Joseph Edmund Collins (1855–1892)

A novel based on factual accounts that transpired during the 1840s in Canada.

The opening chapter feels like a it's going to be a romantic tale between Roland and his dream woman, Aster. Roland is an honourable young man - so honourable that he challenges his rival-in-love to a duel for being discourteous towards him.

Next, during the duel scene with the cowardly Mr Ham, the tone becomes more humourous. Afterwards, and for the rest of this short novel, the mood is sombre and sometimes dark.

Through his pride Roland has to go on the run from the law. In doing so he encounters the leader of four highwaymen and, being wounded, he takes shelter in the outlaws cavern in Markham Swamp, where he must reside for some time.

On the whole I enjoyed this tale as a one-off read.… (meer)