Synopses & Reviews
A novel of North Americas Forgotten Past
The epic tale that began in The People of the Longhouse draws to a close in People of the Black Sun, the final installation of the Iroquois quartet by bestselling authors and archaeologists Kathleen ONeal Gear and W. Michael Gear.
The darkness that Dekanawida has envisioned is drawing closer, and the warring Iroquois nations have refused to listen to his message of peace and compassion. Consumed by madness, Chief Atotarho is determined to subjugate all five nations—beginning with Dekanawidas own people, the Standing Stone nation. All who stand in his way will be destroyed.
It is on the field of battle that Dekanawida is given his first real advantage in his quest for peace. A great storm appears to answer his call, scattering Atotarhos forces when they are on the verge of annihilating the Standing Stone People.
Now elevated to the status of Prophet, Dekanawida must call on the aid of old friends Baji and Hiyawento to convince the hostile neighboring clans that the destruction of one nation will mean the end of them all. Can their mission of peace succeed in time to save everyone that they love, or will their world be consumed by darkness?
Review
Praise for Kathleen ONeal Gear and W. Michael Gear and the Novels of North Americas Forgotten Past:
“Sure to keep readers turning the pages… As usual, the Gears, husband-and-wife archaeologists, have enriched and enhanced the gripping plot with plenty of anthropological, archaeological, and historical detail.” —Booklist on The Dawn Country
“Rich in cultural detail. Both longtime fans and newcomers will be satisfied. Another fine entry in an ambitious, long-running series.” —Kirkus Reviews on The People of the Longhouse
Review
"A well-crafted chapter in the Gearss ongoing series."
—Kirkus Reviews on People of the Black Sun
"Sure to keep readers turning the pages… As usual, the Gears, husband-and-wife archaeologists, have enriched and enhanced the gripping plot with plenty of anthropological, archaeological, and historical detail."
—Booklist on The Dawn Country
Synopsis
Dekanawida has become known as “The Sky Messenger,” a prophet of immense power, and Hiawento is his Speaker. Thousands now believe in the Great Law of Peace and have joined the League. But they are still being harassed by marauding warriors from the People of the Mountain who steadfastly refuse to adopt the Great Law.
Dekanawida has prophesied destruction if the warfare continues. As one by one, portents start coming true, Dekanawida has one last chance to convince the People of the Mountain to join the League and save their world from utter destruction.
About the Author
KATHLEEN ONEAL GEAR is a former state historian and archaeologist for Wyoming, Kansas, and Nebraska for the U.S. Department of the Interior. She has twice received the federal governments Special Achievement Award for “outstanding management” of our nations cultural heritage.
W. MICHAEL GEAR, who holds a masters degree in archaeology, has worked as a professional archaeologist since 1978. He is currently principal investigator for Wind River Archaeological Consultants.
The Gears, whose First North American series hit the international as well as USA Today and New York Times bestseller lists, live in Thermopolis, Wyoming.