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Duncan McCallum #3
Original Death
“Edgar-winner Pattison combines action, period details, and a whodunit with ease in his impressive third mystery set in Colonial America.” ― Publishers Weekly (starred review) Despite the raging war between French and British, Scottish exile Duncan McCallum has begun to settle into a new life on the fringes of colonial America, traveling the woodlands with his companion Conawago, even joining the old Indian on his quest to find the last surviving members of his tribe. But the joy they feel on reaching the little settlement of Christian Indians is shattered when they find its residents ritually murdered. As terrible as the deaths may be, Conawago perceives something even darker and more he is convinced they are a sign of a terrible crisis in the spirit world which he must resolve. Trying to make sense of the murders, Duncan is accused by the British army of the crime. Escaping prison to follow the trail of evidence, he finds himself hounded by vengeful soldiers and stalked by Scottish rebels who are mysteriously trying to manipulate the war to their advantage. As he pieces together the puzzle of violence and deception he gradually realizes that it may not only be the lives of Duncan and his friends that hang in the balance, but the very survival of the native tribes. When he finally discovers the terrible truth, Duncan is forced to make a fateful choice between his beloved Highland clans and the woodland natives who have embraced and protected him.
358 pages, Hardcover
First published May 14, 2013
39 people are currently reading
485 people want to read
About the author
Eliot Pattison
35 books356 followersEdgar Award winning Eliot Pattison has been described as a "writer of faraway mysteries," a label which is particularly apt for someone whose travel and interests span a million miles of global trekking, visiting every continent but Antarctica.
An international lawyer by training, Pattison first combined his deep concerns for the people of Tibet with his interest in fiction writing in The Skull Mantra, which launched the popular Inspector Shan series.
The series has been translated into over twenty languages around the world. Both The Skull Mantra and Water Touching Stone were selected by Amazon.com for its annual list of ten best new mysteries. Water Touching Stone was selected by Booksense as the number one mystery of all time for readers' groups. The newest installment, Soul of Fire, was included in Publisher's Weekly's list of "Best Book of 2014".
Pattison's fascination with the 18th century American wilderness and its woodland Indians led to the launch of his second critically acclaimed Bone Rattler series.
His dystopian novel, Ashes of The Earth, marks the first installment in his third book series, set in post-apocalyptic America.
A former resident of Boston and Washington, Pattison resides on an 18th century farm in Pennsylvania with his wife, three children, and an ever-expanding menagerie of animals.
An international lawyer by training, Pattison first combined his deep concerns for the people of Tibet with his interest in fiction writing in The Skull Mantra, which launched the popular Inspector Shan series.
The series has been translated into over twenty languages around the world. Both The Skull Mantra and Water Touching Stone were selected by Amazon.com for its annual list of ten best new mysteries. Water Touching Stone was selected by Booksense as the number one mystery of all time for readers' groups. The newest installment, Soul of Fire, was included in Publisher's Weekly's list of "Best Book of 2014".
Pattison's fascination with the 18th century American wilderness and its woodland Indians led to the launch of his second critically acclaimed Bone Rattler series.
His dystopian novel, Ashes of The Earth, marks the first installment in his third book series, set in post-apocalyptic America.
A former resident of Boston and Washington, Pattison resides on an 18th century farm in Pennsylvania with his wife, three children, and an ever-expanding menagerie of animals.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
March 6, 2020
Incredible action in the new world, 1760. The mix of Scots heritage and Indian lore and practices makes for a compelling read.
Library Loan
Library Loan
July 18, 2013
Historical fiction that I recommend for fans of James Alexander Thom. Also reminiscent of The Leatherstocking Tales by James Fenimore Cooper and Michael Blake's Dances with Wolves.
Because the Scottish Jacobite heritage in early America is a strong feature in this book, this story may have some appeal to fans of Diana Gabaldon, as long as readers note that Original Death isn't a love story. The main character, the Scottish exile Duncan McCallum, keeps his distance from most women because he's a decent bloke and he's sweet on a gal back home. We only catch glimpses of women in this story, but readers are promised a love angle that will evolve over the course of the series.
It's been a long time since I've read up on Iroquois history. The mystery is well-hidden in an intricate plot, provided that you don't already know all the details.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a review but I look forward to future installments of the series.
Because the Scottish Jacobite heritage in early America is a strong feature in this book, this story may have some appeal to fans of Diana Gabaldon, as long as readers note that Original Death isn't a love story. The main character, the Scottish exile Duncan McCallum, keeps his distance from most women because he's a decent bloke and he's sweet on a gal back home. We only catch glimpses of women in this story, but readers are promised a love angle that will evolve over the course of the series.
It's been a long time since I've read up on Iroquois history. The mystery is well-hidden in an intricate plot, provided that you don't already know all the details.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a review but I look forward to future installments of the series.
February 16, 2019
Offenbarer
Ein Brief soll Conawago und Duncan McCallum an einen Ort führen, an dem noch ein paar Nipmucks vermutet werden. Je näher der alte Indianer und sein junger schottischer Freund ihrem Ziel kommen, desto mehr Zeichen gibt es vom Krieg zwischen den Briten und den Franzosen. Zufällig findet Duncan einen ermordeten britischen Soldaten, der an ein Wagenrad gefesselt im See versenkt wurde. Ein schlechtes Omen wie sich herausstellt. Als Conawago und Duncan an der kleinen Siedlung ankommen müssen sie entsetzt feststellen, dass die meisten Einwohner einem Massaker zum Opfer gefallen sind. Bald erreicht eine britische Patroullie das Geschehen und Duncan gerät unter Verdacht.
