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Saga of the Mountain Sage #2
White Mist Dog
Immersed in the harsh realities of historical American frontiers, young pioneer Richard Hamilton is tossed, bound and dirt-covered, onto the deck of Dave Green’s vessel, the Maria. Staring down the barrel of Green's pistol, he soon realizes his worth as a mere philosopher holds little value in this gritty world.
In the wild, Heals Like A Willow, a captive of Packrat Indian, dreams of the White Mist Dog. She's caught in a tactical battle with the Pawnee as she is carried eastward, an unwitting pawn in Packrat's desperate quest to find his estranged father.
Meanwhile, Richard, struggling with his harsh circumstances, begins to unearth an inner strength he never knew he possessed. Yet his resolution to escape Maria and return to Boston never wavers. This determination culminates in a dramatic encounter with Willow and Packrat. On board the Maria, as they painstakingly ascend the Missouri, both Willow and Richard embark on a journey of self-discovery.
But this voyage through the historical American frontier is fraught with peril. Scheming boatmen, anxious Native American chiefs, and unruly passions all threaten to derail their journey. As they navigate these hazards, Willow will make a pivotal decision that alters both her and Richard's destiny forever.
Don't miss this riveting tale of survival, determination, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Immerse yourself in a world where the historical American frontier comes to life with its challenges, triumphs, and heartbreaks.
Don't wait! Step aboard the Maria and experience this captivating journey. Order your copy today!
In the wild, Heals Like A Willow, a captive of Packrat Indian, dreams of the White Mist Dog. She's caught in a tactical battle with the Pawnee as she is carried eastward, an unwitting pawn in Packrat's desperate quest to find his estranged father.
Meanwhile, Richard, struggling with his harsh circumstances, begins to unearth an inner strength he never knew he possessed. Yet his resolution to escape Maria and return to Boston never wavers. This determination culminates in a dramatic encounter with Willow and Packrat. On board the Maria, as they painstakingly ascend the Missouri, both Willow and Richard embark on a journey of self-discovery.
But this voyage through the historical American frontier is fraught with peril. Scheming boatmen, anxious Native American chiefs, and unruly passions all threaten to derail their journey. As they navigate these hazards, Willow will make a pivotal decision that alters both her and Richard's destiny forever.
Don't miss this riveting tale of survival, determination, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Immerse yourself in a world where the historical American frontier comes to life with its challenges, triumphs, and heartbreaks.
Don't wait! Step aboard the Maria and experience this captivating journey. Order your copy today!
328 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 30, 2023
About the author
W. Michael Gear
184 books735 followersW. Michael Gear was born in Colorado Springs, Colorado, on the twentieth of May, 1955. A fourth generation Colorado native, his family had been involved in hard-rock mining, cattle ranching, and journalism. After his father's death in 1959, Michael's mother received her Master's degree in journalism and began teaching. In 1962 she married Joseph J. Cook, who taught tool and die making, and the family lived in Lakewood, Colorado, until 1968. At that time they moved to Fort Collins so that Joe could pursue his Ph.D.. During those years the family lived in the foothills above Horsetooth Reservoir.
It was there that Mike developed a love of history, anthropology, and motorcycles. They would color his future and fill his imagination for the rest of his life. During summers he volunteered labor on local ranches or at the farm east of Greeley and landed his first real job: picking up trash at the lake and cleaning outhouses. It has been said that his exposure to trash led him into archaeology. We will not speculate about what cleaning the outhouses might have led him to. On his first dig as a professional archaeologist in 1976 he discovered that two thousand year old human trash isn't nearly as obnoxious as the new stuff.
Michael graduated from Fort Collins High School in 1972 and pursued both his Bachelor's (1976) and Master's (1979) degrees at Colorado State University. Upon completion of his Master's - his specialty was in physical anthropology - he went to work for Western Wyoming College in Rock Springs as a field archaeologist.
It was in the winter of 1978 that he wrote his first novel. Irritated by historical inaccuracies in Western fiction, he swore he could do better. He was "taking retirement in installments," archaeology being a seasonal career, in the cabin his great uncle Aubrey had built. One cold January night he read a Western novel about a trail drive in which steers (castrated males) had calves. The historical inaccuracies of the story bothered him all night. The next morning, still incensed, he chunked wood into the stove and hunkered over the typewriter. There, on the mining claim, at nine thousand feet outside of Empire, Colorado he hammered out his first five hundred and fifty page novel. Yes, that first manuscript still exists, but if there is justice in the universe, no one will ever see it. It reads wretchedly - but the historical facts are correct!
