Description
In 1941, after the shock of Pearl Harbor, one young Jewish pilot rises into the skies—and into history.
Through Smoke and Shadows follows a U.S. Army Air Corps pilot as he battles enemy aircraft, personal doubt, and the harsh reality of anti-Semitism within the ranks. Flying missions over France and Germany, he forges powerful bonds with fellow airmen while wrestling with what it means to serve his country and honor his heritage during humanity’s darkest hour.
A moving blend of aviation action, personal resilience, and Jewish wartime experience, this novel is perfect for readers who love:
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WWII aviation fiction
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Biographical and character-driven war stories
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Heroic tales of identity, courage, and friendship
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Historical fiction rooted in real emotional truth
Join a journey of sacrifice, brotherhood, and the unbreakable spirit of a pilot fighting for freedom and for a place in a world that too often rejects him.
Beta Reader and Editorial Reviews:
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“A gripping WWII aviation novel about courage, identity, and the Jewish experience.”
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"A biographical historical fiction story following a Jewish pilot confronting war and prejudice.”
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"By the first few pages, I was rooting for Flag, and by the end, I was holding my breath until he got home."
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What was the motivation for this book?
I've always wanted to write a novel, and historical fiction is my favorite genre, especially military historical fiction. After having the outline and notes in a file for eight years, working with a Vietnam veteran to complete his book of life stories compelled me to finish my own book.
What is historical fiction?
Historical fiction is a genre that blends fictional narratives with real historical events, settings, and figures. It immerses readers in a specific time period, combining vivid storytelling with character development. While the characters may be fictional, the authentic backdrop allows exploration of historical contexts, cultures, and human experiences, both entertaining and educating readers about different eras.
Why did you write about a Jewish pilot? Are you Jewish?
No, I'm not of a Jewish lineage or faith. I added the Jewish heritage to the lead character for an additional layer of complexity. In the 1940s, antisemitism was a popular "polite" racism practiced in most circles.
How much of the story is history and how much is fiction?
I'm a history nerd, so I wanted to make the book as historically accurate as possible. The setting of World War II in the states and Europe is accurate. The training bases where Bob Fleigalman and his buddies trained actually existed. His wartime unit, the 324th Bomb Squadron, 91st Bomb Group (Heavy), 8th Air Force, really existed, and was based at RAF Bassingbourn, Cambridgeshire. All the battles and dates fought in the book are historically accurate.
Is Bob Fleigalman a real person?
No, Bob Fleigalman is a fictional character. I created him as an amalgamation of similar characters in books and movies about the air war over Europe in World War II.
How much research was involved in the book?
I researched some years ago when creating the outline and story arc, but then spent two months in 2025 fleshing out the details and running down historical tidbits.