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Contact: The Battle for America #2
Fire the Sky
New York Times bestselling novelists W. Michael and Kathleen O’Neal Gear have long been considered the foremost chroniclers of early Native American life. Now, in a critically acclaimed, sweeping new series, they recreate the conflict-filled years following one of the first European invasions. Seen through the eyes of a courageous pair of Native Americans, Fire the Sky follows Hernando de Soto’s brutal expedition north from the Florida peninsula as the explorer plunders the heart of a complex and fragile civilization.
An itinerant trader and outcast from his tribe, Black Shell was swept into the Spirit World and returned a transformed man. Now, carrying his white-feathered trader’s staff, he devotes his life to a sacred mission that only the tall, beautiful Pearl Hand—his lover, confidant and wife—truly understands. Black Shell has seen what the incomprehensibly violent, shining-armored invaders are capable of doing to his world and knows that if his people are to survive, he and his “Orphans,” a small band of fierce warriors, must kill as many Kristianos as they can.
After being fought to a standstill by the courageous Apalachee Nation, de Soto has changed his tactics. He will employ promises of peace to accomplish what cannot be achieved by violence alone. Lured by a young man’s tale of gold and aided by an arrogant princess’s treachery, he makes his way through the beautiful southeastern landscape. One by one, the ancient Nations fall victim to his lies as rulers and commoners alike are tricked into enslavement. In spite of the price de Soto has placed on his head, Black Shell shadows the Kristiano advance and finds that his own legend precedes him. Some will heed Black Shell’s strategies of sacrifice and deception. Others will ignore him—and suffer unspeakable horrors as a result.
In this moving, vivid portrait of a lost American civilization and a powerful love between a man and a woman, the Gears illuminate a little-understood time in our history, as this bloody conflict between two peoples hurtles toward an apocalyptic battle that may change the course of the war forever. . . .
An itinerant trader and outcast from his tribe, Black Shell was swept into the Spirit World and returned a transformed man. Now, carrying his white-feathered trader’s staff, he devotes his life to a sacred mission that only the tall, beautiful Pearl Hand—his lover, confidant and wife—truly understands. Black Shell has seen what the incomprehensibly violent, shining-armored invaders are capable of doing to his world and knows that if his people are to survive, he and his “Orphans,” a small band of fierce warriors, must kill as many Kristianos as they can.
After being fought to a standstill by the courageous Apalachee Nation, de Soto has changed his tactics. He will employ promises of peace to accomplish what cannot be achieved by violence alone. Lured by a young man’s tale of gold and aided by an arrogant princess’s treachery, he makes his way through the beautiful southeastern landscape. One by one, the ancient Nations fall victim to his lies as rulers and commoners alike are tricked into enslavement. In spite of the price de Soto has placed on his head, Black Shell shadows the Kristiano advance and finds that his own legend precedes him. Some will heed Black Shell’s strategies of sacrifice and deception. Others will ignore him—and suffer unspeakable horrors as a result.
In this moving, vivid portrait of a lost American civilization and a powerful love between a man and a woman, the Gears illuminate a little-understood time in our history, as this bloody conflict between two peoples hurtles toward an apocalyptic battle that may change the course of the war forever. . . .
608 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published February 15, 2011
33 people are currently reading
530 people want to read
About the author
Kathleen O'Neal Gear
137 books710 followersMy professional life began in the dark basement of the Museum of Cultural History in Los Angeles, where I was cataloguing three-hundred-year-old Guatemalan saint carvings. I quit this fascinating job and moved to Wyoming to work for the U.S. Department of the Interior as a historian and archaeologist. When I finally understood the error of my ways I moved to Wyoming and started writing books. Since then, I've authored or co-authored 54 novels and around 200 non-fiction publications.
I love writing. And buffalo. And hiking the wilds of Wyoming's backcountry.
I'm married (until he comes to his senses) to W. Michael Gear, the novelist and my co-author, and we live at the edge of the Wind River Indian Reservation in the Owl Creek mountains of Wyoming. We're contented watching buffalo and writing books.
http://us.macmillan.com/author/kathle...
I love writing. And buffalo. And hiking the wilds of Wyoming's backcountry.
I'm married (until he comes to his senses) to W. Michael Gear, the novelist and my co-author, and we live at the edge of the Wind River Indian Reservation in the Owl Creek mountains of Wyoming. We're contented watching buffalo and writing books.
http://us.macmillan.com/author/kathle...
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April 13, 2012
***Originally published to: Bookish Blog | YA&Adult Reviews, Author Interviews, Guest Posts, News and Giveaways! @_@~
Fire The Sky is the second book in Contact: Battle For America series by the bestselling author duo, W. Michael Gear and Kathleen O'Neal Gear. Just like the first book in the trilogy, it delivers breathtaking action, gripping plot developments, well-drawn characters, impressive abundance of historical details and, most of all, an excellent, profoundly meaningful story. Captivating and deeply moving, it's not only a very interesting look at the early stages of Spanish conquest of the American southeast, but most of all it's an immensely engaging and thought-provoking adventure of epic proportions, just as entertaining as it is harrowing, and just as inspiring as it is heartbreaking. It's hands down one of the best historical fiction novels I have ever read, and one that absolutely should not be missed.
Fire The Sky picks up exactly where Coming Of The Storm left off. Gears do not waste any time re-introducing the reader to the world or the characters. There are no boring recaps and no unnecessary flashbacks. We jump right back into the heat of action. In fact, in terms of action, the sequel is even more intensive and exciting than the first part. The story moves swiftly from one adventures to another, keeping the reader glued to the pages all the way through. Reading this book is anything but relaxing. The tension is always there and it's heart-stopping! I found myself gasping and shifting nervously most of the time - it was insane!
As we go deeper into the story, we learn more and more about De Soto's exploration and conquest of the New World, his cruelty, slimness, deceptiveness and heartlessness. After all the difficulties he faced in the first book, De Soto has now changed tactics, becoming even more fierce and unstoppable, spreading false promises of peace, getting the Native nations to trust him just to turn around and back-stab them. Weakened by the disease, defenseless against the many powerful weapons and fighting tactics of the Spanish army, one by one, the Native nations fall victim to De Soto's lies. Meanwhile, Black Shell and Pearl Hand are doing everything in their power to fight back, trying to warn their People and prepare them for what's to come, struggling to save their world from destruction.