Beginning in 1981, Michael, along with two partners, put together his own archaeological consulting company. Pronghorn Anthropological Associates began doing cultural resource management studies in 1982, and, although Michael sold his interest in 1984, to this day the company remains in business in Casper, Wyoming. During the years, Michael has worked throughout the western United States doing archaeological surveys, testing, and mitigation for pipelines, oil wells, power lines, timber sales, and highway construction. He learned the value of strong black coffee, developed a palate for chocolate donuts, and ferreted out every quality Mexican restaurant in eight states. He spent nine months of the year traveling from project to project with his trowel and dig kit, a clapped-out '72 Wonder Blazer, and his boon companion, Tedi, a noble tri-color Sheltie.
That fateful day in November, 1981, was delightfully clear, cold, and still in Laramie, Wyoming. Archaeologists from all over the state had arrived at the University of Wyoming for the annual meetings of the Wyoming Association of Professional Archaeologists. It was there, in the meeting room, way too early after a much too long night, that Mike first laid eyes on the most beautiful woman in the world: Kathleen O'Neal Gear. The BLM State Archaeologist, Ray Leicht, introduced him to the pretty anthropologist and historian, and best of all, Ray invited Mike to lunch with Kathleen. It was the perfect beginning for a long and wondrous relationship.
http://us.macmillan.com/author/wmicha...
It was there that Mike developed a love of history, anthropology, and motorcycles. They would color his future and fill his imagination for the rest of his life. During summers he volunteered labor on local ranches or at the farm east of Greeley and landed his first real job: picking up trash at the lake and cleaning outhouses. It has been said that his exposure to trash led him into archaeology. We will not speculate about what cleaning the outhouses might have led him to. On his first dig as a professional archaeologist in 1976 he discovered that two thousand year old human trash isn't nearly as obnoxious as the new stuff.
Michael graduated from Fort Collins High School in 1972 and pursued both his Bachelor's (1976) and Master's (1979) degrees at Colorado State University. Upon completion of his Master's - his specialty was in physical anthropology - he went to work for Western Wyoming College in Rock Springs as a field archaeologist.
It was in the winter of 1978 that he wrote his first novel. Irritated by historical inaccuracies in Western fiction, he swore he could do better. He was "taking retirement in installments," archaeology being a seasonal career, in the cabin his great uncle Aubrey had built. One cold January night he read a Western novel about a trail drive in which steers (castrated males) had calves. The historical inaccuracies of the story bothered him all night. The next morning, still incensed, he chunked wood into the stove and hunkered over the typewriter. There, on the mining claim, at nine thousand feet outside of Empire, Colorado he hammered out his first five hundred and fifty page novel. Yes, that first manuscript still exists, but if there is justice in the universe, no one will ever see it. It reads wretchedly - but the historical facts are correct!
Beginning in 1981, Michael, along with two partners, put together his own archaeological consulting company. Pronghorn Anthropological Associates began doing cultural resource management studies in 1982, and, although Michael sold his interest in 1984, to this day the company remains in business in Casper, Wyoming. During the years, Michael has worked throughout the western United States doing archaeological surveys, testing, and mitigation for pipelines, oil wells, power lines, timber sales, and highway construction. He learned the value of strong black coffee, developed a palate for chocolate donuts, and ferreted out every quality Mexican restaurant in eight states. He spent nine months of the year traveling from project to project with his trowel and dig kit, a clapped-out '72 Wonder Blazer, and his boon companion, Tedi, a noble tri-color Sheltie.
That fateful day in November, 1981, was delightfully clear, cold, and still in Laramie, Wyoming. Archaeologists from all over the state had arrived at the University of Wyoming for the annual meetings of the Wyoming Association of Professional Archaeologists. It was there, in the meeting room, way too early after a much too long night, that Mike first laid eyes on the most beautiful woman in the world: Kathleen O'Neal Gear. The BLM State Archaeologist, Ray Leicht, introduced him to the pretty anthropologist and historian, and best of all, Ray invited Mike to lunch with Kathleen. It was the perfect beginning for a long and wondrous relationship.
http://us.macmillan.com/author/wmicha...
