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Savage Seasons #1
Savage Autumn
Joanna escapes the lustful clutches of her lecherous uncle only to be taken captive by a powerful Blackfoot warrior. But Joanna will soon learn that beneath Windhawk’s proud exterior beats a heart that belongs only to her.
354 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 1984
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1194 people want to read
About the author
Constance O'Banyon
54 books199 followersEvelyn Gee was born on 1939 in Texas, USA. She makes her home in San Antonio with her husband, Jim and their son, Jason.
She signed her novels as Constance O'Banyon. She also wrote as Micah Leigh with Texan writer Emma Merritt. Her books range from historical to contemporary and include several novellas. Many of her books have been published in trade paperback.Among her many awards, she is the recipient of the 1996 Romantic Times Career Achievement Award. There are eight million copies of her books in print.
She says: "I have always loved history, and I loved storytelling — it was only natural that I would one day put them both together. I must have lived in another life and time, because when I write, I can almost feel I was there. My favorite part of writing is the research. Whenever possible, I will go to the place I am writing about to walk the land and smell the air."
https://www.facebook.com/Constanceobanyon/
She signed her novels as Constance O'Banyon. She also wrote as Micah Leigh with Texan writer Emma Merritt. Her books range from historical to contemporary and include several novellas. Many of her books have been published in trade paperback.Among her many awards, she is the recipient of the 1996 Romantic Times Career Achievement Award. There are eight million copies of her books in print.
She says: "I have always loved history, and I loved storytelling — it was only natural that I would one day put them both together. I must have lived in another life and time, because when I write, I can almost feel I was there. My favorite part of writing is the research. Whenever possible, I will go to the place I am writing about to walk the land and smell the air."
https://www.facebook.com/Constanceobanyon/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
November 13, 2016
I have read Constance O'banyon in my youth and cannot say that I remember much about her works. I only recall that she wrote a lot of native American stories. This book is the first of a series and reads a lot like Catherine Anderson's Comanche Moon.
I drew the comparison not because I had the impression that one was copying the other. It is just there are only so many scenarios where the pairing of a native American hero and a "white-faced" heroine could work. In both books the native American is a leader of a tribe, driven by some kind of magic power, believed that a white woman would be their mate. The white woman in both stories, naturally were repulsed and refused to believe that their future was bound to this man with face paint and fought most annoyingly because the authors made them seem like they were throwing a hissy fits. Not that I think they should have just submitted and done whatever the men told them to do. I just had the impression that both women were a little too blind and acted very much like a shrew, blaming and accusing the heroes. Their antics tired me while I certainly understand that they were driven by fears and it was probably only natural for anyone to act that way. I don't know. I just get tired of shrewish women who wouldn't listen to reason or who couldn't make the best out of a situation very easily.
My biggest problem with the book though, was not that Joanna annoyed me. That she did. But I think I have a bigger problem with the juvenile relationship development. Windhawk saw Joanna, and he fell in love (what?). He knew in an instant that she was THE ONE (what?). He could not explain to Joanna that he did not attack her wagon train because of his limited language skill but he could go on and on about other things (what?). He made Joanna have sex with him and even thought Joanna did not want to her virgin body could not say no (what?). Then he decided oh no I must have her heart so I wouldn't sleep with her until she gave her heart to me. (what?) And Joanna started feeling ignored: oh why is he not paying attention to me after he slept with me? (what?) Joanna kept waiting for him to pounce on her, which he did not so Joanna was relieved and disappointed (what?). Then Windhawk brought her horse back to her and somehow proved to her that her body needed him (what?) and in Joanna's head a lightbulb went on: Oh I love him (double what?).
I cannot bear it. I don't mind if they started with insta-lust or fell in love early in the book, but something has to happen. They have to be allowed the opportunity to develop feelings for each other. There was none for either side. But of course they loved each other. The question is never about timing, it is about relationship development. If done well a reader can feel the connection in the first 20%.
Alas in this book, this reader felt none of the connection, despite the prematurely proclaimed love from both sides. Also I must note that perhaps this "pre-destined" kind of stories don't work for me. I can work with "invisible connection" and all that, but "destiny" seems a little cheap and convenient. When a story involves native Americans it is often that the author would use a little mystical element. I cannot say that I have seen it done in a way which speaks to me. It always seems like the men are not sincere because they are just doing what they think destiny is telling them do and the women are always forced to live with the men's idea of what is right for them.
I drew the comparison not because I had the impression that one was copying the other. It is just there are only so many scenarios where the pairing of a native American hero and a "white-faced" heroine could work. In both books the native American is a leader of a tribe, driven by some kind of magic power, believed that a white woman would be their mate. The white woman in both stories, naturally were repulsed and refused to believe that their future was bound to this man with face paint and fought most annoyingly because the authors made them seem like they were throwing a hissy fits. Not that I think they should have just submitted and done whatever the men told them to do. I just had the impression that both women were a little too blind and acted very much like a shrew, blaming and accusing the heroes. Their antics tired me while I certainly understand that they were driven by fears and it was probably only natural for anyone to act that way. I don't know. I just get tired of shrewish women who wouldn't listen to reason or who couldn't make the best out of a situation very easily.
My biggest problem with the book though, was not that Joanna annoyed me. That she did. But I think I have a bigger problem with the juvenile relationship development. Windhawk saw Joanna, and he fell in love (what?). He knew in an instant that she was THE ONE (what?). He could not explain to Joanna that he did not attack her wagon train because of his limited language skill but he could go on and on about other things (what?). He made Joanna have sex with him and even thought Joanna did not want to her virgin body could not say no (what?). Then he decided oh no I must have her heart so I wouldn't sleep with her until she gave her heart to me. (what?) And Joanna started feeling ignored: oh why is he not paying attention to me after he slept with me? (what?) Joanna kept waiting for him to pounce on her, which he did not so Joanna was relieved and disappointed (what?). Then Windhawk brought her horse back to her and somehow proved to her that her body needed him (what?) and in Joanna's head a lightbulb went on: Oh I love him (double what?).
I cannot bear it. I don't mind if they started with insta-lust or fell in love early in the book, but something has to happen. They have to be allowed the opportunity to develop feelings for each other. There was none for either side. But of course they loved each other. The question is never about timing, it is about relationship development. If done well a reader can feel the connection in the first 20%.
