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Remarkable and Inspiring
On the Wings of the Red-Tailed Hawk follows a woman on a journey to the New World in 1620 who encounters challenges that she could not have foreseen and must fight for her own survival. What inspired the setup of your story?
For over forty years, I have done genealogy as a hobby to learn more about my family, where we came from, and what we went through. As a part of that process, I realized how seldom women were at the forefront of histories stories even though they were often the ones holding the whole thing together. I felt like I needed to give these women, my ancestors, and yours, a voice.
Sarah is portrayed as an ordinary woman who has to rise above the standard stereotype to survive the harsh conditions she finds herself in. What do you find interesting about the human condition that you think makes for great fiction?
I think we often forget that it is the ordinary person among us who often does extraordinary things. Sarah doesn’t see herself as a victim of the many challenges she faces, instead, she seizes each of those challenges to grow and learn and in the process, she discovers who she really is, and what she is really capable of. That is inspiring to me and I hope to others who read my books.
When you first sat down to write this story, did you know where you were going, or did the twists come as you were writing?
I did not. This was my first novel, and while I knew the story would start on the Mayflower, I knew little else. I didn’t even know how the story would end until it did! As I “became” Sarah and began to weave into her story things that had happened to my ancestors, and to those of her time, the story just grew organically. Sarah is an amalgamation of what so many women of that time endured, the pain, the struggles, the joy, and the hope for the future.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
On the Wings is the first of the trilogy The Centenary Chronicles-Tales of American Women. The second book which follows Sarah’s great-great-granddaughter Eliza during the American Revolution was published in November of 2023. Till I Come Home is another story of an ordinary woman faced with circumstances most of us could not even imagine and how she manages to face those challenges while finding a way to hold her marriage and her family together.
The last book in the Chronicles is out next week, Her Last Full Measure is a very personal book for me, heavily based on my own family’s experience during the Civil War and follows Eliza’s great-granddaughter Millicent and her family. Men get and deserve great accolades for the sacrifices they make in war and that theme runs through all the books. But, it’s the women, what they must do to survive while the men are gone that is truly remarkable and inspiring. It doesn’t always have a happy ending, it isn’t always easy, and sometimes it is raw and painful. But each of these books takes the reader into the heart of a woman they can admire, empathize with, and be inspired by, leaving the reader feeling hopeful with a newfound appreciation for what their ancestors did so they could be here today.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Winner of the highly coveted 5-star Highly Recommended award from The Historical Fiction Company.
Nominated for the Eric Hoffer Award for Excellence.
Plymouth 1620-Sarah has left the security of all she knows to travel with her husband to the New World, but things don’t go as planned. The Mayflower is lost unable to find the colony already there they must manage on their own. Not enough food, no shelter, then people start dying. Can Sarah find her inner strength and prevail or is she destined to join the others, another grave on Coles Hill.
On the Wings of the Red-Tailed Hawk is deeply satisfying. Whether it veers towards happiness or sadness, it stays true to the story’s spirit and provides a fitting conclusion to Sarah’s journey.
This book stands out for its focus on ordinary women of the past, whose accomplishments were anything but ordinary. This perspective is refreshing and adds a unique dimension to the genre of historical fiction. The authors skill at incorporating historical elements into an engrossing story without becoming boring is impressive. Because of the evocative and detailed writing, Sarah’s experiences come to life on the page. A cleverly written plot arc with a distinct beginning, middle, and end. Every stage of Sarah’s trip receives sufficient attention, guaranteeing a smooth and seamless progression of the story. A must read for everyone who loves strong woman characters who overcome the odds.
Circus Home: A Novel of Life, Love and New Jersey
Jason Ollander-Krane’s historical fiction novel Circus Home transports readers into the lively and colorful realm of circus performers anchored in New Jersey. The narrative takes us through various settings, including 1880s Brooklyn, 1920s Mississippi, 1940s Detroit, and 1950s New York City. The book skillfully blends drama, humor, and wit, reflecting the eclectic experiences of a circus troupe and captivating readers with its engaging storytelling.
At the heart of this novel is Brendan Hardy, the seasoned carnival barker who draws people into the enthralling world of the circus. As Brendan ages, he acquiesces to his daughter’s request to move into an assisted living facility. Yet, this is no ordinary facility; he chooses the New Jersey Home for Retired Circus and Carnival Performers, a place resonant with echoes of his past life. Here, Brendan gathers and shares the rich tapestry of tales from the retired performers, collectively known as the Circus Home, weaving together their shared histories and experiences.
