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North America's Forgotten Past #17
People of the Longhouse
Born in a time of violent upheaval, young Odion and his little sister, Tutelo, live in fear that one day Yellowtail Village will be attacked. When that day comes and Odion and Tutelo are marched away as slaves, Odion's only hope is that his parents are tracking them, coming to rescue them.
They are. But War Chief Koracoo and Deputy Gonda think they are tracking an ordinary war party herding captive women and children to an enemy village. Instead, they are following close on the heels of legendary evil, an old witch-woman named Gannajero, who captures children for her own purposes….
They are. But War Chief Koracoo and Deputy Gonda think they are tracking an ordinary war party herding captive women and children to an enemy village. Instead, they are following close on the heels of legendary evil, an old witch-woman named Gannajero, who captures children for her own purposes….
304 pages, Hardcover
First published July 20, 2010
333 people are currently reading
1594 people want to read
About the author
W. Michael Gear
181 books730 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 - 30 of 111 reviews
January 21, 2012
This seventeenth installment of the Gears’ North America’s Forgotten Past series chronicles hostilities between several Iroquois tribes. In the story, eleven-year-old Odion and his younger sister, Tutelo, are captured in a raid that has left most of his tribe dead. Despite brutal treatment at the hands of his captors, Odion holds out hope that his parents will track them and rescue them before he and Tutelo are killed or worse…
Though I’ve not read any of the Gears’ other titles, my expectation of the series, based on its title and the Gears’ non-fiction introduction to this novel, was that the series is meant to teach readers about native tribes. However, I don't think the Gears accomplished that goal in this novel. Rather than writing a story about real historical events or the daily struggles of the Iroquois, they wrote a chiller about a child sex slave ring headed by a fearsome witch.
I might not have questioned such a plot in another novel, but in their non-fiction introduction the Gears explained why, a century before the arrival of European settlers, there was so much inter-tribal violence and how this set the stage for the Iroquois confederation, which was the origin of American ideals of democracy, human rights, respect for diversity, and public welfare. After reading the introduction, I was expecting a novel about inter-tribal violence with seeds of what was to come with the Iroquois confederation. But the plot’s narrow focus on deviant behavior is at odds with the goal of teaching readers the normative behavior of the Iroquois. This is a compelling read, but it does little to teach readers about the forgotten past of the Iroquois or how that past shaped American Constitutional ideals.
Though I’ve not read any of the Gears’ other titles, my expectation of the series, based on its title and the Gears’ non-fiction introduction to this novel, was that the series is meant to teach readers about native tribes. However, I don't think the Gears accomplished that goal in this novel. Rather than writing a story about real historical events or the daily struggles of the Iroquois, they wrote a chiller about a child sex slave ring headed by a fearsome witch.
I might not have questioned such a plot in another novel, but in their non-fiction introduction the Gears explained why, a century before the arrival of European settlers, there was so much inter-tribal violence and how this set the stage for the Iroquois confederation, which was the origin of American ideals of democracy, human rights, respect for diversity, and public welfare. After reading the introduction, I was expecting a novel about inter-tribal violence with seeds of what was to come with the Iroquois confederation. But the plot’s narrow focus on deviant behavior is at odds with the goal of teaching readers the normative behavior of the Iroquois. This is a compelling read, but it does little to teach readers about the forgotten past of the Iroquois or how that past shaped American Constitutional ideals.
November 8, 2016
I’ve always wanted to read one of the many books by the Gears, finding it fascinating that an archaeologist wife and husband write together. After pouring through their list of books, I chose PEOPLE OF THE LONGHOUSE based on it’s beautiful cover and that the antagonist is a witch from legend who abducts children.
I was not disappointed. The first chapter drew me in with it’s mystical and supernatural elements. The second chapter grabbed my interest with the kidnapped children and their fears. I also loved how the Gears weaved in the Iroquoians legends, beliefs, culture, and their way of life into the story. They also did a wonderful job breathing life into each character with their fears, hopes, guilt, insecurities, and anger. The most fascinating character was Gannajero, the Trader Witch. She was evil incarnate and I wanted to know what made her tick and how she became who she was. I was chilled and horrified by the witch’s actions and what she does to the captured children.