Alas in this book, this reader felt none of the connection, despite the prematurely proclaimed love from both sides. Also I must note that perhaps this "pre-destined" kind of stories don't work for me. I can work with "invisible connection" and all that, but "destiny" seems a little cheap and convenient. When a story involves native Americans it is often that the author would use a little mystical element. I cannot say that I have seen it done in a way which speaks to me. It always seems like the men are not sincere because they are just doing what they think destiny is telling them do and the women are always forced to live with the men's idea of what is right for them.
November 4, 2011
Wow...what can I say about this book? I loved, Windhawk ....he was so loving to Joanna. He was so patient and didn't rush her into a relationship. He wanted her to come to him and really mean it when they made love for the first time.
Windhawk meets Joanna and Tag when their Wagon train stops on the trail. Tag wants a Tomahawk and trades his knife with Windhawk for one.
Windhawk cared so much for Joanna and her little brother Tag you just want to say awwww as you are reading it.
Windhawk rescues Joanna after her Wagon train has been attacked by a very mean branch of the Blackfoot tribe. Most of the people she was traveling with were killed. She has an accident trying to escape and falls off a cliff with her wagon. The chief of the Piegans (mean Blackfoot tribe) wants Joanna but...he looks over the cliff and decides she is dead. He grabs up her little brother Tag and he becomes his captive. Along comes Windhawk and see's her down there and rescues her. She is beat up from the fall, but alive. He takes her back to his village and nurses her back to health with the help of his mother and sister. Joanna is very sad because she thinks her little brother is dead.
I love how his mother finally accepts Joanna as her "daughter" when she performs a sudden act of bravery. She wins the whole tribe's heart that day.
There is so much more to this story but....I don't want to spoil one minute of this book for anyone.
Windhawk meets Joanna and Tag when their Wagon train stops on the trail. Tag wants a Tomahawk and trades his knife with Windhawk for one.
Windhawk cared so much for Joanna and her little brother Tag you just want to say awwww as you are reading it.
Windhawk rescues Joanna after her Wagon train has been attacked by a very mean branch of the Blackfoot tribe. Most of the people she was traveling with were killed. She has an accident trying to escape and falls off a cliff with her wagon. The chief of the Piegans (mean Blackfoot tribe) wants Joanna but...he looks over the cliff and decides she is dead. He grabs up her little brother Tag and he becomes his captive. Along comes Windhawk and see's her down there and rescues her. She is beat up from the fall, but alive. He takes her back to his village and nurses her back to health with the help of his mother and sister. Joanna is very sad because she thinks her little brother is dead.
I love how his mother finally accepts Joanna as her "daughter" when she performs a sudden act of bravery. She wins the whole tribe's heart that day.
There is so much more to this story but....I don't want to spoil one minute of this book for anyone.
December 8, 2017
“I am not of your world, Windhawk, and you are not of mine. We are all wrong for each other.”
His dark eyes blazed. “To walk, Jo-anna, one must take one step at a time. It is but a short walk from your world to mine. If you will take my hand, I will lead you every step of the way.”
I just LOVE historical romantic novels with a Native American as a hero.This book has got mostly positive reviews because of its gentle,brave and fierce Indian Warrior Windhawk.
Already from the beginning of this book Windhawk feels a restless emptiness inside of him
and gets surprised when he look into the beautiful Joanna James eyes,and knows in that second that she is his soulmate.
Through betrayal and deceptions Joanna and her younger brother Taggart travels to reach their father,but they separate after an arme of indians attack them.Windhawk soon saves her from her captivity.She thinks he is behind the attack and of her brothers death and does everything to defy him.But with care and patience,Windhawk proves his innocence through love and fights to make her love him...
A great and entertaining journey.Enjoyed the blistering romance between Windhawk and Joanna.I also adore many of their beautiful dialuges together,like:
“Windhawk, are you sure you never looked at another woman while I was away?”
“I could never be satisfied with the stars once I had touched the sun, Joanna.”
OH LORD,that was SO cute!
I also came to like Joannas littlebrother Taggart,and i know he also have his own book.I really look forward to reading it.Over all,this was an enjoyable read.I recommend it to lovers of Native-American historical romance novels.
His dark eyes blazed. “To walk, Jo-anna, one must take one step at a time. It is but a short walk from your world to mine. If you will take my hand, I will lead you every step of the way.”
I just LOVE historical romantic novels with a Native American as a hero.This book has got mostly positive reviews because of its gentle,brave and fierce Indian Warrior Windhawk.
Already from the beginning of this book Windhawk feels a restless emptiness inside of him
and gets surprised when he look into the beautiful Joanna James eyes,and knows in that second that she is his soulmate.
Through betrayal and deceptions Joanna and her younger brother Taggart travels to reach their father,but they separate after an arme of indians attack them.Windhawk soon saves her from her captivity.She thinks he is behind the attack and of her brothers death and does everything to defy him.But with care and patience,Windhawk proves his innocence through love and fights to make her love him...
A great and entertaining journey.Enjoyed the blistering romance between Windhawk and Joanna.I also adore many of their beautiful dialuges together,like:
“Windhawk, are you sure you never looked at another woman while I was away?”
“I could never be satisfied with the stars once I had touched the sun, Joanna.”
OH LORD,that was SO cute!
I also came to like Joannas littlebrother Taggart,and i know he also have his own book.I really look forward to reading it.Over all,this was an enjoyable read.I recommend it to lovers of Native-American historical romance novels.
February 7, 2011
I really love a good "kidnapped by Indians" themed story. However in order for me to really like it, it needs to be realistic. I HATE it when the h is falling in love with the H just after he's kidnapped her and they haven't even made it to his village yet. This one was somewhat different than any that I had read before. Windhawk (H) and Joanna (h) had met before and on friendly terms. They have sometime to get to know eachother so there is some kind of friendship between the two. Also Windhawk doesn't kidnapp her, he rescues her and that is how she ends up at his village. All though she falls in love with him and becomes his wife (willingly) she feels a pull, a need to go and find her father but Windhawk would never let her go. When the chance to go comes, she takes it and of course Windhawk goes after her. That is when he turns mean and somewhat violent. She has spurned his love and he's pissed and now he's going to treat her as any white captive would be treated.