Black Shell and Pearl Hand continue to inspire me. Their devotion, readiness to sacrifice their own happiness for the cause, and fierceness with which they fight is absolutely amazing. The Gears did a fabulous job fleshing out their characters, not only bringing out both their physical characteristics and personality traits, but also brilliantly depicting all their cultural features, customs and religious beliefs. Reading about the clash of cultures was very interesting and thought-provoking, and it made me see these historical events in a totally different light.
Overall, Fire The Sky is an excellent, intelligent and highly entertaining read. It's so rich in historical detail, so full of breathtaking action, so captivating and emotionally engaging, it's simply mind-blowing. On top of everything else, it's a compulsively readable page turner and a valuable history lesson. Everyone should read this series!
Fire The Sky is the second book in Contact: Battle For America series by the bestselling author duo, W. Michael Gear and Kathleen O'Neal Gear. Just like the first book in the trilogy, it delivers breathtaking action, gripping plot developments, well-drawn characters, impressive abundance of historical details and, most of all, an excellent, profoundly meaningful story. Captivating and deeply moving, it's not only a very interesting look at the early stages of Spanish conquest of the American southeast, but most of all it's an immensely engaging and thought-provoking adventure of epic proportions, just as entertaining as it is harrowing, and just as inspiring as it is heartbreaking. It's hands down one of the best historical fiction novels I have ever read, and one that absolutely should not be missed.
Fire The Sky picks up exactly where Coming Of The Storm left off. Gears do not waste any time re-introducing the reader to the world or the characters. There are no boring recaps and no unnecessary flashbacks. We jump right back into the heat of action. In fact, in terms of action, the sequel is even more intensive and exciting than the first part. The story moves swiftly from one adventures to another, keeping the reader glued to the pages all the way through. Reading this book is anything but relaxing. The tension is always there and it's heart-stopping! I found myself gasping and shifting nervously most of the time - it was insane!
As we go deeper into the story, we learn more and more about De Soto's exploration and conquest of the New World, his cruelty, slimness, deceptiveness and heartlessness. After all the difficulties he faced in the first book, De Soto has now changed tactics, becoming even more fierce and unstoppable, spreading false promises of peace, getting the Native nations to trust him just to turn around and back-stab them. Weakened by the disease, defenseless against the many powerful weapons and fighting tactics of the Spanish army, one by one, the Native nations fall victim to De Soto's lies. Meanwhile, Black Shell and Pearl Hand are doing everything in their power to fight back, trying to warn their People and prepare them for what's to come, struggling to save their world from destruction.
Black Shell and Pearl Hand continue to inspire me. Their devotion, readiness to sacrifice their own happiness for the cause, and fierceness with which they fight is absolutely amazing. The Gears did a fabulous job fleshing out their characters, not only bringing out both their physical characteristics and personality traits, but also brilliantly depicting all their cultural features, customs and religious beliefs. Reading about the clash of cultures was very interesting and thought-provoking, and it made me see these historical events in a totally different light.
Overall, Fire The Sky is an excellent, intelligent and highly entertaining read. It's so rich in historical detail, so full of breathtaking action, so captivating and emotionally engaging, it's simply mind-blowing. On top of everything else, it's a compulsively readable page turner and a valuable history lesson. Everyone should read this series!
March 16, 2013
Battle for America: Fire the Sky; W. Michael Gear & Kathleen O'Neal Gear, 2010; Gallery Books
Fire in the sky is the second novel in Gear & Gear's "The Battle for America" series. Just as with the first book "Coming of the Storm", the authors have done a remarkable job of drawing this reader into the social, political, and geo-agricultural life of the Native American Indian. And even though the book is a fictional archeology of the history and culture of Indigenous Americans during the time Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto and his mercenaries landed in Central America, it is never the less a great historical read.
By creating characters like Black Shell and Pearl Hand who as traders, would have had inside knowledge about numerous tribes, their politics, trade, geographical terrain and cultural differences, Gear and Gear have woven a very credible story. My only complaint is that historically, it is depressing to realize that it was simply the Native American ignorance of Spanish iron and horses that became the crippling force behind de Soto's unstoppable success: that and the fact that he just flat out fought dirty.
Another aspect of Gear and Gear's authorship I appreciate is the way they centered the conflict around the spiritual beliefs indelibly embedded within both the Native Americans as well as the Spaniards. Not because I think every novel needs to have that factor within it, but in this case its important to realize how integral to the overall story it is that both cultures were, and to some extent still are, heavily influenced by their spiritual beliefs. If we remember our history, one of the greatest religious persecutions in antiquity finds its roots in the Spanish Inquisition, and therefore important to the overall justification of conquer and conquered, that de Soto and his mercenaries would have felt while massacring thousands of people who did not worship or perceive the spirit realm in the same manner as themselves. In their minds, any race that wasn't Catholic would have been considered devils, demon worshippers, and therefore deserving of subjugation and death.
On my readers rating of one to five stars, I'm giving Fire the Sky a 3.5 stars for overall story, and 4 stars for historical integrity.
Fire in the sky is the second novel in Gear & Gear's "The Battle for America" series. Just as with the first book "Coming of the Storm", the authors have done a remarkable job of drawing this reader into the social, political, and geo-agricultural life of the Native American Indian. And even though the book is a fictional archeology of the history and culture of Indigenous Americans during the time Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto and his mercenaries landed in Central America, it is never the less a great historical read.
By creating characters like Black Shell and Pearl Hand who as traders, would have had inside knowledge about numerous tribes, their politics, trade, geographical terrain and cultural differences, Gear and Gear have woven a very credible story. My only complaint is that historically, it is depressing to realize that it was simply the Native American ignorance of Spanish iron and horses that became the crippling force behind de Soto's unstoppable success: that and the fact that he just flat out fought dirty.
Another aspect of Gear and Gear's authorship I appreciate is the way they centered the conflict around the spiritual beliefs indelibly embedded within both the Native Americans as well as the Spaniards. Not because I think every novel needs to have that factor within it, but in this case its important to realize how integral to the overall story it is that both cultures were, and to some extent still are, heavily influenced by their spiritual beliefs. If we remember our history, one of the greatest religious persecutions in antiquity finds its roots in the Spanish Inquisition, and therefore important to the overall justification of conquer and conquered, that de Soto and his mercenaries would have felt while massacring thousands of people who did not worship or perceive the spirit realm in the same manner as themselves. In their minds, any race that wasn't Catholic would have been considered devils, demon worshippers, and therefore deserving of subjugation and death.