Im Jahr 1760 hat der Krieg um die Vorherrschaft in Nordamerika nichts an Gewalt verloren. Die Kontrahenten versuchen jeweils die einheimischen Stämme auf ihre Seite zu ziehen. Doch auch die in der Heimat geschmähten Schotten mischen auf der Suche nach einer neuen Heimat mit. Eine schwierige Situation für Duncan McCallum, der aus Schottland fliehen musste und in Conawago einen väterlichen Freund gefunden hat, der in auf die Pfade der alten Stämme geführt hat. Nachdem Conawago erfahren musste, dass einer seiner wenigen verbliebenen Verwandten bei dem Massaker umgekommen ist, macht er sich auf den Weg, noch schlimmeres Unheil zu verhindert. Duncan folgt seinem Freund, nicht nur um ihm zu helfen, sondern auch um den geheimen Strippenzieher zu finden.
Wie auch in den vorherigen Bänden um Duncan McCallum und Conawago beschreibt Eliot Pattison mit großer Einfühlsamkeit wie es damals in Nordamerika zugegangen sein mag. Die Indianer werden von allen Seiten bedrängt, sei es durch die verschiedenen Kriegsparteien, die sie für ihre eigenen Ziele ausnutzen wollen oder auch durch die Verbreitung europäischer Krankheiten, die ihre Reihen dezimieren. Doch auch das unbedingte Verständnis, dass einige der Einwanderer den Indianern und ihren alten Sitten und Gebräuchen entgegenbringen, nimmt einen ein. Man bedauert den Bruch in der naturnahen Lebensweise der Indianer. Zerrieben zwischen den Fronten gibt es für sie kaum eine Möglichkeit, sich ihre Ursprünglichkeit zu bewahren. Hätte nicht ein Miteinander eher zu einem friedlichen Zusammenleben geführt? Nicht immer muss dem Vorhandenen eine andere Art übergestülpt werden, die gewachsenen Strukturen können sich durchaus als erhaltenswert erweisen. Dieser Roman packt mit seinen exzellent recherchierten Passagen des geschichtlichen Rahmens und der alles tragenden Freundschaft zwischen dem weisen Indianer und dem klugen Schotten.
Ein Brief soll Conawago und Duncan McCallum an einen Ort führen, an dem noch ein paar Nipmucks vermutet werden. Je näher der alte Indianer und sein junger schottischer Freund ihrem Ziel kommen, desto mehr Zeichen gibt es vom Krieg zwischen den Briten und den Franzosen. Zufällig findet Duncan einen ermordeten britischen Soldaten, der an ein Wagenrad gefesselt im See versenkt wurde. Ein schlechtes Omen wie sich herausstellt. Als Conawago und Duncan an der kleinen Siedlung ankommen müssen sie entsetzt feststellen, dass die meisten Einwohner einem Massaker zum Opfer gefallen sind. Bald erreicht eine britische Patroullie das Geschehen und Duncan gerät unter Verdacht.
Im Jahr 1760 hat der Krieg um die Vorherrschaft in Nordamerika nichts an Gewalt verloren. Die Kontrahenten versuchen jeweils die einheimischen Stämme auf ihre Seite zu ziehen. Doch auch die in der Heimat geschmähten Schotten mischen auf der Suche nach einer neuen Heimat mit. Eine schwierige Situation für Duncan McCallum, der aus Schottland fliehen musste und in Conawago einen väterlichen Freund gefunden hat, der in auf die Pfade der alten Stämme geführt hat. Nachdem Conawago erfahren musste, dass einer seiner wenigen verbliebenen Verwandten bei dem Massaker umgekommen ist, macht er sich auf den Weg, noch schlimmeres Unheil zu verhindert. Duncan folgt seinem Freund, nicht nur um ihm zu helfen, sondern auch um den geheimen Strippenzieher zu finden.
Wie auch in den vorherigen Bänden um Duncan McCallum und Conawago beschreibt Eliot Pattison mit großer Einfühlsamkeit wie es damals in Nordamerika zugegangen sein mag. Die Indianer werden von allen Seiten bedrängt, sei es durch die verschiedenen Kriegsparteien, die sie für ihre eigenen Ziele ausnutzen wollen oder auch durch die Verbreitung europäischer Krankheiten, die ihre Reihen dezimieren. Doch auch das unbedingte Verständnis, dass einige der Einwanderer den Indianern und ihren alten Sitten und Gebräuchen entgegenbringen, nimmt einen ein. Man bedauert den Bruch in der naturnahen Lebensweise der Indianer. Zerrieben zwischen den Fronten gibt es für sie kaum eine Möglichkeit, sich ihre Ursprünglichkeit zu bewahren. Hätte nicht ein Miteinander eher zu einem friedlichen Zusammenleben geführt? Nicht immer muss dem Vorhandenen eine andere Art übergestülpt werden, die gewachsenen Strukturen können sich durchaus als erhaltenswert erweisen. Dieser Roman packt mit seinen exzellent recherchierten Passagen des geschichtlichen Rahmens und der alles tragenden Freundschaft zwischen dem weisen Indianer und dem klugen Schotten.
