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River of Darkness: Francisco Orellana and the Deadly First Voyage through the Amazon

Name: River of Darkness: Francisco Orellana and the Deadly First Voyage through the Amazon
Price: 12.24 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.5 (995 reviews)

4.5 of 5 Stars: Travelers & Explorers - River of Darkness: Francisco Orellana and the Deadly First Voyage through the Amazon

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Book Synopsis: The acclaimed author of Conquistador and Labyrinth of Ice charts one of history’s greatest expeditions, a legendary 16th-century adventurer’s death-defying navigation of the Amazon River. In 1541, Spanish conquistador Gonzalo Pizarro and his lieutenant Francisco Orellana searched for La Canela, South America’s rumored Land of Cinnamon, and the fabled El Dorado, “the golden man.” Quickly, the enormous expedition of mercenaries, enslaved natives, horses, and hunting dogs were decimated through disease, starvation, and attacks in the jungle. Hopelessly lost in the swampy labyrinth, Pizarro and Orellana made the fateful decision to separate. While Pizarro eventually returned home in rags, Orellana and fifty-seven men continued into the unknown reaches of the mighty Amazon jungle and river. Theirs would be the greater glory. Interweaving historical accounts with newly uncovered details, Levy reconstructs Orellana’s journey as the first European to navigate the world’s largest river. Every twist and turn of the powerful Amazon holds new wonders and the risk of death. Levy gives a long-overdue account of the Amazon’s people—some offering sustenance and guidance, others hostile, subjecting the invaders to gauntlets of unremitting attacks and signs of terrifying rituals. Violent and beautiful, noble and tragic, River of Darkness is riveting history and breathtaking adventure that will sweep readers on a voyage unlike any other.

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Embark on a thrilling and perilous journey through the heart of the Amazon with River of Darkness: Francisco Orellana and the Deadly First Voyage. Authored by the acclaimed writer of Conquistador and Labyrinth of Ice, this gripping tale follows the legendary expedition of Spanish conquistador Gonzalo Pizarro and his lieutenant Francisco Orellana as they venture into the mysterious depths of the South American jungle.

With a vivid narrative that intertwines historical accounts with newly unearthed details, this book reconstructs Orellana's daring voyage as he becomes the first European to navigate the awe-inspiring Amazon River. Explore the mesmerizing twists and turns of the mighty river, where every moment brings both astonishing wonders and deadly threats. From hostile encounters with indigenous tribes to the unyielding perils of disease and starvation, experience the harsh realities faced by these brave explorers in their quest for fame and fortune.

Delve into the untold stories of the Amazon's inhabitants as Levy sheds light on their diverse cultures and rituals. Discover the tribes that offered sustenance and guidance, as well as those who stood as formidable foes, subjecting the invaders to relentless attacks and spine-chilling ceremonies. The magnificence and treachery of the Amazon come alive in this riveting historical account, leaving readers spellbound by the combination of breathtaking adventure and tragic fate.

Don't miss out on this captivating tale. Immerse yourself in an enthralling narrative that will transport you to a world unlike any other. Experience the thrill, danger, and conquest that await within the pages of River of Darkness. Start your journey today!

Take the plunge and discover the wonders of the Amazon with River of Darkness.

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