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Stonecroft Saga #1
Escape to Exile
AUTHOR OF THE BEST-SELLING BUCKSKIN CHRONICLES SERIES TAKES US ON AN EPIC JOURNEY IN THE NEW STONECROFT SAGA
It started as a brother defending the honor of his only sister, but it led to a bloody duel and a young man of a prominent family lying dead in the dirt…
Gabriel Stonecroft along with his life-long friend, Ezra, the son of the pastor of the African Methodist Episcopal church, at his side, the journey to the far wilderness of the west would begin. One man from prominent social standing, the other with a life of practical experience, are soon joined in life building adventures.
That journey would be fraught with danger, excitement, and adventure as they face bounty hunters, renegade Shawnee and Delaware Indians, and river pirates. The odds are stacked against the two young men that were lacking in worldly wisdom when it came to life on the frontier. But that reservoir of experience would soon be overflowing with first-hand involvement in happenings that even young dreamers could never imagine.
It started as a brother defending the honor of his only sister, but it led to a bloody duel and a young man of a prominent family lying dead in the dirt…
Gabriel Stonecroft along with his life-long friend, Ezra, the son of the pastor of the African Methodist Episcopal church, at his side, the journey to the far wilderness of the west would begin. One man from prominent social standing, the other with a life of practical experience, are soon joined in life building adventures.
That journey would be fraught with danger, excitement, and adventure as they face bounty hunters, renegade Shawnee and Delaware Indians, and river pirates. The odds are stacked against the two young men that were lacking in worldly wisdom when it came to life on the frontier. But that reservoir of experience would soon be overflowing with first-hand involvement in happenings that even young dreamers could never imagine.
- GenresWesterns
260 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 22, 2020
2073 people are currently reading
191 people want to read
About the author
B.N. Rundell
88 books83 followersBorn and raised in Colorado into a family of ranchers and cowboys, B.N. Rundell is the youngest of seven sons. Juggling bull riding, skiing, and high school, graduation was a launching pad for a hitch in the Army Paratroopers. After the army, he finished his college education in Springfield, MO, and together with his wife and growing family, entered the ministry as a Baptist preacher.
Together, B.N. and Dawn raised four girls that are now married and have made them proud grandparents. With many years as a successful pastor and educator, he retired from the ministry and followed in the footsteps of his entrepreneurial father and started a successful insurance agency, which is now in the hands of his trusted nephew. He has also been a successful audiobook narrator and has recorded many books for several award-winning authors. Now finally realizing his life-long dream, B.N. has turned his efforts to writing a variety of books, from children’s picture books and young adult adventure books, to the historical fiction and western genres which are his first love.
Together, B.N. and Dawn raised four girls that are now married and have made them proud grandparents. With many years as a successful pastor and educator, he retired from the ministry and followed in the footsteps of his entrepreneurial father and started a successful insurance agency, which is now in the hands of his trusted nephew. He has also been a successful audiobook narrator and has recorded many books for several award-winning authors. Now finally realizing his life-long dream, B.N. has turned his efforts to writing a variety of books, from children’s picture books and young adult adventure books, to the historical fiction and western genres which are his first love.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
May 1, 2023
This was the first western book I’ve ever read, and even though it was hard to get into at the start. Surprisingly, I actually ended up enjoying it…so much so that I’m considering reading the whole series! Western’s are typically easier for me to watch than to read, so I had to dig through my memory for scenery from movies I have seen in the past to help me with visualization. There was a whole lotta me saying to myself “I have no idea what’s going on” through the first half of the book. 😂
~~~
This story had your typical Western gunslinger action, travel by horseback & boat, hunting, bar fights, and boat raids. Gabriel Stonecroft and his friend, Ezra, are traveling along the Ohio river when they make friends with a few men at a boat yard. They continue on their journey by boat, and trade with settlers along the way, but their friendship is tested when they encounter another group of men that are looking for Gabriel.
One of my favorite parts is when Gabriel helped a young girl haul a deer that she killed back to her home. She lived alone with her mom because her Dad was killed in a horrific accident. Gabriel was kind enough to buy their land because they were gonna lose it to the bank, but he made it possible for Marilu Hatfield and her daughter to go live with family in Virginia.