There were really good secondary characters, loved Windhawks mother and little sister and Tag, Joanna's little brother. There were some loose ends at the end of the story that were not resolved but the reader is left with the sence that they would be in the future.
There were really good secondary characters, loved Windhawks mother and little sister and Tag, Joanna's little brother. There were some loose ends at the end of the story that were not resolved but the reader is left with the sence that they would be in the future.
November 7, 2023
In terms of paperback romances of decades past, I overall found this a pretty decent read because the author writes well--lots of flowery, passionate language that sets the scene well and hones in on that dramatic romance atmosphere that's so quintessential to vintage romances--and although imbued with some problematic behaviors, Windhawk is a more gentle, calm, and affectionate lead in comparison to a lot of others I've encountere.
Of course, this comes with a territory that there's an air of dubious consent (Joanna says no, he kisses or embraces her, all resistance fades and they passionately give in to one other) but it's sitting lower on the scale in terms of yikes factor than it could have been. Like the other novels by Ms. Banyon I've read, the leads profess their love and ask for forgiveness and are so emotional and devoted that it almost makes up for the times the leads did something that wasn't great.
Note: my rating is adjusted as a result of the age of the work and the genre; the bar can be very low, so ratings are more so a reflection of them against other vintage romances.
I think the biggest reason why this doesn't rate higher is because a lot of the conflict was based on the leads not communicating and misunderstanding one another without there being any supporting justification for it beyond it being a reason for them to not get together immediately--which, naturally, could have been accomplished with many other plot devices.
The author tackled the conflict of misunderstanding and not communicating the truth much better in another work, Velvet Chains, because there is an actual reason given that has some bearing on the plot itself.
In this one, the issue arises when Joannna immediately jumps to the conclusion that Windhawk was responsible for the raid on the wagon train that killed her brother and Windhawk, weirdly, decides not to defend himself to her. Instead, he decides it'll all just settle itself because once she loves him and realizes he won't hurt her she'll automatically realize he didn't have anything to do with the raid. That's very strange logic, in my opinion. Especially because he ultimately takes it pretty personally that Joanna doesn't just magically know the truth and his feelings.
Then, of course, it doesn't just stop there because Windhawk must also misunderstand Joanna in return when she expresses a desire to leave to go see her father settle some unfinished family business (as Joanna originally was ousted from her family home in New England by a conniving aunt and uncle after her mother dies, which is why she went out west and how she met Windhawk).
Windhawk assumes that she's never loved him and that her escaping to handle this unfinished business is the ultimate betrayal for some reason (honestly, a missed opportunity to go: since this is important to you and I love you, I will help you do what you feel you need to). This then creates a domino effect where now he is angry for this perceived betrayal, takes his anger out in Joanna, she ends up being physically harmed, all snowballing into a bunch of compounding misunderstandings as both of them are certain that the other now hates them while still being very much in love with one another.
It's very much a case of had they just honestly spoken with each other, most of this conflict wouldn't have ever happened done so in an exasperating and unappealing way that isn't fun or entertaining to read.
I do also want to mention that, as this was published in 1990 and features a Native American hero by a white author, I'm sure there's a lot of problematic content in the execution of things regarding race and culture. I'm sadly not versed enough in the subject matter to feel comfortable speaking about the topic at length, but it is worth acknowledging the pitfalls and problems of how any non-white race may be handled in these old romances.
I do think, overall, the author meant well--Windhawk isn't described with weird language like comparing his dark skin to food or anything, and the book ultimately has a narrative that portays Windhawk and his people in a positive way, with Joanna coming to love and accept them and their culture. It could have absolutely been worse, so take this reading as being graded on a curve to account for just how low the bar can be.
Also, as this is a historical romance, we do see the author use the term "indian" and I can't say if that's something she felt was find under the shield of it's historically accurate or if the debate on whether it was problematic ever crossed her mind, as this was published in 1990, but it is worth mentioning that facet for anyone going into this novel.
On the topic of historical accuracy is probably the shallow excuse for this Joanna is 17 and Windhawk is 27, so, pretty big age gap. Not my favorite and I find it very uncomfortable, but you almost wouldn't know it if they didn't mention their ages a few times, considering Joanna doesn't really behave like a teenager, and then there's that one line where Windhawk says, "You're so young, have I married a baby?" which was... ew.
I think it's unfortunately pretty common for these romances to think 16-18 year old heroines are like, perfect for being taken by men in their mid twenties to early thirties as like this, idolized picturesque fantasy of youthful, beautiful sexual awakening ripe for romantic thrills at the hands of mature, skilled men who are young enough to be handsome beyond reason but old enough to be confident and worth submitting to the care and desire of, even as the girl vainly declares she's a free spirit who will never submit to any man.
Overall, it kept my attention and was a passable read. Nothing extraordinary and certainly not above criticisms of some serious shortcomings, but decent for what it is: a vintage paperback romance. The bar is a little low because things can get really dark and bad really fast in these kinds of reads.
Also, surprisingly, this isn't a standalone and we see more of Windhawk and Joanna in the next book, and then the following books follow Joanna's brother and then later her daughter and niece in their own romances. I looked into Savage Winter and oh god, it's just misunderstandings and fighting between the leads dialed up several notches. I will be passing on the next three books as a result.
Of course, this comes with a territory that there's an air of dubious consent (Joanna says no, he kisses or embraces her, all resistance fades and they passionately give in to one other) but it's sitting lower on the scale in terms of yikes factor than it could have been. Like the other novels by Ms. Banyon I've read, the leads profess their love and ask for forgiveness and are so emotional and devoted that it almost makes up for the times the leads did something that wasn't great.
Note: my rating is adjusted as a result of the age of the work and the genre; the bar can be very low, so ratings are more so a reflection of them against other vintage romances.
I think the biggest reason why this doesn't rate higher is because a lot of the conflict was based on the leads not communicating and misunderstanding one another without there being any supporting justification for it beyond it being a reason for them to not get together immediately--which, naturally, could have been accomplished with many other plot devices.
The author tackled the conflict of misunderstanding and not communicating the truth much better in another work, Velvet Chains, because there is an actual reason given that has some bearing on the plot itself.
