I love historical novels, and ones that clearly show a dedicated level of research are always appreciated. Admittedly I know little about this part of America's history, but the authors did an excellent job of establishing time and place throughout the novel. Perhaps the best part was the way they depicted the belief system of the people, and how those beliefs helped them.This book highlights a brutal part of America's history, and the authors don't shy away from that brutality. They paint the Spanish in a harsh and cruel light; when I read I felt anger for them, and found myself rooting for the natives. Even knowing how it would all eventually turn out, I was anxious to get to the next part of the story.The main characters of Black Shell and Pearl Hand were both very interesting. I liked their interaction with each other and how they brought each other balance. Pearl Hand I found particularly fascinating, since she was a strong female character at a time when women weren't expected to behave that way. Yet the authors never diminished Pearl's character simply because she was a woman. I really appreciated that.Overall, this was an excellent novel. I think it did its purpose of making us face the cruelty of our past, while giving the natives who were victimized the dignity they deserve. I would recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys historical fiction. Though I wouldn't suggest it for the faint at heart. Coming of the Storm: Book One of Contact: The Battle for Americaby Kathleen O'Neal Gear, Michael Gear Set in 1539 Florida we follow Hernando de Soto as he begins his bloody conquest of the Americas in search of wealth in the form of gold. With an army of nearly 1000 Hernando de Soto chains, tortures and murders the native peoples in the name of Christianity. Acting under the leadership of de Soto, Juan Ortiz forces the native population to convert to Christianity or die in chains as slaves hauling de Soto’s provisions across the lands. Bringing a holocaust of slaughter, rape, pillage and lies, the native peoples soon learn that there is a different breed of man, one that does not respect the beliefs or customs of anyone that stands in the way of Christian greed and intolerance. Black Shell, a cunning Chicaza Trader and his partner Pearl Hand become the focal point in stopping de Soto’s plundering. Together with a band of allies picked up along the way it is up to Black Shell and Pearl Hand to find new ways to fight the Spanish Invaders that have no respect for the ways of Spirit or honor in ways of war. Black Shell soon finds himself the tool of the Spirits. Through Power Dreams he is instructed in the ways of the Shaman and the Warrior. The Horned Serpent and Water Panther tell Black Shell that if he does not kill de Soto and stop his path of destruction Spirit Power will fade away and the balance between peace and struggle will give way to chaos. Black Shell and Pearl Hand together with their Orphans vow to stop de Soto from eradicating the ways of Power and Tribal Sprit entities.
Do You like book Coming Of The Storm (2010)?
looking forward to the next one....ending was a bit abrupt but still an engaging story
—Lyco19
I have read all their books. Am anxiously awaiting the next chapter of this series.
—Liz
Have enjoyed all of Gears books. This one was no exception. I loved it.
—Daydaboo
loved it, would make a great movie! can't wait to read the next one!
—arya
Greatly moving early American historical fiction
—lkz