The first night I began reading the book, I sat in bed turning pages to find out what would happen until my eyes became blurry with sleep. I was forced to put the book down but couldn’t stop thinking about the witch and the fate of the kids until I feel asleep. When I picked up the book again I had to pace myself and not speed read to find out what happens. I was given tantalizing tid bits about Gannaejro’s possible origins and if the rest of the kids would be saved.
It ended on cliff hanger and left me squeezing the book in frustration. I screamed out no. It was 2am and there wasn’t a book store opened and I didn’t have my kindle with me on my trip. Needless to say I’m going to get the next book. I’m a big fan of the Gears and look forward to reading more of their books.
I was not disappointed. The first chapter drew me in with it’s mystical and supernatural elements. The second chapter grabbed my interest with the kidnapped children and their fears. I also loved how the Gears weaved in the Iroquoians legends, beliefs, culture, and their way of life into the story. They also did a wonderful job breathing life into each character with their fears, hopes, guilt, insecurities, and anger. The most fascinating character was Gannajero, the Trader Witch. She was evil incarnate and I wanted to know what made her tick and how she became who she was. I was chilled and horrified by the witch’s actions and what she does to the captured children.
The first night I began reading the book, I sat in bed turning pages to find out what would happen until my eyes became blurry with sleep. I was forced to put the book down but couldn’t stop thinking about the witch and the fate of the kids until I feel asleep. When I picked up the book again I had to pace myself and not speed read to find out what happens. I was given tantalizing tid bits about Gannaejro’s possible origins and if the rest of the kids would be saved.
It ended on cliff hanger and left me squeezing the book in frustration. I screamed out no. It was 2am and there wasn’t a book store opened and I didn’t have my kindle with me on my trip. Needless to say I’m going to get the next book. I’m a big fan of the Gears and look forward to reading more of their books.
January 27, 2011
I thought this story was very well written. It kept me coming back for more and I'm excited to read the next book in the series soon. **Word of caution** There were some things that happened to the kidnapped kids that were hard for me to read. I know those things happen, but I'm not sure I'd want to read about it again. (I had to put that in so you knew it wasn't a perfectly clean book.)
October 8, 2022
The amount of research that must go into these books is phenomenal. Loved every chapter, rich in detail and you can really imagine life then
July 28, 2015
People of the Longhouse just completely blew me away. I was so swept up in the story that I totally forgot to take any notes at all; it was just impossible for me to put down.
I'm one of those people that can easily lose them self in a story that isn't set in modern times, especially with one so well written as People of the Longhouse was.
The authors did one brilliant job bringing to life the Native American culture and creating a story and characters that had me rapidly turning the pages so that I could find out if they were going to be able to save all the children that were taking as slaves.
In my opinion, the best thing about People of the Longhouse would have to be all the different plot lines that were running throughout the whole story, and how the narrative was told alternately from the perspective of War Chief Koracoo and Gonda (plus the two companions they ended paired up with), along with Odion their son. Why, because as you flipped from the danger and terror that Odion and all the children were facing to reading about the tension between their parents as they struggle with their feelings of guilt over them being taken. In short, this is one nail biting book.
Definitely the hardest thing to reading about in this book would have to be how mistreated the children were (I'll cover this when I post the content rating for this book on Rating Reads). While they were treated horribly as Gannajero's slaves, the authors didn't graphically cover most of the mistreatment of the children. While it might wasn't graphically covered, it also wasn't glossed over so you still read/felt the horror that the children suffered through.
Final Verdict: Although I have never read (to my knowledge) a fiction based book on Native Americans I would highly recommend this to all historical book lovers because the writing in People of the Longhouse is just amazing..
People of the Longhouse earns 5 out of 5 pineapples.
I'm one of those people that can easily lose them self in a story that isn't set in modern times, especially with one so well written as People of the Longhouse was.
The authors did one brilliant job bringing to life the Native American culture and creating a story and characters that had me rapidly turning the pages so that I could find out if they were going to be able to save all the children that were taking as slaves.
