Cherokee Love was released by iUniverse, Inc.in August 2003. It begins with an ancient Cherokee myth, which threads through the story with a strong life lesson.Based on extensive research of Cherokee traditions and myths, this mesmerizing historical novel tells of one young woman’s quest to find her Cherokee roots. This is also her story of love and of her struggle to achieve her personal goals in the male-dominated society of the 1800’s. Deborah Howell, an ambitious reporter, is seeking a human interest story. A captivating Cherokee matriarch tells her own heartwarming love story for the Raleigh newspaper. Deborah, born of mixed blood and raised as a white child, is filled with delight. In the presence of this elderly storyteller her need for her Cherokee family is awakened.No battle scenes here; just life as it could have been lived during the Civil War and years following. Deborah interacts with historical events and people. She is at the Ford Theatre the night President Lincoln is shot; she interviews Charles Dickens; she participates in the fight for women's rights. As she begins her journey she cannot guess the harrowing challenges to be found in the wake of despair nor the enormity of consolation found in those who truly love her.Deborah opens her heart and soul to her colleague, George Boone. After their marriage George tries to control her life. Tragedy drives them further apart, but with every crisis Deborah gains strength by returning to her Cherokee family.Finding her Cherokee roots is not the only heart-rending event in this saga. The shaman foretells that the Great Spirit will “restore all that was taken away by the evil one.” Deborah does not learn the meaning of this prophecy until 16 years later.When George dies unexpectedly, the young widow remarries. With her long time friend and admirer Dan Wainwright at her side, she provides a nurturing influence for her daughter and her Cherokee niece as they mature into strong, independent women. Their lives, although filled with upheaval, complete the circle of love.Additional details about the story can be found at The Howell Women Saga link.The ISBN number for Cherokee Love is 0-595-28837-5. The retail cost is $16.95 paperback, $26.95 for hard cover. This book is available from iUniverse.com, Barnes&Noble.com, amazon.com, and most other online bookstores.Review
"[In Cherokee Love,] the author has created a well-researched novel with a lot of heart. It’s historical, though it has a nice modern-day movement. The author created a novel about self-discovery, which is a real challenge, but she made it work. Deborah, the main character, discovers not only a lot about herself, but also about love. Deborah herself is a good character, well-rounded and developed, feisty yet still a lady. The author does a nice job of not belaboring the book, but rather jumps right into the story, grabbing the reader’s attention and keeping it from the beginning."—Writer’s Digest Critique