December 11, 2021
very interesting and the whodunit is also getting better
November 13, 2013
Duncan McCallum, exiled Scot chief of a destroyed clan, becomes involved in the dangerous territory (both physical and psychic) between two worlds. He and his particular friend, Conawago, reach a village of Christianized Delaware Indians that has been ravaged by war, crime, or both. A dozen or so villagers have been killed, including a dear friend of Conawago's, and several children have been taken captive to some dark end. In addition, it appears that the robbery of a British army payroll has taken place nearby, resulting in other deaths. McCallum and Conawago seek out the children, but McCallum also seeks to identify those responsible for the robbery. The search initially takes the friends in different directions, and McCallum is arrested for both the murders of the villagers and those of two of the escorts to the payroll. How McCallum extricates himself from the charge becomes a small piece of a set of much larger issues: How do McCallum and his wise friend retrieve the children, spike the claims of an Indian prophet out to wrest America away from the British (for whom McCallum has scant regard), and put down a Jacobite rising among the Highlanders who fight for the British. They also are charged with saving the Iroquois governing council, and crossing across the spirit line between the living and the dead to save the old spirits themselves.
Somehow all these elements (and more) work, though the book is a slow read. The shifting between friends and enemies, between the living and the dead, the French and the British, the British and the Indians require the two friends and their small band of allies to be in constant danger, often metaphysical as much as physical. The book is well done, and is the third in a good seres, but it requires concentration. Pattison's interest in the fate of the Indians at the hands of the Europeans is as well developed in this series as is his interest in the fate of Tibetans at the hands of the Chinese in his other series (see "The Skull Manta," and others).
Somehow all these elements (and more) work, though the book is a slow read. The shifting between friends and enemies, between the living and the dead, the French and the British, the British and the Indians require the two friends and their small band of allies to be in constant danger, often metaphysical as much as physical. The book is well done, and is the third in a good seres, but it requires concentration. Pattison's interest in the fate of the Indians at the hands of the Europeans is as well developed in this series as is his interest in the fate of Tibetans at the hands of the Chinese in his other series (see "The Skull Manta," and others).
August 17, 2013
Whether writing about the subjugation of Tibetan culture by the Chinese or the encroachment on the Native America culture by European powers, Eliot Pattison has a unique ability to enable the reader to submerge themselves in the struggles of a people powerless to stop the relentless progress of a dominant foe. I recommend, Bone Rattler, the first book of Pattison’s Colonial American mysteries, as a summer reading for my high school history students. The rich historical detail and the engaging narrative provides memorable background when we study the French and Indian War.
In Original Death, Pattison’s third Colonial America mystery, he weaves vividly written, little known history with a tightly written mystery. Duncan McCallum, the Scottish rebel forced into indentured servitude in the colonies, is the last of his clan. His Native American mentor, Conawago, fears he is the last of his tribe. The two companions receive word that Conawago’s grandson is living at a Christian mission, they travel further northwest wilderness only to find a terrible massacre has taken place. The complex mystery involves missing payrolls, disgruntled Highlanders, and a Native American prophet holding sway over tribes in the region.
Pattison gives life to the Native Americans and Europeans who live together and fight against each other in much more complex interrelationships than most modern Americans realize existed. Another excellent addition to the series.
In Original Death, Pattison’s third Colonial America mystery, he weaves vividly written, little known history with a tightly written mystery. Duncan McCallum, the Scottish rebel forced into indentured servitude in the colonies, is the last of his clan. His Native American mentor, Conawago, fears he is the last of his tribe. The two companions receive word that Conawago’s grandson is living at a Christian mission, they travel further northwest wilderness only to find a terrible massacre has taken place. The complex mystery involves missing payrolls, disgruntled Highlanders, and a Native American prophet holding sway over tribes in the region.
Pattison gives life to the Native Americans and Europeans who live together and fight against each other in much more complex interrelationships than most modern Americans realize existed. Another excellent addition to the series.
August 1, 2013
OK, I just love this author's books, all of them. This is the brand-new, just out, third book in the Bone Rattler series, and it kept me transfixed from start to finish.
This series involves the adventures of a Highland renegade in Colonial America, who connects with what may be the last member of an Iroquois tribe the Nipmucs. Duncan McCallum, last of his own tribe, travels with Conawago, a native educated by missionaries,companion of kings and respected by both whites and Indians, who seeks to preserve and protect the old ways, the holy places of the Woodland Indians.
Conawago regards Duncan as both an apt student and a friend, and together they face many adventures, dangers and mysteries.
In this latest novel, Duncan and Conawago arrive at a small village to find the inhabitants cruelly murdered, apparently by renegade Indians, however British Rangers/soldiers arrive as Duncan discovers the body of a soldier nearby, and arrest Duncan as the killer.
The action all takes place during the late stages of the French and Indian War, mostly between Albany, NY and Montreal, along the St Lawrence River and Lake Erie, and is centered in the conflicts between the British, the French, the Iroquois Grand Council, a renegade half-breed "king", and troops of rebellious Highland soldiers. Whew! Sounds complicated but the plot is clearly written and there is a very creative solution.