In my opinion, the best thing about People of the Longhouse would have to be all the different plot lines that were running throughout the whole story, and how the narrative was told alternately from the perspective of War Chief Koracoo and Gonda (plus the two companions they ended paired up with), along with Odion their son. Why, because as you flipped from the danger and terror that Odion and all the children were facing to reading about the tension between their parents as they struggle with their feelings of guilt over them being taken. In short, this is one nail biting book.
Definitely the hardest thing to reading about in this book would have to be how mistreated the children were (I'll cover this when I post the content rating for this book on Rating Reads). While they were treated horribly as Gannajero's slaves, the authors didn't graphically cover most of the mistreatment of the children. While it might wasn't graphically covered, it also wasn't glossed over so you still read/felt the horror that the children suffered through.
Final Verdict: Although I have never read (to my knowledge) a fiction based book on Native Americans I would highly recommend this to all historical book lovers because the writing in People of the Longhouse is just amazing..
People of the Longhouse earns 5 out of 5 pineapples.
March 3, 2011
People of the Longhouse by W. Michael and Kathleen O’Neal Gear
A tale of North American Natives and the harsh realities of their often cruel world.
The Gears successfully combine history, archeology, sociology and fiction. They portray the Iroquoians as normal folks facing the pressures of their time. The interesting aspect is that humans react to stress in similar ways across the centuries.
Due to the Gears archeological roots, their books have a sense of authenticity missing in similar novels. They show that human interaction is just that, interaction. That interaction clearly shows that the same motivations that fuel today’s international tensions motivated the tribal warfare around AD 1000.
The Gears portrayal of the parental frustration and guilt in Gonda and Koracoo was painfully poignant. The fear of the children was clearly portrayed. In short, they do a masterful job depicting human emotion with clarity.
The small things like noting Towa’s eye sight and his inability to hit his target with a bow. Things we take for granted such as eye glasses obviously weren’t available at that time. Noting the impact on an individual in a warrior society enhances the depth of the tale.
Regardless of whether the roots of democratic society and human interaction may date from this time, it would have been a brutal life. I enjoyed the portrayal and am glad I didn’t have to live it.
I strongly recommend the book!
A tale of North American Natives and the harsh realities of their often cruel world.
The Gears successfully combine history, archeology, sociology and fiction. They portray the Iroquoians as normal folks facing the pressures of their time. The interesting aspect is that humans react to stress in similar ways across the centuries.
Due to the Gears archeological roots, their books have a sense of authenticity missing in similar novels. They show that human interaction is just that, interaction. That interaction clearly shows that the same motivations that fuel today’s international tensions motivated the tribal warfare around AD 1000.
The Gears portrayal of the parental frustration and guilt in Gonda and Koracoo was painfully poignant. The fear of the children was clearly portrayed. In short, they do a masterful job depicting human emotion with clarity.
The small things like noting Towa’s eye sight and his inability to hit his target with a bow. Things we take for granted such as eye glasses obviously weren’t available at that time. Noting the impact on an individual in a warrior society enhances the depth of the tale.
Regardless of whether the roots of democratic society and human interaction may date from this time, it would have been a brutal life. I enjoyed the portrayal and am glad I didn’t have to live it.
I strongly recommend the book!
May 12, 2011
I've read the entire "People of the ..." series so far and I freely admit I'm addicted to them. While there is violence in all the books (how can you tell history without including violence), the last few books have addressed the deviance that surely existed then in a truly straight-on manner. As always the characters are engaging as are the plot lines. While not being an anthropologist, the books appear authentic and the multiple page bibliography at the end of each book implies they are well researched.
This is the first of a two book sub-series on the Iroquois (and why we owe our system of government to them) and my only criticism is that this one ends rather abruptly which made me want to start he second book immediately.
This is the first of a two book sub-series on the Iroquois (and why we owe our system of government to them) and my only criticism is that this one ends rather abruptly which made me want to start he second book immediately.
May 8, 2020
As usual, the writing team of Kathleen O'Neal Gear and W Michael Gear have written an amazing story.
Anyone who thought history was a boring subject have clearly not read one of the Gear's books. Once you read their books, you will find yourself learning from experienced archaeologists who clearly have a passion for what they do.
