Fireflies In Winter ❄️

By Eleanor Shearer.

Fireflies in Winter is a beautifully written and deeply moving historical book that explores freedom, belonging and love against the harsh backdrop of 1796 Nova Scotia. From the first few pages, it is clear that the author has crafted something both powerful and tender, a story that lingers long after you finish reading.

The book follows Cora, an orphan who has travelled from Jamaica to Nova Scotia with her adopted Maroon family. She has never experienced cold like this before.

The icy winds, snow covered forests and endless winter are a world away from her Caribbean home. Her adopted mother and brother provide some comfort, yet Cora feels unanchored and afraid of the father she left behind. As she struggles to find her place, the unfamiliar landscape mirrors her own uncertainty and longing.

One day, while wandering the forest, Cora encounters Agnes, a young woman living alone with her dog. Agnes is cautious and secretive, clearly running from something in her past. Despite their differences, a quiet understanding grows between them.

When Cora later runs away from home, it is Agnes she turns to for safety. What follows is a story of connection, survival and the fragile hope that love can bloom even in the most frozen of places.

The bond between Cora and Agnes is written with great tenderness. It begins with friendship and trust, slowly developing into something deeper. Shearer handles their relationship with sensitivity and warmth, allowing it to feel both natural and inevitable. Their love is a lifeline in a world that offers them little safety, and its quiet strength is what makes the story so compelling.

What also stands out is the historical and geographical depth of the writing. Shearer’s exploration of the Jamaican Maroons who were resettled in Nova Scotia is fascinating. It is a lesser known part of history, and she brings it to life with authenticity and care.

The descriptions of the wilderness, the harsh winter, and the daily struggle to survive are vivid and immersive. The inclusion of natural imagery, particularly the whale scenes, adds a haunting beauty that stays with you.

In her author’s note, Shearer writes about resisting the idea of learning history in national silos, reminding us that the movements of people and cultures have always been interconnected. That message feels especially poignant here. Fireflies in Winter reminds us that freedom and identity are rarely simple, and that love can exist even in the most unforgiving environments.

This is a book that feels as poetic as it is historical. It is about survival and resilience, but also about tenderness, humanity and the quiet acts of care that keep people alive through the coldest seasons.

A moving, atmospheric and beautifully written story that captures both the brutality and beauty of survival. Perfect for readers who enjoy historical fiction rooted in emotional truth.

Thank you to Caitlin and the team at Headline for sending me a copy of the book! The book is out now and available to purchase!

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