On my readers rating of one to five stars, I'm giving Fire the Sky a 3.5 stars for overall story, and 4 stars for historical integrity.
March 1, 2011
Fire the Sky is the second book written by the Gears in their new First Contact series. I've been reading the Gears for 18 years now, love so many of their books, but have recently been disappointed by several - mostly due to the requirements of their publisher to keep the pages down and split up manuscripts. This was the first book that they had written knowing that they would be trapped to under 400 pages, and I was much more satisfied with it. It was gripping to the point that I was itching to use wiki and find out when and how de Soto is killed, but I was able to control myself and finish the book. I knew from the get go that this was not going to be the last book in the series, so I did not expect complete resolution, but I did feel a satisfying plot movement, peak, and partial conclusion.
The story is the continuation of Hernando de Soto's "exploration" (I use that term loosely, as I could also have used pillaging, raping, burning, destruction, annihilation, desecration in it's place)of the Florida peninsula. It continues the story of Black Shell, and his wife Pearl Hand as they try to prevent de Soto from taking their entire world hostage and killing everything that they know. You should probably read Coming of the Storm first, as it was the precursor, and you'd be missing a lot of background otherwise.
The story was full of the details of culture, presentation, politics of the Apalachee, Cofitachequi, Coosa, and Tuskaloosa Nations (some of which we now call the Cherokee, Choctaw, etc) and weaves the facts and names of actual native leaders, places, and battles found in the Spanish diaries with a fictional first person perspective that shared these details through the telling of the story. Black Shell himself has a wry wit, and is enjoyable and easy to follow as he tells his story.
Overall the book was a quick read, it was enjoyable, and I felt both satisfied at the semi-ending, and wanting more. Solid 4 stars.
The story is the continuation of Hernando de Soto's "exploration" (I use that term loosely, as I could also have used pillaging, raping, burning, destruction, annihilation, desecration in it's place)of the Florida peninsula. It continues the story of Black Shell, and his wife Pearl Hand as they try to prevent de Soto from taking their entire world hostage and killing everything that they know. You should probably read Coming of the Storm first, as it was the precursor, and you'd be missing a lot of background otherwise.
The story was full of the details of culture, presentation, politics of the Apalachee, Cofitachequi, Coosa, and Tuskaloosa Nations (some of which we now call the Cherokee, Choctaw, etc) and weaves the facts and names of actual native leaders, places, and battles found in the Spanish diaries with a fictional first person perspective that shared these details through the telling of the story. Black Shell himself has a wry wit, and is enjoyable and easy to follow as he tells his story.
Overall the book was a quick read, it was enjoyable, and I felt both satisfied at the semi-ending, and wanting more. Solid 4 stars.
March 11, 2013
This is the second in a series of three historical novels on the first contact that the Native Americans had with the Europeans--in this case DeSoto, someone I would like to call an evil Spaniard, but unfortunately he and his tactics were all too common.
This is a fantastic novel, that is well-researched and well-written, as are all of the Gears' novels. It's a story of the superior technology of the Spaniards, their treacherous activities, including, rape, murder, mutilations, as well as, the political machinations of the Native Americans who allowed DeSoto into their lands in the hopes that he would destroy their enemies, and their eventual realization that they needed to fight DeSoto and that the best way to do that was through guerilla warfare.
I can't wait to start the third novel in the series!
This is a fantastic novel, that is well-researched and well-written, as are all of the Gears' novels. It's a story of the superior technology of the Spaniards, their treacherous activities, including, rape, murder, mutilations, as well as, the political machinations of the Native Americans who allowed DeSoto into their lands in the hopes that he would destroy their enemies, and their eventual realization that they needed to fight DeSoto and that the best way to do that was through guerilla warfare.
I can't wait to start the third novel in the series!
June 8, 2011
The second in the trilogy. Interesting read on the "early" discovery of America and how it affected the native Americans.
July 25, 2012
Loved the history lesson. The drama of trying to bring one man down and the tolls it takes!
January 24, 2015
Always a good read by these two authors that write about historical American Natives...loved it
November 11, 2015
I liked this book as it creeps into reality of what went on...too bad it wasn't accurate in fiction as it could have been and no one would have blinked...
July 29, 2016
Review of Fire the sky
By Theresa Hulongbayan
"It amazes me reading stories by these authors, the research and information that they bring to life with dynamic characters, conflicts and changes in the North American world make history worth learning. As you read this powerful story, you find that the technology, and war capacity of the Spanish was not why they gained such a foothold in the new world, as they wandered throughout the country, destroying nations, killing people, capturing captives, and spreading disease all in the vain hope of wealth and gold. In many ways it seems to parallel the advents of the Romans conquering the Mediterranean area. The technology, discipline of the conquistadors overpowers the technology and fighting techniques of Native American tribes. Like the Romans techniques exploited the Native tribes in Gaul, Spain, and England. Their Organization, and manipulation or people and politics made them unstoppable. I wonder if Native Americans took to heed warning would they have been able to expel the Conquistadors. Or if the conflict at home in Spain had distracted the colonizers would the world be a different place.
This story shows that it was the disease, infighting, and external tensions gave the Spanish and edge that in many ways was irrefutable. Those nations that would have only a few years earlier would have wiped the Spanish off the map, find that disease has weakened them, or that their political needs make it impossible for them to a mass their strength against them. The betrayal of White Rose and the people like her defeated Native tribes before the battle could begin. It seems a redundancy in history that it is the betrayals within that cause the most conflict.
The Gears writing draws you into the story, Black Shell and Pearl hand serve as a dynamic combination that humanize the story of the struggles of the native americans, the reader is thrilled by the draw of the underdog. As you read the story you wish so much that the native tribes find a way or solution to expel the monster De Soto. You will find that love, commitment and understanding are the greatest of human traits. Something not only to live for, fight for but to die for. Unfortunately in this story many beloved characters lose their fight, Blood thorn, Skipper, and even High Mikkos loose all they have in attempt to balance the Red and the White, Christianity and native Beliefs...
De Soto has learned a lesson from the previous story and comes protesting peace only to conquer, subjugate and destroy the societies he encounters. He struggles with power, and finds not what he was looking for but a fight even his superiority can't win.