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
February 3, 2024
I am so glad I found this author. The second book in this series is even better than the first. The story is an adventure for sure, but it so much deeper than simply winning the battle of man against the wilderness. Opposite social and economic elements are thrown together in a setting of beautiful detail and imagery. In this boy to man story, basic beliefs about the human race and life in general are put to the test. By contrast, a young Indian woman questions her place in her own world, responsibility to her ancestors, and her desire for knowledge at the risk of losing everything.
October 8, 2023
White Mist Dog: Saga of the Mountain Sage, Book Two: A Classic Historical Western Series
by W Michael Gear
The second edition of the dynamic story of the fur company expansion up the Missouri River. Our main character, Richard, has learned the effect of the fur trade on the tribes of the Missouri basin. Specifically the dynamic of new resources and internal fighting is the focus of the book as we see the aftermath of fighting between the tribes. Taking apart Jean-Jacques Rousseau theory of the Noble Savage as Richard is confronted with reality in the trade industry.
Richard's reliance and acceptance of Heals like a Willow, causes a stronger internal battle within Richard. Beginning with the attempts to save Travis from his wounds. As we go through this book he is falling in love with an intelligent independent woman so different from the "Lady" personality of Laura. This brings into light Richard's character and the decision he has to make in the near future.
One of the more emotional aspects of the book is the ideals of religion and belief between the native tribes and the historical philosophy that Richard is debated back and forth between multiple characters. I learned many of the differences between the Missouri basin tribes, and how they organized their social contracts. It is an eye opening realization of the mythology of the various tribes and why they do not join together to repel the white invasion.
The book leaves us with the departure of Heals like a Willow back to her home. It sets up the adventure to come. Leaving the reader with the biggest question, whether Richard chooses to follow her, or return to Boston.
by W Michael Gear
The second edition of the dynamic story of the fur company expansion up the Missouri River. Our main character, Richard, has learned the effect of the fur trade on the tribes of the Missouri basin. Specifically the dynamic of new resources and internal fighting is the focus of the book as we see the aftermath of fighting between the tribes. Taking apart Jean-Jacques Rousseau theory of the Noble Savage as Richard is confronted with reality in the trade industry.
Richard's reliance and acceptance of Heals like a Willow, causes a stronger internal battle within Richard. Beginning with the attempts to save Travis from his wounds. As we go through this book he is falling in love with an intelligent independent woman so different from the "Lady" personality of Laura. This brings into light Richard's character and the decision he has to make in the near future.
One of the more emotional aspects of the book is the ideals of religion and belief between the native tribes and the historical philosophy that Richard is debated back and forth between multiple characters. I learned many of the differences between the Missouri basin tribes, and how they organized their social contracts. It is an eye opening realization of the mythology of the various tribes and why they do not join together to repel the white invasion.
The book leaves us with the departure of Heals like a Willow back to her home. It sets up the adventure to come. Leaving the reader with the biggest question, whether Richard chooses to follow her, or return to Boston.
December 13, 2023
Engrossing series
The second book in the series deepens the characters and sets up some fascinating possibilities for books three and four. Looking forward to reading them :-) 😃
The second book in the series deepens the characters and sets up some fascinating possibilities for books three and four. Looking forward to reading them :-) 😃
February 5, 2024
White Mist Dog
This is book #2 of a 4 book series by W. Michael Gear. It is set in the frontier of the US, when America ended just west of the Mississippi River. The male protagonist, Richard, is Boston born & bred, but he finds himself in a whole 'nother world & quite confused! But w/ the help of his "supervisor" & fast-becoming friend Travis, he is learning (or larnin' as Travis would say!) what he needs to survive. He's learning that his grand philosophical ideas he holds so dear to bis heart don't do a blessed thing for him out in the real world! They don't feed him, doctor him, & they sure don't stop fists, rocks, nor bullets! He's learning to fight too, to defend himself & those he cares about. He's even taken to carrying a rifle! He's finally growing up! The female protagonist, Willow, a Shoshone, is learning, too. She's learning the language & ways of the white man. She's a recent widow who lost her beloved husband & infant son at the same time. Trying to get home to her people, she was kidnapped, made a slave, & repeatedly raped by a young Pawnee man. She has temporarily joined Richard & Travis because they are headed the same direction as she, & due to injuries she can't safely travel alone. As is typical w/ stories about groups of differing peoples, there are stressors & people get their noses out of joint. There are quarrels, grudges, scuffles, & flat out fights that could easily become fatal! As in Morning River, this book has adventure galore, suspense that keeps the pages turning, & even a bit of romance. The descriptions of that time & place that Mr. Gear writes are typical for both his writings & those of his wife. (Partly why they are my favorite authors!) When they describe people's body shape & faces, you can almost see them standing in front of you. When they describe places though, YOU'RE THERE! Both are geniuses in describing scenery! This story DOES have violence & sex, but both are treated quite well. Violent scenes are described rather accurately but not nearly as gory as other authors would write them. Sexual scenes in the Gear books that I have read are divided depending on whether it's consensual or not. The rapes in this one were not graphic, but have some descriptive terms in her thoughts. A lovemaking scene has not yet occurred in this story, but from reading other books of his, I expect that when & if it does, it will leave many things to the imagination. If you like Historical, Western-themed, &/or Native American novels, I highly recommend this series. When I read a Gear book, it's definitely entertaining, but I end up learning things too!
