Jan Notzon

Hello, there! I'm a dog-loving, retired actor. I now dedicate my free time to writing. I'd love to hear from other writers about their experiences.

[Jan Notzon @jannotzon]

Lucas Reed- Reading Chapter 4, our club was stunned by the quiet tension that runs beneath the surface of Jacob and Grace’s interactions. Notzon writes in a way that makes every glance, pause, and word feel loaded with meaning. Grace’s internal struggle, her self-doubt, and moments of small courage made us discuss how trauma shapes behavior long before it’s addressed. By the end of Chapter 5, we were invested not just in the plot, but in the characters’ growth, their tiny victories, and the silent battles they fight. It’s rare to see such nuance in so few chapters.

[Jan Notzon @jannotzon]

Shayn Will: October 21, 2025
Our book club picked up The Dogs, Barking after Claire Hephzibah recommended it, and I can honestly say we were all taken aback by how deeply it resonated. The story of a young man torn between ambition and the ghosts of his upbringing hit close to home for many of us. The raw honesty of Jan Notzon’s writing sparked one of the most emotional discussions our group has ever had. Claire was right, this is a book that gets under your skin and stays there.

[Jan Notzon @jannotzon]

We call on First Lady Melania Trump to keep going, to work with allies, and to secure the unconditional return of all Ukrainian children who have been forcibly transferred, deported or separated from their families. https://t.co/UqcQqCfJfP

[Jan Notzon @jannotzon]

Sherry Gonzalez 5 out of 5 stars
The title says it all—both melancholic and uplifting.
Reviewed in the United States on October 17, 2020
Format: Paperback
Verified Purchase

This is the story of Mandy MacDaniel and her journey toward redemption. I am drawn to stories of redemption, actually toward the possibility of redemption because I believe this grace is out-of-reach for so many of us. However, this is one area in which the idea of being wrong is welcome. To say that I was blown away is doing a disservice to both the author and Mandy. Also, this is not a descriptive term I would use. I will say I was awed and deeply touched. What common ground could I have with a girl from the

Appalachian backwoods? The truth is that I saw myself in Mandy and that is what great writing should do—find connections. It should never talk down to it’s audience. This novel did not. The chapters are short and fast-paced taking the reader through Mandy’s family history, her complicated relationships with family, heartbreaking decisions, and an all too-brief glimpse into her life. I love words and how people choose to put them together to evoke responses. The writing is lyrical, poetic, almost a dirge. I can see how the love of the poetry of the Romantics influenced and affected the life of Mandy’s father, Owen. It is the style of the dreamers, of those who prefer the sublime over the mundane. To lose sight of these dreams crushes the soul and darkens the spirit. Do Mandy and her family find redemption? I really cannot say, but the path is definitely there.

[Jan Notzon @jannotzon]

Alessandro Moretti: I have to admit, I was confused at first,the cover of The Dogs, Barking on Amazon looked completely different from the one on Goodreads, and I almost thought I was looking at two different books. After checking, I realized they were the same, and I’m so glad I didn’t miss out. The story of a man haunted by his past and ultimately finding peace in what he once fled is deeply moving. Jan Notzon’s writing feels both personal and cinematic, and the emotional payoff is worth every page.

[Jan Notzon @jannotzon]

Claire Howard (5 stars): Reading Chapter 21 felt like descending into the marrow of Jake’s conscience. What struck me most was how Jan Notzon captures the terrible intimacy of self-awareness the moment when a person sees, with aching clarity, the fractures in their own soul. This chapter carries a haunting stillness; it’s as if every sentence breathes with the weight of confession. I could almost feel Jake’s exhaustion not physical, but moral as he grapples with what it means to live rightly in a world that rewards hypocrisy.

What makes Notzon remarkable is his refusal to simplify. He doesn’t turn guilt into punishment or faith into comfort. Instead, he threads them together like twin vines struggling toward light. I loved how Jake’s reflections felt biblical in tone yet painfully human in scope the voice of someone seeking God not in churches or rituals but in the difficult terrain of his own heart.

Jan, thank you for giving our community this sacred space to contemplate what redemption really costs. Your writing reminds us that truth, when it finally dawns, is both wounding and cleansing. We can’t wait to see what deeper revelations Chapter 22 will bring.

[Jan Notzon @jannotzon]

Danni Graham (5 stars): I'm so glad I gave this book a go. The author, Jan Notzon, told an incredible story. His writing style was beautiful, his characters more than great. I will read more from this author and I suggest you do too.

