the story unfolded, I have to admit that I frequently visited the Internet to learn more about Maroons and Jamaican history. On the bright side, this speaks to how much of an interesting story that this one is.
My only other critique is the dual timeline. Most of the time, I felt that the present-day chapters were out of place. After the first chapter, I did not think that the book needed to switch back and forth.
If you like historical fiction, this is a book for you.
Rating 4.25/5
Many thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the advanced readers copy. Fireflies in Winter is out TODAY!!
February 20, 2026
Thank you to @headlinebooks for sending me this stunning book and Anne @randomthingstours for having me on this tour.
Out: 10.02.26
Today is my stop to drop a review 👇🏼
This was such a beautifully written story. The descriptions of the environments and the passing of the seasons were vivid and palpable, and the challenges the characters faced were conveyed with insight and depth. The novel perfectly maintained the balance between the harsher realities and the moments of beauty and tenderness.
I love a story that is written with a factual undercurrent. I found this element of the story so interesting and at the same time unsettling. The Maroon’s, who had escaped enslavement and resisted British Colonial control for decades, were forcible moved to Nova Scotia, in 1795-76, to be used for their labour. Facing harsh winters, living in poor conditions, and continually controlled. They were told they were living free lives, but were they?
It wasn’t until later, in 1800, when they were moved to Sierra Leone in Africa where they settled and established new communities.
This story comes from Cora’s POV but there are a few chapters jumping forward to a trial that is happening. I found this really engaging and it certainly kept me turning the pages to find out what had occurred and who it concerned. So, there was that feeling of intrigue as well to the story.
I was particularly drawn to Cora as a character. She started as quite guarded and uncertain, but after she uncovers difficult truths about her history she embraces her strength and become empowered, especially as her relationship with Agnes grows.
A moving story of survival, resilience, the fight for freedom and most of all, love.
A beautifully told story, written sensitively and almost poetically.
I wholeheartedly recommend to pick this book up.
>>> Last thought … Patience 🫶🏻<<<
Out: 10.02.26
Today is my stop to drop a review 👇🏼
This was such a beautifully written story. The descriptions of the environments and the passing of the seasons were vivid and palpable, and the challenges the characters faced were conveyed with insight and depth. The novel perfectly maintained the balance between the harsher realities and the moments of beauty and tenderness.
I love a story that is written with a factual undercurrent. I found this element of the story so interesting and at the same time unsettling. The Maroon’s, who had escaped enslavement and resisted British Colonial control for decades, were forcible moved to Nova Scotia, in 1795-76, to be used for their labour. Facing harsh winters, living in poor conditions, and continually controlled. They were told they were living free lives, but were they?
It wasn’t until later, in 1800, when they were moved to Sierra Leone in Africa where they settled and established new communities.
This story comes from Cora’s POV but there are a few chapters jumping forward to a trial that is happening. I found this really engaging and it certainly kept me turning the pages to find out what had occurred and who it concerned. So, there was that feeling of intrigue as well to the story.
I was particularly drawn to Cora as a character. She started as quite guarded and uncertain, but after she uncovers difficult truths about her history she embraces her strength and become empowered, especially as her relationship with Agnes grows.
A moving story of survival, resilience, the fight for freedom and most of all, love.
A beautifully told story, written sensitively and almost poetically.
I wholeheartedly recommend to pick this book up.
>>> Last thought … Patience 🫶🏻<<<
June 25, 2026
Einde 18e eeuw, Nova Scotia, Canada - Cora, een inwijkeling en wees uit Jamaica, brengt haar eerste winter door in de kou. Als ze in het bos gaat ronddwalen heeft ze de indruk dat ze gevolgd wordt.
Agnes woont alleen in het bos, er vast van overtuigd te overleven zonder hulp te vragen.
De paden van beide jonge vrouwen kruisen mekaar en ook al proberen ze afstand te houden, toch worden ze meer en meer naar elkaar toegetrokken.
Vuurvliegjes in Nova Scotia is een verhaal over slavernij en vrijheid, over zoeken naar je eigen wegen, maar vooral ook een liefdesverhaal, dat vertelt over een niet alledaagse liefde, zeker gezien in de tijdsgeest van toen.