This is book #2 of a 4 book series by W. Michael Gear. It is set in the frontier of the US, when America ended just west of the Mississippi River. The male protagonist, Richard, is Boston born & bred, but he finds himself in a whole 'nother world & quite confused! But w/ the help of his "supervisor" & fast-becoming friend Travis, he is learning (or larnin' as Travis would say!) what he needs to survive. He's learning that his grand philosophical ideas he holds so dear to bis heart don't do a blessed thing for him out in the real world! They don't feed him, doctor him, & they sure don't stop fists, rocks, nor bullets! He's learning to fight too, to defend himself & those he cares about. He's even taken to carrying a rifle! He's finally growing up! The female protagonist, Willow, a Shoshone, is learning, too. She's learning the language & ways of the white man. She's a recent widow who lost her beloved husband & infant son at the same time. Trying to get home to her people, she was kidnapped, made a slave, & repeatedly raped by a young Pawnee man. She has temporarily joined Richard & Travis because they are headed the same direction as she, & due to injuries she can't safely travel alone. As is typical w/ stories about groups of differing peoples, there are stressors & people get their noses out of joint. There are quarrels, grudges, scuffles, & flat out fights that could easily become fatal! As in Morning River, this book has adventure galore, suspense that keeps the pages turning, & even a bit of romance. The descriptions of that time & place that Mr. Gear writes are typical for both his writings & those of his wife. (Partly why they are my favorite authors!) When they describe people's body shape & faces, you can almost see them standing in front of you. When they describe places though, YOU'RE THERE! Both are geniuses in describing scenery! This story DOES have violence & sex, but both are treated quite well. Violent scenes are described rather accurately but not nearly as gory as other authors would write them. Sexual scenes in the Gear books that I have read are divided depending on whether it's consensual or not. The rapes in this one were not graphic, but have some descriptive terms in her thoughts. A lovemaking scene has not yet occurred in this story, but from reading other books of his, I expect that when & if it does, it will leave many things to the imagination. If you like Historical, Western-themed, &/or Native American novels, I highly recommend this series. When I read a Gear book, it's definitely entertaining, but I end up learning things too!
August 18, 2024
Exploring the Saga of the Mountains: A Journey Through Time and Imagination
The "Saga of the Mountains" series by W. Michael Gear is a riveting collection that takes readers on a journey through the American frontier. The narrative begins with "The Morning River," where Richard Hamilton, a Harvard philosophy student, finds himself in the wilds of St. Louis in 1825. His odyssey of enlightenment commences aboard the Maria, a keelboat bound for the Upper Yellowstone River, setting the stage for a saga filled with danger and discovery. As the series unfolds, a rich tapestry of characters emerges, each embodying the spirit of courage, love, and perseverance. The concluding volume, "Coyote Summer," brings an enthralling end to the series against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. Here, the destinies of Richard Hamilton and Heals Like a Willow, a Shoshone medicine woman, converge in a story of affection and resolution during a Wyoming winter.
Gear's writing is deeply rooted in meticulous research and a deep appreciation for Native American culture and the historical era. His characters are not mere creations but echo the lives of real individuals who ventured into the unknown and shaped history. The series is a homage to the indomitable human spirit and the eternal pursuit of knowledge and connection. For those who seek adventure and a window into the past, "Saga of the Mountains" offers a thrilling and introspective experience. It reminds us that the lessons of yesterday can enlighten the twenty-first century and beyond. Embark on this literary journey and let W. Michael Gear guide you through an adventure that is as educational as it is exhilarating.
