Foes in Ambush

"Foes in Ambush" by Charles King is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds against the tense backdrop of Arizona in the post-Civil War era, focusing on the experiences of soldiers navigating through a land rife with danger, including hostile Apache tribes and outlawed gangs. The main characters include the paymaster Major Plummer, Sergeant Feeny, and members of the Harvey family, who find themselves embroiled in a treacherous situation involving deception and potential kidnapping. At the start of the novel, the narrative introduces the scorching Arizona landscape and the weary paymaster, Major Plummer, who is overseeing a military escort carrying government funds. Discontented with his slow-moving crew, he becomes aware of potential threats as Sergeant Feeny expresses concerns about their safety during the upcoming night journey. The tension escalates with the arrival of men returning from an ill-fated mission, revealing that the Apache threat is real and imminent. At the same time, the subplot regarding the Harvey family introduces young women who are caught in the crossfire of these conflicting forces. The opening masterfully sets the stage for a tale of bravery and survival amidst isolation and betrayal, raising questions about trust, duty, and the dire consequences of war.