The Last Stand: A Novel about George Armstrong Custer and the Indians of the Plains

George Armstrong Custer is once again brought to life in this saber-rattling, hoof-pounding saga of the legendary general's decade (1866-1876) with the Seventh Cavalry. Custer's arrogance, ambition and bravado brought him fame and glory throughout his career. Politicians, reporters and civilians loved him--but, according to this rare novel from prolific WWII historian Hoyt (199 Days), the Plains Indians, as well as most of the Army, including his officers, hated him. In contrast to his prevailing reputation as a great pathfinder and Indian fighter, Custer is depicted here as a foolhardy martinet, dispensing harsh, brutal discipline to his troopers while ignoring regulations himself. Never hesitant or indecisive, he leads the Seventh Cavalry in a shameful attack on Black Kettle's peaceful Cheyenne village on the Washita River, an attack the Indians neither forgive nor forget. Newspapers call Custer ``Yellow Hair'' but the Sioux and Cheyenne call him ``Squaw Killer'' and ``Thief Chief.'' When Washington decides that the solution to the Indian ``problem'' is genocide, Custer is selected as the best man to impose the final remedy. Once again defying orders, the general foolishly leads the Seventh Cavalry into Sitting Bull's force of 5000 warriors waiting for him on the banks of the Little Bighorn River. Rich in period detail, riveting action and strong characters, this is a fascinating story about bravery, betrayal, incompetence, cowardice and pride. (Sept.)