The Deerslayer - The First Warpath


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(4.7 stars; 221 reviews)

The Deerslayer is a captivating tale set in the early 18th century, chronicling the adventures of Natty Bumppo, a young frontiersman known for his exceptional skills as a hunter and warrior. As the first chronologically in James Fenimore Cooper's Leatherstocking series, this novel explores Natty's journey into the wilderness, where he confronts both the beauty and brutality of nature.

In this richly detailed narrative, readers are immersed in the conflicts between Native American tribes and European settlers, as well as the moral dilemmas faced by those living on the edge of civilization. The story unfolds against the backdrop of the French and Indian War, highlighting themes of loyalty, honor, and the struggle for survival.

Cooper's vivid descriptions and deep understanding of the American frontier create a unique atmosphere that distinguishes The Deerslayer from other adventure tales. This novel not only serves as an action-packed narrative but also as a reflection on the complexities of human relationships and the clash of cultures during a pivotal time in American history.

Chapters

Select a chapter to play

Chapter 01 35:10 Read by Josh Smith
Chapter 02 35:40 Read by Bill Boerst
Chapter 03 36:53 Read by Bill Boerst
Chapter 04 37:10 Read by Bill Boerst
Chapter 05 39:55 Read by Bill Boerst
Chapter 06 34:11 Read by Bill Boerst
Chapter 07 40:00 Read by Bill Boerst
Chapter 08 39:33 Read by Bill Boerst
Chapter 09 42:37 Read by Bill Boerst
Chapter 10 41:37 Read by Bill Boerst
Chapter 11 39:10 Read by Bill Boerst
Chapter 12 44:30 Read by Bill Boerst
Chapter 13 42:11 Read by Bill Boerst
Chapter 14 39:24 Read by Bill Boerst
Chapter 15 40:46 Read by Bill Boerst
Chapter 16 40:51 Read by Bill Boerst
Chapter 17 41:56 Read by Bill Boerst
Chapter 18 26:06 Read by Bill Boerst
Chapter 19 44:39 Read by Bill Boerst
Chapter 20 39:47 Read by Bill Boerst
Chapter 21 43:38 Read by Bill Boerst
Chapter 22 31:19 Read by Bill Boerst
Chapter 23 43:38 Read by Bill Boerst
Chapter 24 46:50 Read by Bill Boerst
Chapter 25 45:19 Read by Bill Boerst
Chapter 26 40:09 Read by Bill Boerst
Chapter 27 41:07 Read by Bill Boerst
Chapter 28 31:24 Read by Bill Boerst
Chapter 29 26:39 Read by Bill Boerst
Chapter 30 34:45 Read by Bill Boerst
Chapter 31 28:17 Read by Bill Boerst
Chapter 32 30:11 Read by Bill Boerst

Reviews

Well read after the first chapter


(5 stars)

Bill Boerst ( apologizes if mis spelled) was the perfect voice, tone and accent to brink the legendary Hawkeye to life. Bravo sir, Bravo!! Keep in mind while you listen to this book, the ways of the time of its setting. They thought and acted differently than we do in our fast paced lives. I think that Mr. Boerst does a great job of capturing the time as well as the characters.

Persevere to the 2nd chapter, its worth it.


(4 stars)

I wish there was two ratings, one for the book and another for the reader. The book's story its self I would rate 5 stars. I nearly passed it by due to the reader of the first chapter. There is a short reading before every chapter which is not part of the story directly, most are poetry on which to reflect the coming chapter. But I had no idea what was going on in chapter 1 for the first 4-5 minutes as he fumbles his words. His pronunciation is muddy, difficult to understand it times, and nearly monotone . I would have given two stars to the first chapter if rated it alone. Chapter 2 and on is much better as Bill Borst does a fairly decent job and is much easier to listen to, though I think the infection used for Deerslayer is a bit to "happy hillbilly". I always considered Nathaniel as a more focused serious sounding individual, but that is personal likings I think. So I give Bill 4 stars as this is a free recording and perfection is not to be expected.

Excellent


(5 stars)

Bill Boerst reads James Fenimore Cooper so well. This first of the five Leatherstocking Tales is no exception. He brings the perfect reading voice. It’s too bad he didn’t read all of the other books (why?!?). Thankfully, he does not try to read with different voices. I think he got a little emotional toward the end of the narrative; his reading of it brought a tear to my eye! Good job, sir.

Pretty good


(3 stars)

The first chapter, read by Josh Smith, is difficult to get through, as it's read in one of those monotonous drones with no indication of punctuation or dialogue. However, the remaining 30+ chapters, read by Bill Boerst, are pretty good--not great but pretty good. There are some pronunciation problems and there's not much intonation, but it's a nice, straightforward reading.

The Deerslayer


(5 stars)

I enjoy Cooper's writing, great recording, well done.

great book


(5 stars)

great book. good reader after 1st chapter

Natty Bumppo, Deer Slayer, Hawkeye.


(5 stars)

Wonderful tale of adventure and humananity. I highly recommend this and ALL James Fennimore Coopers' masterpieces. Narrator is excellent as he has a masterfull command on timing and inflection. 👍👍👍👍👍

Thought provoking


(5 stars)

No storybook ending. Keeps your attention with twists and turns. Gives an idea of Native Americans and whites back in the day.