I highly recommend both the series and the author.
This series involves the adventures of a Highland renegade in Colonial America, who connects with what may be the last member of an Iroquois tribe the Nipmucs. Duncan McCallum, last of his own tribe, travels with Conawago, a native educated by missionaries,companion of kings and respected by both whites and Indians, who seeks to preserve and protect the old ways, the holy places of the Woodland Indians.
Conawago regards Duncan as both an apt student and a friend, and together they face many adventures, dangers and mysteries.
In this latest novel, Duncan and Conawago arrive at a small village to find the inhabitants cruelly murdered, apparently by renegade Indians, however British Rangers/soldiers arrive as Duncan discovers the body of a soldier nearby, and arrest Duncan as the killer.
The action all takes place during the late stages of the French and Indian War, mostly between Albany, NY and Montreal, along the St Lawrence River and Lake Erie, and is centered in the conflicts between the British, the French, the Iroquois Grand Council, a renegade half-breed "king", and troops of rebellious Highland soldiers. Whew! Sounds complicated but the plot is clearly written and there is a very creative solution.
I highly recommend both the series and the author.
August 11, 2016
Original Death is the third book in a series by Eliot Pattison, although the reader will be able to follow along without reading the first two. I enjoyed this book immensely, and feel that it deserves a place among some of my favorites in the same genre: Alan Eckert's Winning of America Series and James Fenimore Cooper's Leatherstocking Tales. It's intelligently written by someone who has very obviously done their research, and who has great respect for Native Americans.
The story contains all the elements that make a great historical fiction book: plot twists, intrigue, espionage, Native American mysticism, matters of honor and bravery, interesting characters, wilderness settings, and an ending that explains all the mysteries left unsolved during the story. I especially enjoyed the parts about the Scottish Highland troops, the interaction between the tribes that made up the Iroquois League, and the fact that the story was based on actual history. The main character, Duncan McCallum, narrowly escapes death many times in the book, but the author never makes him seem unbelievable. I also appreciated that this isn't a romance novel, although there are devoted couples in the book.
Overall, I found this to be a really great book, and one I'm proud to recommend. I received a copy of Original death from the publisher, for reviewing purposes.
The story contains all the elements that make a great historical fiction book: plot twists, intrigue, espionage, Native American mysticism, matters of honor and bravery, interesting characters, wilderness settings, and an ending that explains all the mysteries left unsolved during the story. I especially enjoyed the parts about the Scottish Highland troops, the interaction between the tribes that made up the Iroquois League, and the fact that the story was based on actual history. The main character, Duncan McCallum, narrowly escapes death many times in the book, but the author never makes him seem unbelievable. I also appreciated that this isn't a romance novel, although there are devoted couples in the book.
Overall, I found this to be a really great book, and one I'm proud to recommend. I received a copy of Original death from the publisher, for reviewing purposes.
August 31, 2014
Although I don't know much about the French and Indian Wars (or about China's incursion into Tibet, for that matter), Eliot Pattison seems to have the history at his fingertips, whichever one he is writing about in his mysteries. Both of his series feature wise old spiritual leaders and young, troubled and outcast but brave and sensitive heroes who are fighting terrible odds of corrupt power.
This latest novel, about a complex conspiracy to help the French win against the British in 18th C Colonial America was too convoluted to be a tiptop mystery (too many rabbits coming out of hats at the last minute) and too gruesome to make me want to read another. I don't argue that European and tribal torture in the 1700s could make ISIS look like a walk in the park, but I don't want any more details.
I once heard this author at Porter Square books and thought he was pretty guarded about how he knows some of the things he knows, especially about Tibet, but the book jacket says he's an international lawyer. I suspect his visits to Tibet in the 1980s had something to do with U.S. covert activities, but he's not saying.
The main characters are extremely likable, and I want to know what happens to them, but maybe not at the cost of reading about so much cruelty.
This latest novel, about a complex conspiracy to help the French win against the British in 18th C Colonial America was too convoluted to be a tiptop mystery (too many rabbits coming out of hats at the last minute) and too gruesome to make me want to read another. I don't argue that European and tribal torture in the 1700s could make ISIS look like a walk in the park, but I don't want any more details.
I once heard this author at Porter Square books and thought he was pretty guarded about how he knows some of the things he knows, especially about Tibet, but the book jacket says he's an international lawyer. I suspect his visits to Tibet in the 1980s had something to do with U.S. covert activities, but he's not saying.
The main characters are extremely likable, and I want to know what happens to them, but maybe not at the cost of reading about so much cruelty.
September 24, 2013
Original Death: Eliot Pattison
Duncan McCallum finds himself within the confines of a prison that he never expected. Hoping to help his friend reconnect with his past, his family and heritage would bring sorrow, tragedy and sorrow. Duncan McCallum wants to help his Nipmuc friend, Conawago reconnect with his tribe and a young man named Hickory John. But, what happens will alert readers from the start that hidden dangers await these two friends and finding a dead soldier bound to the wheel in the bottom of a lake, start their travels off on a sinister or hostile note. Not wanting to take this as a final deterrent nor thinking that more evil awaits them they forge ahead and what they find will shatter their hopes, create fear within both of their hearts and set off a chain of events that will rock their world. Entering the village they hope to find the settlers of the Christian Indian Settlement at prayer. What they do find is startling, horrific and tragic. Entering the church they find all of the residents within it murdered. Throughout the village and entering the individual homes they find more bodies. Someone decided to ritually murder each of the people in this village as a warning to one man. Hoping to find the reason for the murders what happens next is quite the opposite of what Duncan expected. The British army arrives and seeing him covered in blood instead of questioning him they assume he is guilty of the murders. Conawago was hurt on the way by snipers and has been hidden by a woman that the British thinks is mute. But, the end is far from near and Conawago sees this as just the start of more evil to come. What has awakened the spirit world and he feels it is in trouble and he must find a way to resolve it. How can Duncan find out what happened if he is imprisoned and beaten.
