Is there a more mystical time of the year than Halloween, also known as Samhain?
Falling in the midst of the glory of Autumn, as nature prepares for winter dormancy, Halloween is said to lift the veil between the worlds of spirit and matter. This night of magic and enchantment is the perfect time to reflect on change and look to the future.
The mysterious nature of this season reminds me of the spirituality of Native Americans, and of Earth Songs, our new Native American romance series in Cactus Rose.
Native Americans were, and are, a very spiritual people whose beliefs and rituals helped them through many challenging times. In early June of 1876, Lakota Chief Sitting Bull knew a showdown with the U.S. government was near. Though he had fought hard to save his people’s ancestral hunting grounds, the Black Hills, from intrusion, the government dispatched more troops in violation of an existing treaty. Sitting Bull turned to the spirits, and climbed to the top of a butte to seek guidance. There, he experienced a vision of white soldiers falling in defeat. Though the chief’s people did not ultimately prevail in the conflict with the U.S. government, Sitting Bull’s vision is still revered today as a celebration of the mysterious powers available to all.Native American culture is diverse and intriguing, and offers a writer much in the way of character, plot, motivation, and conflict. If you’ve considered writing a Native American historical romance, now, as the season reminds us to look to the future, is a wonderful time to give it a try. The Cactus Rose editors would love to read it!
Submission Guidelines for Earth Songs:
The stories may be set anywhere in the United States among any Native American tribe, but must take place between the years 1870 and 1890. Each story must involve a Native American hero, heroine, or both. Historical accuracy is essential. Cactus Rose is looking for believable stories with fully developed characters and happily ever after endings. Stories must be 40K or less. Please send query and synopsis in your email to queryus@thewildrosepress.com and indicate that it is for the Earth Songs Series.
