What do you think?
Rate this book
Stonecroft Saga #3
Westward The Wilderness
B.N. RUNDELL KEEPS YOU COMING BACK FOR MORE IN BOOK THREE OF THE FAST-MOVING STONECROFT SAGA.
Osage, Kansa, Otoe, were all tribes west of the Mississippi and dwelt directly in the path of the two friends determined to escape the bounty hunters from Philadelphia and to explore the uncharted wilderness of the west. But when they encounter former French Voyageurs turned slave traders that take Pawnee women captive, their purposes take a turn. But slave-traders are nothing compared to the Omaha and Ponca tribes that have the market cornered on all trade from the Missouri and North Platte Rivers.
But Gabe Stone and Ezra Blackwell, lifetime friends and companions on this journey of discovery, find themselves befriending the Omaha and Ponca and then suddenly paired with the daughter of the most powerful chief in the territory. With every turn they meet a new challenge and just when they think they’re on their way into the uncharted wilderness, they are faced with a new challenge, the like of which they never imagined. Confronted by a company of Soldado de cuera, the exclusive corps of the Spanish Empire, and a band of Maroons made up of runaway and freed slaves, they have to make a choice that could mean the end of their journey, if not their lives.
Can two men really make a difference in a battle such as this?
Osage, Kansa, Otoe, were all tribes west of the Mississippi and dwelt directly in the path of the two friends determined to escape the bounty hunters from Philadelphia and to explore the uncharted wilderness of the west. But when they encounter former French Voyageurs turned slave traders that take Pawnee women captive, their purposes take a turn. But slave-traders are nothing compared to the Omaha and Ponca tribes that have the market cornered on all trade from the Missouri and North Platte Rivers.
But Gabe Stone and Ezra Blackwell, lifetime friends and companions on this journey of discovery, find themselves befriending the Omaha and Ponca and then suddenly paired with the daughter of the most powerful chief in the territory. With every turn they meet a new challenge and just when they think they’re on their way into the uncharted wilderness, they are faced with a new challenge, the like of which they never imagined. Confronted by a company of Soldado de cuera, the exclusive corps of the Spanish Empire, and a band of Maroons made up of runaway and freed slaves, they have to make a choice that could mean the end of their journey, if not their lives.
Can two men really make a difference in a battle such as this?
- GenresWesterns
266 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 18, 2020
1365 people are currently reading
57 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.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
March 6, 2020
Bob Rundell – Stonecroft Saga Bk 3 – Westward The Wilderness – Reviewed 3/5/20 – Read 3/2/20
Leaving friends, making friends, protecting friends and saving friends, another day in the uncharted west! Paradise…
After spending the winter with the Osage Indians the boys, Gabe Stone and Ezra Blackwell continue on their adventure of seeking out the unexplored parts of the west. Having left the Osage due to concerns for them because of the problems they had brought with them when they left home. The father of the man that Gabe had shot and killed defending the honor of his sister, just will not give up. Sending bounty hunters, after Gabe’s head!!!! Having been raised by an honor driven man, in addition to Ezra’s background with his father being a minister of a large church, both men were conscious of the safety of others around them.
Shortly after leaving the Osages they came upon a village of Missouria Indians, after approaching with the friend signs the men traded with them. One item that they traded for was for new buckskins, but the Missourians wore breechcloths, so they had to wait till the next day while the women made them. During the night Ebony woke Gabe up, snorting and stomping his feet. Trouble again was upon them. Well, this time it was not them but the village. A group of Pawnee warriors was positioning themselves to attack the village. Having warned the chief, they set about helping to defend them. As the fighting ended there was only one warrior left and he was injured. Gabe and Ezra also were of the mind not to kill anyone unless they had to defend either themselves or their friends, Therefore, when he told the chief about the injured warrior the chief wanted him killed or Gabe could keep him for a slave. This seemed so very wrong but it was the only way to save the warrior. Gabe and Ezra decided to return the warrior to his people, and it would give him time to heal. During the trip, they learned that the way of the people was to capture young women to offer them to their Gods for bountiful crops. This was the beginning of the tale that led them to more slavers, the French Canadians that captured Indian women for selling. Mark your calendars for March 18th, for this awesome read and see how the boys deal with the things that were happening around them.
