Burning Sky

“A bruised reed He shall not break, and a smoking flax he shall not quench”: that’s the theme resonating through this lovingly rendered historical-romantic homage to the men and women of the American frontier after the Revolutionary War. It is a harsh time in an even more trying place. Willa Obenchain, also known as Burning Sky, is a woman born of white men, yet raised in the Mohawk tribe. By returning to her past, she seeks to find the strength to stand and flourish when everything around her has fallen. The only flaw in this well-researched, vivid tale is the off-putting repetition of the trials facing Willa and her companions. The intricate exploration of human emotion is riveting, evoking strong sympathetic responses. Much of the novel’s allure comes from the depiction of faith as a touchstone—something to be lived with love, humor, and devotion. Agent: Wendy Lawton, Books & Such Literary Agency. (Aug.)