review "FATHER AND SON AT WAR" is an interesting book for those who love to read historical fiction. It is obvious Isabel Vandervelde is a lover of history, as she carefully described the Civil War and provided excellent background for the storyline of the book. The historical fiction genre is not an easy one to write, as it requires immense research. ......this was a very engaging read. What was most enjoyable for me was the historical background of the novel intertwined with the developing relationship between the white General and his mulatto son. Both of these elements worked wonderfully together, strengthening one another, and form an excellent collection of personal introspections of the Civil War, revealing thoughts of those who were involved in the struggle for freedom." book review.