A lot more happened, but not really anything worth reporting. The last half of the book was easier to get through because there was more action. Gabriel and Ezra make a great duo, and they have a good sense of humor. They are both kind, helpful, and unafraid to stand up for what’s right.
~~~
This story had your typical Western gunslinger action, travel by horseback & boat, hunting, bar fights, and boat raids. Gabriel Stonecroft and his friend, Ezra, are traveling along the Ohio river when they make friends with a few men at a boat yard. They continue on their journey by boat, and trade with settlers along the way, but their friendship is tested when they encounter another group of men that are looking for Gabriel.
One of my favorite parts is when Gabriel helped a young girl haul a deer that she killed back to her home. She lived alone with her mom because her Dad was killed in a horrific accident. Gabriel was kind enough to buy their land because they were gonna lose it to the bank, but he made it possible for Marilu Hatfield and her daughter to go live with family in Virginia.
A lot more happened, but not really anything worth reporting. The last half of the book was easier to get through because there was more action. Gabriel and Ezra make a great duo, and they have a good sense of humor. They are both kind, helpful, and unafraid to stand up for what’s right.
January 22, 2020
BN Rundell – Stonecroft Saga – Escape to Exile – Reviewed 1/8/20 – Read 1/5/20
An Honor duel, life-long friend, bounty hunters, beautiful young woman, freebooters, and river flatboat on to the west!
Gabriel Stonecroft and his life-long friend Ezra had a dream to explore the wilds of the west, but an honor duel forced the young men to leave earlier than they had planned. Knowing that Gabriel would have a bounty on his head from the father of the other man killed in the duel, they traveled light and watched their backtrail. The trail leading west would be filled with adventures, some good and some really tough, but the men had their eyes set for the wilds of the west. After leaving home they met up with some farmers going to New Orleans and decided to join them on their flatboat. They signed on as gunmen to protect the boat and their wares. Joining them also traveling to New Orleans is a brother and sister, Rufus and Persis. Persis is a beautiful young woman that catches Gabriel by surprise. As the group continues on they are attacked by freebooters, also called pirates of the waterways. Unexpected things just keep happening to the group with the adventures getting more and more exciting.
What did I like? I have read other books that Bob has penned, and I knew that I would enjoy this one as much as I did the others. He has a light touch to add a little of religion, but it is done so wonderfully. I enjoy it as that was the way that I was raised. Never forced but take your time, and feel out what is right for you. Now don’t get me wrong, I was not born during the timeframe of this book!! LOL
What will you like? There is plenty of incredible action, tense situations, adventure, humor, and excitement. The characters are wonderful and warm, well most of them. There are a few that I would like to have smacked! But what good western would not have a few bad guys, the world is full of them. The storyline is amazing. I love the beginning and the fact that Gabriel would go to duel for the honor of his sister. We need more men of this character today. Family, faith, and honor were very important back then and we have lost more than a little of that today. This is going to be a wonderful series that I look forward to reading more of. Here’s another great one to add to your library of Western books!
• File Size: 4805 KB
• Print Length: 223 pages
• Release Date: January 22, 2020
• Genre: Louis L’Amour Westerns, Western Fiction Classic, Frontier & Pioneer Western Fiction
An Honor duel, life-long friend, bounty hunters, beautiful young woman, freebooters, and river flatboat on to the west!
Gabriel Stonecroft and his life-long friend Ezra had a dream to explore the wilds of the west, but an honor duel forced the young men to leave earlier than they had planned. Knowing that Gabriel would have a bounty on his head from the father of the other man killed in the duel, they traveled light and watched their backtrail. The trail leading west would be filled with adventures, some good and some really tough, but the men had their eyes set for the wilds of the west. After leaving home they met up with some farmers going to New Orleans and decided to join them on their flatboat. They signed on as gunmen to protect the boat and their wares. Joining them also traveling to New Orleans is a brother and sister, Rufus and Persis. Persis is a beautiful young woman that catches Gabriel by surprise. As the group continues on they are attacked by freebooters, also called pirates of the waterways. Unexpected things just keep happening to the group with the adventures getting more and more exciting.