What did I like? Gabe and Ezra are doing just what I would have wanted to do if I had been born of that time. I love adventure, of course, everyone knows that I feel like I should have been born back then, LOL! They are amazing and I love the interaction between the two men. The easy companionship and their beliefs are what this nation needs at this time. It is too bad that we can’t teach the people around us the values that these men have.
What will you like? Interesting, intriguing, action, fighting, defending, meeting new people and see new things all lead to this remarkable adventure that is being shared with us. The humor and historical details are sprinkled throughout the storyline. Add the characters they meet and some they dispense with and you have the most incredible read of the series yet. Bob Rundell has the background to give us this astonishing journey of the two adventures, learning the ways of the land, the people, and seeing the incredible beauty of the world around them. Be sure to add this to your library, which will be available soon.
• File Size: 2272 KB
• Print Length: 225 pages
• Publication Date: March 18, 2020
• Genre: Westerns, Western Fiction Classic, Classic Literature & Fiction
Leaving friends, making friends, protecting friends and saving friends, another day in the uncharted west! Paradise…
After spending the winter with the Osage Indians the boys, Gabe Stone and Ezra Blackwell continue on their adventure of seeking out the unexplored parts of the west. Having left the Osage due to concerns for them because of the problems they had brought with them when they left home. The father of the man that Gabe had shot and killed defending the honor of his sister, just will not give up. Sending bounty hunters, after Gabe’s head!!!! Having been raised by an honor driven man, in addition to Ezra’s background with his father being a minister of a large church, both men were conscious of the safety of others around them.
Shortly after leaving the Osages they came upon a village of Missouria Indians, after approaching with the friend signs the men traded with them. One item that they traded for was for new buckskins, but the Missourians wore breechcloths, so they had to wait till the next day while the women made them. During the night Ebony woke Gabe up, snorting and stomping his feet. Trouble again was upon them. Well, this time it was not them but the village. A group of Pawnee warriors was positioning themselves to attack the village. Having warned the chief, they set about helping to defend them. As the fighting ended there was only one warrior left and he was injured. Gabe and Ezra also were of the mind not to kill anyone unless they had to defend either themselves or their friends, Therefore, when he told the chief about the injured warrior the chief wanted him killed or Gabe could keep him for a slave. This seemed so very wrong but it was the only way to save the warrior. Gabe and Ezra decided to return the warrior to his people, and it would give him time to heal. During the trip, they learned that the way of the people was to capture young women to offer them to their Gods for bountiful crops. This was the beginning of the tale that led them to more slavers, the French Canadians that captured Indian women for selling. Mark your calendars for March 18th, for this awesome read and see how the boys deal with the things that were happening around them.
What did I like? Gabe and Ezra are doing just what I would have wanted to do if I had been born of that time. I love adventure, of course, everyone knows that I feel like I should have been born back then, LOL! They are amazing and I love the interaction between the two men. The easy companionship and their beliefs are what this nation needs at this time. It is too bad that we can’t teach the people around us the values that these men have.
What will you like? Interesting, intriguing, action, fighting, defending, meeting new people and see new things all lead to this remarkable adventure that is being shared with us. The humor and historical details are sprinkled throughout the storyline. Add the characters they meet and some they dispense with and you have the most incredible read of the series yet. Bob Rundell has the background to give us this astonishing journey of the two adventures, learning the ways of the land, the people, and seeing the incredible beauty of the world around them. Be sure to add this to your library, which will be available soon.
• File Size: 2272 KB
• Print Length: 225 pages
• Publication Date: March 18, 2020
• Genre: Westerns, Western Fiction Classic, Classic Literature & Fiction
January 16, 2024
"**Westward The Wilderness**" by Dorothy Wiley is an immersive plunge into the heart of the American frontier, a narrative that vividly captures the grit, determination, and untamed beauty of the wilderness. Right from the start, Wiley crafts a story that pulls readers into a world where survival and love intertwine against the backdrop of the untamed West.
