Release Blitz: For Want of a Shilling by Paul W. Feenstra

For Want of a Shilling by Paul W. Feenstra

Moana Rangitira series (book 2)

Mellester Press (February 2, 2018)

511 pages

Historical Fiction/Historical Military Thriller

The mysterious Russian invasion hoax that shook colonial New Zealand.

In January 1873, New Zealand, in a sparsely populated coastal community on Wellington’s south coast, the peaceful lives of Owhiro Bay residents are shattered with the discovery of two brutal and senseless murders. What begins as a local murder investigation turns into a plot of global proportions. From the political agenda of England’s Prime Minister, the Machiavellian son of Russia’s Tsar, to the famed exploits of America’s Confederate ship Alabama. Intricately researched, this story uses many recorded historical events and people to weave a story of intrigue, conspiracy and greed. Returning in ‘For Want of a Shilling’, veteran soldier and local constable, Sergeant Moana Rangitira of the Armed Constabulary, investigates the murders, which leads him in frantic pursuit of Russians through the streets of Wellington. The trail leads northwards where he encounters smugglers, and his violent past as a Forest Ranger remerges to haunt him when he is pursued by a Maori war party, intent on revenge, through Taranaki’s rugged bush and wilderness. Eventually confronting the Russians in the dark waters of Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour, he discovers they want more than information.

Can Sergeant Rangitira, prevent the Russians from fulfilling their ultimate goal, and can he prevent Russia and England from going to war?

AMAZON

BARNES AND NOBLE

REVIEW

When reading a Paul Feenstra book, I know that he is going to keep me engrossed in the story. I always learn something new in history but in an entertaining way, not in a textbook-type way. I don’t have a habit of reading in the history/historical fiction genre, but if Paul writes it, I’m reading it. You can tell he has research deeply. He includes real historical events/people/locations that relate to the story and makes the story that much richer.

His latest release takes place in February 1873. Russia is taking advantage of New Zealand’s weaken military forces and sends a warship into their waters. Politics are put into play, as well as a murder, thief, a Maori revenge attempt, kidnappings, and more. Two men have a huge part in thwarting the Russian plans without a war breaking out along with drawing attention to New Zealand need to improve their defenses from future attacks on their land.

Another great book by Paul W. Feenstra.

EXCERPT

There are fighters and there are brawlers. The difference between the two is that a brawler uses his strength and intimidation with no finesse or flair to overcome his opponent. A fighter measures his man, he calculates, and uses skill and ability to overcome his adversary quickly.

Watch a promo tease:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DlAktJ6EK8k

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Paul W. Feenstra is a historical fiction novelist. He has authored four novels, Boundary, The Breath of God, For Want of a Shilling, and Tied to Mae. He is currently writing his fifth ‘Into the Shade’. Meticulously researched, and set in beautiful and mysterious New Zealand, Paul’s novels frequently detail early colonial life, and the impact colonialism had on native Maori. Says Feenstra, “History is about the untold story, and writing historical fiction is a wonderful way to present the past in a compelling and entertaining way.” Born in Wellington, New Zealand, in 1959, to Dutch immigrants, Paul still commutes frequently to Los Angeles, California, where he worked as a multiple ‘Emmy’ nominated entertainment industry professional. For over 25 years he called the USA home and was fortunate to travel extensively throughout the country. His two grown children still reside in Los Angeles. Sought after as a public speaker by various learning institutions, professional member networks, and countless organisations, Paul has toured the length of New Zealand lecturing about his unique experiences in the Hollywood film and television industry. Recognised for his contribution in helping his country, Paul was honoured by the New Zealand government and invited to join the prestigious, ‘World Class New Zealand,’ network. In his spare time, he enjoys photography and wrestling bears.