It is understandable why the name of the book originally was fire the Mabila, the scene within Mabila is a powerful realization that despite all their power and cunning De Soto can be overcome, and the nightmare has an end, but it would not be easy, quick, or maybe even survivable. "
Character list of the Battle for America
Black Shell: of the chief clan of the Hickory Moiety, of the Chicaza nation. A trader, and our hero, he is an honest man, with interest in adventure, an undeniable curiosity, and a secret. He was raised to rule the Chicaza as Minko, but because of a cowardice act as a young warrior, he was ashamed, he ran away became a trader. It’s his sense of adventure that get him into trouble, his courage that gets him out, and his love that he pays the highest price.
Five Pack dogs
Squirm: he liked to wiggle out of his packs and had made a study of how to do it without Black shell noticing. His long hair is dark brown and sleek, serving to accent the white blaze on his face and the milky bib on his chest.Bark: his name says it all, charcoal black with a thick head decorated by old scars. When it came to a dog fight, he was terror unleashed.
Skipper: was named for his curious sideways gait. He was a light brown with short hair and oddly blue left eye.
Fetch: his most beloved dog, having a partly human soul, his greatest joy in life came from retrieving thrown sticks and hide balls, or even rocks. Was killed by the Kristainos, when he tried to protect Black Shell.
Gnaw: as a puppy several times he almost ended up as stew after chewing off sections of pack leather. He was the fastest and strongest of the dogs, carried the heaviest pack. A huge gray monster of a dog, the image only sullied with a cute white tip on his tail.
Pearl Hand: a Chicora, Irriparacoxi’s bound woman, traded from one person to the next. She is a survivor that is able to use her intelligence, abilities, and body to achieve her goals. She is the daughter of a native woman, and a long lost Spanish Kristianos who impregnated her mother, who escaped them only to begin looking for the father. Her interest in him caused her to travel, search the ends of the world for her father, but has also taught her his language, which is the best of her abilities but the least of her value. She tries to warn Black Shell of the danger he would face in seeking the White Ghosts, but only finds herself saving him from them.Legends and Heroes of the various tribes,Corn woman: the daughter of Woman-who-never-dies, brought corn and beans to the people and gave birth the Hero Twins; Morning star and the Orphan.Woman who never dies: first woman, a legend of the Chiaza people who gave birth to First man and Corn woman
Water Panther: Piasa, a mythological beast/god that prowled the depths, attaching the people in the swamps and water ways.Horned Serpent: his voice is sibilant and terrible; Sunlight glistened in tiny rainbows from the scales that armored his skull. The horns that jutted from his head were forked and might have been made to translucent red jasper that almost glowed. Awesome crystalline eyes stared down at me in glittering splendor, like faceted quartz. And in their gaze resonated a Power that sent it waves through my souls. Chevrons dots and dark centered circles decorated the length of his hug body. Each consisted of a symbol of the first days drawn upon his hide by breath giver during the creation. Those mighty wings rose form the center of back and spread above in large patterned feathers almost transparent in the sunlight.Breathe Giver: a powerful god in the pantheon of many tribes, a religious central power.
TimucuaIrriparacoxi: High war councilor or combat chief, newly risen leader among the disorganized Southern Timucua villages.
Red Wing: first councilor to White Bird Lake town. An Anacotima can be thought of as something like a combination orator, councilor, palace overseer, and supervisor.
Stalks the Mist: “Ears” a painted warrior of the TImucua, had a string of dried human ears hung around his neck. He is an arrogant and slightly bitter subcheif (Iniha), who reeked of ambition and thought himself superior to everyone but the high chief. Is captured by the Kristainos and uses his ability to translate languages to his advantage.
Chief Uzahile: from the town of Cholupaha ordered the people to flee before the invasion. he was one of the most powerful of the Tumucuan chieftain in the north who had fought against his enemies to the west and north.
Mocoso
Chief Mocoso: Chief of the Mocoso clan, betrayed by the Kristanos
Muskrat: a warrior who finds Black Shell and Pearl Hand after their escape.
Old Man Crawfish: head elder of the Musselshell Clan.
Caramaba: Chief (Holota)
Spotted wing: a healer an old woman past her bearing years.
Ocale: Holota Chief
Two panthers: son of the chief and warrior, helped Black Shell and Pearl Hand to the north to warn the northern tribes.
Sabal: mother of Two Panthers, wife of the Ocale Holota.
Uzita Blood Thorn: iniah (subcheif) of the fish clan of the Uzachile nation. The first son of Bit woman, wife of
Paracusi Eagle fighter: war leader of Ahocalaquen. Helps plan and attack the Kristainos that were holding his people's leaders hostage.
Holota
Ahocalaquen : surrendered himself to protect his people and his niece from the invasion. He was a stout man thickly muscled through the shoulders. He had a broad and pleasant face.
Eagle fighter: paracuis of the Ahocalaquen
Bit Woman: of the fish clan daughter of White fruit, cousin of Holata Ahocalaquen.
Blue Sun Stone: a delegate from Holata Uzachile, their paramount chief.
Holata Uriutina: a representative of the Great Holata of the Napetuca.
Paracusi Rattlesnake: helped plan the retaliation of the Native tribes against the Kristainos.
Kristianos
Juan Ortiz: bearded Spaniard, translator, and slave instructor. Was chief Mocoso’s cative for ten years after a ship wreck brought him on shore. He speaks only a little Timucua, a smattering of Calusa, and knows even less or your laws of Power. He barely understands the ways of own Uzita.
Antonio: prisoner of Black Shell and Pearl Hand, a Kristaino soldier, becomes their greatest enemy.
Don Luis Riz: a subcheif of Adelantodo, father of Antonio. Grey haired and bearded.
Adelantado De Soto: a conquistador of the Inca, who took the gold and silver from the Inca. A high minko Gobernado de la Florida , called el rey Carlos His high catholic Majesty Carlos, and a hold leader called Papa, who gave him La Florida as his own.
Dios: created the world, god of the Kristainos
By Theresa Hulongbayan
"It amazes me reading stories by these authors, the research and information that they bring to life with dynamic characters, conflicts and changes in the North American world make history worth learning. As you read this powerful story, you find that the technology, and war capacity of the Spanish was not why they gained such a foothold in the new world, as they wandered throughout the country, destroying nations, killing people, capturing captives, and spreading disease all in the vain hope of wealth and gold. In many ways it seems to parallel the advents of the Romans conquering the Mediterranean area. The technology, discipline of the conquistadors overpowers the technology and fighting techniques of Native American tribes. Like the Romans techniques exploited the Native tribes in Gaul, Spain, and England. Their Organization, and manipulation or people and politics made them unstoppable. I wonder if Native Americans took to heed warning would they have been able to expel the Conquistadors. Or if the conflict at home in Spain had distracted the colonizers would the world be a different place.
