Review of Blood Summer 1862
-
Ingalwa Eugine
- Book of the Month Participant
- Posts: 288
- Joined: 30 Nov 2023, 09:03
- Currently Reading: The Three Card Trick
- Bookshelf Size: 126
- Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-ingalwa-eugine.html
- Latest Review: Strength of an African Woman by Michael C. Tredway
Review of Blood Summer 1862
[Following is a volunteer review of "Blood Summer 1862" by Robert Hauser.]
Blood Summer 1862 is a historical thriller written by Robert Hauser. It delves into the events before, during, and after the Dakota Sioux War during President Abraham Lincoln's reign. Set in Minnesota, a diverse population comprising Indians, Whites, and people of mixed races coexist. The Indians, proud of their traditional culture, are juxtaposed against the Whites who, perceive their religion, education, and modern culture as superior. This societal disparity fosters an environment ripe for exploitation and oppression, ultimately culminating in a deadly clash that forms the core of this enthralling narrative. Amid this turmoil, profound questions concerning human rights emerge, pondering the morality between death by starvation or death by the fireman.
The Dakota's traditional practices, spiritual beliefs, and wavering leadership make them vulnerable and dispensable. These characteristics make it easier for the Whites to manipulate them into signing treaties over which they have little control. This situation leads to internal discords among the Dakota people, dividing them into two groups: one embracing the White man's way of life and the other fiercely clinging to their traditional ways. Despite his initial stance, the desperation in his people's eyes leaves Little Crow with only three options, with little room for any positive outcome. Having no time for consideration, he assembles his team and invades the Redwood Agency. Meanwhile, the Lindquist and Eriksson families settle in fertile land in Minnesota, diligently utilizing available resources and adopting various methods to boost their farm's productivity. Unbeknownst to them, tragedy is brewing on the other end!
The author explores the gross violation of human rights, especially those of children and women, adding a chilling aspect to this story. The significant impact of the war on Minnesota's political, economic, and social stabilities cannot be overlooked. As the war weighs heavily on both Whites and Indians, the leaders of the conflicting parties seek a solution. Colonel Sibley has his stance on the fate of Indians, but individuals such as William P. Dole, Julia, and Elliot hold differing views. Ultimately, it is President Lincoln who makes the final decision on this matter. The question is: Will this war ever end? I invite you to follow this story to the end. My favorite character is Chaska, whose compassion and deep religious beliefs left me in sheer admiration.
I like several things about this book. First, the author demonstrates adept storytelling skills by incorporating vivid descriptions that immerse readers in the events of 1862. Second, the author's thorough understanding of America's war and political history helps us to grasp the intricacies of America's leadership. Lastly, this book's plotline is straightforward to follow. However, this book's major drawback is the presence of unsettling scenes, such as murder, which may be unbearable to certain readers. I recommend the inclusion of a trigger warning to protect vulnerable readers.
The editing team did well; I encountered no errors while reading. The flaw mentioned above is not strong enough to deny this book a perfect rating. I hereby rate this book five out of five stars because of the positives mentioned above. I recommend it to lovers of books based on historical fiction.
******
Blood Summer 1862
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Blood Summer 1862 is a historical thriller written by Robert Hauser. It delves into the events before, during, and after the Dakota Sioux War during President Abraham Lincoln's reign. Set in Minnesota, a diverse population comprising Indians, Whites, and people of mixed races coexist. The Indians, proud of their traditional culture, are juxtaposed against the Whites who, perceive their religion, education, and modern culture as superior. This societal disparity fosters an environment ripe for exploitation and oppression, ultimately culminating in a deadly clash that forms the core of this enthralling narrative. Amid this turmoil, profound questions concerning human rights emerge, pondering the morality between death by starvation or death by the fireman.
The Dakota's traditional practices, spiritual beliefs, and wavering leadership make them vulnerable and dispensable. These characteristics make it easier for the Whites to manipulate them into signing treaties over which they have little control. This situation leads to internal discords among the Dakota people, dividing them into two groups: one embracing the White man's way of life and the other fiercely clinging to their traditional ways. Despite his initial stance, the desperation in his people's eyes leaves Little Crow with only three options, with little room for any positive outcome. Having no time for consideration, he assembles his team and invades the Redwood Agency. Meanwhile, the Lindquist and Eriksson families settle in fertile land in Minnesota, diligently utilizing available resources and adopting various methods to boost their farm's productivity. Unbeknownst to them, tragedy is brewing on the other end!
The author explores the gross violation of human rights, especially those of children and women, adding a chilling aspect to this story. The significant impact of the war on Minnesota's political, economic, and social stabilities cannot be overlooked. As the war weighs heavily on both Whites and Indians, the leaders of the conflicting parties seek a solution. Colonel Sibley has his stance on the fate of Indians, but individuals such as William P. Dole, Julia, and Elliot hold differing views. Ultimately, it is President Lincoln who makes the final decision on this matter. The question is: Will this war ever end? I invite you to follow this story to the end. My favorite character is Chaska, whose compassion and deep religious beliefs left me in sheer admiration.
I like several things about this book. First, the author demonstrates adept storytelling skills by incorporating vivid descriptions that immerse readers in the events of 1862. Second, the author's thorough understanding of America's war and political history helps us to grasp the intricacies of America's leadership. Lastly, this book's plotline is straightforward to follow. However, this book's major drawback is the presence of unsettling scenes, such as murder, which may be unbearable to certain readers. I recommend the inclusion of a trigger warning to protect vulnerable readers.
The editing team did well; I encountered no errors while reading. The flaw mentioned above is not strong enough to deny this book a perfect rating. I hereby rate this book five out of five stars because of the positives mentioned above. I recommend it to lovers of books based on historical fiction.
******
Blood Summer 1862
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Latest Review: Strength of an African Woman by Michael C. Tredway