Ik las eerder al Ga als een rivier, van dezelfde schrijfster, en was toen ook al onder de indruk van de manier waarop ze historische waarheid in een fictie-verhaal kan verwoorden.
In Vuurvliegjes in Nova Scotia worden we 4 seizoenen lang meegenomen in het verhaal van Cora en Agnes, en stilletjes aan kom je als lezer meer te weten over het verleden van de beide meisjes.
Een aanrader voor liefhebbers van historische fictie, met vooral interesse in de Amerikaanse geschiedenis kort nadat de slavernij aan banden gelegd werd.
Dankjewel Ambo Anthos uitgeverij voor dit vooruitleesexemplaar!
Agnes woont alleen in het bos, er vast van overtuigd te overleven zonder hulp te vragen.
De paden van beide jonge vrouwen kruisen mekaar en ook al proberen ze afstand te houden, toch worden ze meer en meer naar elkaar toegetrokken.
Vuurvliegjes in Nova Scotia is een verhaal over slavernij en vrijheid, over zoeken naar je eigen wegen, maar vooral ook een liefdesverhaal, dat vertelt over een niet alledaagse liefde, zeker gezien in de tijdsgeest van toen.
Ik las eerder al Ga als een rivier, van dezelfde schrijfster, en was toen ook al onder de indruk van de manier waarop ze historische waarheid in een fictie-verhaal kan verwoorden.
In Vuurvliegjes in Nova Scotia worden we 4 seizoenen lang meegenomen in het verhaal van Cora en Agnes, en stilletjes aan kom je als lezer meer te weten over het verleden van de beide meisjes.
Een aanrader voor liefhebbers van historische fictie, met vooral interesse in de Amerikaanse geschiedenis kort nadat de slavernij aan banden gelegd werd.
Dankjewel Ambo Anthos uitgeverij voor dit vooruitleesexemplaar!
June 28, 2026
langrijker is dan het tempo. Het is een verhaal dat je langzaam in je moet opnemen. De beeldende schrijfstijl zorgt ervoor dat de natuur veel meer is dan alleen een decor. Het bos, de zee en de seizoenen lijken voortdurend de gevoelens van Cora te weerspiegelen. Wanneer de spanning toeneemt, voelt het bos donkerder en dreigender aan, terwijl de kalme zee juist haar innerlijke rust weerspiegelt. Die wisselwerking tussen landschap en emotie vond ik ontzettend mooi uitgewerkt.
Ook de dialogen zijn bewust spaarzaam. Er wordt alleen gezegd wat nodig is, waardoor de stiltes tussen de personages juist veel betekenis krijgen. Die stiltes voelden nooit ongemakkelijk aan, maar maakten de emoties des te krachtiger. De auteur laat gevoelens vooral zien door de handelingen en onderlinge verbondenheid van de personages.
Toch had ik één punt waar ik het persoonlijk wat moeilijker mee had, de houding van Cora tegenover enkele mensen die haar steeds onvoorwaardelijk steunden. Ik vond het soms lastig te begrijpen hoe gemakkelijk ze hen uit haar leven leek te sluiten. Daardoor voelde ik me op sommige momenten minder verbonden met haar keuzes.
Ondanks dat is Vuurvliegjes in Nova Scotia een indrukwekkende, gelaagde roman die vooral uitblinkt in zijn sfeervolle schrijfstijl en de bijzondere manier waarop mens en natuur met elkaar verweven zijn.
Ook de dialogen zijn bewust spaarzaam. Er wordt alleen gezegd wat nodig is, waardoor de stiltes tussen de personages juist veel betekenis krijgen. Die stiltes voelden nooit ongemakkelijk aan, maar maakten de emoties des te krachtiger. De auteur laat gevoelens vooral zien door de handelingen en onderlinge verbondenheid van de personages.
Toch had ik één punt waar ik het persoonlijk wat moeilijker mee had, de houding van Cora tegenover enkele mensen die haar steeds onvoorwaardelijk steunden. Ik vond het soms lastig te begrijpen hoe gemakkelijk ze hen uit haar leven leek te sluiten. Daardoor voelde ik me op sommige momenten minder verbonden met haar keuzes.
