PROLOGUE The echoes of battle still reverberated through the blood soaked fields of England. A kingdom once united under the rule of monarchs now lay shattered, torn asunder by the tempestuous winds of revolution and the thirst for power. King Charles, a man consumed by his own desires, had sown the seeds of his own downfall, attempting to wield authority without bounds. His ambition had become the catalyst for a cataclysmic upheaval that would forever change the fate of the land. As the sun dipped beneath the horizon, casting an ominous hue across the skyline, the guillotine’s blade fell with a resounding finality. King Charles, the embodiment of absolute authority, met his end on the executioner’s block, his dreams of dominion and dominance extinguished by the swift stroke of justice. England’s trampled liberties and forgotten rights found a voice in the grim chorus of the condemned, and a new era was born. From the ashes of monarchy emerged a republic, with Oliver Cromwell at its helm. His iron fist gripped the reins of power, his vision of a new order taking root. The halls of Parliament echoed with the voices of the people, their newfound authority shaping a nation no longer shackled by the whims of a single ruler. Yet, even as the republic unfurled its banner, the spectre of the past loomed large. Across the sea, in the grand courts of France, an exiled heir watched as his father’s fate unfolded. Charles II, the rightful successor to the English throne, treaded a perilous path. Fear etched lines upon his brow, for he knew that returning to his homeland could lead to the same gruesome destiny that had befallen his sire. The allure of power was overshadowed by the dread of retribution. In the heart of England, amidst the whispers of change and the clamour of conflicting loyalties, a fragile equilibrium danced upon a knife’s edge. The Parliamentarians held dominion over a realm still haunted by divided allegiances. Royalist sympathisers, their fervour hidden beneath veils of caution, yearned for the resurgence of the crown. Their secrets, like precious gems, were hidden in the recesses of their souls, lest the pendulum of power swing once more. The battlefields may have fallen silent, yet the war’s harrowing aftermath painted a gruesome tableau. A nation scarred and fractured, its political, social and economic foundations razed to the ground. The rivers of England flowed not only with water but also with the tears of those who had witnessed the horrors of war. Mercenaries and soldiers, driven by greed and desperation, had marauded and pillaged, leaving behind a trail of destruction and despair. In the idyllic village of Haworth, where once lush meadows had thrived, now lay devastation. Cattle and sheep had been stolen or slaughtered, and homes reduced to smouldering ruins. The Rushworth family, however, clung to their ancestral soil, unwavering in the face of adversity. Little did they know that their resilience would intertwine their destiny with the winds of change, setting them on a course destined for glory or tragedy. As the embers of conflict dimmed, a new breed of power rose from the ashes. Middle-class landowners, beneficiaries of Cromwell’s largesse, ascended the rungs of influence, altering the landscape of privilege and prestige. Among them, Lord Birkhead, once the master of Haworth Manor, had vanished into the shadows. Whispers of his fate drifted through the air like leaves carried on the wind, some claiming he had sought refuge in the embrace of distant lands. In a land scarred by war and propelled by the winds of change, the tale of a kingdom’s fall and the birth of a republic was far from over. In the heart of the chaos, a story of love, loyalty, and unbreakable bonds was about to unfold, weaving together the threads of fate for generations to come. DREAM OF COUR AGE: Facing Fear Head On Step into a world where history comes alive and adventure awaits on every page. In ‘Dream of Courage,’ the captivating best-selling novel by Paul Rushworth-Brown, you’ll be transported through time to experience the vivid tapestry of 17th century Yorkshire. Born in the United Kingdom in 1962, Paul’s journey from Charles Sturt University in Australia to becoming a passionate writer in 2015 led to the creation of this remarkable tale. Immerse yourself in a story that transcends the confines of a mere history lesson. As you turn the pages of ‘Dream of Courage,’ you’ll embark on a thrilling odyssey, seeing the world through the eyes of your ancestors. This is no ordinary historical account – it’s a gripping narrative that will leave you breathless with anticipation. Travel alongside John and Robert Rushworth, two sons of the moors, as they set out to make their fortune in the bustling city of Leeds. With a blend of adventure, intrigue, and forbidden romance, their journey unfolds against the backdrop of a society filled with colourful characters, each with their own secrets and desires. Meet Jacob Wilding, a man of brutish demeanour and lowly origins, determined to capture Robert Rushworth for a reward that vii could change his fate forever. Encounter Milton Killsin, a Puritan with a hidden yearning, and Captain Girlington, torn between the call of the sea and an unexpected love. In a world teeming with beggars, thieves and prostitutes, every step is fraught with danger, and every decision could lead to a life-altering consequence. As the tension mounts, ‘Dream of Courage’ weaves a tapestry of murder, mystery, and mayhem that will keep even the sharpest minds guessing until the final revelation. Will Robert pay the ultimate price for his misdeeds? Can the Rushworths rise above the challenges that threaten to engulf them? The answers lie within these pages, waiting for only the most astute readers to uncover. Paul Rushworth-Brown’s masterful storytelling will transport you to a bygone era, where dreams of courage ignite against a backdrop of hardship and perseverance. If you crave heart pounding adventure, intricate intrigue and a taste of history brought to life, then ‘Dream of Courage’ is your next must-read. So, open the book, turn back time, and let the Rushworths’ legacy of determination and bravery inspire you. Your journey begins now. In the first few chapters, the great hall's dim light and the fire's crackling gave a somber ambiance as the fate of the Rushworths hung in the balance. Jasper Calamy, a figure of power and privilege, played a formidable game with the lives of those who depended on his grace's benevolence. Tommy and Will, soaked from the rain, stood before him with their heads held high, masking their apprehension. Calamy's appearance was a stark reflection of his station – austere and imposing. His scar marked not just his face but his ruthless demeanor. Griswold, his loyal confidant, stood by his side, an embodiment of authority. The dialogue that unfolded revealed the disparity between the powerful and the powerless, as the Rushworths tried to negotiate for their family's future.