In this one, the issue arises when Joannna immediately jumps to the conclusion that Windhawk was responsible for the raid on the wagon train that killed her brother and Windhawk, weirdly, decides not to defend himself to her. Instead, he decides it'll all just settle itself because once she loves him and realizes he won't hurt her she'll automatically realize he didn't have anything to do with the raid. That's very strange logic, in my opinion. Especially because he ultimately takes it pretty personally that Joanna doesn't just magically know the truth and his feelings.
Then, of course, it doesn't just stop there because Windhawk must also misunderstand Joanna in return when she expresses a desire to leave to go see her father settle some unfinished family business (as Joanna originally was ousted from her family home in New England by a conniving aunt and uncle after her mother dies, which is why she went out west and how she met Windhawk).
Windhawk assumes that she's never loved him and that her escaping to handle this unfinished business is the ultimate betrayal for some reason (honestly, a missed opportunity to go: since this is important to you and I love you, I will help you do what you feel you need to). This then creates a domino effect where now he is angry for this perceived betrayal, takes his anger out in Joanna, she ends up being physically harmed, all snowballing into a bunch of compounding misunderstandings as both of them are certain that the other now hates them while still being very much in love with one another.
It's very much a case of had they just honestly spoken with each other, most of this conflict wouldn't have ever happened done so in an exasperating and unappealing way that isn't fun or entertaining to read.
I do also want to mention that, as this was published in 1990 and features a Native American hero by a white author, I'm sure there's a lot of problematic content in the execution of things regarding race and culture. I'm sadly not versed enough in the subject matter to feel comfortable speaking about the topic at length, but it is worth acknowledging the pitfalls and problems of how any non-white race may be handled in these old romances.
I do think, overall, the author meant well--Windhawk isn't described with weird language like comparing his dark skin to food or anything, and the book ultimately has a narrative that portays Windhawk and his people in a positive way, with Joanna coming to love and accept them and their culture. It could have absolutely been worse, so take this reading as being graded on a curve to account for just how low the bar can be.
Also, as this is a historical romance, we do see the author use the term "indian" and I can't say if that's something she felt was find under the shield of it's historically accurate or if the debate on whether it was problematic ever crossed her mind, as this was published in 1990, but it is worth mentioning that facet for anyone going into this novel.
On the topic of historical accuracy is probably the shallow excuse for this Joanna is 17 and Windhawk is 27, so, pretty big age gap. Not my favorite and I find it very uncomfortable, but you almost wouldn't know it if they didn't mention their ages a few times, considering Joanna doesn't really behave like a teenager, and then there's that one line where Windhawk says, "You're so young, have I married a baby?" which was... ew.
I think it's unfortunately pretty common for these romances to think 16-18 year old heroines are like, perfect for being taken by men in their mid twenties to early thirties as like this, idolized picturesque fantasy of youthful, beautiful sexual awakening ripe for romantic thrills at the hands of mature, skilled men who are young enough to be handsome beyond reason but old enough to be confident and worth submitting to the care and desire of, even as the girl vainly declares she's a free spirit who will never submit to any man.
Overall, it kept my attention and was a passable read. Nothing extraordinary and certainly not above criticisms of some serious shortcomings, but decent for what it is: a vintage paperback romance. The bar is a little low because things can get really dark and bad really fast in these kinds of reads.
Also, surprisingly, this isn't a standalone and we see more of Windhawk and Joanna in the next book, and then the following books follow Joanna's brother and then later her daughter and niece in their own romances. I looked into Savage Winter and oh god, it's just misunderstandings and fighting between the leads dialed up several notches. I will be passing on the next three books as a result.
September 10, 2023
Second Rating: 3.5 / 5 (rounded down)
I'm so very glad that I decided to give this book a second chance, as it definitely was raised in my esteem. Not by a lot, but it certainly was in general and gives me hope for the entire series--which is great, as the covers are so very beautiful, and I love how they're based around the seasons! (EDIT: I just figured out that all four books are a continuation of Joanna's and Windhawk's story, and that's kind of...eh....)
Anyway, this story is about Joanna James, a girl who's forced out of her home along with her brother, by her slatternly aunt and lustful uncle. Together, Joanna and her brother, Tag, set out west to find their father in Oregon, and reclaim their home and their fortune. Now...apart from the "going west" part, this isn't really the usual set up for a Native American romance, but I kind of like the originality of it.
Anyway, they're out west and there Joanna meets Windhawk, a young Blackfoot chief, and the two immediately share an attraction, as they are destined soulmates and whatnot. So ensues the usual Native American romance, and while there are misunderstandings and things keeping the couple apart, ultimately they get their happy ending by the end.
I did like it just find the second time around reading it, although I have to admit that I could have done for the conflicts to be more external than all just internal, as Joanna kept thinking that she shouldn't be a part of Windhawk's world, whereas Windhawk himself is also acting a lot on impulse--and for both of them, this has consequences. I think that if maybe they could have been developed a bit more in terms of their own individual strength of character and their relationship as well, I might have been a bit more intrigued to see where their story would go.
Oh, don't get me wrong, I quite liked everything just fine, but at this time, I'm not yet ready to rank that up to 4 stars just yet. Perhaps a third re-read in the future will be enough to convince me, though. In any case, it's renewed my faith in this author and...well, who could ask for more than that, right?
I'm so very glad that I decided to give this book a second chance, as it definitely was raised in my esteem. Not by a lot, but it certainly was in general and gives me hope for the entire series--which is great, as the covers are so very beautiful, and I love how they're based around the seasons! (EDIT: I just figured out that all four books are a continuation of Joanna's and Windhawk's story, and that's kind of...eh....)
Anyway, this story is about Joanna James, a girl who's forced out of her home along with her brother, by her slatternly aunt and lustful uncle. Together, Joanna and her brother, Tag, set out west to find their father in Oregon, and reclaim their home and their fortune. Now...apart from the "going west" part, this isn't really the usual set up for a Native American romance, but I kind of like the originality of it.
Anyway, they're out west and there Joanna meets Windhawk, a young Blackfoot chief, and the two immediately share an attraction, as they are destined soulmates and whatnot. So ensues the usual Native American romance, and while there are misunderstandings and things keeping the couple apart, ultimately they get their happy ending by the end.
