Review of Skullduggery at Quanah

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Sally Haley Thurman
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Review of Skullduggery at Quanah

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[Following is a volunteer review of "Skullduggery at Quanah" by Dennis Boyd Call.]
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4 out of 5 stars
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Skullduggery at Quanah by Dennis Boyd Call is set in today's Quanah, Texas. It is full of suspense and mystery. It opens with Comanche Chief Peta Nocona having a vision in 1855. He goes to the Medicine Mound, the tallest of four mounds near Quanah. This is where visions were seen on special occasions, and divine instruction was received. As the story blends past and present, we meet Jonathan Parker. He is about to turn eighteen. Jonathan's father has sent him on a quest to find a key that will bring back the reunification of the Comanche family. There has been a conspiracy involving the generations. Jonathan doesn't realize it yet, but on his journey, there will be countless dangers and obstacles that will make him have doubts. As Jonathan searches for answers, there are flashbacks about his family history. Jonathan is a moral, trustworthy man of honor, integrity, and pride in his culture. Although he doesn't quite understand what his exact mission is, he moves forward to solve the mystery. There are some people that don't want Jonathan to be successful, and they are a constant threat. His spiritual mentor is Prairie Flower. Her purpose is to protect him from danger.

I really liked this book. I found it interesting that there really is a Quanah, Texas, with a long history of the Comanche tribe. The Medicine Mound in the story is real and close to Quanah. This was considered sacred ground. Over the generations, there were family disputes over morals, trust issues, and family relationships. It was refreshing to read a book that placed high emphasis on values and morals. I also liked the way the author went into depth on the character development of Johathan's mother and father. They loved Jonathan so much and were so concerned about his safety. They would do anything to protect their son. There was also a very loving relationship between the parents.

The only thing I didn't like was the repetition on the background history of the book. While it was very interesting, it seemed to go on too long. The story really started moving again once that part was over.

I gave this book 4 out of 5 stars because of the repetition that slowed the pace of the book down.

I highly recommend the book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction and loves to read about Native Americans. There was nothing inappropriate or offensive about the book. I liked the way each chapter began with an interesting quote. I went away with the thought that it is important to live our lives in a way that honors our ancestors.

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Skullduggery at Quanah
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