Jim Fergus has once again captivated his readers with this third installment of the perilous journey of May Dodd and Molly McGill. When I first read One Thousand White Women years ago, I recall how impactful it was, and how I was so entranced with the voice of May Dodd. It was fascinating how incredibly well Jim Fergus wrote from the perspective of a woman. And this impressive voice was still crystal clear in this, the final novel in the trilogy.
The novel is the continuation of a story about The Brides for Indians Program, initiated in 1873 by a Cheyenne chief to exchange 1,000 horses for 1,000 white women in order to create lasting peace between the Native Americans and the American Government. Although fictionalized, Fergus does such an incredible job, that for most of the first novel, I was convinced this transaction actually happened. With real historical figures strewn in, the series is absolutely captivating. The characterization is so well done and the storyline moves along at a steady clip.
I will say that I wasn't as enthralled in the current-day storyline of this particular novel. It detracted from the historical fiction, and only seemed to break up the momentum for me. I must also admit that Strongheart required a lot more suspension of disbelief than the previous two novels.
However, for a historical fiction enthusiast like myself, this series was absolutely fascinating. My favorite, by far, was the very first, and it can absolutely stand alone. So even if you don't want to invest in a full series, I highly recommend One Thousand White Women.
Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for gifting me with this advanced reader's copy in exchange for an honest review.
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Read 4/21/21
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