This story shows that it was the disease, infighting, and external tensions gave the Spanish and edge that in many ways was irrefutable. Those nations that would have only a few years earlier would have wiped the Spanish off the map, find that disease has weakened them, or that their political needs make it impossible for them to a mass their strength against them. The betrayal of White Rose and the people like her defeated Native tribes before the battle could begin. It seems a redundancy in history that it is the betrayals within that cause the most conflict.
The Gears writing draws you into the story, Black Shell and Pearl hand serve as a dynamic combination that humanize the story of the struggles of the native americans, the reader is thrilled by the draw of the underdog. As you read the story you wish so much that the native tribes find a way or solution to expel the monster De Soto. You will find that love, commitment and understanding are the greatest of human traits. Something not only to live for, fight for but to die for. Unfortunately in this story many beloved characters lose their fight, Blood thorn, Skipper, and even High Mikkos loose all they have in attempt to balance the Red and the White, Christianity and native Beliefs...
De Soto has learned a lesson from the previous story and comes protesting peace only to conquer, subjugate and destroy the societies he encounters. He struggles with power, and finds not what he was looking for but a fight even his superiority can't win.
It is understandable why the name of the book originally was fire the Mabila, the scene within Mabila is a powerful realization that despite all their power and cunning De Soto can be overcome, and the nightmare has an end, but it would not be easy, quick, or maybe even survivable. "
Character list of the Battle for America
Black Shell: of the chief clan of the Hickory Moiety, of the Chicaza nation. A trader, and our hero, he is an honest man, with interest in adventure, an undeniable curiosity, and a secret. He was raised to rule the Chicaza as Minko, but because of a cowardice act as a young warrior, he was ashamed, he ran away became a trader. It’s his sense of adventure that get him into trouble, his courage that gets him out, and his love that he pays the highest price.
Five Pack dogs
Squirm: he liked to wiggle out of his packs and had made a study of how to do it without Black shell noticing. His long hair is dark brown and sleek, serving to accent the white blaze on his face and the milky bib on his chest.Bark: his name says it all, charcoal black with a thick head decorated by old scars. When it came to a dog fight, he was terror unleashed.
Skipper: was named for his curious sideways gait. He was a light brown with short hair and oddly blue left eye.
Fetch: his most beloved dog, having a partly human soul, his greatest joy in life came from retrieving thrown sticks and hide balls, or even rocks. Was killed by the Kristainos, when he tried to protect Black Shell.
Gnaw: as a puppy several times he almost ended up as stew after chewing off sections of pack leather. He was the fastest and strongest of the dogs, carried the heaviest pack. A huge gray monster of a dog, the image only sullied with a cute white tip on his tail.
Pearl Hand: a Chicora, Irriparacoxi’s bound woman, traded from one person to the next. She is a survivor that is able to use her intelligence, abilities, and body to achieve her goals. She is the daughter of a native woman, and a long lost Spanish Kristianos who impregnated her mother, who escaped them only to begin looking for the father. Her interest in him caused her to travel, search the ends of the world for her father, but has also taught her his language, which is the best of her abilities but the least of her value. She tries to warn Black Shell of the danger he would face in seeking the White Ghosts, but only finds herself saving him from them.Legends and Heroes of the various tribes,Corn woman: the daughter of Woman-who-never-dies, brought corn and beans to the people and gave birth the Hero Twins; Morning star and the Orphan.Woman who never dies: first woman, a legend of the Chiaza people who gave birth to First man and Corn woman
Water Panther: Piasa, a mythological beast/god that prowled the depths, attaching the people in the swamps and water ways.Horned Serpent: his voice is sibilant and terrible; Sunlight glistened in tiny rainbows from the scales that armored his skull. The horns that jutted from his head were forked and might have been made to translucent red jasper that almost glowed. Awesome crystalline eyes stared down at me in glittering splendor, like faceted quartz. And in their gaze resonated a Power that sent it waves through my souls. Chevrons dots and dark centered circles decorated the length of his hug body. Each consisted of a symbol of the first days drawn upon his hide by breath giver during the creation. Those mighty wings rose form the center of back and spread above in large patterned feathers almost transparent in the sunlight.Breathe Giver: a powerful god in the pantheon of many tribes, a religious central power.
TimucuaIrriparacoxi: High war councilor or combat chief, newly risen leader among the disorganized Southern Timucua villages.
Red Wing: first councilor to White Bird Lake town. An Anacotima can be thought of as something like a combination orator, councilor, palace overseer, and supervisor.
Stalks the Mist: “Ears” a painted warrior of the TImucua, had a string of dried human ears hung around his neck. He is an arrogant and slightly bitter subcheif (Iniha), who reeked of ambition and thought himself superior to everyone but the high chief. Is captured by the Kristainos and uses his ability to translate languages to his advantage.
Chief Uzahile: from the town of Cholupaha ordered the people to flee before the invasion. he was one of the most powerful of the Tumucuan chieftain in the north who had fought against his enemies to the west and north.
Mocoso
Chief Mocoso: Chief of the Mocoso clan, betrayed by the Kristanos
Muskrat: a warrior who finds Black Shell and Pearl Hand after their escape.
Old Man Crawfish: head elder of the Musselshell Clan.
Caramaba: Chief (Holota)
Spotted wing: a healer an old woman past her bearing years.
Ocale: Holota Chief
Two panthers: son of the chief and warrior, helped Black Shell and Pearl Hand to the north to warn the northern tribes.
Sabal: mother of Two Panthers, wife of the Ocale Holota.
Uzita Blood Thorn: iniah (subcheif) of the fish clan of the Uzachile nation. The first son of Bit woman, wife of
Paracusi Eagle fighter: war leader of Ahocalaquen. Helps plan and attack the Kristainos that were holding his people's leaders hostage.
Holota
Ahocalaquen : surrendered himself to protect his people and his niece from the invasion. He was a stout man thickly muscled through the shoulders. He had a broad and pleasant face.
Eagle fighter: paracuis of the Ahocalaquen
Bit Woman: of the fish clan daughter of White fruit, cousin of Holata Ahocalaquen.
Blue Sun Stone: a delegate from Holata Uzachile, their paramount chief.