I rate PEOPLE OF THE LONGHOUSE as 5 OUT OF 5 STARS. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
To read more of my reviews and to learn about the next book by these authors, visit my blog at http://amiesbookreviews.wordpress.com
Also, be sure to follow me on Instagram at
http://www.instagram.com/Amiesbookrev...
Anyone who thought history was a boring subject have clearly not read one of the Gear's books. Once you read their books, you will find yourself learning from experienced archaeologists who clearly have a passion for what they do.
I rate PEOPLE OF THE LONGHOUSE as 5 OUT OF 5 STARS. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
To read more of my reviews and to learn about the next book by these authors, visit my blog at http://amiesbookreviews.wordpress.com
Also, be sure to follow me on Instagram at
http://www.instagram.com/Amiesbookrev...
March 18, 2018
I feel a little bad giving this a low rating. The authors seem like nice people who want to share their passion and knowledge through their fiction (they even thank the reader for being interested at the back), but this story was not gripping, at all. It's very simplistic, very linear, with little in the way of any kind of development or plot or characters. The prose is very bland and simple as well. It was an easy read as far as mental faculties required, but it was a slog all the same.
February 24, 2017
My favorite part of this book was the nonfiction Introduction. The book itself was interesting but at the end of it I found that I had many unanswered questions about the characters motivations and behaviors. After following the plot all the way through it was disappointing to have so much left up in the air.
July 14, 2017
Set in New York/New England about 600 years ago, this was an enjoyable historical fiction surprise. Strong character development and a hostile environment create a sense of urgency that propels the story along. The Gears have undisputed pedigrees in history and archaeology, and they let the history envelop the characters rather than working the characters around the history. This is a winning formula and one that makes me eager to read the second book in this four book series. Highly recommended for historical fiction readers with an interest in Native Americans of the Northeast U.S.
March 22, 2020
A vividly imagined and gripping novel that takes the reader right into the life of Iroquois tribes of around the 1300s. The authors are archaeologists who bring their knowledge to their novels, in a wholly organic way - not forced at all. Fascinating and a great read.
July 18, 2016
A librarian friend of mine recently told me that the books of prehistorical fiction by the husband and wife team of Kathleen O'Neal and Michael Gear (authors and archeologists) have waned in popularity, so much so that small libraries no longer keep them on the shelves. This is a shame, because modern readers with any interest in early native America and/or archeology (or heroes and heart-stopping combat, for that matter) are missing a rare treat. People of the Longhouse is the first of a 4-book series that imagines the life of Dekanawida, the great peacemaker of Iroquoian legend that brought five warring nations together to create the powerful Iroquois alliance known to the earliest white settlers.
Since changing the mind-set of a culture, as legend and archeological record suggest Dekanawida did, requires Herculean effort and keen motivation, the authors imagine for him a childhood beset by fear, violence, and abuse (including kidnapping and child sex-trafficking -- the horrors of mankind did not begin yesterday). As he escapes his tormentors and triumphs over his past, he begins to envision a different society and more peaceful way to live and (because this is 15th century native America) he calls upon the powers of the spirits to help him, which they do in impressive fashion, eventually helping him to succeed against all odds.
When I bought this first book, I did not realize that it was a series. As soon as I finished it, I immediately went to my local Barnes and Noble and bought the remaining 3 books in the series. That fact probably says all I need to about my recommendation! I found each succeeding book was a little better than the last, especially the final two. (I would caution readers, however, that many scenes are appallingly violent, and since children are involved, that makes the violence even harder to take. So beware.) I hope that eventually a new generation of readers discovers this author duo, and along the way, learns something about the very earliest history of North America.
Since changing the mind-set of a culture, as legend and archeological record suggest Dekanawida did, requires Herculean effort and keen motivation, the authors imagine for him a childhood beset by fear, violence, and abuse (including kidnapping and child sex-trafficking -- the horrors of mankind did not begin yesterday). As he escapes his tormentors and triumphs over his past, he begins to envision a different society and more peaceful way to live and (because this is 15th century native America) he calls upon the powers of the spirits to help him, which they do in impressive fashion, eventually helping him to succeed against all odds.