The "Saga of the Mountains" series by W. Michael Gear is a riveting collection that takes readers on a journey through the American frontier. The narrative begins with "The Morning River," where Richard Hamilton, a Harvard philosophy student, finds himself in the wilds of St. Louis in 1825. His odyssey of enlightenment commences aboard the Maria, a keelboat bound for the Upper Yellowstone River, setting the stage for a saga filled with danger and discovery. As the series unfolds, a rich tapestry of characters emerges, each embodying the spirit of courage, love, and perseverance. The concluding volume, "Coyote Summer," brings an enthralling end to the series against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. Here, the destinies of Richard Hamilton and Heals Like a Willow, a Shoshone medicine woman, converge in a story of affection and resolution during a Wyoming winter.
Gear's writing is deeply rooted in meticulous research and a deep appreciation for Native American culture and the historical era. His characters are not mere creations but echo the lives of real individuals who ventured into the unknown and shaped history. The series is a homage to the indomitable human spirit and the eternal pursuit of knowledge and connection. For those who seek adventure and a window into the past, "Saga of the Mountains" offers a thrilling and introspective experience. It reminds us that the lessons of yesterday can enlighten the twenty-first century and beyond. Embark on this literary journey and let W. Michael Gear guide you through an adventure that is as educational as it is exhilarating.
May 20, 2024
This is the 2nd book in the series of 4. Author Gear notably softens the arrogance of the character Richard, or Dick or Doodle. He needed softening as this chief protagonist was a super a-hole. Willow, the Indian widow maiden, becomes more interested in the strange white man from Boston and an evolving love relationship that surprises no one. The problem with it all is that Richard is dedicated to Laura, his love-left-home and Willow is not a feasible lover in polite society, being Native American as well as sexually experienced.
This book #2 in the western chronicle series, told when the west was still wild, is still a good read although it suffers from an excess of character thoughts about various things, some irrelevant. Think: ‘The excellence of a Philosophy education’ or ‘What is Truth?’, or several other unrelated topics. It seems at times to be more filler than character development. However, each scene change begins with an excellent description of the landscape told with unexpected eloquence. Not much surprising happens after 20%. I still don’t know what a white mist dog is referring to. But the reader’s interest has been piqued and they feel a need to know the eventual outcome and how the story unfolds.
This book #2 in the western chronicle series, told when the west was still wild, is still a good read although it suffers from an excess of character thoughts about various things, some irrelevant. Think: ‘The excellence of a Philosophy education’ or ‘What is Truth?’, or several other unrelated topics. It seems at times to be more filler than character development. However, each scene change begins with an excellent description of the landscape told with unexpected eloquence. Not much surprising happens after 20%. I still don’t know what a white mist dog is referring to. But the reader’s interest has been piqued and they feel a need to know the eventual outcome and how the story unfolds.
October 11, 2023
The adventure continues with the trip north on the Missouri River, aboard a trading vessel, rowed and pulled by men toward the frontiers of trading posts. Heals Like A Willow has joined the group as she had been captured by a Pawnee named Packrat. Richard “Dick” Hamilton is on this boat along with other men traveling to set up a post further toward the Yellowstone. Many times, this trip has fought not just Indians but ugly whites and those that would steal not just goods but lives. This book is excellent and grips a reader as it continues in Book Three.
November 28, 2025
This is the second book in a four-book series. Heals Like A Willow and Richard meet each other after Pack Rat is killed. Richard learns more about how to live in the West and longs for Boston. Willow continues to seek her homeland but needs to stay longer than she wants with the Whites for safety.
The escaped slave, Baptiste, and rugged mountain man Travis keep her safe for now.
The escaped slave, Baptiste, and rugged mountain man Travis keep her safe for now.
July 13, 2023
A good read
Book 2 of this saga is once again intriguing as well as informative. The author weaves in historical insights into this story of a man learning about the world as well as himself.
Book 2 of this saga is once again intriguing as well as informative. The author weaves in historical insights into this story of a man learning about the world as well as himself.
October 21, 2023
The adventurer of the trapper continue their journey north.
The author has written a fabulous story of the adventures of the trapper’s lives as they move their boat up river deeper into hostile Indian territory. A story full of adventure and action.
The author has written a fabulous story of the adventures of the trapper’s lives as they move their boat up river deeper into hostile Indian territory. A story full of adventure and action.