Holata Uriutina: a representative of the Great Holata of the Napetuca.
Paracusi Rattlesnake: helped plan the retaliation of the Native tribes against the Kristainos.
Kristianos
Juan Ortiz: bearded Spaniard, translator, and slave instructor. Was chief Mocoso’s cative for ten years after a ship wreck brought him on shore. He speaks only a little Timucua, a smattering of Calusa, and knows even less or your laws of Power. He barely understands the ways of own Uzita.
Antonio: prisoner of Black Shell and Pearl Hand, a Kristaino soldier, becomes their greatest enemy.
Don Luis Riz: a subcheif of Adelantodo, father of Antonio. Grey haired and bearded.
Adelantado De Soto: a conquistador of the Inca, who took the gold and silver from the Inca. A high minko Gobernado de la Florida , called el rey Carlos His high catholic Majesty Carlos, and a hold leader called Papa, who gave him La Florida as his own.
Dios: created the world, god of the Kristainos
June 24, 2017
Fire the Sky: Book Two of Contact: The Battle for America (Kindle Edition)
by W. Michael Gear
"It amazes me reading stories by these authors, the research and information that they bring to life with dynamic characters, conflicts and changes in the North American world make history worth learning. As you read this powerful story, you find that the technology, and war capacity of the Spanish was not why they gained such a foothold in the new world, as they wandered throughout the country, destroying nations, killing people, capturing captives, and spreading disease all in the vain hope of wealth and gold. In many ways it seems to parallel the advents of the Romans conquering the Mediterranean area. The technology, discipline of the conquistadors overpowers the technology and fighting techniques of Native American tribes. Like the Romans techniques exploited the Native tribes in Gaul, Spain, and England. Their Organization, and manipulation or people and politics made them unstoppable. I wonder if Native Americans took to heed warning would they have been able to expel the Conquistadors. Or if the conflict at home in Spain had distracted the colonizers would the world be a different place.
This story shows that it was the disease, infighting, and external tensions gave the Spanish and edge that in many ways was irrefutable. Those nations that would have only a few years earlier would have wiped the Spanish off the map, find that disease has weakened them, or that their political needs make it impossible for them to a mass their strength against them. The betrayal of White Rose and the people like her defeated Native tribes before the battle could begin. It seems a redundancy in history that it is the betrayals within that cause the most conflict.
The Gears writing draws you into the story, Black Shell and Pearl hand serve as a dynamic combination that humanize the story of the struggles of the native americans, the reader is thrilled by the draw of the underdog. As you read the story you wish so much that the native tribes find a way or solution to expel the monster De Soto. You will find that love, commitment and understanding are the greatest of human traits. Something not only to live for, fight for but to die for. Unfortunately in this story many beloved characters lose their fight, Blood thorn, Skipper, and even High Mikkos loose all they have in attempt to balance the Red and the White, Christianity and native Beliefs...
De Soto has learned a lesson from the previous story and comes protesting peace only to conquer, subjugate and destroy the societies he encounters. He struggles with power, and finds not what he was looking for but a fight even his superiority can't win.
It is understandable why the name of the book originally was fire the Mabila, the scene with in Mabila is a powerful realization that despite all their power and cunning De Soto can be overcome, and the nightmare has an end, but it would not be easy, quick, or maybe even survivable. "
by W. Michael Gear
"It amazes me reading stories by these authors, the research and information that they bring to life with dynamic characters, conflicts and changes in the North American world make history worth learning. As you read this powerful story, you find that the technology, and war capacity of the Spanish was not why they gained such a foothold in the new world, as they wandered throughout the country, destroying nations, killing people, capturing captives, and spreading disease all in the vain hope of wealth and gold. In many ways it seems to parallel the advents of the Romans conquering the Mediterranean area. The technology, discipline of the conquistadors overpowers the technology and fighting techniques of Native American tribes. Like the Romans techniques exploited the Native tribes in Gaul, Spain, and England. Their Organization, and manipulation or people and politics made them unstoppable. I wonder if Native Americans took to heed warning would they have been able to expel the Conquistadors. Or if the conflict at home in Spain had distracted the colonizers would the world be a different place.
This story shows that it was the disease, infighting, and external tensions gave the Spanish and edge that in many ways was irrefutable. Those nations that would have only a few years earlier would have wiped the Spanish off the map, find that disease has weakened them, or that their political needs make it impossible for them to a mass their strength against them. The betrayal of White Rose and the people like her defeated Native tribes before the battle could begin. It seems a redundancy in history that it is the betrayals within that cause the most conflict.
The Gears writing draws you into the story, Black Shell and Pearl hand serve as a dynamic combination that humanize the story of the struggles of the native americans, the reader is thrilled by the draw of the underdog. As you read the story you wish so much that the native tribes find a way or solution to expel the monster De Soto. You will find that love, commitment and understanding are the greatest of human traits. Something not only to live for, fight for but to die for. Unfortunately in this story many beloved characters lose their fight, Blood thorn, Skipper, and even High Mikkos loose all they have in attempt to balance the Red and the White, Christianity and native Beliefs...
De Soto has learned a lesson from the previous story and comes protesting peace only to conquer, subjugate and destroy the societies he encounters. He struggles with power, and finds not what he was looking for but a fight even his superiority can't win.
It is understandable why the name of the book originally was fire the Mabila, the scene with in Mabila is a powerful realization that despite all their power and cunning De Soto can be overcome, and the nightmare has an end, but it would not be easy, quick, or maybe even survivable. "
December 3, 2018
I’ve always been a fan of historical fiction. Especially when I know some of the topic I am reading about. I didn’t realize it when I was reading the first book Coming of the Storm but the series focuses on what we now call the Mississippi culture. I am actually learning about the culture in my Prehistory of North America class this week so when I heard the name Cahokia come up in this book I was immediately surprised and excited. It reminds me why I love to read so much. Because it’s one thing to sit in a lecture hall and take notes on a culture no longer what they once were to sometimes gone completely. It’s quite another to see a rendition of what life would have been like in those cultures. Sure it’s fictional but these authors are archaeologists. Hey might have even worked on sites relevant to the Mississippi culture. And I’m sure they’ve done their homework thoroughly. I love seeing history before my eyes. This book certainly does that. It brings history to life. If you are interested in the history of North America or The Contact specifically, I highly recommend these books. There are some points where it seemed as if the pace had slowed to a crawl but they never lasted very long. And like in the first book, it ends on a high climax with you holding your breath as you try to take it all in. I will definitely be reading more from these authors after I finish the next and last book in this series.
