Author:
Paul W. Feenstra is a historical fiction novelist. Meticulously researched and detailed, his character driven novels create a dramatic window into our chronicled and complex past. Born in Wellington, New Zealand, in 1959, to Dutch immigrants, Paul still commutes to Los Angeles, California, where he worked as a multiple ‘Emmy’ nominated entertainment industry professional.


Believing God speaks to him through the archangel Gabriel, and anointed with powers, Te Ua unites his people through a common cause. He is determined to drive the imperial oppressors from Maori land and return New Zealand to the righteous.

In early 1860’s New Zealand, the beautiful region of Taranaki is engulfed in a brutal land war. Continuing with its unpopular policy, the New Zealand government, bolstered by British soldiers, seeks punitive and severe action against rebel Maori who openly resist the Government’s determined effort to confiscate their lands.  With regular army forces ill equipped to fight in the wilderness, the specialist highly trained ‘Forest Rangers’ are tasked to pursue rebel Maori deep into the rugged bush clad hills.

The Rangers newest recruit, Moana (Ira) Rangitira, a veteran of the Crimean war, shows remarkable and unusual skills, Maori fear and call him, ‘The ghost who walks’. Ira faces challenges that test his will to survive, and can he protect what is closest to his heart, or has everything been destroyed?

‘The Breath of God’ is the first novel in the Moana Rangitira adventure series.

A Soldier's Journey

Wakefield Residence and New Zealand Company Office, Thorndon Flats


"Samuel Revans believes it"s a good idea, sir," said Barrett to Colonel Wakefield as they both walked past Andrew towards the colonel"s office.


"Yes, and that is what Edward has been telling me. It could however have far reaching implications if we fail," protested Wakefield. "But then again, if we succeed, it means the Crown no longer stands in the way of private enterprise, does it?"


As the two men entered Wakefield"s office leaving the door partly ajar, Andrew turned his head to listen.


"I could make the hotel available for a public forum, let the settlers and colonists speak, you"ll see the support will be there," encouraged Barrett.


Colonel Wakefield was silent as he mulled over the idea. Revans had already published a first edition of the Company"s newspaper the New Zealand Gazette in England. He could print another edition here locally and that could be used to spread the word and solicit further support.


Chapter 31