FROM THE MEMOIR OF THOMAS CALDWELL
Shadows in the Chancellorsville is a work of fiction. Still, it is grounded in the brutal realities of the American Civil War and in the quiet truths I believe every soldier, North or South, eventually confronted about duty, fear, sorrow, and memory.
I’m now retired and living in Southeast Florida with my wife, where I continue to pursue my lifelong passion for storytelling. Writing began as a personal outlet—a way to make sense of life’s uncertainties. Over time, it has evolved into a more profound exploration of history and the
human experience.
I’ve always considered myself a student of history. There’s beauty and truth in its unchangeable nature. History, like life, is often messy—but once it happens, it can’t be undone. It must be accepted, studied, and learned from. That belief is at the heart of my work in historical fiction.
The genre allows me to step into the past—not to revise it, but to understand it more fully.
Through vivid narrative and careful research, I aim to bring life to the people and moments that shaped our world. I write not just to recount the past, but to examine ideas, question assumptions, and reflect on how we grow—sometimes because of our history, and sometimes in spite of it.
To truly understand the past, I believe we must view it through the eyes of those who lived it— not just through the lens of hindsight. That empathetic approach defines my writing and continues to guide me on this journey as an author.
Shadows in Chancellorsville arrived yesterday, and I’m already hooked.
I love the concept of exploring the unseen—what thoughts, fears, and private struggles might have filled the minds of men sitting on the frontlines of history.
Stephen brings humanity to the past, filling in the emotional and psychological spaces between historical facts in a way that feels both respectful and deeply moving. This book made me reflect on the hidden weight behind well-known moments.
I’ll definitely be picking up more of Stephen’s work.
This book was an absolute page-turner from start to finish. The pacing kept me hooked, and I found myself truly invested in the story.
I couldn’t help but root for Thomas the entire way through—his journey was compelling, emotional, and deeply human.
Each chapter pulled me in further, and by the end, I felt like I had lived every moment with him.
No, it is a work of historical fiction. While the characters are fictional, the events, settings, and emotions are grounded in real Civil War history.
Private Caldwell is a fictional character who represents the untold stories of countless soldiers from both sides of the war — ordinary men caught in extraordinary circumstances.
The novel is best suited for mature teens and adults due to its realistic depiction of war, emotional depth, and historical themes.
Yes! Two more books by Stephen Mark Hickman are currently in the works and will be released soon. Stay tuned by joining the newsletter.
You can purchase Shadows in Chancellorsville directly through this website, or via Amazon and other major retailers.
Not at all. While historically rich, the story focuses on human emotions — making it engaging for anyone who loves character-driven fiction.
Yes! A limited number of signed copies are available during special promotions. Check the store or sign up to be notified.
Stephen is available for virtual book club Q&As and speaking engagements. You can contact him directly through the site’s contact form.