Neanderthal Sunset


Fiction - Historical - Event/Era
Kindle Edition
Reviewed on 06/02/2026
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Author Biography

After a long career as a stockbroker and mutual fund manager, Steven Burgauer turned to writing in the early 1990s. He has written several science fiction novels as well as an investment guide, a fictionalized story of Neanderthal's first encounter with man, and a well-received title based on the diaries of a World War II veteran — THE ROAD TO WAR: DUTY & DRILL, COURAGE & CAPTURE . It is a riveting first-person account of a brave young man caught up in a cataclysmic World War. Publishers Daily Reviews says of it: Five-plus unequivocal stars . . . an extraordinary read that everyone should enjoy.

Some of his better known SF titles include The Grandfather Paradox, The Railguns of Luna, Moon Beam, and his most recent, SKULLCAP. Other books of his include Neanderthal Sunset, a fictionalized story of Neanderthal’s first encounter with humankind, and The Wealth Builder’s Guide, an investment primer.

    Book Review

Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite

Neanderthal Sunset is a historical fiction novella by Steven Burgauer. Strong Arms is the leader of his increasingly depleting clan. He strives to fulfill his duties as mate to Big Curl, father to Wide Smiles, Fast Foot, and their siblings, as well as hunting and providing for his family and his people. But both Fast Foot and Wide Smiles are growing up, and in a clan so small in size, they are struggling to find suitable mates. The clan Godwoman wants Wide Smiles to follow in her footsteps and become a healer to their people. However, Wide Smiles has other plans. After she becomes involved with young Long Legs, Wide Smiles realizes that there is no place for her in the clan. But there's danger lurking that none of them is aware of.

Neanderthal Sunset is a gripping, primeval tale of survival about first contact between Neanderthals and humans. I absolutely adored this book. Concisely written and action-packed, there is not a single dull moment in the narrative. The plot's momentum rarely allows you to take a breath. Using a narrative laced with suspense and tension, Steven Burgauer makes sure you're completely immersed in the story. From time to time, the author provides informative snippets about Neanderthals that not only enhance the narrative but also make you care for the main characters even more. Strong Arms and his family suffer through a lot in this book, which makes you really feel the stakes. It seems very realistic. If you like historical fiction or are a fan of primeval tales, I can't recommend a better book than this.