September 16, 2021
This was second book in the The Battle For America series by the archeologist team. The Conquistadors who came to Florida to find gold and other precious things to take back to Spain, not only were brutal, but seemed to believe their job was to wipe out all indigenous people in the area. Another great book in the People of Early America series.
July 24, 2024
Book 2 of Contact: Battle for America series. This book is historical fiction but reads like fantasy. It tells the tale if de Soto's journey through south east North America in the 1500's but from the Native American perspective.
I recommend this to those who enjoy reading fantasy and can handle a story that details the horrors of war.
I recommend this to those who enjoy reading fantasy and can handle a story that details the horrors of war.
December 8, 2022
Pretty good read. One thing that is very annoying is the Kristianos use Spanish. That would be fine, except they don't translate much.
The story line moves along nicely. Some of the characters are flat.
The story line moves along nicely. Some of the characters are flat.
August 5, 2018
great second in the series.
March 13, 2019
lost interest
February 2, 2021
A unique viewpoint of looking at DeSoto' invasion of early America and his interaction with Native Americans.
January 7, 2025
I enjoyed the second book. A lot of scheming, planning, and fighting. Maybe I relaxed more, treating the story as fiction. But still learning interesting things about Florida and its history.
March 11, 2025
Another absolute gem
Big fan of the Gears & this series is the best Ive read yet. Highly recommended good read for me
Big fan of the Gears & this series is the best Ive read yet. Highly recommended good read for me
January 24, 2015
Fire the Sky (Contact: The Battle for America, #2)
Gear, W. Michael
Gear, Kathleen O'neal Gear
It amazes me reading stories by these authors, the research and information that they bring to life with dynamic characters, conflicts and changes in the North American world make history worth learning.
As you read this powerful story, you find that the technology, and war capacity of the Spanish was not why they gained such a foot hold in the new world, as they wandered through out the country, destroying nations, killing people, capturing captives, and spreading disease all in the vain hope of wealth and gold. In many ways it seems to parallell the advents of the Romans conquring the Mediterarian area. The technology, discipline of the conquestadors over powers the technology and fighting techniques of Native American tribes. Like the Romans techniques exploited the Native tribes in Gaul, Spain, and England. Their Organization, and manipulation or people and politics made them unstopable. I wonder if Native Americans took to heed warning would they have been able to expell the Conquestidors. Or if the conflict at home in Spain had distracted the colonizers would the world be a different place.
This story shows that it was the disease, infighting, and external tentions gave the Spanish and edge that in many ways was irreffutable. Those nations that would have only a few years earlier would have wiped the Spanish off the map, find that disease has weaked them, or that their political needs make it impossible for them to a mass their strenght against them. The betrayal of White Rose and the people like her defeated Native tribes before the battle could begin. It seems a redunancy in history that it is the betrayals with in that cause the most conflict.
The Gears writing draws you into the story, Black Shell and Pearl hand serve as a dynamic combination that humanize the story of the struggles of the native americans, the reader is thrilled by the draw of the underdog. As you read the story you wish so much that the native tribes find a way or solution to expell the monster De Soto. You will find that love, comitment and understanding are the greatest of human traits. Something not only to live for, fight for but to die for. Unfortuantely in this story many beloved characters loose their fight, Blood thorn, Skipper, and even High Mikkos loose all they have in attempt to balance the Red and the White, Christianity and native Beliefs...
De Soto has learned a lesson from the previous story and comes protesting peace only to conqure, subjugate and destroy the socities he encounters. He struggles with power, and finds not what he was looking for but a fight even his superiority can't win.
It is understandable why the name of the book originally was fire the Mabila, the scene with in Mabila is a powerful relaization that despite all their power and cunning De Soto can be over come, and the nightmare has an end, but it would not be easy, quick, or maybe even surviable.
May 23, 2013
Fire the Sky picks right up where Coming of the Storm ends. Black Shell and Pearl Hand are still in hot pursuit of Hernando De Soto, trying to figure out how to stop his ruthless destruction of the Indian nations standing in the way of his pursuit of gold.
The Gears are especially good at pointing out that the historical reference to Native Americans as savages is a misnomer. The series reveals extensive Native American cultures and civilizations with thriving economies that included active trade, militaries and deeply held spiritual traditions. The European invaders clearly had the technological advantage, and as much as they were ill-suited to the land and climate they were trampling, guns, swords and armor were enough to compensate.
The dialog in this series does not match any preconceived notions about Indian speech. The characters all speak incredibly good grammar and are capable of some fairly sophisticated thinking. As archeologists and anthropologists, the Gears make their point through the language used in writing the story. This happens to be one of their trademark lessons, that Native Americans were intelligent, civilized, and in many ways, more principled than those who eventually usurped their land.
Human nature being what it is, Indians were in some respects instruments in their own destruction. Petty politics, greed, mistrust, and belief that one nation was superior to another, all contributed to De Soto being able to get as far as he did before giving up. Had the natives been capable of putting aside their own differences and seeing the bigger picture, that their entire way of life was at stake, it might have ended differently. The sad reality is, Native Americans were no different from any other people. Only by virtue of modern day communication technology might it be possible to perceive the greater threat and act in a concerted effort for the common good of a race.
HIstory may record the rise and fall of civilizations, but often requires an awful lot of overlooking the details in how it came to be. Book two ends some eight hundred and fifty pages into the story. De Soto has been roughed up pretty badly, but not as badly as those standing in his way. Once again the Gears have made it abundantly clear that American history didn't start with the arrival of the Europeans. Call it manifest destiny, survival of the fittest, the turning of the wheel of time, the story is as old as time itself.
Fire the Sky is enjoyable, but quite repetitious in descriptions of corn, beans and squash; oak trees, hickory trees, red for war, white for peace; you get the point. Even so, the Gears have been doing this sort of thing a long time and always seem to make their stories interesting with a good amount of tension and engaging action scenes. On to book three.
The Gears are especially good at pointing out that the historical reference to Native Americans as savages is a misnomer. The series reveals extensive Native American cultures and civilizations with thriving economies that included active trade, militaries and deeply held spiritual traditions. The European invaders clearly had the technological advantage, and as much as they were ill-suited to the land and climate they were trampling, guns, swords and armor were enough to compensate.