Throughout the early chapters, the backdrop of rain and firelight served as a metaphor for the tumultuous times and the glimmers of hope that persisted. The characters' resilience was illuminated by their interactions in this setting. Calamy's satisfaction after securing the renegotiation and his cold dismissal of the Rushworths reflected the harsh reality of societal hierarchies.
As the chapter concluded, the Rushworths' predicament was palpable. Tommy's acceptance, tinged with bitterness, left the reader with a sense of impending uncertainty. The Rushworths' fate was tethered to their ability to pay, a precarious thread woven with their family's history and dreams. The poignant portrayal of their struggle and Calamy's manipulation created a compelling narrative that resonates with readers on both an emotional and societal level.
As the story delves deeper into the intricate web of secrets and intrigues, the characters come to life with their multifaceted desires and struggles. The reader is drawn into a world of secrecy and covert operations, punctuated by the ever-present hunger of the common folk.
The second chapter opens with Tommy and Will leaving the manor after their tense encounter with Calamy. Will's pride in standing up to his father is palpable, offering a glimpse into the dynamics of their relationship. Meanwhile, Calamy's musings reveal his complex character – a man driven by power, ambition, and the desire to maintain an appearance of fairness.
The descriptions of the setting, such as the sprawling manor, the stone floor of the great hall, and the atmosphere of secrecy in the barn, immerse the reader into the story's world. The rich sensory details evoke the era's sights, sounds, and smells, painting a vivid picture of life in the 17th century.
In chapter two, Will's journey from the stable to the storehouse brings to light the stark contrast between abundance and scarcity. The depiction of the cornbread and boiled eggs on the manor's table is a stark reminder of the unequal distribution of resources. The manipulation of power and wealth, as well as the desperation of those who lack, create an engaging narrative tension.
In chapter three, the introduction of engrossers and their control over the grain market adds depth to the historical context. The portrayal of Milton Killsin's disdain for the Rushworths and his wife's contrasting perspective underscores the social and moral divides of the time. These divisions resonate with modern readers, as they reflect issues of class struggle and discrimination that persist across centuries.
Will's growing involvement in the manor's secretive affairs adds layers to his character. His internal conflict, driven by his family's needs and the ethical dilemmas he faces, invites readers to empathize with his struggles. The promise of better provisions and opportunities for his family hangs in the balance, leading to a precarious decision that will shape their future.
As the chapter concludes, the intricate tapestry of deceit and exploitation becomes more evident. The interplay between characters like Calamy, Griswold, and the Rushworths creates a compelling drama of power dynamics, moral quandaries, and the human spirit's resilience. The reader is left eagerly anticipating the unfolding of these complexities, eager to understand how these relationships will evolve and how the characters' decisions will shape their destinies.
Chapter four masterfully weaves historical context, rich character development, and gripping storytelling, setting the stage for a best-selling book that captivates readers with its blend of intrigue, emotion, and social commentary. In this chapter, the story takes an intimate look into the lives and secrets of the characters, deepening the emotional resonance and intrigue. The narrative shifts to the perspective of Milton Killsin, revealing his inner turmoil and forbidden desires. This exploration of human complexities and suppressed emotions adds depth to the story, making it a captivating read. The chapter opens with the somber mood of Mrs. Killsin, highlighting the fear and vulnerability she experiences due to her husband's temper. This sets the stage for the revelation of Milton Killsin's darker side, making the reader both empathize with her and apprehensively anticipate his actions. This inner struggle is further exacerbated by his guilt and the impossibility of acting on his emotions due to his marriage and societal norms. The portrayal of his guilt as "all consuming" taps into a relatable aspect of human nature—the battle between personal desires and moral convictions.
The description of the landscape—ghost-like mist, grazing sheep, and fallow fields—paints a vivid picture of the environment, creating a backdrop that enhances the emotional weight of the characters' interactions.