[Jan Notzon @jannotzon]

I Love (5 stars): I honestly did not expect this book to have such a profound impact on me. From the very first chapter, I found myself completely immersed in the author's storytelling and perspective. Every page offered something meaningful, whether it was a thought-provoking insight, an emotional moment, or a lesson that lingered long after I finished reading.

What impressed me most was how relatable everything felt. The author has a remarkable ability to communicate complex ideas in a way that is both accessible and engaging. Instead of simply presenting information, they invite you into the experience, making you reflect on your own life and decisions.

By the time I reached the final chapter, I realized I had highlighted countless passages because I didn't want to forget them. This is one of those rare books that entertains while genuinely adding value to your life. I can confidently say it's among the best books I've read this year, and I'll be recommending it to everyone I know.

[Jan Notzon @jannotzon]

Greer Bellamy (5 stars): To Sing Like a Mockingbird is one of those books that sneaks up on you. At first glance, it’s a story about juvenile reform and small town politics, but by the end, it becomes a meditation on integrity and the price of sticking to your beliefs. Justin Kopechne is written with refreshing honesty. He’s not a saint his rigidity often makes him difficult to support, but that’s exactly what makes him compelling. I admired his persistence with the boys at the reformatory, even as I cringed at the way his stubbornness pushed his wife away. The sheriff’s arc was equally strong, showing how ambition and compromise chip away at good intentions until there’s nothing left but survival. The writing itself is spare and direct, which worked beautifully with the subject matter. This isn’t a book that hands you hope on a silver platter, but it leaves you with respect for the messy fight between conviction and reality.

[Jan Notzon @jannotzon]

Gina Rae Mitchell 1,434 reviews 110 followers
“When we left, we didn’t just leave a place—we left ourselves behind.”
At its core, Suffer Not the Mole People is a deeply personal story about what it costs—mentally, emotionally, spiritually—to uproot your life in search of something better. It’s not just historical fiction; it’s psychological fiction in the truest sense. This is a novel about survival, yes, but more than that—it’s about the enduring trauma of leaving behind your homeland, your culture, your sense of self.
The story centers on a Polish family emigrating to Texas in the late 19th century, but the emotions it captures feel timeless. There’s the ever-present fear of the unknown, the heartbreak of watching the life you once knew fade into memory, and the weight of trying to build a future in a place that doesn’t always welcome you.
What struck me most wasn’t the external conflict—it was the internal one. Notzon explores the way trauma lingers through generations. The characters carry invisible burdens: guilt, displacement, isolation, and a desperate desire to belong while holding onto who they were. And when the world around them demands assimilation, silence, or obedience, the psychological pressure becomes unbearable.
There’s a raw vulnerability in these pages—moments when hope glimmers and then falters. But there’s strength too. The kind of quiet, enduring strength required to leave everything behind in hopes your children might have more.
This isn’t a fast-paced read, but it’s an important one. If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to leave home behind forever, this book gets to the bone of it.
“Hope is a heavy thing to carry when you’re the one who has to pass it down.”
Suffer Not the Mole People is a haunting, deeply human novel that explores what it means to leave everything behind—and the emotional legacy such a choice carries. Jan Notzon doesn’t sugarcoat the immigrant experience. He allows space for the fear, the grief, the shame of feeling like a stranger in your new home—and the silent pride in surviving it all anyway.
This story may be historical in setting, but its emotional truth feels current. For anyone who has lived between cultures, questioned their place, or carried the burden of unspoken trauma, this book speaks volumes.

[Jan Notzon @jannotzon]

Donna Page: This is a very detailed and involved book about three men who become friends when they are very young. They come from different background and the author goes into great detail about their adventures and misadventures. You will get very invested in Arturo and Jake as they are the main characters but Connors plays a very important part in the background. In the 390 pages we see these three grow up, become young men who have a misadventure. Arturo is captured and believed killed. This creates a major brake in the relationship of Connors and Jake. Years later these two show up in the same court room on the opposite sides. You will find the results of this case daunting. Because of this Jake leaves the legal profession. Several years later Connors is a powerful man who has access to people who can gather information from all sorts of places and he finds Arturo is not dead! Connors and Jake must work together to bring Arturo out of the prison. From this point we get to experience all of the demons that Arturo deals with after his rescue. You will find yourself wanting to finish as quickly as you can to find out if Arturo can pull out of his mental state, what will happen to Jake and Connors. You want to read it quickly to determine if the book ends the way you think it will, probably not.

