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AN
ARMCHAIR JOURNEY
In Sophie’s Hawk: Sprit of the Raptor, local authors Arvid
Lloyd Williams and Bonnie Shallbetter take us on an armchair
journey through Minnesota and Dakota Territory near the end of the
early 1860’s Sioux Conflict. Along the way, we get our dose of
both historically accurate events and settings, and vivid
fictional characters we live vicariously through. The reader
experiences both an unwitting history lesson and a chance to
explore interpersonal relationships during a time not so long ago,
but in a world quite far away from the reality of the present.
This period marks the inevitable end of the “old ways” as the
westward march of manifest destiny continued across the United
States. We encounter many memorable characters, and explore the
strength and weakness of the human condition when faced with war,
death and adversity.
THE REAL REASON I LOVE TO READ
Just a short note to tell you how much I enjoyed Hawk's Valley
and Sophie's Hawk. I honestly could not decide which I like
better! The character development, history, and familiar
countryside were all woven together so well. My mind's eye had no
problem "seeing" the story unfold, and for that matter, "feeling"
right along with the characters. This is the kind of story a
person just wants to go on and on. Needless to say, I am anxious
for the #3, but saddened for this trilogy to end. After finishing
Sophie's Hawk, I can't imagine what is going to happen
next. Thank you again for the privilege of entering into Hawk's
world. Pure enjoyment, and the real reason I love to read. Upon
telling my mother of the books and borrowing them to her, I had to
hurry and finish #2, because she was so antsy to "read on". My mom
made sure to set aside time to do so. Congratulations on a job
well done! You must be and should be very proud. Would this ever
be a great movie!!
I
FEEL LIKE I'M RIGHT THERE
The wait was well worth it. The writing styles of these two
authors are very complementary. I feel like I'm right there along
with Sophie and Hawk living the adventures as they did. Not only
is it a wonderful read, but I'm learning a little Minnesota
history and geography as well.
ENJOYED BOTH BOOKS
Bonnie: Thanks so much for allowing me to borrow the first two
books in the Hawk series. I really enjoyed both of them.
The second book had a little more soft humor—which I'm sure you
contributed! I loved the last chapter...I read it over and
over! Great work and thanks for sharing your talents.
-Michele
Eden Prairie, MN
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LONESOME DOVE, MOVE OVER
Reread Hawks Valley, and am almost through Sophie's
Hawk. You write a pretty neat love story, my friend. Sophie is
fun. Posie's my favorite on all levels, and Lt. Posie is a hoot.
Actually, it feels like you had a lot more fun with the second
book. Make a damn good TV miniseries. Lonesome Dove, move
over. I know the competition is fierce on screen plays, but this
is not your ordinary yarn...
BLENDING HISTORY AND FICTION
Personally, I'm not the type of guy who's into reading books as a
hobby. However, I enjoy American history, especially of local
flavor and will spend hours scanning old 1800's maps from the
county court house to follow along with local lore. Sophie's
Hawk is a perfect fit and I could not put the book down. Arvid
Lloyd Williams and Bonnie Shallbetter have nailed it for my
tastes, blending historical timelines, people and locations with
colorful fictional characters and storylines.
LEARNED MORE ABOUT MINNESOTA
Sophie's Hawk: Spirit of the Raptor was a great book.
Please let us know when the next book is available. Thanks for
giving us this terrific book. We enjoyed the story and learned a
little more about Minnesota.
-Donald & Mary
Marine on St. Croix, MN
A
ONE-SITTING PAGE TURNER
Who says a sequel is never as good as the original? Not True!
Sophie's Hawk, the second book following Hawk's Valley: A
Good Place to Die, is ever as wonderful and outstanding as the
first. The continuing life story of the Owen brothers and all they
encounter draw you in from the first pages. The journey and
characters are remarkable. Factual history of the Minnesota/Dakota
Territory—people you can't help but care about and remember—all
mingled with the authors' sharp wit and splendid sense of humor
make Sophie's Hawk a one-sitting page turner. Captivating!
Give us another!
PS: Too bad one of the authors is so ugly...
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