A love between two very different men is put to the test. John Strobaw, a young mixed-blood, grows up in the relative security of a family farm after the Civil War. His mother raises her family as Americans, but his foster brother, Matthew Brandt feels his red blood more keenly and leaves to ride with Crazy Horse. John doesn’t understand the longing he feels for his absent companion until he has his first sexual experience with a man and he only thinks of Matthew. After the murder of Crazy Horse, Matthew makes his way back home. John fights hard against a growing lust for Matthew, but when he ultimately succumbs, he is lost to this handsome, dusky warrior. Just when the future looks bright, another suitor appears -- a handsome Cheyenne army scout, and trouble looms on the horizon.

Echoes of the Flute

“Beg pardon. I did not intend to give offense. I am merely trying to carry out my orders.” He turned to me. “John, can you shed any light on this matter?”


“Only to confirm what my father said about Matthew. And his Indian name is Shambling Bear, not Red Star.”


When Haleworthy turned to glance as his men, Pa anticipated his coming demand. “Please feel free to look about the premises. I will introduce you to the rest of my household. Then you and your men can search as much as you want.”


The officer looked relieved. “Thank you, sir.”


Haleworthy looked hard at Alexander when they were introduced, but one glance at Ma, and his suspicions faded. There was enough of her in Alex to settle the matter in his mind. He likely confirmed my brother’s identification with Curtis Appleton when they spoke later.


Chapter 45