I have to admit that I missed this when it first came out, but that didn't hinder my enjoyment at all. Written as companion or even prequel e-novella to Killer of Enemies, this story takes place shortly after the Cloud surrounds Earth and causes all electronics to cease functioning. To Rose Eagle and the rest of the Lakota who are working in the Deeps, mining for the Overlords, it actually causes an improvement in their way of living. Rather than being trapped deep underground as some others were, the people of the Ridge listened to a warning dream from Rose's Aunt Mary and stayed out of the mines on the day when the mechanical elevators and other equipment stopped working. Many of the despotic Overlords died as the implants that gave them enhanced abilities shorted out, and many others were driven mad. For the first time in memory, the people of Rose's tribe are able to live as they choose, following the old ways, and worshiping as their ancestors did.
The book starts with Rose in a sweat lodge, following another of Aunt Mary's prohetic dreams. That may seem like a tame start to a post-apocalyptic story of survival, but don't be fooled. Soon enough there are genetically modified monsters to fight off, a vision quest to pursue, and perhaps even new allies to find. What makes Rose so unique is her ability with animals - everything from having birds land on her shoulder and chirp messages to befriending a grumpy badger shows how her talent is growing. I also appreciated how Rose was portrayed with human frailties; despite all her amazing gifts she is still shy and feels unattractive because she was teased over her height when she was younger. IT just shows that anyone can have issues to deal with, no matter what their background or ability.
For those who have already read Killer of Enemies and Trail of the Dead, you are already acquainted with Rose Eagle and her companions, so this will make a nice backstory to add to your knowledge of their world. If you have not yet started with Lozen's adventures, this is a quick introduction to her world and some of the other survivors she meets in her adventures. Either way it is a win-win situation.
I read an e-book provided by the publisher through edelweiss.
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