Duncan is relentless and finds his way to a village where he meets a woman named Hetty Eldridge, thought to be a witch. Manipulated, thrown in prison and on the trail of the soldiers who tortured and beat him, McCallum learns more about his close friend, where the missing young boy might be. But not everything turns out the way he hopes and although he enlists the help of two men in the army who seem to have his back you might say, the tables are turned, the evidence stacked and he is thrown in what some refer to the Iron Pile. One woman who seems to instill fear in everyone she meets and the information she gives him will more than surprise the reader. When Duncan finally reunites with Hetty and Ishmael the author shares with readers the history behind the message imparted to Conawago, where he is headed and whom he is seeking. Considered a ghostwalker or a witch, Hetty was in her past life an amazing seamstress but what she imparts to Duncan explains her attachment to the spirits, why Hickory John was killed and what he revealed before they executed him and why. Added in Duncan questions Hetty as to why Ishmael’s grandfather and the others in Bethel Church would rather die to protect the old gods and questions why the old gods would need the king’s coins? His goal is to find the children and his friend but where? Who is the white sachem and how will that help to find him? Arriving in a village they learn about the people, the Highlanders and find some solace in their kindness and hospitality. Meeting in a neutral place and learning that one army officer lurked in the distance to harm Duncan, they all learn that this settlement will not tolerate it and what happens to the Sergeant that tries to kill Duncan will make you want to stand up and applaud. But, some wars go far beyond and Duncan is accused of being a Highland Outlaw and a choice has to be made between his clan and his friend. But, along with another Indian and a woman named Kass they find their way to the half-king only to be taken prisoner once more. The tortures inflicted are grave, the end result of so many deaths. Entering the domain of the half-king we hear the voice of a sadist whose violence towards the prisoners seems to bring him joy. The British of a crime and the half-king or the revelator falsely accuse Duncan as he is referred to have a plan that would help him win the war against the British and force the French to join with him. But, what happens will surprise even the revelator as Hetty’s words, her power of his men change everything as we learn more about the oracles, the truths behind his plot and the manipulations of the Scottish rebels trying to win the war and turn the tide in their direction. With the lives of his friends, his own and many others in danger, the survival of the tribes in question just how will this all turn out and will anyone believe in his innocence? Truths, lies, deceits, betrayals and on man who will be forced to make a life altering decision.
While Duncan reflects on all that happens the author brilliantly summarizes through him the events that occurred staring with the Dead Mohawks at Bethel Church, then the captive children taken north and killed but why and the missing treasure of the British King. The witch that decide to seek out the half-king and the search for the missing school children and their teacher. Some of the children belong to the families at the settlement and were killed but what about the rest? Moving ahead we hear the voices of the council, learn more about one member of their group who betrayed him from the start and what the truth is behind why Macaulay was placed in the iron hole with him, what was his real motive and the end result is revealed when the council meets. The history revealed is quite interesting as we learn more about the time period, the superstitions and beliefs of the Indians and the end remains to unfold.
When facing the Revelator and learning his true identity many other deceits come to light and what happens next will change everything. What was the original plan and what did this half-king hope to gain? What about the children? When things seem to go his way Duncan learns the fate of the Highlanders and a decision has to be made? What about Hetty and Ishmael? Lives are lost some are forced to cross over while others have plotted for so long. How can one man get away with stealing, killing, torturing and maiming and feel justified doing it? What happens at the end will definitely surprise the reader as Duncan finds out his fate. Will he be forced to trade his life for the five children? What about Kass? What about his friend? How many more lives will be lost and what will the final count be?
The half-king claimed not to charge anyone or blame them for he death of one of his own yet in the end his father gave them a reprieve but his actions speak volumes for his lack of respect for anyone but himself and his wants. While he parades himself in what some might say all of his glory we hear the voice of this man who promised to return the children and then would get his money. But, if anyone thought he could be taken at his word they would be quite naïve. But, there is much more as one symbol presented to Duncan changes it all and the half king’s demands you just won’t believe. As Captain Wooford learns the hidden truth behind more than just his men’s deaths, the evil that lurks within the heart of so many and the end result is still in question. As the ending becomes the beginning and the final ritual is repeated and one man rises to the top of the scaffold, what will the final ending bring? What about those that betrayed both sides? An ending so powerful and so unexpected and a group of people that will either unite or will forever try and understand the spirit world and the spirit war. Once again author Elliot Pattison raises the bar historical fiction authors whose novels are based on fact and whose research is extensive enlightening readers to the time period and including a timeline of events for the Colonial Period at the end. This is definitely a must read and learn just why some realized the true meaning of Original Death. Where will McCallum find himself next?
