The Frontier Angel A Romance of Kentucky Rangers' Life   By: Edward Sylvester Ellis (1840-1916)

In "The Frontier Angel: A Romance of Kentucky Rangers' Life" by Edward Sylvester Ellis, readers are transported back to a time of peril and love in the untamed wilderness of Kentucky.

Set in the late 18th century, the story revolves around Stella, a headstrong and fiercely independent young woman who finds herself at the center of a dangerous conflict between rival Native American tribes and white settlers. When her father, a skilled Kentucky Ranger, is captured by the hostile Shawnees, Stella bravely takes it upon herself to rescue him.

Ellis does a commendable job in capturing the essence of frontier life, painting vivid descriptions of the rugged landscapes, the looming dangers, and the resilience of the settlers. The author's attention to historical detail is evident, as he weaves in elements such as the clashes between Natives and pioneers, the hardships faced by early settlers, and the complex relationships that emerged in those tumultuous times.

The character development in "The Frontier Angel" is one of its strongest aspects. Stella emerges as a relatable and admirable protagonist, defying societal expectations and proving herself capable of handling the challenges thrown her way. Her interactions with other characters, including her romantic interest, James McClure, are well-crafted, displaying both the tender moments of love and the tense confrontations that arise amidst the chaos.

However, the narrative does have its flaws. The pacing occasionally feels slow, at times overly focused on the minutiae of frontier life, detracting from the suspense of the main plot. Moreover, some of the dialogue feels stilted and unnatural, diminishing the overall authenticity of the characters' interactions.

Despite these shortcomings, "The Frontier Angel" ultimately serves as an engrossing tale of adventure, love, and bravery in the untamed American frontier. Ellis delivers a satisfying blend of historical accuracy and imaginatively woven fiction, transporting readers to a time of danger and sacrifice, where the fight for survival and the pursuit of love intertwine.

Fans of historical romance and those seeking a glimpse into the hardships of early settlers will find "The Frontier Angel" a worthy addition to their bookshelves. Ellis's storytelling prowess manages to evoke a compelling atmosphere that will keep readers turning the pages in anticipation of Stella's fate and the triumph of love against all odds.

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COPYRIGHT, 1910, BY HURST & COMPANY... Continue reading book >>