It's hard to describe the setting of "Beware Mohawks Bearing Gifts" but suffice it to say the story occurs in an alternate universe of New York in the mid-1850's, where the American Revolution did not happen. Combined with some steampunkish time travel, elements of mysticism and magic, this is a highly original story written in a very dense literary manner.

Honestly, I struggled to get into the story and ultimately finish the book, but at the end of the day, I appreciated the author's originality and writing chops. 4 stars.

I wasn't entirely sure what to make of this book, to be honest. It had a lot of aspects I feel like I should have enjoyed a lot more than I did and I'm not entirely sure why. Things seem to move either too slow or too fast, bypassing that happy medium entirely but I don't think that was the reason I couldn't really connect with the characters.

The author did a great job of making me feel as if I was right there in the story. The characters are fleshed out nicely and are distinctly unique in their own ways.

At first I wasn’t sure I wanted to read another book by SA Collins… as I didn’t enjoy the first book I read by this author. But! With this novel, I would say that Collins is in his wheelhouse! This is a fantastic tale with excellent world-building. More than anything, what I enjoyed most about this novel was that it was something I hadn’t read before in any way! It’s completely original and engaging and very well written!

William Matthias Hallett is a dandy living in Manhatten. One night he’s bitten by the curiosity bug and follows some suspicious-looking characters. And this is the decision that begins the change that comes over his existence. This world… this sort of parallel universe that Collins has created is the strength of his story. In this world, the human race is running on a parallel timeline. The Mohawk people are more than just an American Indian people.. they are “guardians”. For centuries they have protected humans from threats and honed their paranormal skills.

Collins has woven in the Mohawk culture respectfully and creatively. In fact, the novel opens with a mythic tale regarding the origins of belief for the guardians. The writing is graceful and well thought out and I love the way the Mohawk culture and history is woven into the story throughout.

The three main characters are all fully developed and interesting in their own right. William finds himself suddenly emerged into a world and a battle he didn’t even know existed when he is reunited with an old friend from school. Jacob and William were like brothers in school… and he trust him implicitly even when he finds out Jacob isn’t who he claimed to be.

William also stumbles into an emotional and psychic bond with Joss… one of the Mohawk guardians. While there’s a prophecy about Joss and his skill… William is lead by his heart and his curiosity. He tries to trust his instincts as he makes decisions that could affect his life and the life of those around him. The battle that’s raging has far-reaching implications and I hope that this series continues along its beginning path!

A solid beginning to a series that looks to be enjoyable and engaging.