Subject
Frontier and pioneer life -- Kentucky -- Fiction Books
Best books
Frederick Whittaker
Ruby Roland, the Girl Spy; or, Simon Kenton's Protege
"Ruby Roland, the Girl Spy; or, Simon Kenton’s Protege" by Frederick Whittaker is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story is set in the early period of American frontier life and follows the adventures of Ruby Roland, a young girl with ties to Native American tribes, and Simon Kenton, a famed frontiersman and scout. Together, they navigate the dangers of the wilderness, confront hostile forces, and unveil the greater political tensions of the time. The opening of the novel introduces Simon Kenton, who is initially engaged in a cautious maneuver across the Kentucky River while scouting for dangers, highlighting his experience and instincts as a ranger. As he navigates the treacherous landscape, he unexpectedly encounters another scout, leading to a tense moment of mistaken identity, which underscores the perilous nature of their environment. Shortly after, the narrative introduces Ruby Roland, who asserts her agency and bravery, prompting tension as both she and Kenton face the lurking threats of warfare and treachery. The chapter sets a gripping tone, intertwining themes of survival, identity, and the complexities of relationships in a tumultuous era.
Mary Jane Holmes
Glen's Creek
"Glen's Creek" by Mary Jane Holmes is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story is set in Kentucky during the early 19th century, exploring themes of emigration, cultural clashes, and familial bonds. It delves into the life of a pioneer family as they navigate the challenges of settling in a new land, particularly focusing on the relationships between white settlers and Native Americans. The plot centers around Deacon Wilder's family, particularly his son Charlie, who suffers from homesickness as they move to the wilderness of Kentucky. Alongside them is Orianna, a Native American woman who forms a deep bond with Charlie. As the narrative unfolds, various subplots intertwine, including the dangers posed by hostile Indians and the romantic entanglements between characters such as George Wilder and Marian Gorton. The story ultimately examines themes of love, sacrifice, and belonging, culminating in a dramatic revelation that Orianna is intertwined with the Gorton family's past, further complicating their lives as they strive to find harmony amidst cultural differences.
Robert Montgomery Bird
Nick of the Woods; Or, Adventures of Prairie Life
"Nick of the Woods; Or, Adventures of Prairie Life" by Robert Montgomery Bird is a novel published in 1837. Set in 1780s Kentucky, it follows the mysterious figure known as "Nick of the Woods"—a monster-dressed avenger who slaughters Indians and carves crosses on their bodies. By day, he's Nathan Slaughter, a peaceful Quaker bound by creed to avoid violence. This American Gothic tale became Bird's most successful work and a bestseller, noted for its brutal depiction of Native Americans that deliberately countered James Fenimore Cooper's more sympathetic portrayals.
Eleanor Mercein Kelly
The prior claim
"The Prior Claim" by Eleanor Mercein Kelly is a historical romance novel set during the early 19th century, amidst the tumult of the Indian Wars and pioneer life in Kentucky. This gripping narrative centers on themes of love, identity, and the struggles of settlers in a land fraught with conflict. The book dives into the complexities faced by its characters, particularly revolving around notions of belonging and cultural conflict between Native Americans and European settlers. The story unfolds around Polly, a young woman who was captured by Indians and later rescued by settlers. Now married to Ezra Todd, a man devoted to civilizing the untamed land, Polly finds herself grappling with the memories of her past and her dual identity. As the plot progresses, tensions rise when her husband must leave for a court meeting, leaving her in the care of her elderly grandmother and their newborn son. These circumstances culminate in a violent encounter with Indians, leading to a heart-wrenching decision for Polly as she must choose between her newfound life and the ties to her past. Ultimately, her journey reflects the harsh realities of frontier life and the sacrifices made for love and family, leaving readers to ponder the notion of belonging and the depth of human connection.
Edward Sylvester Ellis
The Riflemen of the Miami
"The Riflemen of the Miami" by Edward Sylvester Ellis is a historical novel written in the mid-19th century. The story revolves around a group of frontier riflemen, particularly focusing on the character Lewis Dernor, who leads a rescue mission to save a woman captured by Shawnee Indians. The narrative is set against the backdrop of the American wilderness, highlighting the perils faced by settlers during a time of conflict between Native Americans and expanding white settlements. The opening portion of the book introduces us to the Riflemen as they stealthily track a group of Indians who are transporting a captive girl through the woods. The main characters, including Lewis Dernor, his brothers George and Dick, and their companion Tom O'Hara, are depicted as skilled hunters and woodsmen, characterized by their ruggedness and keen senses. As they cautiously observe the Indians, they strategize a rescue plan. The group remains hidden as they discuss their next moves, showing their determination and camaraderie. The tense buildup establishes a vivid scene of the dangers that lie ahead, setting the stage for the dramatic encounters between the hunters and the Indians as they attempt to save the captive woman.
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