Every now and then a manuscript comes across an editor’s desk that makes one sit up and take notice. It is a rare privilege to be pulled into a story by the sheer power of its narrative. A gift even more exceptional is when the reader feels the earth beneath their feet and smells the wind through the pines. Such is the case when I read The Legend of Tyoga Weathersby.
The Legend of Tyoga Weathersby
is H.L. Grandin’s debut novel
(click to purchase on Amazon)
Peppered with historical facts from the founding of Jamestown to the massacre at Wolstenholmstown in 1622, this fast-paced read takes the time to bring the Appalachian Mountains of the late 1600’s alive in exquisite detail. From the description of the Weathersby’s rescue of the powerful Powhatan chief, Opencanecanough, to the ferocious battle on the escarpment between Tyoga and the commander of the wolves, this captivating tale keeps the adventure reader turning the page, and the lovers of romance wanting more.
Set at the turn of the 17th Century in the frontier of Appalachia, The Legend of Tyoga Weathersby follows the adventures of a young settler and the Native American tribe that has adopted him as their own, as he is transformed by deed and circumstance to legendary stature. Mystically awakened to the promise of “knowing” as generations of Weathersbys before, the rhythms of the natural world unfold in mysterious ways as he is embraced by primal forces that seem beyond his control. Tyoga is tested by the might and savage fury of the leader of a marauding pack of wolves, and in saving the life of his companion Tes Qua Ta Wa (the One Who Opens the Door) his life is transformed and the legend is born.
As the lines between man and myth, spirit dog and mortal soul begin to blur, Tyoga Weathersby is embroiled in the intrigue of intertribal politics, captured by the cry of the wild to fulfill destiny’s call, and ripped apart by his love for the beautiful Cherokee maiden, Sunlei, whom he must set free to keep alive.
But beyond the obvious allure of an engaging story, The Legend of Tyoga Weathersby challenges the reader to explore those aspects of their own lives that define who, and what, they are.
Author H. L. Grandin says, “I have always been intrigued by one’s perception of self. To what degree do we allow others to define our own personhood? How much of who we are is an acceptance of the views of others? At what point do we reject the opinions of others and embrace self determination?”
Author H.L. Grandin
The Legend of Tyoga Weathersby is so much more than a captivating story. It is a “must read” for everyone who has ever questioned the whim of fate, and the power of destiny.
H.L. Grandin grew up in northern Virginia along the banks of the Potomac River. A love of history and a deep, abiding respect for the natural world fostered a yearning to, if not understand, at the very least appreciate the secrets surrounding the heritage of the land and of those who walked upon it so long ago. Childhood years were spent roaming the Appalachian Mountains with his cousin, Paul, with whom he spent many a night atop Old Mt. Rag in Sperryville, Virginia, and canoeing the Rappahannock and Rapidan Rivers sleeping out under the stars and whispering about things that go “bump” in the night.
Educated in Virginia and at the Université de Bourdeau II, in France, H.L. has spent his career in healthcare. He is a musician and plays a number of instruments including the drums, piano and 12-string guitar. He and his wife raised three daughters on a 20 acre farmette in western Maryland, where each of them learned the responsibility of caring for critters, and the honor in working the land.
A natural storyteller and prolific writer, H.L. has been quietly composing a cast of characters and their adventures for at least ten years. About three years ago he seriously put pen to paper and The Legend of Tyoga Weathersby was born. It was a joy to write, and his hope is that it is as much fun for you to read.
Visit tyogaweathersby.com (website will go live August 6) to learn more about this and future books.
ISBN: 0985726725 • ISBN-13: 978-0-9857267-2-0
Pub. Date: July 26, 2012 • Trade Paperback/Kindle • $16.00 (Print)/$3.99 (EBook)
Literary Wealth 
Looking forward to reading this book.