Review by sb0ssman -- Strong Heart by Charlie Sheldon

[sb0ssman]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Strong Heart" by Charlie Sheldon.]

---

4 out of 4 stars

---

Share This Review

---

Strong Heart by Charlie Sheldon is a story about family heritage, the reconnection of generations, and overcoming hardships all shared through wilderness adventures on the Olympic peninsula in Washington state. It all begins with a teenage girl, Sarah, showing up on Tom’s doorstep. This is not just any girl but his granddaughter who he had known nothing of, as his estranged daughter had never communicated to her parents before her death.

The untimely appearance of Sarah would put a twist on Tom’s plans, as he, his good friend nicknamed Walleye, and Walleye’s daughter Myra were all packed and ready for a multi-day hiking trip into Olympic National Park to commence the next day. It is decided that Sarah will make the trek with them into the Park to pay respects to Tom’s grandfather Bob-Bob who was laid to rest there.

There are multiple storylines to follow throughout the novel, from the relationships of the families on the hiking adventure to the story of the first people of the land and the archaeological evidence available or lacking and finally the National Park’s takeover by Corporate drilling. Most importantly, however, is the journey of Sarah (who we later learn is given the name Strong Heart) from a nearly orphan young girl unsure of her place in the world to the witness and participant of a journey unlike any other that opened her eyes and heart to the land and her native heritage.

I felt the author did a wonderful job foreshadowing the events to come without ruining the surprise and offering pieces to the story to keep you hooked all the way through. The research and sensitivity to the history and culture of the native peoples of this area of the world was especially well done, including how he used the characters to explain history, local ancestor stories, and archaeological studies without making the novel seem like an academic documentary. I also found the format the author used to convey the transition of current day to the past as genius.

Overall, I would give Strong Heart a 4 out of 4 stars. The author kept my attention throughout the whole novel; I was always wondering what would happen next, wanting to hear more of Sarah’s story, and rooting for the preservation of the land. I will forewarn anyone who may be squeamish that the novel includes some very descriptive encounters with wild animals and the wounds they can inflict; however, every scene was thoughtfully added for historical accuracy of the wild land so many years ago. Anyone who enjoys historical fiction that weaves pieces of actual history into fiction will enjoy this novel, but I believe those interested in wilderness adventures and a heroine’s journey will also find this novel captivating. I will for sure be picking up the next book by Charlie Sheldon as he continues Strong Heart’s story in the series.

******
Strong Heart
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

Like sb0ssman's review? Post a comment saying so!

[Espie]

Thank you for your review. Like you, I also read, reviewed and loved this book. It's a good blend of imaginative mysticism and pragmatic thought. I'm looking forward to reading the next volume, too.