Apache autumn

Fresh and original, with a memorable cast of characters caught up in the spectacular triumphs and tragedies of the Apache world, Apache Autumn is the rich saga of the Chihenne Apache, whose story surges from the 1500s until its dramatic end early in the twentieth century. Lazaro, a thoughtful and aggressive leader of the Chihenne, seeks to weld the different bands of the People, ranging throughout New Mexico and Arizona, into a nation strong enough to withstand their archenemies, the Mexicans, and the onslaught of white men moving into their homelands. During a raid, Lazaro becomes obsessed with Carlota, the beautiful daughter of a Mexican colonel. He kidnaps her on her wedding day and forces her to be his wife in the Chihenne country. She gives birth to a son, Andres, and escapes to Mexico. After marrying an American Army officer, Raphael Murphy, Carlota returns to New Mexico. Murphy adopts Andres and attempts to work out a peace with Lazaro. When the Civil War intervenes, Murphy becomes a general and Andres a hero with Sheridan. After the war, Andres seeks his heritage, meets with his father, and falls in love with a female Apache warrior. Unable to bear the treachery of the U.S. government, Andres becomes an Apache war leader, helping his father and Geronimo enflame the frontier. Their valiant efforts are in vain, and grave injustices are piled upon the proud tribe as they lose their struggle with the “White Eyes” and are forced onto reservations. From Tze-go-juni, a riveting medicine woman, to the Spirits themselves, Robert Skimin weaves Apache custom, religion, warfare, and everyday living in an accurate and brilliant portrayal.