Boundary

by Paul W. Feenstra

This first edition publication of Boundary is no longer available. See the second edition with a revised cover.

454 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2016

About the author

Paul W. Feenstra is a New Zealand historical fiction novelist whose character-driven stories are meticulously researched and deeply human — creating a dramatic and entertaining window into our complex past.

Born in Wellington to Dutch immigrants, Paul relocated to the United States in 1985 and spent over 27 years working in Hollywood as a multiple Emmy-nominated television post-production professional. Recognised for his contribution to his country, Paul was honoured by the New Zealand government and invited to join the prestigious World Class New Zealand network. He has been sought after as a public speaker by educational institutions, professional networks and organisations across New Zealand, sharing his unique experiences from a remarkable career.

His sixteen novels span medieval England, colonial New Zealand, Victorian London and WWI espionage. The Falls Ende series — seven books of medieval historical fiction set in 12th century England — is his most ambitious work. It is a completed series, from Primus through to Outlaw. The Leonard Hardy mysteries explore Victorian-era colonial Wellington. The Moana Rangitira novels examine early colonial New Zealand and its impact on native Māori. The Austin Willems series begins with A Gentleman at Heart in Victorian London, with a second novel, A Dangerous Game, currently in development.

In his spare time, Paul enjoys photography and wrestling bears.

Reviews

[Harlyn Bryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Boundary follows the fictional lives of characters Andrew and Eleanor, indentured servants, set against the backdrop of the colonization of New Zealand. The details that the author has injected into this work of fiction are astounding. Historically accurate and engaging, Boundary, is expertly written and engaging.

I am not a reader of historical fiction so I felt that it was important to do a bit of research into the subject before I dived in. I was pleasantly surprised to see the depiction of real historical figures, events, etc. This made the story even more engaging to me as a reader. 

Feenstra expertly weaves his tale of greed and deceit not only of the Maori people but also of the settlers that were basically swindled by the New Zealand Company with the dream of free passage to a new life that really did not exist. The measures in which people will take in order to procure finances, land, and prestige are limitless. 

As I read this book I couldn't help but to see this as a potential feature film. It was rich in its imagery, tone, and accurate historical depictions. I look forward to future releases by this author!

[Hannah Ross · Rating 4 out of 5]

Boundary is a broad-range, epic novel set in the era of the New Zealand Colonization. It is quite an enlightening read on the era and on the Maori culture, in which I have long been deeply interested, and which made me determined to get through the book despite the first part, which was a little flat and lacked the bumps and twists that usually grab readers and drag them on. Action begins to pick up around the middle, with the death (spoiler alert) of a very likable character.

Bottom line: a recommended read for anyone interested in Australia and New Zealand history, the Maori, the ethical issues of colonization, and 19-th century British Empire.

[SOMDReigel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Boundary is a historical fiction novel depicting New Zealand’s early colonial history. You can tell the history was thoroughly researched. It details the early colonial life and impact colonialism had on the natives. Based on real events and contains for the most part, the actual names of people who existed.
“The Company was founded by men with great souls and little pockets, and fell into the hands of men with great pockets and little souls.”
Boundary is about the decline and fall of the New Zealand Company; it’s a story of the people, both the native Maori and the immigrants, who endured the injustices and lasting effects of the company’s plan. Carefully selected colonists of character and reputation were granted land and opportunity in New Zealand; creating the perfect English society. What the New Zealand Company’s plan did was destroyed the dreams of many and negatively impacted the natives who lived there. They brought good, hardworking people to New Zealand with promises of work and a future that they did not provide. They took the land from the natives and added to their struggles. They went against the policy of the British government.
“Colonisation is just another word for invasion.” – Ngaiti
It was a moral and humanitarian issue. Many events included are real and actually happened. Some were, as stated by the author, altered to create a more compelling story and I believe he succeeded. Well done!

[Helena regan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading Boundary was like stepping back into a raw and turbulent part of history that is often glossed over. Paul W. Feenstra doesn’t just tell a story he immerses you in it. From the moment the Tory sets sail, there’s a real sense of urgency and unease, as if you know something monumental is about to unfold.

What struck me most was how human the story felt. Through Andrew and Eleanor Stewart, I could feel both the excitement of starting afresh in a new world and the crushing weight of realizing that this dream is built on deception and exploitation. Their struggle to balance loyalty to their employers with their growing awareness of the injustices against the Maori people is both heartbreaking and inspiring.

Feenstra’s attention to historical detail is remarkable. The conflicts over land, the manipulations of the New Zealand Company, and the resistance of the Maori chiefs were all painted vividly. Yet, what kept me turning the pages wasn’t just the history, but the humanity schemes, betrayals, courage, and survival all tangled together.

By the end, I was left reflecting on how greed and injustice can shape nations, and how ordinary people, caught in the middle, must choose where they stand. Boundary isn’t just historical fiction; it’s a gripping reminder of resilience in the face of corruption and adversity. It’s powerful, thoughtbprovoking, and deeply moving.

[Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoy historical novels and Paul's style of writing makes them even better.
Set in Wellington, of my home country New Zealand, it was interesting to understand the early pioneering days of the city as it stands now.
The street names, early surveyors, the Maori chiefs and the problems that came about from creed makes this book a good read.
Well researched and presented in a good style.
Enjoy, I did.