Compelling Story

Set in Upper Canada in early 1800, “Shadow Song” deals with the clash between European and Native cultures. The novel finely details the prejudice against the natives and how they have been deceived by the white man; add a little fantasy and you have a compelling story based on historical facts.

Ms Stephen has given us a terrific novel, the blend of fantasy and fact is seamless. The matters dealing with the Native beliefs are incredibly well drawn; it is evident years of research are the bases of this novel and that the author gave her heart writing it. What is amazing, rarely one can find a novel containing so much information written in a way not to burden the flow.

In this sad and tragic epic, an orphaned English girl Danielle Michelle Fleming relates her life. Eventually sent to live with an abusive uncle in Upper Canada where she manages to escape and find refuge with Shadow Song an Ojibwa shaman adopting the customs of his people. Her uncle is relentless in his hunt for her, through another shaman of evil intent he manages to track her down….The reader will admire both Danielle and Shadow Song’s strong personalities and the love and devotion they have for each other. The author has an artistic talent in describing the mystic and spiritual beliefs; you can hardly discern the lines between reality and fantasy, amazing writing.

Ms Stephen has masterfully and respectfully created a tale during the time of early colonisation.