October 25, 2023
Rare Find...
I am definitely anticipating the next day or even the next hour of Richard's exciting but difficult new life! What choic3s will he make now?
Anyone who enjoys stories of America's early westward exploration will love this book.
I am definitely anticipating the next day or even the next hour of Richard's exciting but difficult new life! What choic3s will he make now?
Anyone who enjoys stories of America's early westward exploration will love this book.
August 22, 2024
Mixed feelings
The poor man just can't make up his mind. The conflicts that are between them. Hard living in that time of the country. Hope the next book comes to an end. Getting tired of all the right things to do .
The poor man just can't make up his mind. The conflicts that are between them. Hard living in that time of the country. Hope the next book comes to an end. Getting tired of all the right things to do .
June 4, 2023
Theology
The characters found their stride and the story takes shpe. Does what we think we believe stand up to reality?
The characters found their stride and the story takes shpe. Does what we think we believe stand up to reality?
June 17, 2023
So real you can smell it
This is a saga for the those who love the West. Raw and deep, infectious and steeped in philosophical dilemma.
This is a saga for the those who love the West. Raw and deep, infectious and steeped in philosophical dilemma.
June 17, 2023
Wow
As with all this mans books , hard to stop reading , wonderful story , exciting never get tired of reading books of this writer.Sandy
As with all this mans books , hard to stop reading , wonderful story , exciting never get tired of reading books of this writer.Sandy
June 21, 2023
No ending!!!
I dislike novels that just STOP... NO HAPPY ENDING. Good series to just skim, and hope for that "happy ending"....
I dislike novels that just STOP... NO HAPPY ENDING. Good series to just skim, and hope for that "happy ending"....
July 1, 2023
Dog or coyote
Keeps a persons attention with the tension maintaining the need to stay with the story. I am eager for the next piece of the adventure!
Keeps a persons attention with the tension maintaining the need to stay with the story. I am eager for the next piece of the adventure!
July 9, 2023
Book 2 of a great series. Non stop good read. Looking forward to book 3.
July 11, 2023
Very good
Almost a five and wish they had half points as would be a four and half. Enjoyed but than what is perfect
Almost a five and wish they had half points as would be a four and half. Enjoyed but than what is perfect
July 12, 2023
The westward expansion brought to life. Well done.
September 22, 2023
Whit Must Dog
An interesting and historical journey back to the days of trading,trapping and exploration of the wilderness of the American west.
An interesting and historical journey back to the days of trading,trapping and exploration of the wilderness of the American west.
September 29, 2023
Totally enjoyed this series so far!
I was carried on this adventure as I was there.! I had a hard time putting the book down. Looking forward to this continued journey!
I was carried on this adventure as I was there.! I had a hard time putting the book down. Looking forward to this continued journey!
October 29, 2023
Western
Actually to anyone of modert word knowledge the book makes me look up to many words to describe them night meaning. Goot
Actually to anyone of modert word knowledge the book makes me look up to many words to describe them night meaning. Goot
February 15, 2024
Loved it Have read the first two books . Can’t wait to read the next two! Would make a great TV Saga.👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
February 24, 2024
Good book!
Can't wait for the next one! Will he find and stay with Willow? We can only hope. Love reading about the old frontier stories
Can't wait for the next one! Will he find and stay with Willow? We can only hope. Love reading about the old frontier stories
August 1, 2024
Excellent read
You get to know each character..
I would recommend this book to anyone. Just enough history to make it real
You get to know each character..
I would recommend this book to anyone. Just enough history to make it real
June 3, 2023
White Mist Dog: Saga of the Mountain Sage, Book Two: A Classic Historical Western Series
by W Michael Gear
The second edition of the dynamic story of the fur company expansion up the Missouri River. Our main character, Richard, has learned the effect of the fur trade on the tribes of the Missouri basin. Specifically the dynamic of new resources and internal fighting is the focus of the book as we see the aftermath of fighting between the tribes. Taking apart Jean-Jacques Rousseau theory of the Noble Savage as Richard is confronted with reality in the trade industry.
Richard's reliance and acceptance of Heals like a Willow, causes a stronger internal battle within Richard. Beginning with the attempts to save Travis from his wounds. As we go through this book he is falling in love with an intelligent independent woman so different from the "Lady" personality of Laura. This brings into light Richard's character and the decision he has to make in the near future.
