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The Hunt for Frederick Douglass: The Last-Chance, Secret Mission to Avoid the Civil War

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The Hunt For Frederick Douglass is an extraordinary first novel by author Terry Balagia, whose historical fiction work takes us along on an outrageously authentic ride, where he combines deep insights, fights with Texas Ranger heroics, and unexpected surprises that keep the reader holding on tight to every word and turning every page.
It’s the tale of Texas Ranger Rip Gatlin, who is ordered to go up North and capture Frederick Douglass in an attempt to get the newly elected Lincoln to negotiate with the South in hopes of avoiding the Civil War and permanently eliminating slavery.

Beautifully styled, poignantly written with great drama and powerful, principled characters, Frederick Douglass is presented as the seminal force of goodness and righteousness that befits his important role in U.S. history.

We meet legendary Texas Ranger Rip Gatlin, who, having escaped the Alamo as a young soldier, struggles to ‘just do what’s right’ in a world of unscrupulous politicians, ruthless outlaws, and a looming Civil War that is ready to explode. Balagia puts us in the middle of that action as the reader experiences the explosive engagement of the time.

Based on real historical events, dates, and times, and loaded with inspiring quotes from Frederick Douglass' writings and speeches. The Hunt For Frederick Douglass is at once as moving as it is informing and as fun as it is to read. This exciting action and adventure story will engage readers who enjoy war and military stories.

How does Rip accomplish the task set before him? How would someone of his character have changed our nation?

392 pages, Paperback

Published June 9, 2023

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About the author

Terry Balagia

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Profile Image for Ms. E Ms. ECharm.
198 reviews
October 16, 2025
Amazing! Exceptional!! And Outstanding

The story in this historical fiction had me hooked from the first page. It brought to life a conceivable reality of the events surrounding the life of Frederick Douglass. The story was thought provoking, heart wrenching and gave a great possibility of what could have happened in America’s history.

The narrative begins with a fateful prophecy that plunges the reader into a past they will perceive as real The plot grabbed a hold of me and had me invested into a world of what if’s. I say what if’s because everything in the past has not been revealed. I believe there are more unsung hero’s than popular leaders.

If you appreciate a story where espionage and action meets mystery and personal redemption. This tale will draw you in and keep you completely invested.
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