Review of Blood Summer 1862

[Suyash Joshi]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Blood Summer 1862" by Robert Hauser.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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"Blood Summer 1862" is a historical novel by Robert Hauser, capturing the Dakota Sioux War in Minnesota in an action-packed, emotional rendering of this less-well-known event in the annals of American history. Weaving together historical facts and fictional elements, the book tells a story that is both educative and engrossing.

Against the backdrop of the Dakota Sioux War, the novel delivers the tragic events that led to the killing of over 500 settlers and farmers and, consequently, the unfair military trials of more than 300 Native Americans. Hauser uses his Minnesota upbringing and personal genealogical connections to develop the story about a Swedish immigrant family and a pious Christian Dakota Sioux who becomes their unlikely protector.

What sets the novel apart is that it delves into the details of historical characters like Chief Little Crow and how President Abraham Lincoln himself reviewed each capital case and later pardoned many of the Dakota Sioux condemned to hang. This aspect brings a rich layer of history to the narrative, evidencing the complexity of justice at the time.

Critics have praised the book for its storytelling, which humanizes historical events. The book explains in detail what happened to the Lindquist family and their struggles, alongside the political and social dynamics at play, giving readers a nuanced understanding of the period. Reviewers have noted the book's ability to weave together romance, legal accusations, and family conflict, adding an intriguing element of suspense to the historical context.

In general, "Blood Summer 1862" is a book recommended for historical fiction enthusiasts who find deep, interconnected plots interesting and the portrayal of resilience against adversity. This book not only remembers the lives lost but is also a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the continuing need for justice.

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Blood Summer 1862
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