[Jan Notzon @jannotzon]

@Kinza1278 11

[Jan Notzon @jannotzon]

Alessandro Moretti: I have to admit, I was confused at first,the cover of The Dogs, Barking on Amazon looked completely different from the one on Goodreads, and I almost thought I was looking at two different books. After checking, I realized they were the same, and I’m so glad I didn’t miss out. The story of a man haunted by his past and ultimately finding peace in what he once fled is deeply moving. Jan Notzon’s writing feels both personal and cinematic, and the emotional payoff is worth every page.

[Jan Notzon @jannotzon]

Book Reviewer (5 stars) 5,156 reviews 482 followers: And Ye Shall Be as Gods by Jan Notzon presents a compelling blend of narrative, philosophical exploration, and elements of mystery. The story centers around Jacob Kazmareck, who embarks on a multifaceted journey of self-discovery, healing his adoptive sister, and grappling with his relationship with God. Throughout the novel, readers are introduced to significant philosophical questions. Notzon addresses these questions in a personal and comprehensible manner, offering their own interpretations while leaving room for reader engagement.

The novel delves into the theme of anti-Semitism, making it particularly pertinent in today's context. It encourages readers to reflect on profound human questions, similar to those that Jacob confronts: the essence of humanity, our inclination towards accepting hatred as a norm, and the nature of good and evil. Jacob's intricate thought processes and his philosophical quest for truth are portrayed, culminating in the revelation that the pursuit of certainty is, ironically, one of the greatest evils. This theme resonates with the book's title, which alludes to Satan's promise to Adam and Eve, suggesting a parallel between humans and deities in their capacity for pettiness and hate.

While the book invites readers to engage more deeply, Notzon's rich and advanced vocabulary, used creatively, adds a unique layer to the reading experience. This is evident in phrases like "insouciant nutmeg," which offer a distinctive twist to conventional descriptions. Blending sophisticated language with diverse subjects enriches the narrative and encourages readers to explore the text more thoughtfully, even if it occasionally presents interpretative challenges.

And Ye Shall Be as Gods depth and thought-provoking nature reward the reader with a rich story that encourages introspection and personal interpretation of the philosophical queries it raises. The book offers a unique and reflective journey for those willing to navigate its complex language.

[Jan Notzon @jannotzon]

Book Reviewer 5,156 reviews 482 followers
(5 stars): Only the Dead, authored by Jan Notzon, presents a compelling narrative set amidst the tumult of a revolutionary movement, exploring the intricate ethical dilemmas faced by individuals caught in the throes of societal upheaval. The story orbits around José Necahuatl, a character whose allegiance to Father Hidalgo is juxtaposed against his apprehensions about the uprising's violent nature. This central conflict serves as a lens to examine the broader implications of war on personal ethics and societal norms.

Through characters such as José Nicolás de Cos de la Portilla, the novel delves into the psychological impact of conflict, showcasing the internal strife and emotional complexity inherent in times of war. The narrative is further enriched by the experiences of Miss Luz and Mr. Macalister, who confront the stark realities of life during such turbulent times. Particularly moving is Miss Luz's ordeal of captivity and torture at the hands of the Comanches, a storyline that poignantly captures the dehumanizing effects of prolonged warfare. Notzon skillfully weaves these personal stories into the broader tapestry of a community in reconstruction. The struggles faced by José Necahuatl in the Bajío region post-rebellion mirror the broader challenges encountered by a community in the throes of rebuilding. Alongside Señor Tomás and other characters, the narrative navigates a path marked by uncertainty, shared histories, and the collective effort to overcome the aftermath of conflict. Incorporating elements of threat, tragedy, and a perilous journey to escape persecution, the novel embeds these experiences within the fabric of the characters' lives. As the plot unfolds, the characters face moral dilemmas, unexpected acts of kindness, and the harsh realities of life post-war, drawing the reader deeper into their personal journeys.

Only the Dead paints a vivid portrait of a community undergoing significant change. By balancing the personal struggles of its characters against the historical backdrop, the novel offers an intimate glimpse into the impact of war and revolution on individual lives and moral decisions. This interplay between historical events and personal narratives renders the story engaging and thought-provoking, providing a unique perspective on a pivotal historical period.