The dialog in this series does not match any preconceived notions about Indian speech. The characters all speak incredibly good grammar and are capable of some fairly sophisticated thinking. As archeologists and anthropologists, the Gears make their point through the language used in writing the story. This happens to be one of their trademark lessons, that Native Americans were intelligent, civilized, and in many ways, more principled than those who eventually usurped their land.
Human nature being what it is, Indians were in some respects instruments in their own destruction. Petty politics, greed, mistrust, and belief that one nation was superior to another, all contributed to De Soto being able to get as far as he did before giving up. Had the natives been capable of putting aside their own differences and seeing the bigger picture, that their entire way of life was at stake, it might have ended differently. The sad reality is, Native Americans were no different from any other people. Only by virtue of modern day communication technology might it be possible to perceive the greater threat and act in a concerted effort for the common good of a race.
HIstory may record the rise and fall of civilizations, but often requires an awful lot of overlooking the details in how it came to be. Book two ends some eight hundred and fifty pages into the story. De Soto has been roughed up pretty badly, but not as badly as those standing in his way. Once again the Gears have made it abundantly clear that American history didn't start with the arrival of the Europeans. Call it manifest destiny, survival of the fittest, the turning of the wheel of time, the story is as old as time itself.
Fire the Sky is enjoyable, but quite repetitious in descriptions of corn, beans and squash; oak trees, hickory trees, red for war, white for peace; you get the point. Even so, the Gears have been doing this sort of thing a long time and always seem to make their stories interesting with a good amount of tension and engaging action scenes. On to book three.
January 3, 2012
Another really outstanding book in this series. For folks (like myself) who love historical fiction, this series is a wonderful trip back into a possible life at the time DeSoto first landed in Florida. The authors paint a picture of a pretty advanced and well-populated SE United States at the time. Since they're also in the business of understanding and knowing about past cultures, I'm assuming they're painting an accurate picture of what things might have been like at the time.
They also do a really good job of painting a nice balance between whites and natives as they clash. Since the story is told through the perspective of a native, it's natural that the customs and ways of the whites seem nonsensical and barbaric to the natives. At the same time, the authors do a wonderful job of showing that the difference between the war-waging abilities of the two cultures had to do with technology and the superior ability of the whites to use that technology.
It felt like a very fair rendering of what things might have been like at that point of first contact. As a bonus, the writing and character development is outstanding.
The beef I have with these authors books is with the publisher not the authors. The publisher seems intent on keeping the books out of the electronic realm. The greed of publishers in this respect is getting tiresome. When they do release in e-form, they seem intent on charging more than they charge for the hard copy. Shame shame shame.
They also do a really good job of painting a nice balance between whites and natives as they clash. Since the story is told through the perspective of a native, it's natural that the customs and ways of the whites seem nonsensical and barbaric to the natives. At the same time, the authors do a wonderful job of showing that the difference between the war-waging abilities of the two cultures had to do with technology and the superior ability of the whites to use that technology.
It felt like a very fair rendering of what things might have been like at that point of first contact. As a bonus, the writing and character development is outstanding.
The beef I have with these authors books is with the publisher not the authors. The publisher seems intent on keeping the books out of the electronic realm. The greed of publishers in this respect is getting tiresome. When they do release in e-form, they seem intent on charging more than they charge for the hard copy. Shame shame shame.
July 13, 2011
Here I go again with one of these pre-history type books! I really like these stories by the Gears! This is the second in the Contact: Battle for America trilogy and tells about the nativity of the Native Americans when deSoto arrived with his band of bad guys and the horrors that they endured at his hands. DeSoto was the badest of the bad guys for sure but in these stories there is a small group of NAs that dogs him through the South determined to save their people and their way of life. Unfortunately we know the rest of the story. Bummer.
February 29, 2012
This was an exceptionally well written book about the earliest periods of contact between the Native Americans and the invading Spaniards. W. Michael and Kathleen O'Neil Gear put an exceptional amount of research into their writing, and it shows. The story is s continuation from the first novel in the series, and follows the Chicaza trader Black Shell as he, Pearl Hand, and Blood Thorn harass the army of Hernando de Soto across what will become the Southeastern United States. It is touching at several points and exceptionally sad in many more. Either way, it is a great read and well worth it.
March 5, 2011
This book by the Gear's is in their tradition of informating you about Indian culture and history through interesting stories. The characters in the plot of this novel and very believable and ones you come to like very quickly. The plot is strong and interesting. This is the second in the series and I am waiting for the next one.
J. Robert Ewbank author "John Wesley, Natural Man, and the 'Isms'"
J. Robert Ewbank author "John Wesley, Natural Man, and the 'Isms'"
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December 27, 2011This was another excellent novel in the "First Contact" series. A great deal of research goes into each novel written by the Gears and their story-telling ability is par excellence. There are several strands in each novel masterfully woven together, all based on historical data. Colorful details based on culture, geography, and human emotion all combine for addictive reading of historical fiction.
January 14, 2014
Great follow-up to Coming of the Storm. The series follows Black Shell and Pearl Hand, as they rally people to fight Spanish invaders.
The depictions of Native American life are fascinating and well-researched. The books are wonderful glimpses into a bit of history that really doesn't show up much. Unfortunately, the Spanish antagonists are very one-dimensional. We know they're bad and are looking for gold, but that's about it.
The depictions of Native American life are fascinating and well-researched. The books are wonderful glimpses into a bit of history that really doesn't show up much. Unfortunately, the Spanish antagonists are very one-dimensional. We know they're bad and are looking for gold, but that's about it.
February 6, 2017
Not only does this second book in the series grip you but you also learn just how damaging the march of de Soto was at the time. You can't help but wonder why we as humans like to forget the truths of history versus the perceptions and fallacies that are often written down about it. I'm very interested in reading the third book in this set to get the full picture and would recommend this, along with any other books written by W.Michael Gear and Kathleen O'Neal Gear, to anyone.
February 2, 2014
I enjoy the Gear's writing and this book only stands to support that. It's been some time since I read book one of this series and, yet, I was right back into it almost from page 1. Looking forward to finding time to finish out the series, I think (though if my powers of prediction and what I am reading as foreshadowing are accurate, I may not be happy with the finale).
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February 18, 2013I enjoyed this very much. i had read book 1 some time ago but could not find book 2 until your library purchased the book. I enjoy historical fiction more so of it is based on a person or events. This series has both. Both the authors write very good booksabout the American Indians. I will now after I read the series read about them.
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