Ondanks dat is Vuurvliegjes in Nova Scotia een indrukwekkende, gelaagde roman die vooral uitblinkt in zijn sfeervolle schrijfstijl en de bijzondere manier waarop mens en natuur met elkaar verweven zijn.
March 22, 2026
Set in 1796, it follows Cora, a young Jamaican Maroon orphan transplanted to the unforgiving wilderness of Canada, a piece of history I genuinely knew nothing about going in, and that alone made this a fascinating read.
This is very much a coming-of-age story, with Cora figuring out who she is in a world that keeps changing around her. When she discovers Agnes living alone in the woods, a slow, tender relationship builds between them. Shearer doesn’t shy away from how dangerous that love was in that era. Two women, already navigating a world stacked against them, knowingly choose each other anyway.
I loved the found family aspect woven throughout, too. The bonds Cora builds are chosen, fragile, and fiercely protected. Her found family is the emotional core of the book.
Thank you to the publisher for a free copy of this book.
This is very much a coming-of-age story, with Cora figuring out who she is in a world that keeps changing around her. When she discovers Agnes living alone in the woods, a slow, tender relationship builds between them. Shearer doesn’t shy away from how dangerous that love was in that era. Two women, already navigating a world stacked against them, knowingly choose each other anyway.
I loved the found family aspect woven throughout, too. The bonds Cora builds are chosen, fragile, and fiercely protected. Her found family is the emotional core of the book.
Thank you to the publisher for a free copy of this book.
October 5, 2025
This was my first book by this author. Many thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to review this book in advance of the publishing date. This review is completely my own opinion.
Fireflies in Winter was such a heartfelt and interesting read. The story had just the right mix of emotion, hope, love, mystery…. I really liked the characters — they felt real and easy to root for — and the winter setting made it even more atmospheric. The theme of found family was a constant. I learned many things about slavery in Canada & especially Maroons. Make sure to read the author’s note at the end.
It dragged a bit at the beginning , which is why I’m giving it four stars instead of five, but overall it’s a beautiful story that stuck with me after I finished. Definitely worth the read! Looking forward to lots more by this author!
Fireflies in Winter was such a heartfelt and interesting read. The story had just the right mix of emotion, hope, love, mystery…. I really liked the characters — they felt real and easy to root for — and the winter setting made it even more atmospheric. The theme of found family was a constant. I learned many things about slavery in Canada & especially Maroons. Make sure to read the author’s note at the end.
It dragged a bit at the beginning , which is why I’m giving it four stars instead of five, but overall it’s a beautiful story that stuck with me after I finished. Definitely worth the read! Looking forward to lots more by this author!
February 10, 2026
Fireflies in Winter is compelling historical fiction that took me to a time, place, and story that I’d not read about before. Set in Nova Scotia in the late 18th century, it features Cora and her community of Maroons, formerly enslaved Jamaicans who were exiled to Halifax by the British. Cora must fight the elements, her memories of Jamaica, and her search for safety, home, and love. This novel brings all the elements of this story to life in breathtaking detail—the danger, the beauty, the unknown, and the hope. I received an advance review copy of this book from the publisher.
May 29, 2026
Set in Nova Scotia in 1796, this novel involves the relationship of two young girls, one an escaped slave and the other from Jamaica who was resettled to the English settlement in the cold Canadian wood.
September 25, 2025
Set in late 1700s Nova Scotia, this story follows Cora, a young woman from Jamaica living among a small community of Maroons—a group I had never encountered in literature before. She resides with her surrogate mother, a young child, and the child's father in this tight-knit settlement.
When Cora glimpses a mysterious figure darting through the snow-laden forest, she becomes consumed with finding this person. Her search leads her to Agnes, a woman surviving alone in the harsh wilderness. As their unlikely relationship develops, both women must battle not only the brutal elements but also the threat of discovery by the community they're desperately trying to avoid.
The narrative weaves in compelling mysteries surrounding a looming trial and secrets about Cora's mother, creating layers of suspense that propel the story forward. This book opened my eyes to so much history I had never known, particularly about the Maroon people and their experiences in colonial Canada.
