The Legend of the Chiscas: From Viking to Melungeon?

by Ryan Phillips

Nestled deep within the Blue Ridge Mountains lies an untold story that challenges the annals of history. "The Legend of the From Viking to Melungeon?" by Ryan E. Phillips is a riveting historical fiction novelette that intertwines real events with imaginative storytelling to uncover the mysterious past of the Chiscas tribe. Described by Spanish explorers as having white skin, blue eyes, and red hair, the Chiscas were a sophisticated and enigmatic people. Were they descendants of Viking settlers, or was their unique heritage something else entirely?
Follow the gripping accounts of historical and fictional characters as they navigate the cultural collisions of the 16th century. Witness the brutal expeditions of Captain Juan Pardo, the resilience of the Chiscas, and the relentless pursuit of wealth and glory by the Spanish crown. The discovery of a long-lost scroll penned by Sergeant Hernando Moyano brings to light the harrowing fate of the Chiscas and their advanced society hidden in the Appalachian wilderness.
In the present day, historian Dr. R.W. Phillips uncovers Moyano's scroll and embarks on a quest to piece together the Chiscas' legacy. His research leads to intriguing connections with the Melungeons, a mixed-race group with mysterious origins, further enriching the cultural and genetic tapestry of the region.
"The Legend of the Chiscas" is a tribute to the resilience of human cultures, the complexities of history, and the power of storytelling. This novelette invites readers on a journey through time, exploring the intersections of fact and fiction and uncovering the rich heritage that shapes the Appalachian region.

55 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 5, 2024

About the author

Ryan grew up in southeast Colorado, USA and graduated from Colorado State University. He is a mechanical engineer by trade, an entrepreneur by design, and an author by his own accord.

He likes to travel as frequently as possible and has visited some of the best parts of North America, only so far. He may or may not enjoy crocheting and whittling small canoes.

A self-proclaimed 'freak' for self-improvement material, he spends much of his time reading, listening and writing about being the best human being he can be. He is the author of "Project: Groovy - Life Lessons from 34 of My Closest Friends On Happiness, Fulfillment, and Aspiring to be Awesome" released in September, 2015.

He occupies his time with small business ventures and writes [almost] exclusively at the site he founded: www.projectgroovy.com.