A taste of history viewed through the eyes of many different cultures, this book is one of a kind, telling the tales, of the beginnings of the French and Indiana War, through the eyes of A Scottish Mountain Man and a few others.
Many, who are unfamiliar with the on goings of this War, don't recognize how much history comes from the Mountain men of that time. These men were a big part of the Marketing industry then. They also were responsible for guiding most through the woods and rough terrain for they were the ones providing the paths.
With an excellent dialect of the Scottish, English, Native Americans, and British, this story takes you back in time as you begin to read the words, and makes you an actual part of the story. Written in such detail a reader gets a vivid picture of the surroundings described on the page.
An excellent book for American history teachers to have their students read! This book provides factual reading in a more interesting way than most books with a history theme.
Giving examples in the story line of events and situations not commonly talked about when the French and Indian War subject is on the table, makes one want to read more because of gaining knowledge not offered in most schools or other text books.
The Author provides for his readers reenactment pictures of different events in the book to give his readers a better understanding of what the cultural dress was back in that day! A fantastic Idea!
Being a lover of history, and an American Indiana myself, also marrying into Scottish descent I can appreciate and relate to everything about this book! I would recommend it to all who enjoys a good read about the past of America!
Reviewed on 04/12/2010 by ReviewTheBook.com Member Michelle Lichtenfels
“Ambush in the Alleghenies”, takes you on a wonderful journey to the untamed wilderness of the American frontier at the beginning of the French and Indian War. We meet trappers Lightnin’ Jack Hawkins and his friend Scotsman, Alexander MacDonald, as they traverse the wild frontier. Along the way they are captured by the French, plan their escape, and are joined by Will Cutler, who managed to escape from the Indians that murdered his father. Trekking through the rough land to reach the trading post, they meet a young General by the name of George Washington. Agreeing to be his guide, they now find themselves in the middle of his militia. Unable to forget the images of the battle of Culloden, Alexander questions whether he will continue in the militia. Along the way they encounter many Indians, including Bold Wolf, the man who killed Cutler’s father. We witness Will come into his own and earn the name, Big Cat Cutler. With danger lurking around every corner, they encounter numerous attacks from the French, Indians, wild animals and the weather. With the end of each trail a new one takes its place. In the mean time, Will has his heart and mind set on winning the love of the Indian Princess, Bright Star. When given the chance to settle down in one place will Alex and Jack stay, or will they be moved by the wind?
“Ambush in the Alleghenies”, is so full of action and adventure it practically explodes from the pages. Complete with a glossary, map, character list, and a bibliography, which includes a multitude of interesting web sites. Robertson and Rimer, offer a unique glimpse into life on the American frontier. They have also included a variety of amazing photos.
If you are looking for historical novel that will both inform and entertain, then “Ambush in the Alleghenies” is the book for you. With characters such as Lightnin’ Jack, Bearbite Bob, Big Cat Cutler, and even an appearance by Daniel Boone, how can one resist taking this unforgettable journey. William P. Robertson and David Rimer have added another action filled novel to what I’m sure is a wonderful collection of historical novels.
Reviewed on 08/06/2009 by ReviewTheBook.com Member Angela Simmons