I did like it just find the second time around reading it, although I have to admit that I could have done for the conflicts to be more external than all just internal, as Joanna kept thinking that she shouldn't be a part of Windhawk's world, whereas Windhawk himself is also acting a lot on impulse--and for both of them, this has consequences. I think that if maybe they could have been developed a bit more in terms of their own individual strength of character and their relationship as well, I might have been a bit more intrigued to see where their story would go.
Oh, don't get me wrong, I quite liked everything just fine, but at this time, I'm not yet ready to rank that up to 4 stars just yet. Perhaps a third re-read in the future will be enough to convince me, though. In any case, it's renewed my faith in this author and...well, who could ask for more than that, right?
December 19, 2014
I purchased Constance O'Banyon's novel Savage Autumn because in Amazons Discussion Group "most re read romance novel" this novel was mentioned a few times with high praise. Also never having read anything by Ms. O'Banyon I thought I would give it a try.
This is the story about Joanna James and her little brother Taggert (Tag). After the recent death of their mother and their father gone for almost a year on business these innocents are faced with evil in the form of an aunt and uncle coming for an extended visit. They have been force to leave their home because of their ruthless uncle who immediately becomes their guardian while making sexual advances to Joanna. They escape their aunt and uncles clutches by joining a wagon train, heading to Oregon, to get to their father . This is when the adventure and story really begins. This is where Joanna meets for the first time Windhawk, the chief of the Blood Blackfoot tribe. Tall dark and handsome. He is a fierce warrior and feared by many however his gentleness to Joanna is so endearing. When Joanna leave him, to continue her journey to look for her father, he go after her and his fierceness then rears it's ugly head.
I loved this book and if I could give it ten stars I would. Jo-anna and Windhawks love for each other is what we fans of romance hunger for in a good read. This is a very good story with strong and extremely likable characters. But the love that is shared by Jo-anna and Windhawk will touch your heart, it did mine. I am definitely buying and reading the next book in the series, Savage Winter. I would grade the sensual level of this story a strong 7. I recommend this as a great romance read that I will re read again and again.
This is the story about Joanna James and her little brother Taggert (Tag). After the recent death of their mother and their father gone for almost a year on business these innocents are faced with evil in the form of an aunt and uncle coming for an extended visit. They have been force to leave their home because of their ruthless uncle who immediately becomes their guardian while making sexual advances to Joanna. They escape their aunt and uncles clutches by joining a wagon train, heading to Oregon, to get to their father . This is when the adventure and story really begins. This is where Joanna meets for the first time Windhawk, the chief of the Blood Blackfoot tribe. Tall dark and handsome. He is a fierce warrior and feared by many however his gentleness to Joanna is so endearing. When Joanna leave him, to continue her journey to look for her father, he go after her and his fierceness then rears it's ugly head.
I loved this book and if I could give it ten stars I would. Jo-anna and Windhawks love for each other is what we fans of romance hunger for in a good read. This is a very good story with strong and extremely likable characters. But the love that is shared by Jo-anna and Windhawk will touch your heart, it did mine. I am definitely buying and reading the next book in the series, Savage Winter. I would grade the sensual level of this story a strong 7. I recommend this as a great romance read that I will re read again and again.
April 9, 2019
Fleeing danger on the East Coast, teenager Joanna James and her younger brother Taggert are crossing the continent in an effort to be reunited with their father on the West Coast. The wagon train they are traveling with is attacked by Indians and just about everyone is wiped out. Joanna is rescued by Windhawk! (the exclamation point might as well be part of his name) and taken back to his village where the two fall in love.
This is a doable romance. For the most part the pacing is good and there is something always going on. This is a HR from the Eighties so expect some tropes, the main one here being lack of communication. At first Joanna is frightened of Windhawk! because she thinks he was one of the Indians who attacked the wagon train. Windhawk doesn't bother to explain otherwise because... ? When she's brought to the village, Joanna mistakenly thinks Morning Song is Windhawk's wife. No one mentions Windhawk! and Morning Song are brother and sister because... ? Joanna spends several days with another character who knows for a fact her brother survived the attack. Joanna isn't told Taggert is alive because... ?
The lack of communication is frustrating, but when Windhawk! hauled off and cold cocked Joanna - that's what cost this book a star.
This is a doable romance. For the most part the pacing is good and there is something always going on. This is a HR from the Eighties so expect some tropes, the main one here being lack of communication. At first Joanna is frightened of Windhawk! because she thinks he was one of the Indians who attacked the wagon train. Windhawk doesn't bother to explain otherwise because... ? When she's brought to the village, Joanna mistakenly thinks Morning Song is Windhawk's wife. No one mentions Windhawk! and Morning Song are brother and sister because... ? Joanna spends several days with another character who knows for a fact her brother survived the attack. Joanna isn't told Taggert is alive because... ?
The lack of communication is frustrating, but when Windhawk! hauled off and cold cocked Joanna - that's what cost this book a star.
January 12, 2016
Maybe I had my hopes too high up because of the many 5-star reviews but this book disappointed me. It was full of cliches, Windhawk was an overbearing idiot, who wanted love without giving anything in return (would it hurt to talk things out?), Joanna might have been a nice character, but was reduced to her outward beauty.
However it still managed to grasp my interest throughout the book, so that's two stars. I don't really have anything to recommend for this book, but I don't really have anything to rant about either. It's just one of those usual 1980's-books, which have long ago stopped aggravating me.
However it still managed to grasp my interest throughout the book, so that's two stars. I don't really have anything to recommend for this book, but I don't really have anything to rant about either. It's just one of those usual 1980's-books, which have long ago stopped aggravating me.
February 7, 2013
This was a blast from the past read for me. The story was just ok. I found it a little boring.
May 21, 2014
One of Constance O'Banyon's Best.
I was very disappointed with Constance O'Banyon's "Enchanted Ecstasy". Therefore, I didn't necessarily have high hopes for "Savage Autumn", the first book in her "Savage Seasons of Blackfoot" series. However, I was happily proven wrong, as this is a truly beautiful love story.