When Cora glimpses a mysterious figure darting through the snow-laden forest, she becomes consumed with finding this person. Her search leads her to Agnes, a woman surviving alone in the harsh wilderness. As their unlikely relationship develops, both women must battle not only the brutal elements but also the threat of discovery by the community they're desperately trying to avoid.
The narrative weaves in compelling mysteries surrounding a looming trial and secrets about Cora's mother, creating layers of suspense that propel the story forward. This book opened my eyes to so much history I had never known, particularly about the Maroon people and their experiences in colonial Canada.
February 13, 2026
I have been waiting (im)patiently for Eleanor's next book since I finished River Sing Me Home, what feels like, a long time ago. That book was so beautiful and well written that Eleanor became an auto-read author for me. Yes - right there at her debut.
That has not changed.
Two paths, to cross and then intertwine with love and then because of that love it could cost them everything.
Fireflies in Winter is such a heart rending experience that I was torn between racing through to the end or slowing down to savour it. I wonder what you will do when you read it?
Cora's experiences in the unfamiliar setting of Nova Scotia make for such an interesting read. All too often we see Caribbean people in either their homeland or the US (occasionally the UK) but I've never read a story set in Canada before which makes this so unique to me. To see how Cora and the other Maroons deal with the cold and how they are treated and what their lives are like there.
This was so well researched and the descriptions made it like slipping into a dream.... which is lush for someone who is very visual like me!
I loved the contrast between Cora and Agnes - stoic Agnes and Cora who is filled with so many questions. I would love to have had more time with them.
Eleanor's writing is like that, very addictive. You find yourself in the last page, wondering why it's the last page and why you're there already!
This book has so much contained within its pages that a simple review is not enough - you must read it for yourselves.
That has not changed.
Two paths, to cross and then intertwine with love and then because of that love it could cost them everything.
Fireflies in Winter is such a heart rending experience that I was torn between racing through to the end or slowing down to savour it. I wonder what you will do when you read it?
Cora's experiences in the unfamiliar setting of Nova Scotia make for such an interesting read. All too often we see Caribbean people in either their homeland or the US (occasionally the UK) but I've never read a story set in Canada before which makes this so unique to me. To see how Cora and the other Maroons deal with the cold and how they are treated and what their lives are like there.
This was so well researched and the descriptions made it like slipping into a dream.... which is lush for someone who is very visual like me!
I loved the contrast between Cora and Agnes - stoic Agnes and Cora who is filled with so many questions. I would love to have had more time with them.
Eleanor's writing is like that, very addictive. You find yourself in the last page, wondering why it's the last page and why you're there already!
This book has so much contained within its pages that a simple review is not enough - you must read it for yourselves.
Did Not Finish
March 12, 2026NO: A book I borrowed from the library to try before I buy (tired buying hundreds books and hating half)
I do not rate these “tested”
books. This is really for me. I will not be buying, reading borrowing this book.
I read first ch or more -first 10-100 pages skim around at times. I read many of my GR friend’s reviews. This is what I did and didn’t like:
Love the cover. I wasn’t a fan of her other book. It was a mess and I’m reading MF say this one is too. The hx isnt explained and it really drags a lot. The writing is ok.
Skip
I do not rate these “tested”
books. This is really for me. I will not be buying, reading borrowing this book.
I read first ch or more -first 10-100 pages skim around at times. I read many of my GR friend’s reviews. This is what I did and didn’t like:
Love the cover. I wasn’t a fan of her other book. It was a mess and I’m reading MF say this one is too. The hx isnt explained and it really drags a lot. The writing is ok.
Skip
March 15, 2026
Gorgeous. It's been a long time since I've read such a lyrically beautiful story, that also manages to not let that lyricism distract from the narrative. I already knew a fair amount about that Maroons, so that may have helped immediately anchor me in the tale. The atmosphere, the complexities of love and freedom, and family, and being thrust into a world you didn't ask for.
A beautiful work of fiction that I highly recommend.