Circus Home is thoughtfully structured into eight ‘acts,’ each unraveling a story from Brendan’s past and the pasts of those around him, fluidly shifting between timelines. The reader encounters a series of compelling characters: Herbert Gopnik, the Clown; Walter Whalen Jr., the Magician; Hiram Fitzgerald, the Voice of the Big Top; and Norman Rockwell, the Thinnest Man. Brendan’s narrative includes his romance with Iris, the Elephant Tamer. It delves into the extraordinary lives of Jackson and Martin Armstrong, the Siamese Twins, as well as the gripping tale of Larisa Yohantova Grayson and Chance Grayson, the security agents of the troupe.
The convergence of these diverse and vivid characters, each with a unique background but united by their passion for performance, offers a captivating glimpse into the world of the circus. Circus Home is a novel that appeals broadly, inviting readers to delve into the enchanting and multifaceted lives of its characters.
Pages: 342 | ASIN : B0BJNYJ577.
On the Wings of the Red-Tailed Hawk
Gail Combs Oglesby’s On the Wings of the Red-Tailed Hawk is a historical fiction novel that delves into the journey of Sarah Bailey and her husband, Jonathan, as they embark on a life-changing voyage to the New World. Filled with aspirations, their journey takes an unforeseen and hazardous turn. The narrative dramatically shifts when Jonathan’s demise is caused by a severe winter illness, leaving Sarah widowed and in charge of her brother-in-law.
In this trying period, Sarah stands out as a formidable and resilient character. Oglesby’s narrative highlights the strength and perseverance of women during this era, underscoring their significant, yet often overlooked, contributions to history. The author adeptly intertwines historical themes within the story, offering a glimpse into the lives of ordinary women who faced extraordinary challenges. The book is marked by its compelling blend of engaging storytelling and meticulous historical detail. Oglesby’s vivid and descriptive writing style immerses readers in the struggles and triumphs of colonial life, fostering an emotional connection with characters, particularly the tenacious Sarah Bailey. The author excels in depicting Sarah’s emotional depth and steadfast determination, showcasing her evolution from an optimistic newcomer to a courageous survivor. The novel’s pacing is dynamic, and its swift plot developments add to the vibrancy of a richly woven narrative full of historical insight. It concludes with a poignant and hopeful note that resonates deeply with its audience, leaving a lasting impression.
On the Wings of the Red-Tailed Hawk is an enriching read for those interested in historical narratives, especially those that highlight women’s experiences. It offers a detailed and empathetic portrayal of immigrant life and the struggles faced by women in the past. The novel’s vivid storytelling, memorable characters, and insightful exploration of colonial history come together to create a touching and compelling journey, exemplified by Sarah’s poignant and resilient story.
Pages: 361 | ASIN : B0C79JX7FY
JFK FYI
JFK FYI, by Gary B. Haley, offers a meticulously researched exploration into one of America’s most enduring mysteries: the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Haley delves deep into the intricate details of this historic event, examining a variety of suspects and their potential motives, supported by a wealth of evidence.
This book stands out for its commitment to uncovering lesser-known aspects of the assassination. Haley’s approach includes sifting through early evidence, witness accounts, and documents, adding a fresh dimension to the well-trodden narrative of this pivotal moment in history.
While firmly rooted in historical analysis, JFK FYI transcends the typical boundaries of the genre. Haley skillfully weaves a narrative that is both informative and engaging, appealing to readers beyond just history enthusiasts. His ability to inject a sense of adventure into the recounting of these events speaks to his notable storytelling prowess. One of the book’s strengths lies in Haley’s extensive research, which is evident in the depth and detail of the information presented. He doesn’t just rely on well-known facts and evidence; instead, he delves into the pre-assassination events, uncovering new suspects and angles that have previously been overlooked. This thorough approach offers readers a comprehensive view of the assassination, encompassing both well-known and obscure details.
In JFK FYI, Haley not only shines a new light on a significant historical event but also engages readers with his compelling narrative style. The book stands as a testament to Haley’s dedication and expertise, making it a valuable contribution to the field of historical literature.
Pages: 203 | ASIN : B0CJ6HJ54H
