The Boyle Chronicles: Book One: James & Sarah

Paperback by Ronald 'Ron' Baldwin

        First book in the series that chronicles the settling of New York's frontier along the upper Susquehanna valley. This, the first in a series of three historical fiction stories is so well researched that it could be called non-fiction, except that the characters are figments of the author's imagination. Weaving documented occurrences into a fictional narration takes precise timing and the author, Ronald 'Ron' Baldwin has done a superb job. The fact that he grew up where the story takes place helped him paint a mental picture that natives of the area say is very authentic.

ISBN # 1-41204409-X, 212 pages, 6"X9"

Published by Trafford-on-demand Publishing, Vancouver, BC

©Copyright 2004 Ron Baldwin

Excerpt:  

The attack by the huge cat comes largely unseen, more as a vague shadow that causes him to turn from it, thus saving his life. The panther instinctively going for the neck to commit a quick kill instead sinks its huge incisors in James’ left shoulder. Its hind legs pawing to get a firm grip tears at James’ left leg. The charge sends them both tumbling down hill. Acting instinctively himself, using his right hand, James withdraws his hunting knife and strikes at the beast’s side. The knife penetrates to the ribs, causing the cat to react by closing its jaws harder resulting in breaking of his collar bone. Landing on his right side with the panther atop him James holds fast to the embedded knife, pain burning at his left shoulder. As they roll a second time, James’ elbow contacts the earth while the cat’s weight drives against the knife. The weapon cuts through two ribs, slices the lower heart and pierces the lungs.

Available at Amazon.com, search by ISBN# 1-41204409-X 

In the Central upstate area of New York, bookstores or North Country Books, Utica, (www. northcountrybooks.com) can supply copies.