The Border Men

This predictable sequel to The Overmountain Men is set on the Tennessee/Carolina frontier during the American Revolution. Joshua Colter, his family, neighbors and enemies suffer the usual trials of revolutionary frontier living (Indian raids, war with the English, famine and sickness), celebrate the usual frontier events (births and marriages) and dream the usual frontier dreams of wilderness, peace and good hunting. The plot ranges over the lives of a host of characters, from the patriot Colters to the troubled Tory Brecht family--struggling for survival--with some emphasis on Joshua's complex relationship with the widow of John Hawk, his Indian friend turned enemy, whom he killed. Certain characters are potentially interesting, particularly Pontius Pilate, an escaped slave who becomes a legend among the Indians when he swears to avenge the death of a thief who had been his ally; but rather than animating the story, Judd too often resorts to telling the reader what to feel with comments like ``It was to be the last real happiness she would know in a long time.'' The result is a readable genre piece that leaves one indifferent. (June)