When I bought this first book, I did not realize that it was a series. As soon as I finished it, I immediately went to my local Barnes and Noble and bought the remaining 3 books in the series. That fact probably says all I need to about my recommendation! I found each succeeding book was a little better than the last, especially the final two. (I would caution readers, however, that many scenes are appallingly violent, and since children are involved, that makes the violence even harder to take. So beware.) I hope that eventually a new generation of readers discovers this author duo, and along the way, learns something about the very earliest history of North America.
July 24, 2010
People of the Longhouse takes place around 1400 with the Iroquois people before their League of Nations. It's a fast paced story of young Odion, his little sister Tetula, and a group of children who have been captured as slaves in battle. It's also the story of their warrior parents desperately trying to track them down, and even agreeing to make friends with the enemy if it will help them find their children.
Unfortunately, it's another forced cliff hanger from the publisher. This book is a measly 294 pages, and of course it leaves you off in the middle of the story. Gone are the days of the 700+ page epics like People of the Lakes, and I get that, but seriously? All of the People books are over 400 pages (I just checked). I'm feeling screwed right now - and I blame Forge because the authors have stated in their blogs that they can't sell the big books anymore. Really Forge, if you're reading these, I would happily pay twice as much for a book that was complete now, rather than waiting another year for the finish.
I may change the rating of the book once the next one comes out, but for now, it's not getting anything over cliff hanger 3.
Unfortunately, it's another forced cliff hanger from the publisher. This book is a measly 294 pages, and of course it leaves you off in the middle of the story. Gone are the days of the 700+ page epics like People of the Lakes, and I get that, but seriously? All of the People books are over 400 pages (I just checked). I'm feeling screwed right now - and I blame Forge because the authors have stated in their blogs that they can't sell the big books anymore. Really Forge, if you're reading these, I would happily pay twice as much for a book that was complete now, rather than waiting another year for the finish.
I may change the rating of the book once the next one comes out, but for now, it's not getting anything over cliff hanger 3.
April 6, 2024
People of the Longhouse: A Historical Fantasy Series (The Peacemaker’s Tale Book 1)
by W. Michael Gear
Reprint of the original 4 book series, in 8 editions.
A great first part of a phenomenal series about the founding of the Iroquois confederacy. This edition allows the reader to find out about the research and historical references used to create the story. This first part of the series is the most terrifying, as the political events before the confederacy are far more violent and disturbing. The switching view point from kidnapped children, to their concerned and determined parents add to the heightened terror of the times and places, as both contend with their fears and hopes. The characters are set up in the series with each being slowly introduced along with the political atmosphere. Their personal struggles, and those of their clans is clearly defined. It draws the reader in, making each character important, and this will bring them through the series. Very Graphic and Horrific in context.
by W. Michael Gear
Reprint of the original 4 book series, in 8 editions.
A great first part of a phenomenal series about the founding of the Iroquois confederacy. This edition allows the reader to find out about the research and historical references used to create the story. This first part of the series is the most terrifying, as the political events before the confederacy are far more violent and disturbing. The switching view point from kidnapped children, to their concerned and determined parents add to the heightened terror of the times and places, as both contend with their fears and hopes. The characters are set up in the series with each being slowly introduced along with the political atmosphere. Their personal struggles, and those of their clans is clearly defined. It draws the reader in, making each character important, and this will bring them through the series. Very Graphic and Horrific in context.
February 22, 2017
This book felt as though it was violent for the sake of being violent. Extremely descriptive scenes of children being raped and murdered... very disturbing. In fact, some of it didn't even feel as though it was at all necessary in developing the plot. It was just brutal and perverse and it gave next to no historical context - which is why I decided to read the book in the first place. Very disappointing.
December 24, 2020
It was OK, the plot idea is very good, interesting: folktales, time travel and maybe a witch woven around the problems of social & political change. BUT, the melodrama between the two main characters became very annoying with endless repetition.
Because the authors were described as archeologists, I expected a more developed sense of culture - instead the 2 main characters could have been any 2 parents whose actions led to the loss of their children. The authors toss in a little mumbo jumbo about warriors tracking enemies and soul-sucking witches but again it is mostly generic could be anyone, anywhere, anytime.
