Book Blurb:
IN THE HEART OF 18TH-CENTURY ENGLAND, ON THE MOORS AND AMIDST THE GRIMY ALLEYS OF LEEDS, THE LIVES OF JOHN AND ROBERT RUSHWORTH UNFOLD IN A GRIPPING SAGA OF AMBITION, DANGER AND REDEMPTION.
Leaving the desolate moors behind, the brothers venture to Leeds with dreams of escaping poverty's clutches and carving their names into the annals of history.
In a world teeming with beggars, cutpurses and outlaws, the Rushworth brothers navigate treacherous paths, facing fear and uncertainty head on. Amidst the backdrop of a ruthless era, where murder and theft weave a web of ominous intrigue, the enigmatic tavern keeper, Smythe, holds their fates in his hands.
A pirate captain, Captain Girlington, steps into their lives, harbouring secrets and a choice between love and the call of the sea. The brutish Jacob Wilding enters the fray, driven by relentless determination to capture Robert Rushworth and claim a perilous reward.
Bound by a curse that threatens to consume them, the Rushworth brothers must confront their inner demons and forge a path back to success.
In a tale where historical fact merges seamlessly with heart-pounding fiction, Dream of Courage unravels a tapestry of suspense, intrigue and human resilience to be experienced...
"Another great work by a very talented author who loves his period works and characters from his great plots. He writes with verve and intent to deliver the imagination something unexpected and greatly appreciated... Brilliant..." Gavin, Readalot Magazine reviewer
Book Buy Link: https://geni.us/eqgkk
Author Bio:
Paul's novels are authentic and gritty, with twists and turns the reader won't see coming. He paints a realistic image of how peasants would have lived in the 16th and 17th centuries. However, that is only the backdrop to suspenseful and mysterious stories with romantic tones. His novel 'Red Winter Journey' https://bit.ly/3WXHVUs has been nominated for the NSW Premier's Literary Awards (Christina Stead Prize for fiction). His new novel 'Dream of Courage' has been long-listed for the Historical Fiction Club’s Book of the Year Award and will be released in November.
Paul has been a guest on ABC, BBC, and America Tonight with Kate Delaney and regularly features on the Witty Writers Show in the US. The US Times https://bit.ly/3ZXOfNT said, 'Modern writers usually don't know what it was like to live in the past, but Rushworth-Brown does this with great skill in his accomplished, atmospheric and thoughtful novels.' https://bit.ly/3C9GFoO
Editorial Review:
In Dream of Courage: Facing Fear Head On, author Paul Rushworth-Brown crafts a vivid and captivating narrative set against the backdrop of eighteenth-century England. With its blend of historical drama, adventure, and intrigue, this book weaves a thrilling tale that grips the reader from the first page to the last. It’s a story of fortune-seeking, betrayal, and survival, led by two brothers, John and Robert Rushworth, whose lives are suddenly thrust into peril when an opportunistic man named Jacob Wilding sees his chance to change his own fate—by cashing in on the bounty on Robert’s head.
At the heart of the story is the Rushworth brothers' quest to make their fortune, a dream shared by many of their contemporaries. What sets this tale apart from other works of historical fiction, however, is its deep sense of adventure and the way it draws the reader into a swashbuckling world. Rushworth-Brown’s narrative bursts with colorful characters, treacherous seas, and perilous journeys—evoking an atmosphere that feels both historically grounded and exhilaratingly cinematic. The story is fast-paced, filled with twists, danger, and a dash of forbidden love, making it impossible for readers to put the book down. The novel’s central tension revolves around whether Jacob will succeed in capturing Robert or if the brothers can evade danger and find the fortune they so desperately seek.
Rushworth-Brown’s mastery lies not only in his action-packed plotting but in his detailed and accessible prose. His writing is clear, vivid, and richly descriptive, allowing readers to immerse themselves fully in the world he has recreated. Through his attention to historical accuracy and scene-setting, readers can easily imagine the tumultuous, adventure-filled lives of the Rushworth brothers—an experience far more exhilarating than what most citizens of eighteenth-century England could have hoped for. The meticulous descriptions of life at sea, the ever-present threat of piracy, and the brothers' struggles with their own fears are brought to life with remarkable clarity.
One of the standout features of Dream of Courage is Rushworth-Brown’s skillful use of historical detail. His deep passion for history shines through in his writing, and he brings the time period to life in a way that is both educational and engaging. The inclusion of footnotes adds a unique layer to the book, giving readers insight into historical terms and concepts that might otherwise be obscure. It’s a thoughtful addition, particularly for those less familiar with the intricacies of the era, allowing for a deeper understanding of everything from food to job descriptions. This level of historical context enhances the reading experience, offering both storytelling and education—a rare combination in historical fiction.
The book’s pacing is another one of its strengths. The plot moves swiftly, with one action-packed scene following another, ensuring that readers stay hooked throughout. Rushworth-Brown’s ability to maintain momentum keeps the reader turning pages, which is especially crucial in a novel of this length. At nearly five hundred pages, Dream of Courage could be daunting for readers unaccustomed to longer works, but the author’s command of pacing and suspense ensures that the story never drags. For those who enjoy fast-paced, high-stakes narratives, this book will be a welcome escape into another time.
The primary audience for Dream of Courage will likely be readers of historical fiction and adventure lovers, as it expertly blends the two genres. The novel’s mixture of history, mystery, and action also makes it accessible to readers who may be new to historical fiction. Although the book is part of a series, its self-contained narrative will satisfy readers on its own, while also leaving them eager for more. Those who enjoy rich, detailed worlds, where the stakes are high and the characters are constantly in peril, will find themselves immersed in this enthralling tale.
Paul Rushworth-Brown’s Dream of Courage: Facing Fear Head On is a fantastic addition to the historical fiction genre. The novel’s seamless blend of history, adventure, and dynamic characters makes it a thoroughly enjoyable read. The story’s action-packed sequences, layered mysteries, and intricate historical details will leave readers clamoring for the next installment. It’s a novel that combines excitement with education and will appeal to fans of both genres.
With its compelling narrative, masterful storytelling, and unique historical insights, Dream of Courage: Facing Fear Head On earns a well-deserved 4.5 out of 5 stars. This is a must-read for anyone who craves adventure, history, and the thrill of a well-told tale.
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