Fran Lewis: Reviewer
Duncan McCallum finds himself within the confines of a prison that he never expected. Hoping to help his friend reconnect with his past, his family and heritage would bring sorrow, tragedy and sorrow. Duncan McCallum wants to help his Nipmuc friend, Conawago reconnect with his tribe and a young man named Hickory John. But, what happens will alert readers from the start that hidden dangers await these two friends and finding a dead soldier bound to the wheel in the bottom of a lake, start their travels off on a sinister or hostile note. Not wanting to take this as a final deterrent nor thinking that more evil awaits them they forge ahead and what they find will shatter their hopes, create fear within both of their hearts and set off a chain of events that will rock their world. Entering the village they hope to find the settlers of the Christian Indian Settlement at prayer. What they do find is startling, horrific and tragic. Entering the church they find all of the residents within it murdered. Throughout the village and entering the individual homes they find more bodies. Someone decided to ritually murder each of the people in this village as a warning to one man. Hoping to find the reason for the murders what happens next is quite the opposite of what Duncan expected. The British army arrives and seeing him covered in blood instead of questioning him they assume he is guilty of the murders. Conawago was hurt on the way by snipers and has been hidden by a woman that the British thinks is mute. But, the end is far from near and Conawago sees this as just the start of more evil to come. What has awakened the spirit world and he feels it is in trouble and he must find a way to resolve it. How can Duncan find out what happened if he is imprisoned and beaten.
Duncan is relentless and finds his way to a village where he meets a woman named Hetty Eldridge, thought to be a witch. Manipulated, thrown in prison and on the trail of the soldiers who tortured and beat him, McCallum learns more about his close friend, where the missing young boy might be. But not everything turns out the way he hopes and although he enlists the help of two men in the army who seem to have his back you might say, the tables are turned, the evidence stacked and he is thrown in what some refer to the Iron Pile. One woman who seems to instill fear in everyone she meets and the information she gives him will more than surprise the reader. When Duncan finally reunites with Hetty and Ishmael the author shares with readers the history behind the message imparted to Conawago, where he is headed and whom he is seeking. Considered a ghostwalker or a witch, Hetty was in her past life an amazing seamstress but what she imparts to Duncan explains her attachment to the spirits, why Hickory John was killed and what he revealed before they executed him and why. Added in Duncan questions Hetty as to why Ishmael’s grandfather and the others in Bethel Church would rather die to protect the old gods and questions why the old gods would need the king’s coins? His goal is to find the children and his friend but where? Who is the white sachem and how will that help to find him? Arriving in a village they learn about the people, the Highlanders and find some solace in their kindness and hospitality. Meeting in a neutral place and learning that one army officer lurked in the distance to harm Duncan, they all learn that this settlement will not tolerate it and what happens to the Sergeant that tries to kill Duncan will make you want to stand up and applaud. But, some wars go far beyond and Duncan is accused of being a Highland Outlaw and a choice has to be made between his clan and his friend. But, along with another Indian and a woman named Kass they find their way to the half-king only to be taken prisoner once more. The tortures inflicted are grave, the end result of so many deaths. Entering the domain of the half-king we hear the voice of a sadist whose violence towards the prisoners seems to bring him joy. The British of a crime and the half-king or the revelator falsely accuse Duncan as he is referred to have a plan that would help him win the war against the British and force the French to join with him. But, what happens will surprise even the revelator as Hetty’s words, her power of his men change everything as we learn more about the oracles, the truths behind his plot and the manipulations of the Scottish rebels trying to win the war and turn the tide in their direction. With the lives of his friends, his own and many others in danger, the survival of the tribes in question just how will this all turn out and will anyone believe in his innocence? Truths, lies, deceits, betrayals and on man who will be forced to make a life altering decision.
While Duncan reflects on all that happens the author brilliantly summarizes through him the events that occurred staring with the Dead Mohawks at Bethel Church, then the captive children taken north and killed but why and the missing treasure of the British King. The witch that decide to seek out the half-king and the search for the missing school children and their teacher. Some of the children belong to the families at the settlement and were killed but what about the rest? Moving ahead we hear the voices of the council, learn more about one member of their group who betrayed him from the start and what the truth is behind why Macaulay was placed in the iron hole with him, what was his real motive and the end result is revealed when the council meets. The history revealed is quite interesting as we learn more about the time period, the superstitions and beliefs of the Indians and the end remains to unfold.
When facing the Revelator and learning his true identity many other deceits come to light and what happens next will change everything. What was the original plan and what did this half-king hope to gain? What about the children? When things seem to go his way Duncan learns the fate of the Highlanders and a decision has to be made? What about Hetty and Ishmael? Lives are lost some are forced to cross over while others have plotted for so long. How can one man get away with stealing, killing, torturing and maiming and feel justified doing it? What happens at the end will definitely surprise the reader as Duncan finds out his fate. Will he be forced to trade his life for the five children? What about Kass? What about his friend? How many more lives will be lost and what will the final count be?