Finally, a minor point but mightily annoying to me- the society described is matriarchal, the leader is a female War Chief, a Council of Female Elders makes decisions but then a young, not very brave or successful male warrior snatches a look at the War Chief’s breasts when she bends over, and keeps fantasizing about her —Really? The way you would expect a young female West Point Cadet to stare at the crotch of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff maybe!!
— pluh-eeze - not an anachronism and even more maddening.
Because the authors were described as archeologists, I expected a more developed sense of culture - instead the 2 main characters could have been any 2 parents whose actions led to the loss of their children. The authors toss in a little mumbo jumbo about warriors tracking enemies and soul-sucking witches but again it is mostly generic could be anyone, anywhere, anytime.
Finally, a minor point but mightily annoying to me- the society described is matriarchal, the leader is a female War Chief, a Council of Female Elders makes decisions but then a young, not very brave or successful male warrior snatches a look at the War Chief’s breasts when she bends over, and keeps fantasizing about her —Really? The way you would expect a young female West Point Cadet to stare at the crotch of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff maybe!!
— pluh-eeze - not an anachronism and even more maddening.
August 19, 2024
Very Interesting and Informative This series is a cliffhanger
This is a very interesting story regarding Indian clans and their lives. Its very informative regarding how they lived, why they grouped together and why they separate again. It also tells of their softer side how they would take in women and children that were on the run because their homes had been invaded by warring clans. It tells of how some would buy child slaves and raise them as their own.
But like always there is evil also. A witch how has Indians that attack villages, kill as many as possible, burn down their lodgings and steal the children in order to sell them as slaves. Her warriors were not nice they thought nothing of beating, raping the children no matter their age.
Book 2 tells of a mother (war chief) and father ( her deputy) with 2 warriors from an opposing clan going in search of their children and another chief's daughter. It tells how the children were transported so there wouldn't be any tracks, what went on in the camps when they stopped for the night.
Great job. Thank you. On to Book 3.
This is a very interesting story regarding Indian clans and their lives. Its very informative regarding how they lived, why they grouped together and why they separate again. It also tells of their softer side how they would take in women and children that were on the run because their homes had been invaded by warring clans. It tells of how some would buy child slaves and raise them as their own.
But like always there is evil also. A witch how has Indians that attack villages, kill as many as possible, burn down their lodgings and steal the children in order to sell them as slaves. Her warriors were not nice they thought nothing of beating, raping the children no matter their age.
Book 2 tells of a mother (war chief) and father ( her deputy) with 2 warriors from an opposing clan going in search of their children and another chief's daughter. It tells how the children were transported so there wouldn't be any tracks, what went on in the camps when they stopped for the night.
Great job. Thank you. On to Book 3.
December 27, 2018
I'm loath to write a bad review on these authors, because they're my lifelong favorite.....but this book just did not do it for me like the others. It was nothing like the First North Americans series, and I dont think it should be listed as part of it. The title lead me to believe it was, and this is a miniseries completely of its own. I strongly disliked how abrupt the ending was, which I now realize is because the other books continue the story. This was also a huge deviation from the other series I know and love. This had no closure and too many unanswered questions, whereas each of the other series can be read out of order as stand alone stories. Now, despite not really loving the story line in this book, I feel compelled to read at least the next one - just to get a true ending. There were more things about this book I disliked than there were things I liked. I collect books by these authors, as a very devoted fan. However, as I finish this miniseries, I will be donating them to the library. Will not read again.
January 15, 2020
Usually it takes me weeks to read a book. This one, a week and a half.
Of the books by these authors, I reading all of the people of the... series.. a few were as gripping as this one but with this one, it was this first time it involved brutal violence against children and addresses child exploitation and community corruption that is sadly still happening in most part of the world. By the time I got to this books end, knowing it continues for three more, I wonder if the main characters will have better luck finding the children, so that their family's can have closure. Even in todays society with do many missing and murdered indigenous women and young girls, is it possible that the missing and murdered were in the hands of the worst people. I hope the children and women are found both in the books story and the ones in reality.
