Sunset Pass; or, Running the Gauntlet Through Apache Land

by Charles King

Overview

In Sunset Pass, or Running the Gauntlet Through Apache Land, Charles King delivers a gripping tale of courage, survival, and the relentless pursuit of justice on the untamed American frontier. Set against the stark, sun-baked expanses of the Southwest, this novel immerses readers in a world where the line between civilization and wilderness is perilously thin, and every decision carries life-or-death consequences.

The story follows a determined group of men and women who must navigate treacherous terrain and hostile Apache territory, confronting both the natural elements and the ever-present threat of conflict. Through perilous mountain passes, desert canyons, and isolated settlements, King paints a vivid portrait of the dangers and beauty of frontier life. His characters are sharply drawn, embodying resilience, honor, and the complex morality of survival in a land where trust is scarce and courage is the only currency that truly matters.

As the travelers push deeper into Apache land, their journey tests not only their physical endurance but also their mental fortitude. Encounters with unpredictable forces of nature, tense confrontations with rival groups, and moments of profound personal insight create a narrative that is as psychologically compelling as it is action-driven. King's precise, evocative prose captures the harshness of the landscape and the intensity of frontier life, immersing readers in every dusty trail, sun-scorched mesa, and shadowed canyon.

The novel explores themes of loyalty, honor, and the human instinct to persevere in the face of overwhelming danger. It portrays the clash between cultures on the frontier with nuance, reflecting both the misunderstandings and the bravery that defined life in Apache territory. The tension is unrelenting, yet moments of human compassion, clever strategy, and unexpected alliances reveal the depth of character and the possibilities for redemption even in the harshest circumstances.

Sunset Pass stands as a testament to King's mastery of the Western genre. Its combination of suspenseful adventure, rich historical detail, and compelling character dynamics makes it an unforgettable read. For those drawn to stories of daring exploits, frontier heroism, and the stark beauty of the American West, this novel offers a thrilling journey that lingers long after the final page.

Product Details

BN ID:	2940184624624
Publisher:	Charles King
Publication date:	09/05/2025
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
File size:	2 MB

About the Author

Charles King (1844–1933) was an American soldier, historian, and author whose works vividly capture the spirit and challenges of the American West. Born in New York City, King was raised in a military family and spent much of his life serving in the United States Army. His experiences on the frontier, including extensive postings in the American Southwest, profoundly influenced his writing, giving him firsthand knowledge of the landscapes, cultures, and conflicts that would become central to his novels.

King’s military career included service in various frontier posts, where he witnessed the complexities of life on the borderlands, the interactions between settlers and Native American tribes, and the hardships of soldiers stationed in remote outposts. These experiences provided him with an authentic perspective that informed the realism and depth of his fiction.

In addition to his novels, King authored historical works and memoirs that document the experiences of the U.S. Army and frontier life during a transformative period in American history. His writing is characterized by meticulous attention to detail, vivid descriptions, and an ability to convey the tension, danger, and beauty of the Western frontier.

Throughout his career, King sought to illuminate the human side of frontier life, exploring themes of courage, honor, perseverance, and the complexities of cultural conflict. His works remain valuable both as historical records and as engaging literary adventures, appealing to readers interested in history, military life, and the enduring allure of the American West.

Charles King’s literary contributions reflect a unique blend of soldierly experience and narrative skill, making him one of the most respected voices in Western literature. His novels continue to resonate with modern readers, preserving the drama, heroism, and stark realities of frontier life for generations to come.