In "Falcon Feather of Lone Mountain: A Vinlandian Tale," James A. Fisher spins a captivating alternative history set in a 1980s Vinlandia, where the United States never existed. Falcon Feather, a courageous Vinlandian woman, encounters Hathaway, a time traveler from our world, stranded in her reality after passing through a portal on Stone Mountain. Their meeting sparks an extraordinary adventure. Falcon Feather, celebrated for her bravery in defending Vinlandia from invaders, dreams of Hathaway's America. In 1985, she makes the daring journey through the portal, bringing with her the wisdom and spirit of her homeland. This heartwarming tale follows her journey, filled with laughter, song, and a mysterious jeweled dagger, as she navigates a new world and possibly finds love, while leaving behind a priceless gift.
Review Falcon Feather of Lone Mountain
"Falcon Feather of Lone Mountain: A Vinlandian Tale" completely charmed me. It's a delightful blend of genres that somehow works perfectly. As someone who enjoys both historical fiction and fantasy, this book felt like a perfectly crafted bridge between the two. The premise itself – a young Native American woman from an alternate timeline, Vinlandia (a fascinating twist on North American history!), traveling to our world – is inherently intriguing. And it delivers on that promise, and then some.
I loved Falcon Feather as a character. She's brave, resourceful, and fiercely independent, but also possesses a warm heart and a great sense of humor. The author masterfully avoids making her a flawless, unrealistic hero; she’s flawed, she makes mistakes, and she learns and grows throughout the story. This realistic portrayal made her journey all the more engaging and relatable. Her unwavering love for her homeland, Vinlandia, is palpable, and her willingness to risk everything to protect it is truly inspiring. But it’s not just about patriotism; it’s about the deep-rooted connection she has to her people and her land.
The story itself is a captivating whirlwind. The plot moves at a brisk pace, keeping you constantly anticipating what will happen next. The balance between high-stakes drama, moments of genuine humor, and the budding romance is skillfully managed. The author doesn’t shy away from darker themes, introducing conflict and challenges that feel both believable and compelling. These challenges add depth to Falcon Feather's character and create opportunities for growth and self-discovery, making her triumphs that much more rewarding.
The world-building is another strong point. The portrayal of Vinlandia, though only glimpsed at times, feels rich and believable. It's distinct from our own world but retains a tangible sense of reality. The contrast between this alternate reality and our own 1980s adds another layer of intrigue, fostering thought-provoking questions about different timelines and ways of life. The contrast also highlights the universal themes of courage, resilience, and the enduring power of hope. It makes you reflect on our own world and the importance of preserving our heritage and fighting for what we believe in.
Beyond the adventure and the romance, the book carries a genuinely hopeful message. Falcon Feather’s journey is not just about her personal growth; it’s about the positive impact she has on the lives of those around her, in both Vinlandia and our world. It's a reminder that even one person, armed with courage and compassion, can make a significant difference. And isn't that what we all secretly hope for? To leave the world a little better than we found it? "Falcon Feather of Lone Mountain" is a book that makes you believe in that possibility. I wholeheartedly recommend it.
Information
- Dimensions: 6 x 0.74 x 9 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 296
- Publication date: 2024