The novel's strength lies in its ability to transport readers to a time when the wilderness was both friend and foe. Wiley's writing is evocative, painting a raw and authentic picture of the characters, their challenges, and the unforgiving landscapes they navigate. The protagonists, with their indomitable spirits, become a driving force through this historical tapestry, making the journey a focal point for readers invested in the untold stories of America's pioneers.
What sets "**Westward The Wilderness**" apart is its exploration of the indomitable human spirit and the pursuit of a better life. Wiley skillfully weaves a tale that delves into the complexities of love and survival, against the majestic but perilous canvas of the American West. The novel masterfully balances the harsh realities of the frontier with moments of tenderness and the forging of unbreakable bonds.
The pacing of the novel is well-crafted, allowing readers to experience the ebb and flow of the characters' lives in the wilderness. Wiley's writing style is accessible, creating a seamless connection between the reader and the characters' arduous journey. The inclusion of historical details adds authenticity to the narrative, providing readers with a window into the challenges faced by those who dared to venture westward.
In conclusion, "**Westward The Wilderness**" is a must-read for those who appreciate historical sagas that blend adventure, romance, and the triumph of the human spirit. Dorothy Wiley's storytelling prowess, coupled with well-developed characters and a meticulously researched historical backdrop, makes this novel a compelling and authentic exploration of the untamed American West. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply seeking a gripping tale of pioneers forging their way through the wilderness, "**Westward The Wilderness**" offers a captivating and immersive reading experience.
The novel's strength lies in its ability to transport readers to a time when the wilderness was both friend and foe. Wiley's writing is evocative, painting a raw and authentic picture of the characters, their challenges, and the unforgiving landscapes they navigate. The protagonists, with their indomitable spirits, become a driving force through this historical tapestry, making the journey a focal point for readers invested in the untold stories of America's pioneers.
What sets "**Westward The Wilderness**" apart is its exploration of the indomitable human spirit and the pursuit of a better life. Wiley skillfully weaves a tale that delves into the complexities of love and survival, against the majestic but perilous canvas of the American West. The novel masterfully balances the harsh realities of the frontier with moments of tenderness and the forging of unbreakable bonds.
The pacing of the novel is well-crafted, allowing readers to experience the ebb and flow of the characters' lives in the wilderness. Wiley's writing style is accessible, creating a seamless connection between the reader and the characters' arduous journey. The inclusion of historical details adds authenticity to the narrative, providing readers with a window into the challenges faced by those who dared to venture westward.
In conclusion, "**Westward The Wilderness**" is a must-read for those who appreciate historical sagas that blend adventure, romance, and the triumph of the human spirit. Dorothy Wiley's storytelling prowess, coupled with well-developed characters and a meticulously researched historical backdrop, makes this novel a compelling and authentic exploration of the untamed American West. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply seeking a gripping tale of pioneers forging their way through the wilderness, "**Westward The Wilderness**" offers a captivating and immersive reading experience.
September 30, 2021
I’m enjoying the Stonecroft series immensely. The second book in particular takes you to the world of the Osage in what is now Missouri. The third adds other indigenous cultures and pre-European geographies that are truly wild and fun. The research on the Spanish and French is not as thorough in the third book as other historical and linguistic events. Little things that are annoying to a linguist only. For example, Spanish names are used with proper orthographic accents but not on the word, Capitán. The word, Mestizo, is too generalized. Other than moments like this, 5 stars.
March 23, 2020
Good
I am honestly in a little bit of a bother describing and even rating these books. I’m enjoying them, they are an hour or two of reading, but then in the end I feel that there are not really a lot happening. Sure, they are fun but I think I’ve been spoiled by a few of the other exceptional western authors that I’ve had the pleasure of reading and I’m doing the author the disservice of comparing his work to theirs.
I am honestly in a little bit of a bother describing and even rating these books. I’m enjoying them, they are an hour or two of reading, but then in the end I feel that there are not really a lot happening. Sure, they are fun but I think I’ve been spoiled by a few of the other exceptional western authors that I’ve had the pleasure of reading and I’m doing the author the disservice of comparing his work to theirs.
