In "Black Nick, the Hermit of the Hills; or, The Expiated Crime," Frederick Whittaker explores themes of redemption, isolation, and moral complexity within the backdrop of American frontier life. The novel employs a naturalistic style, vividly portraying the rugged landscapes of the hills as a reflection of the protagonist's internal struggles. Through rich character development and a narrative imbued with psychological depth, Whittaker examines the impact of societal ostracism and the que...

Ruby Roland: The protagonist, Ruby Roland, is depicted as a brave and resourceful young woman. Her intelligence and bravery lead her to take on the role of a spy, where she uses her skills to gather information and assist the American forces during the war.Simon Kenton: Simon Kenton, a real historical figure known for his role as a frontiersman and soldier, is a significant character in the novel. He serves as Ruby's mentor and protector, guiding her through the dangers and challenges of h...

In "Ruby Roland, the Girl Spy; or, Simon Kenton's Protege," Frederick Whittaker crafts a gripping tale set against the tumultuous backdrop of early American frontier life. The novel elegantly intertwines historical fiction with adventure, following the daring exploits of Ruby Roland as she navigates perilous circumstances to serve her country. Whittaker's vivid prose captures the essence of the American landscape while employing a narrative style that preserves the immediacy of the story, ...

The novel likely revolves around the character of Black Nick, who is described as a hermit living in the hills. The title suggests that Black Nick may have a mysterious or notorious reputation, possibly due to a past crime that he is seeking to atone for.As with many works of fiction from the 19th century, "Black Nick, The Hermit of The Hills" may feature elements of melodrama, adventure, and moral exploration. The novel may explore themes such as redemption, forgiveness, and the consequen...

A tall, muscular young fellow, dressed in hunter garb, came silently out of the woods from the north side of the Kentucky river, about a hundred years ago, and pausing by the bole of a gigantic beech tree, scanned the opposite shore with keen, silent attention. There was a peculiar air of resolute fearless deviltry in the face of the young hunter, coupled with the piercing, roving glances of his intensely black eyes, that showed he was no novice to the trade of hunter and scout. He was in ...

In the midst of the lonely forest, that stretched in an almost unbroken line of solitude from the head-waters of the Hudson to the Mississippi, during the last century, a small party of Indian warriors, in full war-paint, treading one in the other’s footsteps, to the number of five, stole into a little clearing formed by the hand of Nature, and halted by a spring.The sun was about to set, in an angry glow of crimson, that portended bad weather. The fiery beams shot aslant through th...

An unearthly figure of gigantic hight, but lean and attenuated as a skeleton, terrorizes American soldiers and Mohaawks. The figure was clothed in a tight black garment with steely gleams that covered it from head to foot, and a pair of short, upright horns projected from its close skull-cap, leaving exposed skin a face of deathly pallor, with great, burning black eyes, and a mustache that pointed upwards in true diabolical fashion.Who—or what is this monstrous figure, and what doe...

An unearthly figure of gigantic hight, but lean and attenuated as a skeleton, terrorizes American soldiers and Mohawks. The figure was clothed in a tight black garment with steely gleams that covered it from head to foot, and a pair of short, upright horns projected from its close skull-cap, leaving exposed skin a face of deathly pallor, with great, burning black eyes, and a mustache that pointed upwards in true diabolical fashion.Who—or what is this monstrous figure, and what does...

"Ruby Roland, the Girl Spy; or, Simon Kenton's Protege" is a captivating adventure novel set against the backdrop of the American frontier in the late 18th century. Whittaker employs a vivid narrative style, weaving elements of historical fiction with thrilling escapades that bring to life the perilous and often romanticized era of westward expansion. Centered around the strong-willed character of Ruby Roland, the story delves into themes of espionage, loyalty, and the struggle for surviva...

Our 65th issue features original stories, by Tammy Euliano (courtesy of Acquiring Editor Michael Bracken) and Phyllis Ann Karr (continuing her Bart Maverel weird western series). Plus we have “The Victorian Frock Coat,” by Clare Empson (thanks to Barb Goffman), and a great lineup of classics and modern mysteries and science fiction. Good stuff!Here’s this issue’s lineup:Mystery / Suspense:“The Intern,” by Tammy Euliano“Time After Time,” by Ha...

'Behind Enemy Lines: 40 Spy Thrillers' captures the exhilarating and treacherous world of espionage through a diverse array of narratives and literary styles. This anthology presents a mosaic of suspenseful tales, each meticulously curated to showcase the genre's rich tradition and evolution. From the gripping plots and unexpected twists to the complex character studies, the collection immerses readers in a myriad of thrilling scenarios. Each story not only stands as a solitary pillar of i...

There's an irresistible thrill to the world of spies—secrets whispered in shadowy alleys, coded messages hidden in plain sight, and daring agents who risk everything to unravel conspiracies. Spy novels captivate us because they plunge us into a world of deception and high-stakes intrigue, where nothing is ever as it seems. Whether set against the backdrop of war, international espionage, or political betrayal, these stories explore the fine line between loyalty and treachery, duty and pers...