Of the books by these authors, I reading all of the people of the... series.. a few were as gripping as this one but with this one, it was this first time it involved brutal violence against children and addresses child exploitation and community corruption that is sadly still happening in most part of the world. By the time I got to this books end, knowing it continues for three more, I wonder if the main characters will have better luck finding the children, so that their family's can have closure. Even in todays society with do many missing and murdered indigenous women and young girls, is it possible that the missing and murdered were in the hands of the worst people. I hope the children and women are found both in the books story and the ones in reality.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 20, 2022
People of the longhouse by Michael w gear and kathleen oneal gear
(Scribd)
Once again i find My Way back to the people of the north Americans Series. The people of the longhouse ends in a cliffhanger (fair warning) but it follows the story of war chief Koracoo and her deputy Gonda as the search for their stolen children Odion and Tutelo . Both of their children has been stolen along with many other children by an old witch woman named Gannajero.
Its a fast pace read and the books in this part of the Series definitely need to be read in order. As i have found with others of their multi part Series. I personally Never figure out the whole story until ive read the Series a few times. Love these authors.
(Scribd)
Once again i find My Way back to the people of the north Americans Series. The people of the longhouse ends in a cliffhanger (fair warning) but it follows the story of war chief Koracoo and her deputy Gonda as the search for their stolen children Odion and Tutelo . Both of their children has been stolen along with many other children by an old witch woman named Gannajero.
Its a fast pace read and the books in this part of the Series definitely need to be read in order. As i have found with others of their multi part Series. I personally Never figure out the whole story until ive read the Series a few times. Love these authors.
February 5, 2023
This is the first book in this mini arc of a bigger series. It details the lives of several villages in what will become the Iroquois nation. First are the children stolen from different villages by an evil trader. The focus is on Odion and his sister Tutelo. Their mother is the War Chief of their tribe. Their mother and father are coming for them. Along this journey concessions have to be made with another village and they join forces.
I love the details and look into the lives of the people. I appreciate the time and dedication the authors give to make these books authentic.
I love the details and look into the lives of the people. I appreciate the time and dedication the authors give to make these books authentic.
November 8, 2018
I read my first "North America's Forgotten Past" book when I was in highschool, and it always stuck with me. It's been a long time since I picked one up, so I was excited when a prompt in a book challenge lead me back to them. People of the Longhouse was sometimes a hard read, but I really enjoyed it. It held me captive, I found it compelling, and I really wanted to know what was going to happen next.
April 19, 2022
This book in the series is a bit darker than those before it as at the center of the story involves children. They are kidnapped, then sold to others who rape them, or abuse them in other ways. The story is also about a group out to rescue the stolen children.
Despite the dark themes the book ends somewhat abruptly, to carry on with the next book. Of course, now I want to read that next one quickly. Good thing I already own it.
Despite the dark themes the book ends somewhat abruptly, to carry on with the next book. Of course, now I want to read that next one quickly. Good thing I already own it.
June 3, 2018
Not the best book in the North America's Forgotten Past series, but good enough that I want to read the rest of the People of the Longhouse series, at least "The Dawn Country" to see if it picks up where People of the Longhouse left off, because it left me feeling a lot like The Empire Strikes Back in that only some of the plot lines were resolved and I wanted to hear the rest of the story.
December 31, 2018
I didn’t want this to end
Excellent novel! Great characters with their personalities and histories, with very interesting behaviors consistent with those personalities. Great detailed descriptions of environments, but not so much the story is drowned out. Reading this draws you in and makes you feel as though you’re really there.
Excellent novel! Great characters with their personalities and histories, with very interesting behaviors consistent with those personalities. Great detailed descriptions of environments, but not so much the story is drowned out. Reading this draws you in and makes you feel as though you’re really there.
September 25, 2020
I know, I'm on a large book run. This is what happens when you have oodles of down time at work. I thought this was a re-read, however goodreads and I agree that I hadn't read this one. This 3 or 4 book series covers taboos. Men who like to sleep with children. And how the young hero comes about changing the outcome.
June 16, 2017
What the hell did I just read?
January 15, 2019
This book is well worth a read with twists and turns where needed some of the subplot can be a bit mundan at times though and plodding
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