Shamari Roberson

Ataska Shamari Roberson

It is 1865 in the United States, otherwise known as the Reconstruction Period, and Sergeant Major Edward T. Baker, a black man born in Natchitoches, Louisiana, escaped to the north from slavery in the Deep South to enlist in the Ninth Cavalry Regiment. But as a young Buffalo Soldier, Edward would soon find out that his newfound freedom wouldn't come without a high price to pay in the end. Deep in the plains of Kansas, Edward astride his horse Ataska, must aid the United States in their disposal of Comanche warriors and the much feared Elk Dog Soldiers. But, when not clashing with hostiles, Ed seeks comfort in the arms of his beautiful lover, Yolanda Melancon, a Comanche-African woman who also escaped slavery. Will prejudice and bigotry of the Reconstruction Period kill the love these two people feel for one another? This piece digs deep into the lives of Black Americans serving in the United States military. Drawing from historical facts, Roberson acknowledges the real trials and tribulations these brave soldiers were faced with in their daily lives, making Edward T. Baker a compelling hero and Ataska an exciting new addition to the world of historical fiction.