A beautiful work of fiction that I highly recommend.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Eleanor Shearer has been on my radar since she wrote River Sing Me Home. When I received an ARC for Fireflies in Winter I was excited to finally read a book by this author since I never got around to reading her debut book. Unfortunately this book was too wordy and too slow paced for me. I trudged through it finding the last third better, still not enough to give it a high rating. If you are interested in learning about slavery in Canada you will learn a lot on this topic by reading this book. Thank you NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 1, 2026
Recensie - Vuurvliegjes in Nova Scotia ✨
Nova Scotia, 1760. Cora, een wees die net uit Jamaica is aangekomen, heeft het nog nooit zo koud gehad. Niemand waagt zich nu de deur uit, dus de schim in het bos lijkt haar gezichtsbedrog… totdat ze naar buiten gaat en in het maanlicht sporen in de sneeuw vindt. Agnes is op de vlucht en houdt zich verborgen in de wildernis, waar ze moet zien te overleven. Fouten kan ze zich niet veroorloven. De jonge vrouw in het bos verontrust haar dan ook. Maar hun paden zijn voorbestemd om te kruisen. Tussen de ceders bouwen Cora en Agnes aan een veilige plek. Wanneer Agnes’s verleden hen inhaalt, worden ze geconfronteerd met de prijs van vrijheid en liefde….
Sommige boeken vertellen een verhaal. Andere boeken laten je even anders naar je eigen leven kijken. Vuurvliegjes in Nova Scotia deed dat echt voor mij.
Het verhaal liet me stilstaan bij iets wat in het dagelijks leven zo vanzelfsprekend kan voelen, vrijheid. De vrijheid om zelf keuzes te maken, om te zeggen wat je denkt, om te gaan waar je wilt, om lief te hebben wie je liefhebt. Dat zijn dingen waar we vaak niet eens bewust bij stilstaan, omdat ze voor velen van ons zo normaal lijken. En juist dat wil ik zoveel bewuster gaan voelen omdat dat helaas niet vanzelfsprekend is voor iedereen op de wereld. Je voelt tijdens het lezen ook echt de emoties doorkomen waardoor ik zelf ook wat tranen heb laten vallen, en meerdere keren het boek even aan de kant heb moeten leggen. Je voelt daarin tegen ook echt de liefde door je heen stromen tijdens het lezen, en die twee punten zorgen ervoor dat het voor mij echt een magisch goed boek is 🥹.
De schrijfstijl is mooi en toegankelijk om te lezen, en zorgt er dus ook echt voor dat je het boek ingetrokken wordt. Dit is een boek wat me echt vast gegrepen heeft en net als bijvoorbeeld de Weyward vrouwen van Emilia Hart nog lang bij me zal blijven💗.
Uitgeverij Ambo Anthos dankjewel dat ik dit meeslepende en belangrijke boek heb mogen lezen en recenseren ❤️✨.
Nova Scotia, 1760. Cora, een wees die net uit Jamaica is aangekomen, heeft het nog nooit zo koud gehad. Niemand waagt zich nu de deur uit, dus de schim in het bos lijkt haar gezichtsbedrog… totdat ze naar buiten gaat en in het maanlicht sporen in de sneeuw vindt. Agnes is op de vlucht en houdt zich verborgen in de wildernis, waar ze moet zien te overleven. Fouten kan ze zich niet veroorloven. De jonge vrouw in het bos verontrust haar dan ook. Maar hun paden zijn voorbestemd om te kruisen. Tussen de ceders bouwen Cora en Agnes aan een veilige plek. Wanneer Agnes’s verleden hen inhaalt, worden ze geconfronteerd met de prijs van vrijheid en liefde….
Sommige boeken vertellen een verhaal. Andere boeken laten je even anders naar je eigen leven kijken. Vuurvliegjes in Nova Scotia deed dat echt voor mij.
Het verhaal liet me stilstaan bij iets wat in het dagelijks leven zo vanzelfsprekend kan voelen, vrijheid. De vrijheid om zelf keuzes te maken, om te zeggen wat je denkt, om te gaan waar je wilt, om lief te hebben wie je liefhebt. Dat zijn dingen waar we vaak niet eens bewust bij stilstaan, omdat ze voor velen van ons zo normaal lijken. En juist dat wil ik zoveel bewuster gaan voelen omdat dat helaas niet vanzelfsprekend is voor iedereen op de wereld. Je voelt tijdens het lezen ook echt de emoties doorkomen waardoor ik zelf ook wat tranen heb laten vallen, en meerdere keren het boek even aan de kant heb moeten leggen. Je voelt daarin tegen ook echt de liefde door je heen stromen tijdens het lezen, en die twee punten zorgen ervoor dat het voor mij echt een magisch goed boek is 🥹.