[Jan Notzon @jannotzon]

Jessica Sandy (5 stars): Heir of the West Wind is one of those rare novels that completely draws you into its world from the very first chapter. Jan Notzon has crafted an unforgettable story filled with heartbreak, resilience, and redemption. John Michael Macalister is a deeply compelling protagonist whose journey feels both epic and intensely personal. I found myself invested in every challenge he faced as he struggled to reclaim not only his family's ranch but also his own sense of honor and purpose.

What impressed me most was the emotional depth of the story. The relationships, the betrayals, and the sacrifices felt genuine and powerful. The West Texas setting comes alive through vivid descriptions that make the landscape feel like a character in its own right. This is more than a Western or family saga. It is a profound exploration of identity, forgiveness, and the strength of the human spirit. A truly remarkable read.

[Jan Notzon @jannotzon]

Judson Tolliver (5 stars): What impressed me most about To Sing Like a Mockingbird is its depth of character. Justin is someone you root for even when he frustrates you, and that complexity kept me hooked. I thought the scenes at the reformatory were some of the most powerful, giving a glimpse of hope in the lives of kids society has already written off. At the same time, the sheriff’s arc shows the other side of the coin, how ambition can hollow out even those who once meant well. The cartel influence looms in the background, but what really stuck with me were the personal conflicts. Justin’s strained marriage and clashes with his brother added layers of authenticity. These weren’t side plots; they felt essential to understanding the cost of his choices. The setting amplified everything the sense of isolation, the pressure of small-town politics, the weight of expectations. This isn’t a book for readers looking for easy resolutions, but for those who want to wrestle with moral gray areas, it’s a powerful read.

[Jan Notzon @jannotzon]

Craig Anderson: The author succeeds in making you care about his characters and wanting to know what happens next to them. His evocation of nineteenth century Poland is credible and coherent. He has created a universe in which the themes of family, tolerance and freedom are explored well.

[Jan Notzon @jannotzon]

Geri: This was not what I would call an 'easy' read but I'm glad I stuck with it. I was in awe of the writer's ability to paint pictures through his writing. An example would be this quote from Chapter 10.
"The night was a crystalline wonder, oppressive in its vastness. The firmament spread out against the sky in sequined majesty. Starlight from uncountable ages past rippled gently through the silken threads of waxing moon."
Just beautiful imagery!

[Jan Notzon @jannotzon]

Reader: What immediately stood out to me in The Dogs, Barking was Jan Notzon’s voice, steady, unflinching, and full of heart. His writing captures the tension between rebellion and redemption with a realism that feels lived-in. You can almost hear the desert wind and the haunting bark of the dogs as symbols of everything the protagonist is running from. This isn’t just a story; it’s an emotional confession beautifully told.

[Jan Notzon @jannotzon]

Book Reviewer (4 stars) 5,156 reviews 482 followers: And Ye Shall Be as Gods by Jan Notzon presents a compelling blend of narrative, philosophical exploration, and elements of mystery. The story centers around Jacob Kazmareck, who embarks on a multifaceted journey of self-discovery, healing his adoptive sister, and grappling with his relationship with God. Throughout the novel, readers are introduced to significant philosophical questions. Notzon addresses these questions in a personal and comprehensible manner, offering their own interpretations while leaving room for reader engagement.

The novel delves into the theme of anti-Semitism, making it particularly pertinent in today's context. It encourages readers to reflect on profound human questions, similar to those that Jacob confronts: the essence of humanity, our inclination towards accepting hatred as a norm, and the nature of good and evil. Jacob's intricate thought processes and his philosophical quest for truth are portrayed, culminating in the revelation that the pursuit of certainty is, ironically, one of the greatest evils. This theme resonates with the book's title, which alludes to Satan's promise to Adam and Eve, suggesting a parallel between humans and deities in their capacity for pettiness and hate.

While the book invites readers to engage more deeply, Notzon's rich and advanced vocabulary, used creatively, adds a unique layer to the reading experience. This is evident in phrases like "insouciant nutmeg," which offer a distinctive twist to conventional descriptions. Blending sophisticated language with diverse subjects enriches the narrative and encourages readers to explore the text more thoughtfully, even if it occasionally presents interpretative challenges.

And Ye Shall Be as Gods depth and thought-provoking nature reward the reader with a rich story that encourages introspection and personal interpretation of the philosophical queries it raises. The book offers a unique and reflective journey for those willing to navigate its complex language.