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

February 7th, 1873, S.S Rangitoto, Cook Strait. 2330


  Captain Mackie saw the Russians alter course; soon they would flank the Rangitoto. Countering their move, Mackie made another slight course adjustment.


  	"Aye, Captain," came the immediate response.


  	The new heading placed the bow of the Russian ship directly to the rear of Rangitoto's stern, which was exactly what Mackie wanted. But now they were also aiming at the coastline; they couldn't hold this course for long.


  	Paddy returned to the quarterdeck after unsuccessfully trying to help the Purser calm the passengers. He stood beside the captain, nervously sucking on his unlit pipe.


  	"They're pretty upset, Captain. The Purser's doin' his best, but..."


  	"Thanks, Paddy," said Mackie. "Now I need you to check on the progress Rob is making aft, because we need to take action very soon, or they'll be on us."


Chapter 70