De schrijfstijl is mooi en toegankelijk om te lezen, en zorgt er dus ook echt voor dat je het boek ingetrokken wordt. Dit is een boek wat me echt vast gegrepen heeft en net als bijvoorbeeld de Weyward vrouwen van Emilia Hart nog lang bij me zal blijven💗.
Uitgeverij Ambo Anthos dankjewel dat ik dit meeslepende en belangrijke boek heb mogen lezen en recenseren ❤️✨.
February 27, 2026
“Cora has never believed in ghosts. It’s memories that haunt her—that visit at night in restless sleep.”
First off, thank you @berkleypub for the free copy of Fireflies in Winter. #berkleypartner #berkleybookstagram
The second I found out a historical fiction book was being released about Jamaican immigrants in Atlantic Canada, I knew I needed to read it!
Honestly, I had no idea the Revolutionary War impacted the Atlantic provinces, mainly Nova Scotia and Newfoundland (my home province). So you have me starting this book thinking, “War in 1796 in Atlantic Canada? What is this author talking about?” which sent me down a fascinating historical rabbit hole that I knew nothing about.
You are not here for a history lesson, though, so let’s jump into my review of this book, starting with what I liked:
1. The writing! When I tell you the prose and the quotes in this book are beautiful, I am not kidding.
2. The story itself is engaging and unique. The fact that it is based on Canadian history, let alone Atlantic Canadian history, is a treat and, based on the small research spiral I went down, the author did an excellent job depicting the events of that time.
3. The character development was incredibly well executed, even for the secondary characters. I also loved the slow-building of Cora and Agnes relationship.
4. The story is very well laid out and, for the most part, has even pacing throughout. I did find it picked up significantly in the middle and became hard to put down.
So why only 4 stars?
Despite the book starting off with a bang, I did find it hard to get into and to push past the first half. I was finding it difficult to pick up and even considered DNFing at one point.
But then I started describing it to my friend and realized, “Wow, this actually sounds fantastic. Why am I having issues here?” My friend agreed and convinced me that, if anything, I sounded excited about the book and would be a moron not to continue.
Which I am very happy I did, because the middle to end section is a ride!
First off, thank you @berkleypub for the free copy of Fireflies in Winter. #berkleypartner #berkleybookstagram
The second I found out a historical fiction book was being released about Jamaican immigrants in Atlantic Canada, I knew I needed to read it!
Honestly, I had no idea the Revolutionary War impacted the Atlantic provinces, mainly Nova Scotia and Newfoundland (my home province). So you have me starting this book thinking, “War in 1796 in Atlantic Canada? What is this author talking about?” which sent me down a fascinating historical rabbit hole that I knew nothing about.
You are not here for a history lesson, though, so let’s jump into my review of this book, starting with what I liked:
1. The writing! When I tell you the prose and the quotes in this book are beautiful, I am not kidding.
2. The story itself is engaging and unique. The fact that it is based on Canadian history, let alone Atlantic Canadian history, is a treat and, based on the small research spiral I went down, the author did an excellent job depicting the events of that time.
3. The character development was incredibly well executed, even for the secondary characters. I also loved the slow-building of Cora and Agnes relationship.
4. The story is very well laid out and, for the most part, has even pacing throughout. I did find it picked up significantly in the middle and became hard to put down.
So why only 4 stars?
Despite the book starting off with a bang, I did find it hard to get into and to push past the first half. I was finding it difficult to pick up and even considered DNFing at one point.
But then I started describing it to my friend and realized, “Wow, this actually sounds fantastic. Why am I having issues here?” My friend agreed and convinced me that, if anything, I sounded excited about the book and would be a moron not to continue.
Which I am very happy I did, because the middle to end section is a ride!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 244 reviews