What did I like? I have read other books that Bob has penned, and I knew that I would enjoy this one as much as I did the others. He has a light touch to add a little of religion, but it is done so wonderfully. I enjoy it as that was the way that I was raised. Never forced but take your time, and feel out what is right for you. Now don’t get me wrong, I was not born during the timeframe of this book!! LOL
What will you like? There is plenty of incredible action, tense situations, adventure, humor, and excitement. The characters are wonderful and warm, well most of them. There are a few that I would like to have smacked! But what good western would not have a few bad guys, the world is full of them. The storyline is amazing. I love the beginning and the fact that Gabriel would go to duel for the honor of his sister. We need more men of this character today. Family, faith, and honor were very important back then and we have lost more than a little of that today. This is going to be a wonderful series that I look forward to reading more of. Here’s another great one to add to your library of Western books!
• File Size: 4805 KB
• Print Length: 223 pages
• Release Date: January 22, 2020
• Genre: Louis L’Amour Westerns, Western Fiction Classic, Frontier & Pioneer Western Fiction
January 16, 2024
"Escape to Exile" by Philip Harbottle is a captivating journey that immerses readers in a world filled with mystery, danger, and a quest for survival. Right from the start, Harbottle weaves a narrative that is both thrilling and rich in its world-building.
The novel's strength lies in its ability to create a vivid and immersive fantasy realm. Harbottle's writing is descriptive, painting a detailed picture of the landscapes, characters, and the challenges that shape the story. The protagonist, Klynt Tovish, becomes a compelling guide through this fantastical world, and his journey becomes a focal point for readers eager to unravel the secrets that unfold.
What sets "Escape to Exile" apart is its exploration of political intrigue and the consequences of rebellion. Harbottle skillfully introduces a complex world of power struggles, and the characters' encounters with political machinations and hidden agendas add depth to the narrative. The novel strikes a balance between action and character development, creating a story that is both fast-paced and emotionally engaging.
The pacing of the novel is well-executed, allowing readers to become fully absorbed in Klynt's quest. Harbottle's writing style is accessible, making it easy for readers to connect with the emotions and dilemmas presented in the story. The inclusion of mythical creatures, ancient secrets, and moments of suspense adds an exciting dimension to the narrative, making it a compelling choice for fantasy enthusiasts seeking a thrilling adventure.
In conclusion, "Escape to Exile" is a must-read for those who enjoy immersive tales set in fantastical realms. Philip Harbottle's storytelling finesse, coupled with well-developed characters and a richly imagined world, makes this novel an exhilarating journey into the realms of fantasy. Whether you're a seasoned fantasy reader or simply looking for an escape into a world of intrigue, "Escape to Exile" offers a satisfying and enthralling reading experience.
The novel's strength lies in its ability to create a vivid and immersive fantasy realm. Harbottle's writing is descriptive, painting a detailed picture of the landscapes, characters, and the challenges that shape the story. The protagonist, Klynt Tovish, becomes a compelling guide through this fantastical world, and his journey becomes a focal point for readers eager to unravel the secrets that unfold.
What sets "Escape to Exile" apart is its exploration of political intrigue and the consequences of rebellion. Harbottle skillfully introduces a complex world of power struggles, and the characters' encounters with political machinations and hidden agendas add depth to the narrative. The novel strikes a balance between action and character development, creating a story that is both fast-paced and emotionally engaging.
The pacing of the novel is well-executed, allowing readers to become fully absorbed in Klynt's quest. Harbottle's writing style is accessible, making it easy for readers to connect with the emotions and dilemmas presented in the story. The inclusion of mythical creatures, ancient secrets, and moments of suspense adds an exciting dimension to the narrative, making it a compelling choice for fantasy enthusiasts seeking a thrilling adventure.
In conclusion, "Escape to Exile" is a must-read for those who enjoy immersive tales set in fantastical realms. Philip Harbottle's storytelling finesse, coupled with well-developed characters and a richly imagined world, makes this novel an exhilarating journey into the realms of fantasy. Whether you're a seasoned fantasy reader or simply looking for an escape into a world of intrigue, "Escape to Exile" offers a satisfying and enthralling reading experience.
May 7, 2020
Mr. Rundell went above and beyond with this outstanding western adventure, with Gabriel and Ezra, when they had to make a quick get away, after a during match went South! To say this book is exciting doesn't do it justice, as these two team in helping a boat Captain, and his crew, get his boat to New Orleans!
Definitely another five star masterpiece that begins fast and the excitement is only beginning, after Gabriel's successful duel, in which he kills a wealthy son of a local businessman. Gabriel's Dad outfits him and his close friend, Ezra, a blackman, and sends them West. Their adventure becomes more exciting, as they team with a boat Captain, who is taking trading materials down the mighty Mississippi, to New Orleans!
Outstanding storylines that successfully portrays compassionate camaraderie, and dedication, throughout this compelling story telling masterpiece by an exceptionally outstanding Author. Too, his selection of characters definitely portrays their assigned roles to perfection throughout the entire story! Looking forward to book two, in anticipation of the journey's completion.
Definitely recommend this compassionately motivated story to all readers, regardless of your reading preference, as the author pulls no punches in his descriptive storylines that reaches out and grabs your undivided attention from beginning to end. Never a dull moment throughout the entire book, as it is one exciting adventure after the other.😄
Definitely another five star masterpiece that begins fast and the excitement is only beginning, after Gabriel's successful duel, in which he kills a wealthy son of a local businessman. Gabriel's Dad outfits him and his close friend, Ezra, a blackman, and sends them West. Their adventure becomes more exciting, as they team with a boat Captain, who is taking trading materials down the mighty Mississippi, to New Orleans!
Outstanding storylines that successfully portrays compassionate camaraderie, and dedication, throughout this compelling story telling masterpiece by an exceptionally outstanding Author. Too, his selection of characters definitely portrays their assigned roles to perfection throughout the entire story! Looking forward to book two, in anticipation of the journey's completion.
Definitely recommend this compassionately motivated story to all readers, regardless of your reading preference, as the author pulls no punches in his descriptive storylines that reaches out and grabs your undivided attention from beginning to end. Never a dull moment throughout the entire book, as it is one exciting adventure after the other.😄
October 2, 2020
A good, action packed start to a series. Follows Gabriel Stonecroft and his close friend Ezra as they head out west to look for adventure.
No year is specified for the when the story takes place, but it is sometime after the American war of independence. Weapons are mostly single shot, and need powder loaded to make them work. The characters tend to go around loaded with spare pistols and rifles on them in case of trouble.
The characters were well done, and the story moves at a good pace.
No year is specified for the when the story takes place, but it is sometime after the American war of independence. Weapons are mostly single shot, and need powder loaded to make them work. The characters tend to go around loaded with spare pistols and rifles on them in case of trouble.
The characters were well done, and the story moves at a good pace.
February 10, 2021
This is an awesome book of two 19 year old young men. They are best friend, brothers of a sort. One is the son of a wealth businessman and the other the son of the Pastor of a free Black Pennsylvania church. Another businessman's son cheats in a dual and is killed. The two 19 year olds, Gabe and Ezra, must flee for their lives as the father of cheat puts a price on their head for killing his son. They are trailed as they go into the wilderness and have many adventures. This is a great book and series. Highly recommended for any reader.
May 16, 2022
Excellent beginning for a series following two principle young men heading west from Pennsylvania in the early days of our nation. Very good description and historical accuracy. Authors background as a minister is evident but not overbearing and religious references are an intergal part of the story. My only downside is some of the author's sentences tend to be a little long for my taste, but that is just a reflection of my personal preference for shorter, punchy sentences. Now reading number two in the series
February 12, 2020
A BNR. Pennsylvania/Wilderness Trek Early US Style Western Action Adventure (ETE) (SSB - 1)
BNR. had penned a Pennsylvania wilderness trek across early America. A young man from a well to do family is involved in a duel, which he wins, but afterwards the father of the deceased puts oyt a contract for the young man who was protecting himself. Thus begins the trek west to the Mississippi
via the Ohio River. This is an excellent read for the genre.....DEHS
BNR. had penned a Pennsylvania wilderness trek across early America. A young man from a well to do family is involved in a duel, which he wins, but afterwards the father of the deceased puts oyt a contract for the young man who was protecting himself. Thus begins the trek west to the Mississippi
via the Ohio River. This is an excellent read for the genre.....DEHS
January 9, 2021
This book was a little bit of a letdown for a few reasons. First; there was a lot of words being repeated over and over again. Second; the side plots and bridges were unnecessary. I felt like the author was just looking to rack up the wordcount. Lastly; with all the five star reviews I was expecting this book to be great. Instead I found myself reading a fairly above average book, with a good plot, but somewhat poor editing and style.