The half-king claimed not to charge anyone or blame them for he death of one of his own yet in the end his father gave them a reprieve but his actions speak volumes for his lack of respect for anyone but himself and his wants. While he parades himself in what some might say all of his glory we hear the voice of this man who promised to return the children and then would get his money. But, if anyone thought he could be taken at his word they would be quite naïve. But, there is much more as one symbol presented to Duncan changes it all and the half king’s demands you just won’t believe. As Captain Wooford learns the hidden truth behind more than just his men’s deaths, the evil that lurks within the heart of so many and the end result is still in question. As the ending becomes the beginning and the final ritual is repeated and one man rises to the top of the scaffold, what will the final ending bring? What about those that betrayed both sides? An ending so powerful and so unexpected and a group of people that will either unite or will forever try and understand the spirit world and the spirit war. Once again author Elliot Pattison raises the bar historical fiction authors whose novels are based on fact and whose research is extensive enlightening readers to the time period and including a timeline of events for the Colonial Period at the end. This is definitely a must read and learn just why some realized the true meaning of Original Death. Where will McCallum find himself next?
Fran Lewis: Reviewer
December 27, 2024
Just want to say that Duncan McCallum can sure get into a messy situation with great ease. This time he is accused of killing a British soldier on top of being a run away indentured servant. Then there is the matter of an Indian prophet, who is stirring up the Indian allies of the British to defect during the French and Indian War. Duncan and his allies are running to a clash of cultures. What I like about this story is the way that Native Americans are portrayed not as savages, but as a people, who have a long cultural history. And like any group of people there are good and bad to be found. Now there are some fairly awful Indians in this story, but they are balanced out by the strong spiritual believing people. I know that the journey for Duncan McCallum is not over. I just hope the next time he stumbles upon a dead body. He will leave it alone or just not get too close to it and have to explain why he has blood on his hands and didn't do anything wrong.
August 13, 2019
Death, brutal and savage, was everywhere in Colonial America, when the British, French, and native people fought for control. Scottish exile Duncan McCallum and his companion Conawago find that their skills at keeping invisible and out of danger fail them repeatedly. They begin a peaceable journey to find the nephew of Conawago who has been located living in a small village. What was to be a reunion of the last living members of their family turns into the scene of a bloodbath, and Duncan is imprisoned for murder.
This series about Duncan takes place in a period of American history that is not as well known as the years of the revolution, but is vital to understanding those years.
Eliot Pattison's two amazing series, whether in the American wilderness with the Bone Rattler, or in remote Tibet with Inspector Shan, provide the reader with thrilling and unforgettable experiences.
All of his books top my TBR lists.
This series about Duncan takes place in a period of American history that is not as well known as the years of the revolution, but is vital to understanding those years.
Eliot Pattison's two amazing series, whether in the American wilderness with the Bone Rattler, or in remote Tibet with Inspector Shan, provide the reader with thrilling and unforgettable experiences.
All of his books top my TBR lists.
March 25, 2018
Duncan McCallum is one of my favorite heros and I so enjoy Pattison's writing. This book is the third in the series as this Scotsman roams the wilderness with his native friend, Conawago, encountering tribes at war with each other as well as French and British troops as well. In this novel the two are heading for Bethel to meet a brother and nephew of Conawago but when they arrive the brother has been tortured and murdered and the nephew is not to be found. As they search for the boy McCallum is captured, imprisoned and escapes with the boy to search for Conawago whose travels were to a different direction. There are killings, raiding parties and intrigue. It's a most entertaining read. I look forward the next novel in this series.
April 7, 2019
A fun historical mystery, set in pre-RevWar America, both well researched and well written. The hero of this series pretty much wears a tarnished halo, and the bad guys are all really bad, but the author will hold your attention all the way through. His usage of actual historical places & events is fairly close to accurate, and his sensitive representation of both native American and Scots culture, mores, and practices is better than most historical fiction writers. These books in this series are somewhat formulaic, but I waited a good six months after reading the previous one, so getting into this edition was as enjoyable as when I read the first of Pattison's works that I encountered.
August 18, 2017
Did not finish this book. It was poorly thought out, amateurish. The main character continued to make terrible decisions, getting himself further and further into trouble. Yes, an occasional slip-up is acceptable, but when the main character has no common sense, is just made to take action to enhance the sense of danger and the plot without any realism, the reader loses the sense of "suspended belief" which fiction relies on. Better luck on your next book, Mr. Author!
February 6, 2021
My heart has been torn out. I have become a hollow man. I don't remember the last time I cried after reading a book, perhaps Little Dorritt or Nana almost 60 years ago. To add frosting to the cake, there is an excellent timeline and historical summary/perspective as an addendum to the book. I cannot recommend this more highly, but it is best to read the first two books to get a perspective on the two main characters.
March 9, 2025
Chronicles the later stages of the French and Indian War in the Colonies, when the British and French are vying for control of the landscape, but the various Indian tribes and the Scottish Highlanders play no small part. For me, a difficult story to follow or understand, as the narrative seems purposefully vague. Nevertheless, I enjoyed this nuanced look at the forces that came together during this time, the 1760's in America, and which set the stage for the revolution that followed.
September 23, 2020
3rd in this series. Again, very enjoyable historical mystery set before the American Revolution.
Our hero, Duncan, needs to solve the disappearance of a wagonload of silver coin on route to Montreal and the brutal slaying of a peaceful village. Set around the St Lawrence and Lake Ontario. Lots of detail on early 18th century America and native cultures.
