Dangerous Ground; Or, The Rival Detectives

A novel written in the late 19th century. Set against the backdrop of the American frontier, the story follows a group of pioneers dealing with dangerous circumstances that intensify when one of their members is found dead under mysterious conditions. The main character, Walter Parks, quickly develops suspicions regarding the death of Arthur Pearson, leading him to investigate whether foul play is involved. The opening of the novel establishes a tense atmosphere as a storm rages while a group of men gathers around a campfire during their journey. They discover Pearson’s lifeless body while searching for him, igniting horror among the group as they realize he has been murdered, not struck by lightning as first assumed. The narrative unfolds with Parks determined to uncover the truth and vowing to avenge Pearson's death, setting the stage for a gripping tale of rivalry and detection, as well as the complexities of human relationships amidst dire circumstances.