Kathleen Eagle has been a favorite author for many years especially when I read paperbacks instead of digital copies. It is wonderful to see her earlier works done in digital format now. Private Treaty is one of those earlier works. Surprisingly one I had not read before. I was expecting it to have a dated feel to it but was pleased that it reads just marvelous now in 2017. Part of the reason is that it is historical fiction, most of what I have read by her is contemporary. The other reason is that she is a fabulous storyteller.

The plight of the Native American in the late 1800’s and well into the 1900’s is now well documented but Private Treaty makes it personal seeing the complexities of the harsh government and societal rules on the individual, Jacob Black Hawk (forever in my mind as Mr. Black Hawk, thanks to Carolina). Added in the also narrow viewpoints on women in the US during this time, remembering women couldn’t even vote then, gives credence to Carolina’s view. In the middle of all of this is an endearing and lovely story. Their journey from friendship to love is not without pitfalls, prejudice, stubbornness and surprises, but joy too. It is an enjoyable and enlightening read.