Our hero, Duncan, needs to solve the disappearance of a wagonload of silver coin on route to Montreal and the brutal slaying of a peaceful village. Set around the St Lawrence and Lake Ontario. Lots of detail on early 18th century America and native cultures.
August 7, 2023
This was a very interesting read!
Likes:
The author did a great job at world building! It was easy to picture exactly what was happening. The characters were well developed and loveable (and hateable!)
Dislikes:
The plot was a little slow. Not till the last quarter of the book did it really pick up.
Likes:
The author did a great job at world building! It was easy to picture exactly what was happening. The characters were well developed and loveable (and hateable!)
Dislikes:
The plot was a little slow. Not till the last quarter of the book did it really pick up.
April 23, 2025
Great for American history buffs! Better understanding the complexity of the years prior to the American Revolution is critical to really understanding the revolution itself. So many more moving parts than I ever understood - and I appreciate the epilogues in this series giving more information on the historical accuracy of much of the action.
April 3, 2023
Fantastic Historical Fiction - heavy on the historical. Greed and power and brutality are sadly woven into so much history of the world - it’s very sad. Very well written and easy to become familiar to and connected with the characters.
December 15, 2018
Radiant with the spirituality of the natural world. Beautiful characterization. Horrific violence and human cruelty. I keep thinking of all the PTSD.
January 8, 2019
Excellent
Little know events although fictionalized and the ways of Native Americans are entwined in this book. Eliot Pattison is a wonderful story teller.
Little know events although fictionalized and the ways of Native Americans are entwined in this book. Eliot Pattison is a wonderful story teller.
September 27, 2019
The complicated plot keeps you thinking and paying attention to the events that Duncan and friends are involved in. Excellent book. Can't wait to read the next one in this series!
July 21, 2021
Full of history and action. The Indians, French, British and Colonists all wanting the same land. Somethings are not settled at the table.
October 2, 2021
Another excellent novel in this series. Truly interesting historical fiction novel.
November 26, 2021
I'm captivated by this series I cannot put it down I love the intermingling of the natives with the Scottish I like the characters greatly.
January 23, 2024
This plot is a little more complicated that it needs to be. Part Last of the Mohicans and part the Pathfinder. Duncan is constantly getting captured.
June 9, 2024
A bit tough to read, it covers the slow death of the native population and how the tribes would slowly disperse.
July 8, 2018
3 1/2 stars for this entry.
I obviously wasn't in the mood/proper frame of mind when I read this book, because I found it a bit of a slog. The fact that it took me 9 days for a book that I normally would have read in 2-3 (and that I read 3 other good size books while working my way through this one) should have told me to put it back and try again later. However, I had been looking forward to it for months, so I persevered. Thus my disjointed reading pattern didn't help matters.
I am not sure that reading it straight through would have made the very intricate plot any easier to follow. There were times when I wasn't sure that the author would be able to pull all of the threads together and give the reader a satisfactory conclusion. There were many times that I could join our hero Duncan McCallum in wishing that someone, anyone, would give a straight answer to a straight question.
Once again the author does an excellent job of portraying life in the colonies during the French and Indian Wars. Most of the action in this book takes place in far upstate New York-Lake Champlain, Fort Ticonde3roga, Lake Ontario regions and even into Canada--all in anticipation of the British Army's drive on Montreal.
It was great to meet up with the continuing characters again; especially Conawego and the ranger captain, Woolford. Sarah Ramsey (a pivotal character from the first book), makes a cameo appearance--I'd like to see more of her. Poor Duncan is still as conflicted as ever--I am hoping that the revelations of the last part of the story bring him some peace.
I think I'll probably try to re-read this one in a month or so--when my brain is more receptive.
And I will definitely read the next in this series.
By the way, I just want to congratulate the publisher for the fantastic covers for the this and the two previous. They are so evocative of the time and place--perfect match.
I obviously wasn't in the mood/proper frame of mind when I read this book, because I found it a bit of a slog. The fact that it took me 9 days for a book that I normally would have read in 2-3 (and that I read 3 other good size books while working my way through this one) should have told me to put it back and try again later. However, I had been looking forward to it for months, so I persevered. Thus my disjointed reading pattern didn't help matters.
I am not sure that reading it straight through would have made the very intricate plot any easier to follow. There were times when I wasn't sure that the author would be able to pull all of the threads together and give the reader a satisfactory conclusion. There were many times that I could join our hero Duncan McCallum in wishing that someone, anyone, would give a straight answer to a straight question.
Once again the author does an excellent job of portraying life in the colonies during the French and Indian Wars. Most of the action in this book takes place in far upstate New York-Lake Champlain, Fort Ticonde3roga, Lake Ontario regions and even into Canada--all in anticipation of the British Army's drive on Montreal.
It was great to meet up with the continuing characters again; especially Conawego and the ranger captain, Woolford. Sarah Ramsey (a pivotal character from the first book), makes a cameo appearance--I'd like to see more of her. Poor Duncan is still as conflicted as ever--I am hoping that the revelations of the last part of the story bring him some peace.
I think I'll probably try to re-read this one in a month or so--when my brain is more receptive.
And I will definitely read the next in this series.
By the way, I just want to congratulate the publisher for the fantastic covers for the this and the two previous. They are so evocative of the time and place--perfect match.
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