The Earliest Americans: Books 1-9 by W. Michael Gear and Kathleen O'Neal Gear (Ex-Library Trade Paperbacks)
The Earliest Americans historical fantasy series explores ancient North American civilizations across multiple eras, from Ice Age clans to the rise of early cities. Set in vastly different time periods and locations—glacial-era Pacific Northwest, the pre-Columbian Southwest during the Chaco Anasazi empire's collapse, and the Mississippi Valley four thousand years ago—each narrative arc depicts distinct cultures where shamans commune with spirits, prophecy drives warfare, and environmental catastrophes reshape societies. Based on archaeological research, the series brings to life forgotten worlds of political intrigue, spiritual forces, and human ambition.
Throughout varied landscapes and eras, the series examines themes of leadership under pressure, survival against impossible odds, clan loyalty versus personal desire, and the tension between tradition and change. Characters face brutal choices: young leaders thrust into power, war chiefs navigating shifting alliances, rebels challenging empire, and prophets whose visions may doom or save their people. The series appeals to readers seeking historically grounded fantasy that brings pre-Columbian American civilizations to vivid life through political drama, warfare, and human resilience set against environmental and cultural upheaval.