The Rule of Ranging, Book 2: Into the Valley of Quietus

In Kestrel's uneven sequel to Eclipse of the Midnight Sun, the elderly Mr. Morton continues telling journalist Henry Raymond of his experiences as a wanderer named Finn in 18th-century America. As the British and French struggle for influence with Native American tribes and fight each other, stalwart militia leader Robert Rogers contends with incompetent British officials and leads his rugged Rogers Rangers%E2%80%94of which Finn becomes a member%E2%80%94in irregular warfare. Amid the turmoil, Finn enjoys the company of friends Fronto, Gus, and Daniel, and mourns the loss of his love, Rosie, while finding occasional solace elsewhere. Much like the previous volume, Kestrel's novel is full of adventure, battle, derring-do, and excitement. However, underdeveloped characters and poorly constructed dialogue%E2%80%94along with the occasional anachronism%E2%80%94will take readers out of an otherwise engaging story.