Earl Murray
Personal Information
Description
Earl Patrick Murray once worked in botany and natural resource management. He is the author of thirty-five novels and nonfiction books that deal with the American West. His novel, " Song of Wovoka, " was a finalist for the 1992 Western Writers of America Spur Award for historical fiction. Earl was born Aug. 25, 1950, in Great Falls, Mont. He grew up on a ranch in the heart of "Big Sky Country" near Square Butte, which nurtured what became a lifelong love of the land. He received a bachelor's degree in agronomy from Montana State University in 1972 and went to work as a range conservationist for the Soil Conservation Service in Glendive, Mont. In 1976, he published his first novel, which put him on his true path. In 1986, he became a full-time writer, publishing more than 40 novels. His award-winning stories combined his love and knowledge of botany, history and Native American culture. Earl had a genuine interest in people and lived by the Sioux belief, Mitakuye Oyasin - "we are all related." He was always willing to share his experience with fledgling writers. He spoke on many panels and was part of the Reader's Digest Writer's Voice in Billings, which sent writers to rural schools to work with children promoting creativity and writing. Earl had been a member of Western Writers of America and was a Spur Award finalist for his novel "Song of Wovoka" and most recently, his short story, "Sacred Stone." He was honored to be included in many Crow sweat ceremonies and was invited and participated in two Sundance ceremonies. Earl had a passion for music, playing the banjo and guitar for church services, writers' gatherings or just for friends and family. "… but their story will never die. Each night when the shadows slide down from Longs Peak and the moon rises overhead, there is a faint melody carried on the wind. Those who listen carefully can hear a soft and haunting Scots-Irish waltz." - from "In the Arms of the Sky" by Earl Murray
Books
Savage Whisper
By 1852, Kentucky had grown too tame for trader Austin Wells, and when he got a letter from his uncle promising him a job with the American Fur Trading Company, he wasted no time heading for Fort Benton, on the upper reaches of the Missouri. But greenhorns have to prove themselves quickly in a land where man can be more treacherous than the elements and a life can be bought and sold for a jug of whiskey. With a few supplies and no friends, Wells is forced to work with his uncle, a hired bushwhacker, who burns out competing traders for "The Company." Their first raid is foiled by Eagle's Shadow Woman, whose power as a warrior is feared and respected by all Indians in the region. Wells escapes with his life, but he cannot forget the beauty and ferocity of the woman who almost killed him--or figure out a way to see her again.