March 18, 2020
This volume of Westward The Wilderness continues and if you enjoy history of the American West before 1830 you will like this book. The main characters Gabe and Ezra rescue some Indians captured by French slavers and then help a group of free blacks fight off an attack by Spanish soldiers. Fairly well written story with plenty of action.
March 20, 2020
Very interesting read
This series is apparently well researched. As a historian, much is accurate. However, there should have been a more qualified editor. This did not detract from my pleasure in the well developed characters. Much thanks for a good read. As many stars as possIble.
This series is apparently well researched. As a historian, much is accurate. However, there should have been a more qualified editor. This did not detract from my pleasure in the well developed characters. Much thanks for a good read. As many stars as possIble.
March 31, 2020
Fantastic Series
Go back in time when the country was wild and unexplored by the white man. Gabe and childhood friend Ezra set out on an adventure of a lifetime fighting pirates, Indians and French traders.
Good clean book...it was a pleasure to read this Saga series. I will be reading more of B N Rundell's books.
Go back in time when the country was wild and unexplored by the white man. Gabe and childhood friend Ezra set out on an adventure of a lifetime fighting pirates, Indians and French traders.
Good clean book...it was a pleasure to read this Saga series. I will be reading more of B N Rundell's books.
April 1, 2020
Westward The Wilderness
Westward the wilderness
This was an interestering book with historical fiction thrown in. It kept my attention and wanted to see the next chapter. However it didn’t leave me wanting to see a sequel like the Saint books, I read all three of those and enjoyed them. This was a tamer version of Indian problems. It is worth reading though.
Westward the wilderness
This was an interestering book with historical fiction thrown in. It kept my attention and wanted to see the next chapter. However it didn’t leave me wanting to see a sequel like the Saint books, I read all three of those and enjoyed them. This was a tamer version of Indian problems. It is worth reading though.
April 12, 2020
This is Book #3 in the Stonecroft series and is another action packed story of the Old West from this author. The character development is excellent; the historical research accurate; and the heartfelt faith inspiring story draws you in and when finished you find yourself wishing for the next one in the series. I enjoyed this story and highly recommend it.
April 26, 2020
Slavery... have never read a mountain man book that dealt well with it until now.
In a real sense we are all slaves to our masters of greed, self satisfaction, temptations. This book dealt with humans that lived as slaves to cruel masters, they fought, some died, a few managed to live free. The adventures of This strange pair of adventurers continues!
In a real sense we are all slaves to our masters of greed, self satisfaction, temptations. This book dealt with humans that lived as slaves to cruel masters, they fought, some died, a few managed to live free. The adventures of This strange pair of adventurers continues!
March 18, 2020
This is one of the most enjoyable, easy reading early frontier novels ever. The author brilliantly brings to life the heart-tugging realistic characters surviving against all odds of unscrupulous bounty hunters, natives and criminals in the wilds of western America.
March 23, 2020
Westward The Wilderness
Thank you B. N. Rundell for a great read.l look forward to another awesome read next month. I really enjoy your 📚. You can picture the trees and trails right along with the story. It’s like your right there with the boy’s on their journey.
Thank you B. N. Rundell for a great read.l look forward to another awesome read next month. I really enjoy your 📚. You can picture the trees and trails right along with the story. It’s like your right there with the boy’s on their journey.
April 1, 2020
Christian Proselytizing
The author interrupts the story to write a Christian sermon that is based on superstition. People that are Christians might enjoy the book but no more books from this author for me.
The author interrupts the story to write a Christian sermon that is based on superstition. People that are Christians might enjoy the book but no more books from this author for me.
April 6, 2020
5 Stars
In the Stonecroft Saga book 3, Gabe and Ezra head further west meeting new Indian tribes some friendly some not. A tribe mixed with former slaves and Indians and some Spanish soldier's who are after the slaves. Plenty of action.
In the Stonecroft Saga book 3, Gabe and Ezra head further west meeting new Indian tribes some friendly some not. A tribe mixed with former slaves and Indians and some Spanish soldier's who are after the slaves. Plenty of action.
April 23, 2020
Another book of Gabe and Ezra and their tours,
Gabe and Ezra seem to always helping other people. They save a village of escaped slaves, All the time they are seeing new country. The descriptions of the mountains are so vivid that you there seeing it with them.