January 26, 2020
Stonecroft Saga
A awesome read by one of my ,favorite authors. This is gonna be a great series just like the Buckskin Chronicles are. I am really looking forward to book two of this series. I could not lay this book down. I just had to see what would happen next and how the two boys would handle it. Awesome series.
Thank you for a great read.
A awesome read by one of my ,favorite authors. This is gonna be a great series just like the Buckskin Chronicles are. I am really looking forward to book two of this series. I could not lay this book down. I just had to see what would happen next and how the two boys would handle it. Awesome series.
Thank you for a great read.
March 24, 2020
5 Stars
After reading the entire Rocky Mountain Saint series which I enjoyed. I was glad to see Mr. Rundell had started a new series. This one takes place just after the Revolutionary War. After a duel in which Gabriel Stonecroft killed his opponent. Gabriel and his friend Ezra head West to escape vengeance from the dead man's angry father.
After reading the entire Rocky Mountain Saint series which I enjoyed. I was glad to see Mr. Rundell had started a new series. This one takes place just after the Revolutionary War. After a duel in which Gabriel Stonecroft killed his opponent. Gabriel and his friend Ezra head West to escape vengeance from the dead man's angry father.
April 29, 2020
Captivating
Held my interest the entire book and left me really curious as to where the author would take his two explorers. I am really interested in this time era and Mr Rundell has his timeline down pretty well . I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys good old fashioned stories
Held my interest the entire book and left me really curious as to where the author would take his two explorers. I am really interested in this time era and Mr Rundell has his timeline down pretty well . I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys good old fashioned stories
March 8, 2025
Stonecroft Saga
The Stonecroft Saga books appear to be unlike many of the "wild western frontier" books which I have read. Oh there are encounters with indigenous peoples, encounters with highway men and river pirates, but the killing is not as colourful or gruesome as read previously.
So I am looking forward to reading this series, as you should be too!!
The Stonecroft Saga books appear to be unlike many of the "wild western frontier" books which I have read. Oh there are encounters with indigenous peoples, encounters with highway men and river pirates, but the killing is not as colourful or gruesome as read previously.
So I am looking forward to reading this series, as you should be too!!
January 22, 2020
An Exciting, comfortable Read!
Russell's life experience, education and religious teachings are enjoyable reflected in this most enjoyable early frontier tale. A blend of some hardcore action with characters readers will love keeps the pages turning!
Russell's life experience, education and religious teachings are enjoyable reflected in this most enjoyable early frontier tale. A blend of some hardcore action with characters readers will love keeps the pages turning!
January 29, 2020
This author has once again brought us a realistic story of the Old West with lots of action, suspense, and great characters. It is truly a page turner which I really enjoyed and which I highly recommend.
February 3, 2020
Good
This is a good solid start to a new series. I really enjoy this type of story about the early American explorers and all the adventures they had and the wilderness they were the first to see.
This is a good solid start to a new series. I really enjoy this type of story about the early American explorers and all the adventures they had and the wilderness they were the first to see.
February 7, 2020
Western Saga
New series with an excellent set of characters, plots, geographical insight & more combine to make a great read! As usual Rundell has plenty of action & excitement to keep the reader happy!
New series with an excellent set of characters, plots, geographical insight & more combine to make a great read! As usual Rundell has plenty of action & excitement to keep the reader happy!
March 8, 2020
Gabriel takes his best friend to explore the West!
Gabriel has killed a man in a duel. The man he killed wants revenge. The two friends hire on with some boatmen. They spread a lot of good, but must fight with pirates and bounty hunters
Gabriel has killed a man in a duel. The man he killed wants revenge. The two friends hire on with some boatmen. They spread a lot of good, but must fight with pirates and bounty hunters
March 17, 2020
The book is well written the author did his homework. Knowing the history and land marks added to the books realism.
