PALO DURO
by
MAX L. KNIGHT
Genre: Historical Fiction / Western
Publisher: Page Publishing, Inc.
Date of Publication: September 2, 2017
Number of Pages: 226
Scroll down for the giveaway!
Westward expansion following the civil war ushered in an era of increased conflict between the Southern Plains Indians and white settlers. Peace treaties offered temporary suspension of hostilities, but more often than not resulted in broken promises as the two cultures clashed over land. The construction of frontier forts and towns, the decimation of the buffalo herds, the movement of cattle through Indian lands to burgeoning western markets, – all of these forces threatened a way of life that had existed for centuries.
The Comanche, the Southern Cheyenne, the Kiowa, the Apache all fought to protect their customs and homelands. The clashes were characterized by savagery on both sides - Indian and white. However, finite numbers and options would ensure the tribes’ defeat; they faced certain death or forced relocation and their days were numbered.
Though the Indian wars are the focus of Palo Duro, the novel also captures the spirit of the “Old West” with its depiction of the great cattle drives from Texas into Kansas, New Mexico, Colorado and Montana, the cattle barons and the trail blazers, the outlaws and gunslingers, the lawmen and Texas Rangers, and the settlers and entrepreneurs who built this country. It chronicles an era characterized by heroism, brutality, and bold ventures while paying tribute to a genre that is fading from public consciousness – the western. It is the story of the Southwest United States towards the end of the nineteenth century and the rugged individualism that forged a nation.
5 STAR PRAISE FOR PALO DURO:
This book captured Central Texas in the post-Civil War era better than any other book I’ve read. It was well researched, well written, and easy to read. I enjoyed this book more than Empire of the Summer Moon, the standard setter. I recommend this to readers of any level, even if you dislike history, as this book is that good.
– Jeffrey R. Murray, Amazon review
Max Knight brought to life the saga of how Texas tamed their frontier. He presents a colorful experience with characters effectively placed throughout his story. If you have any interest in Texas history this book is a must read. – AmazonJacki, Amazon review
Palo Duro is an exceptional novel, well researched; a must read.
– Chuck B., Amazon review
Reading this book is a great way to deepen and appreciate one’s Texas roots – or if you are not a Texan to understand and enjoy what makes Texas, well, Texas! I found this novel to be especially entertaining as well as informative. Made me want to go back and read Lonesome Dove again! – Michael P., Amazon review
In the spirit of the old Western genre of Zane Grey and L’amour, Max Knight pays homage to our national heritage with this fictional but historically accurate labor of love that warms the heart with his vivid imagery and authentic tone of America’s illustrious and sometimes brutal past. – Chester Sosinski, Amazon review
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Max Knight’s Favorites, Part II
Each of us has our preferences in books, authors, hobbies, places, etc. These choices don’t necessarily define who we are as an individual, but they do provide interesting insights into what makes us tick! Here are a few of my favorites:
Destinations
I simply love to travel internationally and have done so extensively in Central and South America, Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. I have yet to see Australia or New Zealand and one day hope to cruise to the South Pacific. Regardless, I’m fascinated by far-away places and the diversity that these destinations offer.
Favorite Leisure Activity
Besides reading and writing, attending performances at the Majestic Theater and the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts in San Antonio. Though Broadway musicals dominate touring productions, I also enjoy more serious playwrights and stage productions, the opera, and the symphony.
Cuisine
French - only because I forced myself to choose one, and I love rich sauces and gravies!
Culture
Greece - I love the people, their zest for life, their language, lifestyle, music, food, and history. If ever I identified with a single culture, it would be the Greeks. Opa!
Location
The Bavarian Mountains - the scenic beauty of Germany, Austria, and Switzerland is stunning!
Sport
College football - I sometimes wish I only had one or two key conference match-ups to watch each weekend as the broadcast of so many games can be overwhelming. However, I always hate to see the regular season and the bowl games come to an end and can’t wait ‘til next season!
Team
My Fightin’ Texas Aggies. As a proud graduate of Texas A&M University, I live and breathe maroon and white. That reality can be painful at times, but there is always the expectation and exhilaration of the next kickoff. We may get outscored, but we’ve never been licked. Gig ‘Em!
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One Winner: Signed copy of Palo Duro + $20 Amazon Gift Card Two Winners: Signed Copies of Palo Duro JANUARY 10-19, 2018
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VISIT THE OTHER GREAT BLOGS ON THE TOUR:
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Promo
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1/10/18
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Character Interview
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1/11/18
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Review
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1/12/18
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Favorites, Part 1
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1/12/18
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Guest Post
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1/13/18
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Review
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Review
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Excerpt
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1/15/18
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Favorites, Part 2
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Review
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Author Interview
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1/17/18
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Playlist
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1/18/18
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Review
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Scrapbook Page
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1/19/18
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Review
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Gig 'Em Aggies! Can't wait to read this book. Thanks for the post!
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