Angie Elita Newell: Award-Winning Indigenous Author and Historian

NATIONWIDE - JANUARY 2026 - (USAnews.com) For many, history is a collection of dates and events, but for Angie Elita Newell, history is a living, breathing force. As an Indigenous author and historian, Newell crafts narratives that give voice to the often overlooked experiences of Native American people. With her debut novel, All I See Is Violence, she offers a powerful exploration of the intersection of history, identity, and generational trauma.

In a world where Indigenous voices have often been silenced or misrepresented, Newell’s work is a crucial step toward healing and understanding. Her novel, which has earned her critical acclaim, is a gripping portrayal of the violence and displacement faced by Indigenous communities, offering a compelling window into the past while also shedding light on the complexities of the present.

The Story Behind the Book

Newell’s journey to becoming an author was not a straight path. Born into a family deeply connected to the land and traditions of her ancestors, Newell’s interest in history was sparked early on. Yet, like many Indigenous people, she found that mainstream history often glossed over or ignored the realities faced by her people.

This realization fueled her desire to write All I See Is Violence, a novel focused on the 1876 Battle of Little Bighorn and the 1972 social upheaval on the Pine Ridge Reservation. Through the eyes of Cheyenne warrior Little Wolf and her descendant Nancy Swiftfox, Newell weaves a poignant narrative about the struggles to preserve heritage, identity, and survival in the face of overwhelming adversity. The novel draws deeply from Newell's own heritage, crafting a vivid and emotional tale that encourages readers to confront the harsh truths of American history.

Breaking Through the Noise

The road to publication was not without its challenges. As an Indigenous woman writing about Native American history, Newell faced a publishing world that was not always receptive to stories told from this perspective. Many mainstream publishers, unfamiliar with Indigenous voices, were hesitant to take on a work that deviated from the typical historical narratives.

However, Newell’s determination paid off when All I See Is Violence was picked up by Greenleaf Book Group Press, an independent publisher that recognized the importance of her story. The book quickly garnered attention, and Newell’s unflinching portrayal of Native American history struck a chord with readers and critics alike.

Her efforts were soon rewarded with accolades, including the prestigious IBPA Book Award, formerly known as the Benjamin Franklin Book Award. The novel won the Gold Award for General Fiction, an achievement that solidified Newell’s place as a leading voice in Indigenous literature.

A Different Kind of Author

What sets Angie Elita Newell apart from other authors is not only her unique perspective as an Indigenous woman but also her hands-on involvement in the design of her book. Newell played a key role in the cover design of All I See Is Violence, which went on to win awards in its own right. She’s not just a writer, she’s an advocate for Indigenous culture and history, ensuring that every aspect of her book, from the content to the design, authentically reflects the spirit of the story.

Moreover, Newell’s independent publishing journey speaks to her tenacity and commitment to her craft. As an Indigenous author who chose to go the independent route, she has carved a path that allows her to maintain creative control while sharing her powerful narrative with the world. This independence, combined with her deep knowledge of Native American history, makes her work stand out in a crowded literary landscape.

A Glimpse Into All I See Is Violence

In All I See Is Violence, Newell captures the struggles of her characters with a delicate yet powerful voice. The novel is a multi-layered exploration of the effects of colonization, war, and the complex nature of identity. Set against the backdrop of two pivotal moments in American history—the Battle of Little Bighorn in 1876 and the Pine Ridge Reservation unrest in 1972—the novel paints a harrowing picture of the Indigenous experience.

The book follows the life of Little Wolf, a Cheyenne warrior, as she battles to protect her people’s land from the encroaching forces of General Custer and the U.S. Army. A century later, Little Wolf’s descendant, Nancy Swiftfox, is raising her children on the same land, still grappling with the ramifications of the violence her ancestors endured. Through the eyes of these women, Newell explores the enduring effects of colonization, forced relocation, and systemic racism.

All I See Is Violence has received praise for its powerful storytelling and historical accuracy. Publishers Weekly BookLife praised Newell for offering "a deeply personal look at the largely ignored lives, experiences, and histories of Indigenous Americans." Similarly, Kirkus Reviews called it "a richly orchestrated novel of Indigenous resistance."

What Makes Newell Different?

As an Indigenous author with an independent publisher, Newell’s approach to writing and storytelling is markedly different from other authors in the genre. Her work is both deeply personal and universally relevant, as it speaks to the shared experiences of Indigenous communities while also addressing themes of identity, resistance, and survival.

Her involvement in the book’s design and her hands-on approach to the publishing process demonstrate a level of dedication that sets her apart. This commitment to authenticity, both in content and presentation, ensures that her work resonates with readers on a deeper level.

But what truly makes Newell’s work unique is her ability to blend history with emotion, creating narratives that not only educate but also inspire. She brings Indigenous history to life in a way that is accessible, moving, and unforgettable. Her writing is a testament to the resilience and strength of Indigenous people, offering readers a chance to see history from a perspective that has long been ignored.

The Impact of Her Work

Angie Elita Newell’s writing is more than just a literary achievement; it is an act of reclamation. Through her work, she is reclaiming Indigenous history, language, and identity. She is providing a space for Indigenous voices to be heard, for Indigenous stories to be told, and for readers to engage with a history that has been too often erased or misrepresented.

As an award-winning author and historian, Newell’s influence extends beyond the pages of her books. Her work serves as a catalyst for important conversations about the legacy of colonialism and the ongoing struggles of Indigenous communities. In sharing these stories, she is helping to reshape the narrative around Native American history and identity, ensuring that future generations will see it through a more accurate and empathetic lens.

Discover the World of Angie Elita Newell

To learn more about Angie Elita Newell and her powerful debut novel, All I See Is Violence, visit her website at angieelitanewell.com. Stay connected with her journey by following her on Instagram at @angieelitanewell.

For a closer look at the reception of her work, check out the reviews on Goodreads: All I See Is Violence on Goodreads.

Angie Elita Newell is just getting started, and her work is one you won’t want to miss.