Very enjoyable and it's nice to see authors do their homework on the subject matter they are writing about. Thanks You.
Very enjoyable and it's nice to see authors do their homework on the subject matter they are writing about. Thanks You.
March 24, 2020
Exciting
This is a well written tale, apparently thoroughly researched and close to the reality of life as it was in those times.
I'm curious as to why Gabriel's last battle wounds seemed to vanish...
This is a well written tale, apparently thoroughly researched and close to the reality of life as it was in those times.
I'm curious as to why Gabriel's last battle wounds seemed to vanish...
April 19, 2020
Good
A good read being a tad different from the regular "Western" type saga. Two close friends covering each other as they make their way to explore the West and avoid treacherous bounty hunters. By killing the son of a revengeful man in a duel the two friends must leave home.
A good read being a tad different from the regular "Western" type saga. Two close friends covering each other as they make their way to explore the West and avoid treacherous bounty hunters. By killing the son of a revengeful man in a duel the two friends must leave home.
April 22, 2020
From rich kid to exile
Interesting story. A lot of history in this tale. Well written, well edited. Professionally done. I look forward to more of Gabriel, and Ezras, story in the not yet purchased Louisiana territory.
Interesting story. A lot of history in this tale. Well written, well edited. Professionally done. I look forward to more of Gabriel, and Ezras, story in the not yet purchased Louisiana territory.
May 10, 2020
Excellent reading good from start to end looking forward to book 2
I liked the continue expectation of the story that i hope and expect book 2 to be equal interest.so where is book 2
I liked the continue expectation of the story that i hope and expect book 2 to be equal interest.so where is book 2
May 23, 2020
A saga of forced exile of two lifetime friends and their path of discovery, danger and survival. The story was strong, the characters real and likeable.
A good clean western of days gone by in a beautiful, vast wilderness. Looking forward to reading the following books in this series.
A good clean western of days gone by in a beautiful, vast wilderness. Looking forward to reading the following books in this series.
July 7, 2020
I didn't know I liked Western books!
I am currently reading to an 83-year-old nan with Parkinson's. He loves Westerns so I found the first book in this series and here we are beginning the fifth book! I'm hooked now too!
I am currently reading to an 83-year-old nan with Parkinson's. He loves Westerns so I found the first book in this series and here we are beginning the fifth book! I'm hooked now too!
August 20, 2020
Great read!
This book really transported my mind to the setting in which the book takes place. I'm not much of a fiction book reader but I enjoyed reading this Book and taking the journey with Gabriel and Ezra down the Ohio. On to the next book
This book really transported my mind to the setting in which the book takes place. I'm not much of a fiction book reader but I enjoyed reading this Book and taking the journey with Gabriel and Ezra down the Ohio. On to the next book
March 10, 2021
First Book In The Stonecraft Saga. After Killing A Man In A Duel, Gabriel Stonecraft And His Friend Ezra Decide To Head West. Their Journey Is Frought With Dangers As They Face Bounty Hunters, Indians And River Pirates
March 31, 2021
Excellent story of young Stonecroft
An excellent adventure of Gabriel and Era. Traveling by river barge down the river to get to the Mississippi River and then head West for their new journey and adventure.
An excellent adventure of Gabriel and Era. Traveling by river barge down the river to get to the Mississippi River and then head West for their new journey and adventure.
May 19, 2021
Unique
Throughly enjoyable! Good character development and interesting wresting plot and great way of o share info he gospel with others who may not be able to understand the concept of Gods free gift!!!
Throughly enjoyable! Good character development and interesting wresting plot and great way of o share info he gospel with others who may not be able to understand the concept of Gods free gift!!!
June 29, 2021
This one was very good. While reading you might not grasp all of the action going on while to best friends start an adventure after one of them was forced to kill a rich man's son.
I won't give anything away but will say Gabriel and Era will show you they are men to ride the river with.
I won't give anything away but will say Gabriel and Era will show you they are men to ride the river with.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews