REVIEWS
Takes readers on a gripping journey through the complexities of American history during a crucial period.
VERONICA HUNTER
The narrative opens with a prologue in 1807, where President Thomas Jefferson engages in discussions with businessman John Jacob Astor regarding fur trading west of the Mississippi. The storyline also introduces Tecumseh, the civil chief of the Shawnee and brother of the Prophet, expressing his intent to wage war against the United States. Progressing to 1858, the unfolding events are set against a historical backdrop, including Chief Little Crow's visit to Washington, D.C., and the onset of the Civil War. The account sheds light on the injustices suffered by settlers, delving into the Dakota Sioux War with the United States and its aftermath. The story also portrays the lasting impacts of the war on individuals.
“Blood Summer 1862” by Robert Hauser takes readers on a gripping journey through the complexities of American history during a crucial period. Hauser creatively combines historical events and fictional characters to create a vivid narrative that captures the essence of the time. The portrayal of Chief Little Crow's efforts and the internal conflicts within the Dakota Sioux community adds layers to the narrative, reflecting the broader themes of the period. Hauser successfully captures the resilience of the Lindquist family amid adversity, emphasizing the harsh realities faced by both settlers and Native Americans.
My favorite character in the book is Julia. I love her for her compassion and empathy. Julia's character is marked by a deep sense of compassion and empathy. Her willingness to assist in delivering a baby during the train accident and her later involvement in aiding others, including Native Americans, showcase her compassionate nature. This quality contributes to her role as a source of support for those around her.
I discovered no flaws in the book. The characters face not only the physical challenges of building a new life but also the socio-political tensions of the time, including the Dakota Sioux War. The inclusion of real historical figures, such as President Lincoln and Bishop Whipple, adds authenticity to the novel and grounds the fictional narrative in the historical context. The exploration of themes such as justice, mercy, and the impact of political decisions on individual lives elevates "Blood Summer 1862" beyond a historical narrative, making it a thought-provoking reflection on the complexities of history and human resilience.
The book editing is top-notch. I give the book a full 5 out of 5 stars due to the fact that the narrative vividly resurrects historical events, rendering the past tangible and evocative. The stark reality depicted in the book resonates powerfully, especially in the context of recent global conflicts. The portrayal of bloodshed, agony, and the profound impact on families, orphans left in the wake, spouses bereft of their loved ones, and a nation mourning its fallen soldiers. War is never a good thing. It’s imperative to seek peaceful solutions to conflicts. I recommend this book to historical fiction enthusiasts and those who love books with intersecting plot lines covering political dynamics.
Reviewed by: Veronica Hunter
A historical fiction novel that transports readers to a pivotal time period in America's westward expansion.
TEJAS KOLI
"Blood Summer 1862" is a historical fiction novel that transports readers to a pivotal time period in America's westward expansion. Author Robert G. Hauser deftly sets the stage, opening in 1807 with a meeting between President Thomas Jefferson and influential businessman John Jacob Astor. Their discussion centers around how to promote American interests as settlers push further into territories inhabited by Native American tribes.
Hauser uses this pivotal conversation as a launching point to explore the conflicting desires and tensions that would ultimately erupt into violence in the following decades. His prose paints a vivid picture of the differing worldviews between Jefferson and Astor, representing the government and private industry perspectives. Their dialogue digs into complex issues around westward movement, land ownership, and cultural assimilation with sympathy and nuance. The narrative then jumps forward to introduce Captain Robert Benham, a veteran of the American Revolution and pioneer settler. His tragic encounter with a Native war party in 1779 drives the escalating frontier conflict forward. Through his memories and reflections, readers gain insight into the daily fears and sacrifices of early settlers struggling to tame the wilderness.
The editing of the book is well done; there are no grammatical errors, which gives a seamless read. Hauser demonstrates meticulous research in bringing this pivotal time period and its major players to life. Small details transport readers directly to Monticello in 1807. The book maintains a grounded and measured tone despite its contemplation of culturally charged topics. Hauser presents multiple sides of the issue with equal care and consideration. There are no negative points to mention.
While the book ends on a cliffhanger note, promising more of the story to come, it succeeds as a standalone work. "Blood Summer 1862" delivers a thought-provoking glimpse into the roots of America's westward expansion and the birth of the nation's identity. Both historians and casual readers will find much to appreciate in Hauser's deft blend of historical fiction and important perspective on this seminal era. Fans of historical fiction will want to keep an eye out for future installments in this promising new series. I would rate it 5 out of 5.
Reviewed by: Tejas Koli
Portrays the tragic events of the Dakota Sioux War in Minnesota during the second year of the Civil War.
"Blood Summer 1862" by Robert Hauser is a historical novel that vividly portrays the tragic events of the Dakota Sioux War in Minnesota during the second year of the Civil War. The narrative intertwines real historical events with fictional elements, focusing on the conflict that arose when the Dakota Sioux, facing starvation due to delayed annuity payments and traders refusing to sell food on credit, erupted in violence against settlers.
The story is centered around a Swedish immigrant family, the Lindquists, who suffer greatly during the conflict, and a Dakota Sioux man, a devout Christian, who becomes an unexpected protector for them and others. This personal storyline is set against the broader historical backdrop, highlighting figures such as Chief Little Crow and President Abraham Lincoln. Lincoln's involvement is particularly notable as he reviewed the cases of 303 Dakota Sioux condemned to death by a military court, ultimately pardoning 265 of them.
Hauser's novel seeks to explore the reasons behind this tragic outbreak of violence and the subsequent quest for justice. He delves into the conditions that led to the conflict, aiming to provide a deeper understanding of the historical context and its human impact. The book reflects themes of survival, justice, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
"Blood Summer 1862" stands out for its rich historical detail and emotional depth, making it a compelling read for those interested in American history and historical fiction. Hauser's background as a retired cardiologist and his passion for history lend authenticity and passion to his portrayal of this dark chapter in Minnesota's past.
Reviewed by: Ayushi Trivedi
The book starts by highlighting how citizens from other parts of the world desire to move to America for better lives.
STEPHENSAMUEL4
The book Blood Summer 1862 by Robert Hauser is historical fiction. Robert Hauser is a retired cardiologist and author. This is his second book and his first novel, inspired by his mother's love of history. It is a pure work of fiction based on real historical events. The prologue takes place in 1807, where President Thomas Jefferson discusses, amongst other things, fur trading and the threat of a Native American-British alliance with John Jacob Astor. The discussion shifts to the tensions between settlers and Native American tribes. The book revolves around American history in a period where there was an influx of immigrants, settlers, and Native Americans feeling shortchanged on their land and what could go wrong in such a delicate situation.
The book starts by highlighting how citizens from other parts of the world desire to move to America for better lives. The author paints a picture of people who are willing to go to all lengths to have a decent life. The settlers are seen traveling from different parts of the world through dangerous roads and railway lines to America, a place they knew little about. This leads most of the settlers to areas simmering with tension and about to explode into civil wars. In one case, a family hardly settled down before finding themselves in the middle of the conflict. The book simplifies the history of Americans, especially the early settlers and immigrants, and the impact on Native Americans, particularly the Native Indians. The book highlights how the Dakota people secretly opposed government policies as the settlers were busy preparing their farms, unaware of the growing conflict. The tension eventually erupted into violence, leading to panic and deadly attacks on settlers and the retaliatory attack against the Dakota. Also highlighted in the book is the unpleasant topic of slavery.
The story also highlights President Lincoln's challenges during the Civil War. He is frustrated with the military leadership and has concerns about Indian affairs, leading to the issuing of the Emancipation Proclamation.
What I loved most about this book is how the author has brought out the following aspects, among others, in any country: politics, power play, and institutional corruption. Reading the book, I was able to see how people are willing to risk it all to go to unfamiliar territories in search of greener pastures. The book also brings out how governments, who are meant to protect their citizens, can be oppressors with less consideration. The other aspect is how the government uses its upper hand in dealings and negotiations to shortchange the citizens and not honor any agreements. There is also the aspect of a larger group of people being shortchanged by a few individuals who at first appear to fight for the interests of the larger community, only for them to later advocate for their own selfish interests. This book is intriguing, as one can understand and learn a lot about government dealings, entrepreneurship, culture, and love amidst crises. This book is rich in many aspects and will help the reader understand, among other things, part of American history about early immigrants, slaves, and native Indians. Despite all these challenges, it’s interesting to see how love thrived. Personally, I didn’t find anything wrong with the book.
The language used is simple and easy to understand, making it enjoyable to read. The plot is captivating and simplified. I commend the editor too, because the book is exceptionally edited.
I recommended it to anyone willing to understand slavery, the history of the Native Americans, and the early settlers.
In my opinion, this book deserves 5 stars out of 5.
Reviewed by: STEPHENSAMUEL4
The book starts by highlighting how citizens from other parts of the world desire to move to America for better lives.
PURVI AGRAWAL
"Blood Summer 1862" by Robert Hauser is a historical story that explores a tumultuous chapter of American history. Set against the backdrop of the Dakota War of 1862, Hauser masterfully weaves a narrative that is both heart-wrenching and enlightening.
The three key perspectives around which the novel centers are—a newly-arrived Swedish family struggles to make a new life in Minnesota, a devout Dakota-Sioux man torn between his heritage and his moral compass, and President Abraham Lincoln, who faces the daunting task of seeking justice during one of the bloodiest periods of the Civil War.
The multifaceted portrayal of the Dakota War is one of the novel's greatest strengths. Hauser doesn't shy away from the brutality of the conflict; he provides a nuanced exploration of the desperation and betrayal felt by the Dakota Sioux by broken treaties and starvation. The Swedish family's ordeal is particularly harrowing. Their loss and resilience are depicted with a rawness that resonates deeply.
The character of the devout Dakota-Sioux man is another standout. His internal conflict and acts of bravery provide a poignant counterpoint to the violence, illustrating the complexity of human morality in times of crisis. This character's actions highlight the themes of compassion and justice, making him a memorable and inspiring figure.
Abraham Lincoln's role, though more peripheral, is handled with care and historical accuracy. Hauser skillfully integrates Lincoln's struggle to balance justice with political pressure, culminating in his controversial decision to commute the sentences of many of the condemned Dakota Sioux prisoners. This aspect of the novel underscores the broader national tensions and Lincoln's personal struggle with the ethical implications of his decisions during the Civil War.
Hauser's background as a retired cardiologist living in Minnesota brings a palpable authenticity to his depiction of the region's landscape and tensions of the time.
Moreover, I also admire Julia's character. Her compassion and empathy are truly remarkable. Julia's willingness to help deliver a baby during the train accident and her later involvement in aiding others showcase her compassionate nature. This quality makes her a great source of support for those around her.
Hauser's prose is both eloquent and accessible. His meticulous research shines through, providing a rich and immersive reading experience. The pacing is well-balanced. The book "Blood Summer 1862" is well-edited to ensure a seamless reading experience. I didn't find anything to dislike in this book. So, I would like to give "Blood Summer 1862" a perfect 5 out of 5-star rating.
In conclusion, "Blood Summer 1862" is a powerful and evocative novel that brings a critical moment in American history to life with empathy and insight. This novel is a must-read for anyone interested in historical fiction, the Civil War era, or Native American history.
Reviewed by: Purvi Agrawal