Headhunter Slave

At the dawning of the 20th Century, the discovery of oil in Indonesia engenders new excitement for colonialists bent on expanding Dutch control in the island archipelago. Easternmost Netherlands New Guinea offers promise and profits like never before.
Set against the backdrop of steamy untamed equatorial jungle and vast South Pacific Ocean areas, the lives of three extraordinary women eventually intersect. In a male dominated world they each grasp inner resolve, face unique challenges, and in their own way, embrace the prospects of an uncertain future.
Womini, the Numfor Island girl, once taken prisoner by the Ayambi clan, becomes the bride of Komoi. Then as a young mother of three, Womini has developed strong feelings of attachment for her adoptive family. When she learns that her husband Komoi is dead after a conflagration with the Rudomo clan, she vows to avenge, especially if manawea sorcery is involved.
Kassisio [Kassie] Margani overcomes feelings of inadequacy and peer resentment through her personal experience when she discovers proof that an ancient clan legend might really be true. Following that revelation, she becomes a vibrant advocate for cultural advancement within her spouse’s clan, the Bintuni.
Dutch born Troita Inggavird enjoys a privileged life in Amsterdam. She is betrothed to Leonard van Given, a minor statesman in the Colonies who should have returned already. When she learns he has accepted an appointment to be the new Regent at Manokwari Outpost, Netherlands New Guinea, she embarks on an arduous journey by sailing ship, resolved to consummate their relationship there at the jungle outpost.