The Story: The story begins on a sad note. Seventeen-year old Joanna James, the heroine of the book, and her twelve-year old brother, Taggart-or Tag as he is known-have lost their mother, Althea. (Their father, Russell, is a shipping magnate and is away on business in Oregon.) Shortly after their mother's death, Russell's sister Margaret and her husband, Howard, show up. Their reasons aren't to take care of Joanna and Tag, but to get their hands on various things. For Margaret, she wants to get her hands on her brother's money. For Howard, he wants to get his hands-and other things-on Joanna. When Joanna tries to evict them from her home, they give her a bogus letter claiming that Russell is dead. Margaret and Howard use this letter to get Howard appointed the children's legal guardian, and gain access to Russell's money. However, later Joanna receives a letter from Russell stating that he is alive, although badly injured after a boat accident, and that he is sending for them to come to Oregon. Joanna and Tag's plans to go to Oregon are disrupted, however, when Howard finds the letter after trying to rape Joanna. The kids are then locked in their rooms and kept as prisoners. They do, however, with the help of two of their long-time servants, escape and, after finding that they can't travel by ship because the ships are being watched, decide to travel to Oregon by wagon train to get to Russell.
The trip, however, is problematic. Their wagon train, after a series of problems, fails to join a bigger group traveling to Oregon. One positive for Joanna is that she meets the hero of the book, Windhawk, chief of a band of Blood Blackfoot Indians, when he rescues Tag from drowning. Joanna and Windhawk are immediately attracted to each other.
Tragedy soon strikes, however, as the wagon train the James children are on is attacked by a warring band of Blackfoot Indians known as the Piegan, let by their chief, Running Elk. Most of the people on the wagon train are killed except for three: Joanna-her wagon fell off a cliff trying to escape the massacre; Running Elk believes she's dead but she's not-Tag, and another young woman, Amanda Phillips, who are both taken captive by Running Elk. Windhawk finds Joanna, injured but alive, and begins to take care of her. She believes, erroneously, that Windhawk was involved in the attack on her caravan. At first, Joanna hates Windhawk, but after a time, they realize they are in love with each other, get married and make love.
All is not well, though. Even though Joanna loves Windhawk, she believes that Tag is dead and she also yearns to be back in white society, in part to get revenge on Margaret and Howard. Her opportunity to do so comes when Windhawk leaves his village after finding out that Tag is being held prisoner by Running Elk. When Windhawk leaves to rescue Tag-he doesn't tell Joanna that he's going to rescue Tag-Joanna is found by a trapper, Crazy Farley, whom she and Tag befriended with their wagon train. He believes that Joanna is being held against her will-she's not-and they leave the Blackfoot village. When Windhawk arrives back home with Tag and Amanda, he finds that Joanna has left after proclaiming that she loved him, even though she said many times that she wanted to return to the white world. Windhawk had vowed that he'd never let her go. Windhawk then tracks down Joanna and Crazy Farley, and understandably, he is very hurt and angry with her.
As Windhawk brings Joanna back to his village, he is very cruel to her, especially mentally, and he hits her one time. Then, another tragedy strikes. They are travelling in winter, in a raging snowstorm, and Joanna suffers from both exposure to snow and cold, and later, snow blindness. When his medicine woman can't heal Joanna's snow blindness, Windhawk decides to let her go back to the white world, not because he hates her or doesn't want her around, but because of the incredible guilt he feels as he believes that his actions caused her to be blind. He also deeply regrets hitting her and being emotionally cruel to her, although he doesn't verbalize any of this to Joanna.
Joanna, on the other hand, wants to stay with Windhawk, as she now realizes how much she loves him, but she also doesn't verbalize this, and Windhawk takes her to a forr and lets her go.
Eventually, Joanna regains her sight, and both she and Windhawk realize that their lives don't have as much meaning without the one they love in it and they come back together and have their happily ever after.
The love Joanna and Windhawk feel for each other is so sweet, pure and most importantly, genuine. Yes, as mentioned in other reviews, a lot of the pain both suffered could have been avoided had they actually talked to each other. When this book was published-October 1984 was the original publishing month-people in romance novels didn't talk to each other. They simply acted out and hid their feelings, and eventually apologized and regretted the pain they caused their loved ones. The only negative about this book for me is that Windhawk hits Joanna once when he finds her. While I totally understand his anger and hurt over Joanna's betrayal, that doesn't excuse what he did. That is the only black mark on an otherwise wonderful book.
Sex: a few scenes. As always, Ms. O'Banyon's loves scenes focus more on the feelings of the act rather than the descriptive aspects of the subject. More warm than hot.
Violence: In addition to the raid on the wagon train the James kids are on and Windhawk's hitting Joanna, there is another scene where Windhawk has to kill three Piegan Indians to rescue Tag and Amanda. None of the violence, however, is graphically described.
Bottom Line: There are three more books in the "Savage Seasons of Blackfoot" series, one for each of the four seasons. If the others are as good as this, it should be a wonderful series.
I was very disappointed with Constance O'Banyon's "Enchanted Ecstasy". Therefore, I didn't necessarily have high hopes for "Savage Autumn", the first book in her "Savage Seasons of Blackfoot" series. However, I was happily proven wrong, as this is a truly beautiful love story.
The Story: The story begins on a sad note. Seventeen-year old Joanna James, the heroine of the book, and her twelve-year old brother, Taggart-or Tag as he is known-have lost their mother, Althea. (Their father, Russell, is a shipping magnate and is away on business in Oregon.) Shortly after their mother's death, Russell's sister Margaret and her husband, Howard, show up. Their reasons aren't to take care of Joanna and Tag, but to get their hands on various things. For Margaret, she wants to get her hands on her brother's money. For Howard, he wants to get his hands-and other things-on Joanna. When Joanna tries to evict them from her home, they give her a bogus letter claiming that Russell is dead. Margaret and Howard use this letter to get Howard appointed the children's legal guardian, and gain access to Russell's money. However, later Joanna receives a letter from Russell stating that he is alive, although badly injured after a boat accident, and that he is sending for them to come to Oregon. Joanna and Tag's plans to go to Oregon are disrupted, however, when Howard finds the letter after trying to rape Joanna. The kids are then locked in their rooms and kept as prisoners. They do, however, with the help of two of their long-time servants, escape and, after finding that they can't travel by ship because the ships are being watched, decide to travel to Oregon by wagon train to get to Russell.
The trip, however, is problematic. Their wagon train, after a series of problems, fails to join a bigger group traveling to Oregon. One positive for Joanna is that she meets the hero of the book, Windhawk, chief of a band of Blood Blackfoot Indians, when he rescues Tag from drowning. Joanna and Windhawk are immediately attracted to each other.
Tragedy soon strikes, however, as the wagon train the James children are on is attacked by a warring band of Blackfoot Indians known as the Piegan, let by their chief, Running Elk. Most of the people on the wagon train are killed except for three: Joanna-her wagon fell off a cliff trying to escape the massacre; Running Elk believes she's dead but she's not-Tag, and another young woman, Amanda Phillips, who are both taken captive by Running Elk. Windhawk finds Joanna, injured but alive, and begins to take care of her. She believes, erroneously, that Windhawk was involved in the attack on her caravan. At first, Joanna hates Windhawk, but after a time, they realize they are in love with each other, get married and make love.
All is not well, though. Even though Joanna loves Windhawk, she believes that Tag is dead and she also yearns to be back in white society, in part to get revenge on Margaret and Howard. Her opportunity to do so comes when Windhawk leaves his village after finding out that Tag is being held prisoner by Running Elk. When Windhawk leaves to rescue Tag-he doesn't tell Joanna that he's going to rescue Tag-Joanna is found by a trapper, Crazy Farley, whom she and Tag befriended with their wagon train. He believes that Joanna is being held against her will-she's not-and they leave the Blackfoot village. When Windhawk arrives back home with Tag and Amanda, he finds that Joanna has left after proclaiming that she loved him, even though she said many times that she wanted to return to the white world. Windhawk had vowed that he'd never let her go. Windhawk then tracks down Joanna and Crazy Farley, and understandably, he is very hurt and angry with her.
As Windhawk brings Joanna back to his village, he is very cruel to her, especially mentally, and he hits her one time. Then, another tragedy strikes. They are travelling in winter, in a raging snowstorm, and Joanna suffers from both exposure to snow and cold, and later, snow blindness. When his medicine woman can't heal Joanna's snow blindness, Windhawk decides to let her go back to the white world, not because he hates her or doesn't want her around, but because of the incredible guilt he feels as he believes that his actions caused her to be blind. He also deeply regrets hitting her and being emotionally cruel to her, although he doesn't verbalize any of this to Joanna.
Joanna, on the other hand, wants to stay with Windhawk, as she now realizes how much she loves him, but she also doesn't verbalize this, and Windhawk takes her to a forr and lets her go.
Eventually, Joanna regains her sight, and both she and Windhawk realize that their lives don't have as much meaning without the one they love in it and they come back together and have their happily ever after.
The love Joanna and Windhawk feel for each other is so sweet, pure and most importantly, genuine. Yes, as mentioned in other reviews, a lot of the pain both suffered could have been avoided had they actually talked to each other. When this book was published-October 1984 was the original publishing month-people in romance novels didn't talk to each other. They simply acted out and hid their feelings, and eventually apologized and regretted the pain they caused their loved ones. The only negative about this book for me is that Windhawk hits Joanna once when he finds her. While I totally understand his anger and hurt over Joanna's betrayal, that doesn't excuse what he did. That is the only black mark on an otherwise wonderful book.
Sex: a few scenes. As always, Ms. O'Banyon's loves scenes focus more on the feelings of the act rather than the descriptive aspects of the subject. More warm than hot.
Violence: In addition to the raid on the wagon train the James kids are on and Windhawk's hitting Joanna, there is another scene where Windhawk has to kill three Piegan Indians to rescue Tag and Amanda. None of the violence, however, is graphically described.
Bottom Line: There are three more books in the "Savage Seasons of Blackfoot" series, one for each of the four seasons. If the others are as good as this, it should be a wonderful series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 1, 2016
*3 1/2 stars*
October 20, 2017
Don't bother.
November 2, 2021
This was a romance between Joanna, a rich young girl traveling with her brother across the West to reach their ailing father, and Windhawk, the chief of the Bloods Native American tribe. In the beginning, Joanna and her brother Tag buried their mother and their aunt and uncle swooped in to "take care of them". Which actually meant that they were going to steal their family's money, send Tag on a ship with the navy and the uncle had sexual designs on Joanna.
The siblings escape knowing that they had to travel from Philadelphia to the Oregon Country on a wagon train. At a stop, Windhawk saved Tag from drowning when his legs tangled in his horses reins. Immediately, Windhawk realizes that Joanna is his destiny - the one woman who he is to love. Joanna also feels a strong attraction to the strong warrior.
Some time passes and the wagon train is attacked by a rival Native American tribe. Their chief is determined to have Joanna to himself. However, he believes her dead. Instead he takes her friend and her brother.
Windhawk ends up finding Joanna and she is immediately scared of him. Why? Because for some reason, she thinks it was him that attacked her wagon train. Does Windhawk tell her she is wrong? No, because he wants her to figure it out in her heart. What?
He ends up taking her back to his village/home and declares her "his woman". Joanna is not greeted with much respect. Over time that changes. Windhawk is steadfast in his love for her and wants to wait for her to "come to him". Instead he takes her , though technically she was very willing.
There is a lot of back and forth.. they both love and hate each other in equal measures. I really enjoyed this book. It is definitely an old-school romance with those sensibilities, but I like that. I plan on reading the next in the series.
The siblings escape knowing that they had to travel from Philadelphia to the Oregon Country on a wagon train. At a stop, Windhawk saved Tag from drowning when his legs tangled in his horses reins. Immediately, Windhawk realizes that Joanna is his destiny - the one woman who he is to love. Joanna also feels a strong attraction to the strong warrior.
Some time passes and the wagon train is attacked by a rival Native American tribe. Their chief is determined to have Joanna to himself. However, he believes her dead. Instead he takes her friend and her brother.
Windhawk ends up finding Joanna and she is immediately scared of him. Why? Because for some reason, she thinks it was him that attacked her wagon train. Does Windhawk tell her she is wrong? No, because he wants her to figure it out in her heart. What?
He ends up taking her back to his village/home and declares her "his woman". Joanna is not greeted with much respect. Over time that changes. Windhawk is steadfast in his love for her and wants to wait for her to "come to him". Instead he takes her , though technically she was very willing.
There is a lot of back and forth.. they both love and hate each other in equal measures. I really enjoyed this book. It is definitely an old-school romance with those sensibilities, but I like that. I plan on reading the next in the series.
April 3, 2021
Savage Autumn KU 344 pgs **** 4/3/21 Windhawk & Joanna
4 stars. There was more filler pages than I’ve read before in one of Ms. O’Banyon’s books. This book left me more frustrated because of all the drama that Joanna caused that to me was very unnecessary as always wanting to run, leave but at the same time having guilt and depression over wanting to do that. The chemistry between the MCs were magnetic but seemed they avoided it more than embraced it. The few sex scenes were okay, they could have been much “hotter and passionate” with a few more details but they were okay. The other characters in the story were well built up and made the story so much better. I did love the story it was just a little frustrating but I had to keep reminding myself that Joanna was only 17 and had to grow up fast before and after trying to get to her father. I am very much looking forward to this story continuing. The flow was great, very hard to put down without your mind going back and wanting to read more and more. This is considered a slight cliff hanger but since the other books are already published, I don’t mind at all.
4 stars. There was more filler pages than I’ve read before in one of Ms. O’Banyon’s books. This book left me more frustrated because of all the drama that Joanna caused that to me was very unnecessary as always wanting to run, leave but at the same time having guilt and depression over wanting to do that. The chemistry between the MCs were magnetic but seemed they avoided it more than embraced it. The few sex scenes were okay, they could have been much “hotter and passionate” with a few more details but they were okay. The other characters in the story were well built up and made the story so much better. I did love the story it was just a little frustrating but I had to keep reminding myself that Joanna was only 17 and had to grow up fast before and after trying to get to her father. I am very much looking forward to this story continuing. The flow was great, very hard to put down without your mind going back and wanting to read more and more. This is considered a slight cliff hanger but since the other books are already published, I don’t mind at all.
March 14, 2020
Ooh so good
Oh I loved it so much! I could not put this down. It was so hard to wake up this morning! Joanna is a truly beautiful person. Tagg is so sweet and protective and loves his sister so much. Franny is the maid, but if you read this book she is the mother the kids never had. She is the parent that was never there. Wind Walker is so special I mean come on the characters in this book are awesome. It took the two lovebirds long enough to get it together though. I was so happy when Constance finally wrote them back in together and then,,,,, it ended.......on to book two
Oh I loved it so much! I could not put this down. It was so hard to wake up this morning! Joanna is a truly beautiful person. Tagg is so sweet and protective and loves his sister so much. Franny is the maid, but if you read this book she is the mother the kids never had. She is the parent that was never there. Wind Walker is so special I mean come on the characters in this book are awesome. It took the two lovebirds long enough to get it together though. I was so happy when Constance finally wrote them back in together and then,,,,, it ended.......on to book two
August 21, 2022
They are a brother and sister who escaped the clutches of their evil aunt and uncle. They experience the loss of family and friends and face the dangers while travelling on a wagon train only to fall into the hands of the Blackfoot Indians. Her brother is captured by one tribe while she is rescued by another. Both think the other to be dead. She eventually becomes the wife of the Chief of the Blood Blackfoot. He rescues the brother but a misunderstanding sees her leave him and their love for each other starts to falls apart.
September 10, 2022
Love in different worlds!
Traveling with covered wagon a young girl and her younger brother were staying at a post until the time to continue west. Both friendly and warriors well re across a river from the fort. The wagon train was attacked by the warriors, many died, some captured. Over several weeks the captured were treated differently according to which village they were held hostage.
Traveling with covered wagon a young girl and her younger brother were staying at a post until the time to continue west. Both friendly and warriors well re across a river from the fort. The wagon train was attacked by the warriors, many died, some captured. Over several weeks the captured were treated differently according to which village they were held hostage.
September 12, 2024
Amazing story!
I first read this amazing book many years ago and it is still as awesome now as it was then, two young people journey through the hardships of the frontier and they find friendship and love after being misused and abused by relatives who were supposed to protect them. The characters are unbelievably strong and larger than life while the storyline was inspiring and filled with exciting moments!
I first read this amazing book many years ago and it is still as awesome now as it was then, two young people journey through the hardships of the frontier and they find friendship and love after being misused and abused by relatives who were supposed to protect them. The characters are unbelievably strong and larger than life while the storyline was inspiring and filled with exciting moments!
October 11, 2022
There were parts of this that I really liked! Tag and Joanna’s close relationship was so sweet. I loved how they took care of each other. There was so much miscommunication between Joanna and Windhawk which was so frustrating. I also felt like Joanna made such horrible decisions. I could kind of understand because of her age but still annoying. Overall, this was quite the rollercoaster ride.
November 19, 2022
very satisfied
I loved you this series, when they first came out and now I am reading them again on here. I recommend it and I give it give 5 stars because it was very entertaining.
I loved you this series, when they first came out and now I am reading them again on here. I recommend it and I give it give 5 stars because it was very entertaining.
June 7, 2023
Yes! Joanna and Windhawk is such a great love story, and the story continues on through the whole four-book series. He sounds so amazing! This makes my third time reading through this series and I will continue to do so, every now and then.
- Def do recommend this series.
- Def do recommend this series.
March 19, 2025
Loving story
I love that the heroine in the story was so strong and the fact that she took on the responsibility of hey brother when her parents passed...I am hoping that the next stories settle what I would love to see.
I love that the heroine in the story was so strong and the fact that she took on the responsibility of hey brother when her parents passed...I am hoping that the next stories settle what I would love to see.
October 26, 2018
DNF.
The cheese is strong with this one. It's like it was a sorry rip-off of Comanche Moon, and the writing was very juvenile.
The cheese is strong with this one. It's like it was a sorry rip-off of Comanche Moon, and the writing was very juvenile.
February 3, 2019
This isn't the bodice ripper I had hoped for. It was just another annoying and stupid heroine. If you like that sort of thing, then it's for you.
March 14, 2020
This was a very good book.
I loved this book . It was hard to put down. It keeps you on interested and wanting to what happens
I loved this book . It was hard to put down. It keeps you on interested and wanting to what happens
May 1, 2020
The storyline was okay. But storytelling and mixed messages of characters made me lose intrest.
August 14, 2020
Excellent
I laughed and cried .. l was totally absorbed in this book and the characters! l can recommend this book to anyone who loves romance and true love!
I laughed and cried .. l was totally absorbed in this book and the characters! l can recommend this book to anyone who loves romance and true love!
Read
September 11, 2020This is my second time completed this series good story
December 13, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. It was unpredictable. No want to read the authors next books also
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