The Rising of the Red Man A Romance of the Louis Riel Rebellion

"The Rising of the Red Man" by John Mackie is a historical romance taking place during the Louis Riel Rebellion, probably written in the late 1800s. The story plunges into the exciting events of the rebellion, following the lives and hardships of both Indigenous people and pioneering settlers as conflict increases. The central figure, Henry Douglas, a wealthy rancher, alongside his daughter Dorothy and other community members, is swept up in the brutality and disorder caused by the uprising. The book starts by putting readers in the stressful atmosphere of Riel bringing together mixed-race and Indigenous leaders as they get ready for rebellion. The intro sets the scene on March 16, 1885, emphasizing Riel's magnetic but tricky leadership as he stirs up the group, using a solar eclipse as a sign from a higher power. We then meet the Douglas family in their log cabin by the Saskatchewan River, where they voice their worry about the growing conflict. As danger draws closer, their uncertain future mixes with interesting emerging relationships, especially with Sergeant Pasmore, a Mountie whose bravery becomes extremely important during the rising violence, and the character's interactions hint at deeper connections foreshadowing adventure, loyalty, and sacrifice in the face of impending chaos.