Will's return to his family's cottage provides a heartwarming moment of connection between father and son. The exchange of the sixpence and corn symbolizes their unity and shared efforts to improve their family's circumstances. This sense of unity contrasts with the hidden struggles of other characters, highlighting the complexity of relationships and the masks people wear.
As Will hesitates to share his experiences at the manor with his father, the chapter builds suspense, inviting the reader to wonder what secrets he holds. This moment of hesitation sets the stage for the upcoming revelation, drawing the reader deeper into the narrative.
The chapter masterfully captures the tension between the characters' desires, their societal roles, and their inner conflicts. The exploration of forbidden love, guilt, and the complexities of human emotions resonates with readers on a profound level. The meticulous attention to character development, emotional nuance, and the careful unfolding of the story's layers creates a gripping narrative that promises a compelling and emotionally charged journey. With its blend of emotional depth, vivid imagery, and the portrayal of universal human struggles, Dream of Courage: Facing Fear Head On, contributes to making the book a best-selling literary masterpiece that resonates with readers and keeps them engaged throughout the story. Paul Rushworth-Brown is the author of three published novels . He was born in Maidstone, Kent, England in 1962. He spent time in a foster home in Manchester before emigrating to Canada with his mother in 1972. He spent his teenage years living and attending school in Toronto, Ontario, where he played professional soccer in the Canadian National Soccer League. In 1982, he emigrated to Australia to spend time with his father, Jimmy Brown who had moved there from Yorkshire in the mid-fifties. ​Paul was educated at Charles Sturt University in New South Wales, Australia. He became a writer in 2015 when he embarked on a six-month project to produce a written family history for his children, Rachael, Christopher and Hayley. Skulduggery - In the gripping historical novel "Skulduggery," a reclusive family of copyholders guards their secrets amidst the isolation of their village. But when a brutal attack shakes their world, they find themselves teetering on the precipice of danger. Set against the turbulent backdrop of the English Reformation, this masterfully crafted tale breathes life into a tapestry of unforgettable characters, both heroes and villains, all entangled in a meticulously realized historical mystery. As the story unfolds, you'll be transported to an era so vividly depicted that it feels both utterly believable and astonishingly surreal. Prepare for twists and turns that will leave you gasping in surprise, and an ending so unexpected, even the most astute readers will be left in awe. "Skulduggery" is a mesmerizing journey through a slice of history where deception runs deep, redemption beckons, and every secret holds the power to change lives forever. Prepare to be captivated by a tale that will keep you guessing until the very last page. In the tumultuous year of 1642, England is plunged into the throes of a brutal civil war, tearing families and communities apart as they pledge their allegiance to either the King or Parliament. Amidst this chaos, "Red Winter Journey" emerges as a sweeping saga, a timeless odyssey of adventure and heartbreak, sacrifice and unyielding love. At its core, this unforgettable tale beats with the resolute heart of a mother's boundless love for her son, a love that will be tested to its very limits. As the war unfolds, their historic journey takes them on a rollercoaster of twists and turns, punctuated by a fiery passion that defies the ravages of time. "Red Winter Journey" is a mesmerizing voyage through a divided land, where the bonds of love and loyalty are both the source of strength and the crucible of their trials. Prepare to be swept away by a story that will leave your heart pounding and your soul forever touched by the enduring power of human connection. Dream of Courage: Facing Fear Head On Step into a mesmerizing historical fiction thriller that will sweep you away on a pulse-pounding journey through time. Meet the indomitable Rushworths, impoverished tenants bound to the stern Puritan, Jasper Calamy, within the forbidding walls of Haworth Manor. Theirs is a life of toil, tending sheep and weaving wool from meager scraps, remnants of a world that passes them by. But when the audacious brothers, Robert and John Rushworth, embark on a daring quest to find their fortune amidst the bustling chaos of The Briggate in Leeds, they unwittingly trigger an extraordinary adventure. Hunted relentlessly by John Wilding, a brutish brogger with no regard for decorum, they must outsmart the very essence of the 'lower sort' that threatens to ensnare them. In the shadowy recesses of a local tavern, mysteries simmer, and secrets abound. Here, Smythe, a enigmatic figure with a concealed past, thrusts Robert into the treacherous domain of The Haven. It is here that he crosses paths with Captain Girlington of 'The Pearl,' who holds the key to his destiny. As danger closes in, will Robert elude its suffocating grasp, or will the ominous hangman's noose tighten its deadly hold? Amidst the lurking shadows, can he find a way to unite with his heart's desire, the enchanting Ursula, in a world where passion and peril intertwine? "Dream of Courage: Facing Fear Head On" is an electrifying historical thriller that propels you across the ages, where courage is the priceless currency of survival, and love serves as the guiding light through the darkest of times. Brace yourself to confront fear head-on and embark on an unforgettable odyssey where destiny hangs in the balance.