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

  Ira caught a cab to the Armed Constabulary depot in Mount Cook. He marched Jim into the building, which contained the cells. The duty constable greeted Ira warmly.


  "I heard you were in town, Ira.  Good to see ya," said Constable Ben Timmons.


  "Normal stuff, nothing exciting," replied Ben, who was appraising the sullen prisoner.


  "Ben, I need you to hold this gentleman for me.  He says his name is Jim.  Please keep a close eye on him. It is important he remain here. Oh, yeah, and Jim has friends who would like to see him acquire his liberty. I will be back soon, although I do need to track down the commissioner first."


  "Jim, it's a pleasure to meet you.  Perhaps you would care to join me so I can show you your accommodation.  We hope it's to your satisfaction and high standards," Ben said, slowly leading Jim away by the elbow.


Chapter 93