Foes in Ambush   By: Charles King (1844-1933)

In "Foes in Ambush" by Charles King, readers are transported to the rugged frontier of the American West. Set in the late 1800s, this captivating historical fiction novel follows the journey of Major Carlton, a seasoned military man stationed in the volatile region on a mission to maintain peace.

From the very first page, King skillfully paints a vivid picture of the harsh landscape and the tumultuous times. The author's attention to detail brings the setting to life, immersing readers in a world fraught with danger and uncertainty. As the story unfolds, Major Carlton finds himself facing not only hostile Native American tribes but also treacherous outlaws aiming to disrupt the fragile peace.

One of the highlights of King's writing is his ability to develop complex and multi-dimensional characters. Major Carlton, in particular, is a captivating protagonist whose unwavering dedication to duty and honor serves as both a strength and a burden. Through his eyes, we witness the internal struggles faced by military men in an era marked by political unrest and conflicting loyalties.

The pacing of the novel is steady, with the plot kept taut as Major Carlton confronts one challenge after another. King expertly balances action-packed scenes with moments of introspection, allowing readers to connect with the characters on a deeper level. Moreover, the author's thorough research is evident throughout the book, as he seamlessly weaves historical events and authentic cultural references into the narrative.

While "Foes in Ambush" presents a gripping and entertaining tale, it also offers subtle commentary on the high price of war and the complexities of human nature. King masterfully explores themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and redemption, leaving readers pondering the true cost of seemingly endless conflict.

In conclusion, "Foes in Ambush" is a captivating work of historical fiction that will transport readers to a vividly rendered American frontier. Charles King's evocative storytelling, well-developed characters, and skillful blend of action and introspection make this novel an engaging and thought-provoking read. Whether you are a fan of the Western genre or historical fiction in general, this book is sure to captivate and leave a lasting impression.

(Note: The actual title of the book is "Foes in Ambush" by Charles King.)

First Page:

The sun was just going down, a hissing globe of fire and torment. Already the lower limb was in contact with the jagged backbone of the mountain chain that rimmed the desert with purple and gold. Out on the barren, hard baked flat in front of the corral, just where it had been unhitched when the paymaster and his safe were dumped soon after dawn, a weather beaten ambulance was throwing unbroken a mile long shadow towards the distant Christobal. The gateway to the east through the Santa Maria, sharply notched in the gleaming range, stood a day's march away, a day's march now only made by night, for this was Arizona, and from the rising of the sun to the going down of the same anywhere south of that curdling mud bath, the Gila, the only human beings impervious to the fierceness of its rays were the Apaches... Continue reading book >>