One of the more emotional aspects of the book is the ideals of religion and belief between the native tribes and the historical philosophy that Richard is debated back and forth between multiple characters. I learned many of the differences between the Missouri basin tribes, and how they organized their social contracts. It is an eye opening realization of the mythology of the various tribes and why they do not join together to repel the white invasion.
The book leaves us with the departure of Heals like a Willow back to her home. It sets up the adventure to come. Leaving the reader with the biggest question, whether Richard chooses to follow her, or return to Boston.
by W Michael Gear
The second edition of the dynamic story of the fur company expansion up the Missouri River. Our main character, Richard, has learned the effect of the fur trade on the tribes of the Missouri basin. Specifically the dynamic of new resources and internal fighting is the focus of the book as we see the aftermath of fighting between the tribes. Taking apart Jean-Jacques Rousseau theory of the Noble Savage as Richard is confronted with reality in the trade industry.
Richard's reliance and acceptance of Heals like a Willow, causes a stronger internal battle within Richard. Beginning with the attempts to save Travis from his wounds. As we go through this book he is falling in love with an intelligent independent woman so different from the "Lady" personality of Laura. This brings into light Richard's character and the decision he has to make in the near future.
One of the more emotional aspects of the book is the ideals of religion and belief between the native tribes and the historical philosophy that Richard is debated back and forth between multiple characters. I learned many of the differences between the Missouri basin tribes, and how they organized their social contracts. It is an eye opening realization of the mythology of the various tribes and why they do not join together to repel the white invasion.
The book leaves us with the departure of Heals like a Willow back to her home. It sets up the adventure to come. Leaving the reader with the biggest question, whether Richard chooses to follow her, or return to Boston.
August 18, 2024
Exploring the Saga of the Mountains: A Journey Through Time and Imagination
The "Saga of the Mountains" series by W. Michael Gear is a riveting collection that takes readers on a journey through the American frontier. The narrative begins with "The Morning River," where Richard Hamilton, a Harvard philosophy student, finds himself in the wilds of St. Louis in 1825. His odyssey of enlightenment commences aboard the Maria, a keelboat bound for the Upper Yellowstone River, setting the stage for a saga filled with danger and discovery. As the series unfolds, a rich tapestry of characters emerges, each embodying the spirit of courage, love, and perseverance. The concluding volume, "Coyote Summer," brings an enthralling end to the series against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. Here, the destinies of Richard Hamilton and Heals Like a Willow, a Shoshone medicine woman, converge in a story of affection and resolution during a Wyoming winter.
Gear's writing is deeply rooted in meticulous research and a deep appreciation for Native American culture and the historical era. His characters are not mere creations but echo the lives of real individuals who ventured into the unknown and shaped history. The series is a homage to the indomitable human spirit and the eternal pursuit of knowledge and connection. For those who seek adventure and a window into the past, "Saga of the Mountains" offers a thrilling and introspective experience. It reminds us that the lessons of yesterday can enlighten the twenty-first century and beyond. Embark on this literary journey and let W. Michael Gear guide you through an adventure that is as educational as it is exhilarating.
The "Saga of the Mountains" series by W. Michael Gear is a riveting collection that takes readers on a journey through the American frontier. The narrative begins with "The Morning River," where Richard Hamilton, a Harvard philosophy student, finds himself in the wilds of St. Louis in 1825. His odyssey of enlightenment commences aboard the Maria, a keelboat bound for the Upper Yellowstone River, setting the stage for a saga filled with danger and discovery. As the series unfolds, a rich tapestry of characters emerges, each embodying the spirit of courage, love, and perseverance. The concluding volume, "Coyote Summer," brings an enthralling end to the series against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. Here, the destinies of Richard Hamilton and Heals Like a Willow, a Shoshone medicine woman, converge in a story of affection and resolution during a Wyoming winter.
Gear's writing is deeply rooted in meticulous research and a deep appreciation for Native American culture and the historical era. His characters are not mere creations but echo the lives of real individuals who ventured into the unknown and shaped history. The series is a homage to the indomitable human spirit and the eternal pursuit of knowledge and connection. For those who seek adventure and a window into the past, "Saga of the Mountains" offers a thrilling and introspective experience. It reminds us that the lessons of yesterday can enlighten the twenty-first century and beyond. Embark on this literary journey and let W. Michael Gear guide you through an adventure that is as educational as it is exhilarating.
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