Gabe and Ezra seem to always helping other people. They save a village of escaped slaves, All the time they are seeing new country. The descriptions of the mountains are so vivid that you there seeing it with them.
April 24, 2020
Book three was as good as it's predessor, now for #4
All the books in this saga have been 5 rated, and as the saga goes this one is no different. As I stated before I will pass these books on to my family and friends to read.
Robert Schultz
All the books in this saga have been 5 rated, and as the saga goes this one is no different. As I stated before I will pass these books on to my family and friends to read.
Robert Schultz
June 23, 2020
Wonderfully written western
I love the description of the country. The relationship of two adventuring friends wh o are always ready to help their neighbor. Ezra, a young Blackman and his friend Nate head west to explore unchartered region
I love the description of the country. The relationship of two adventuring friends wh o are always ready to help their neighbor. Ezra, a young Blackman and his friend Nate head west to explore unchartered region
July 11, 2020
Good story
The other accounts of buffalo hunting I've read say if you just shoot them, they don't stampede. Of course, riding into them, shooting and yelling would probably cause anything to stampede.
The other accounts of buffalo hunting I've read say if you just shoot them, they don't stampede. Of course, riding into them, shooting and yelling would probably cause anything to stampede.
July 31, 2020
Another brilliant story which you could not put down
Another enthralling story from the master writer of western stories which kept your attention to read just one more chapter before you put the story down for the night
Another enthralling story from the master writer of western stories which kept your attention to read just one more chapter before you put the story down for the night
December 1, 2020
Travelers
This series keeps me wanting more I’m glad I brought the four in the series. Adventures that keep to their golds, and do not let pretty ladies slow them down is how the West was won
This series keeps me wanting more I’m glad I brought the four in the series. Adventures that keep to their golds, and do not let pretty ladies slow them down is how the West was won
December 25, 2020
And then there was more....
Each book in this series just whetes the appetite for more of the beauty of the land of early America. Traveling through God's country become a passion gifted to the reader.
Each book in this series just whetes the appetite for more of the beauty of the land of early America. Traveling through God's country become a passion gifted to the reader.
February 5, 2024
Gabe and Ezra have sure come along way since leaving Pennsylvania. Leaving the Osage they continue on their journey and run into some slavers. Now that doesn't sit well. They seem to soak up information about the old west as they go.
March 20, 2020
Disapointment
You can do much better than this. If you cannot you surely disappoint me. Loved all of the books TILL this one. More adventure less politics.
You can do much better than this. If you cannot you surely disappoint me. Loved all of the books TILL this one. More adventure less politics.
March 20, 2020
Good five star!
B.N. Rochelle writes a very readable story, which also is educational about life in the old west. I enjoyed reading this book and recommend it to you.
B.N. Rochelle writes a very readable story, which also is educational about life in the old west. I enjoyed reading this book and recommend it to you.
March 23, 2020
Great read.
Excellent book and adventure of early America. You are a great story teller. Can't wait for the up coming books.
Excellent book and adventure of early America. You are a great story teller. Can't wait for the up coming books.
April 3, 2020
Good book
Read all of the books in order to really enjoy. Storyline continues to grow and develop. Characters are realistic and get better and better.
Read all of the books in order to really enjoy. Storyline continues to grow and develop. Characters are realistic and get better and better.
May 28, 2020
Good read. Lots of history explained. Good descriptions of country and people. Plenty of bible quotes.
July 18, 2020
Was a very good read
Hope the next one is as good. I’m sure it will be.i hope to read the ones after this one again.
Hope the next one is as good. I’m sure it will be.i hope to read the ones after this one again.
September 21, 2020
So far So good
This series has really been a good read. I enjoy the interesting bits of information of history and different verses of the Bible.
So far So good!!
This series has really been a good read. I enjoy the interesting bits of information of history and different verses of the Bible.
So far So good!!
October 17, 2020
Russell writes super captivating novels
I just finished book three i n this series and it was even better than two. I love his writing style.
I just finished book three i n this series and it was even better than two. I love his writing style.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews