Wednesday, October 10, 2012

People of the Black Sun-Kathleen O’Neal Gear and W. Michael Gear

People of the Black Sun

Kathleen O’Neal Gear and W. Michael Gear

Tor, Oct 16 2012, $25.99

ISBN: 9780765326959



Once known as Odion the warrior, Dekanawida the Peacemaker has become the esteemed “The Sky Messenger” prophet with a vision of uniting the five nations in the Great Law of Peace. Based on a frightening vision, Dekanawida fears that if the five tribes do not unite in peace, their way of life will end. As his prophecies become true, four of the fighting tribes agree to adhere to his Great Law of Peace.



However, the People of the Mountain led by vicious Chief Atotarho reject The Sky Messenger message with open hostility. They continue to raid the other tribes. Dekanawida believes time is running out as all must join the League or all will die. As the People of the Mountain prepare to annihilate his Standing Stone People, Dekanawida makes one last desperate plea but not to Atotarho; instead to the sky and his feral tribesmen.



This is a great finish to the epic People of the Longhouse (see The Broken Land) saga as team Gear enthusiastically combines an exhilarating thriller with a deep look at Pre-Columbus Iroquoia. Leisurely-paced, the storyline provides plenty of insight into the era, strong characters especially the prophet, his orator and Atotarho, and vivid battle scenes. Fans will enjoy visiting the Lands of the People of the Longhouse circa 1400.



Harriet Klausner



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