Son of an Indian brave and a white captive, Soaring Hawk is raised in the native customs. As he grows into manhood, he discovers his desire for the love of men. Knowing the fate of those of ‘two spirits’ within his tribe, he leaves the Indian village, disguises his heritage, and enters the white man’s world as Samuel Hawkins. He soon discovers life is difficult for a man who prefers men. While he finds companionship, and forms bonds with many of the men he meets, he is unable to find a relationship which satisfies his deepest need. He also discovers much of what is in the world outside his village conflicts with the values of his native upbringing. He embarks on an odyssey which takes him across the continent and into the arms and beds of many lovers. As he travels, he comes to realize love has many forms. But the one he seeks most continually eludes him. Where will his odyssey lead him? Will he ever come to the end of his search for Soaring Hawk?

The Search for Soaring Hawk

“You may begin your quest at anytime during the month of the Thunder Moon. The quest will last for two to four days. For two days before the quest, you will eat nothing. You will not eat again until the quest is finished. You may bring only water to drink. When you reach the place of the quest, you will trace a circle that is two times your height. You will stay within that circle for the entire time you are on the quest.”


“When you are ready to enter the circle, you will discard your garments. They, and all things from this world, must remain outside the circle. You must not leave the circle for any reason. Once you do, the quest has ended.”


Rides the Wind paused, waiting to see if Small Hawk had anything to say.


“What will I do inside the circle?” the boy asked.


“You will look into your soul.” Still holding his gaze, the shaman narrowed his eyes, as if trying to penetrate into Small Hawk’s mind.


Chapter 7