The Life of Riley Hunter

A story about a guy living in seclusion in the hills of what was Arizona. Times have changed and things are far different than they were before!

              The day began like any other one with the sun peeking over the ridge. As night turned to day, it was as if someone clicked on a lamp. One of those new fangled light bulbs that the high and mighty government insisted everybody buy. (whether they wanted to or not) It would start out dim, then get brighter over time just like the view I am seeing.

              My name is Hunter, Riley Hunter. I am hiding out in the mountains of Arizona, or what it used to be known as. Since I have been hiding, I haven't really found out what they have renamed it. ( don't particularly care either) But I do know that instead of giving California back to Mexico, they let all the Native Indians have the whole parcel of land. This they seemed to be happy about too. ( lots of casino's could be built there, I assume)

                 I bet your wondering about the rest of what was known as “United States”. Last I heard after Obama had been ousted from office, things were turned over to the United Nations. They began the dismantling this great land of ours state by state. Although I never felt a part of this western society; I soon began to distance myself and gather supplies to sustain my existence for at least 10 to 20 years. I reckon I'm in my late 40's, so if I survive another 20-30 years I will be doing good.

                The television stations shut down shortly after the United Nations took over. So many people relied on rogue radio stations for there news. I do have a small township nearby, so I go and find out what's happening around the world- if anything. Many people are just doing there best to survive.

            Now I spend my days watching the sunrise, along with doing what I want during the day. Like reading the many books I have collected. I tried to collect all the major genre's, I even have a few children's books. Let's see I have all the Dr. Suess books that were written, the book “ Where the Wild Things Are”, along with many others. This is just in case I find someone who tickles my fancy, and subsequent kids come along!

           Yet for now life is good, and as long as I get to see the sun rising over the ridge, I'm happy. I may even name this land - “Hunter Valley”, and that ridge over there - “Riley's Ridge!” Have I forgotten to mention that there is a stream nearby, so I get to fish when I want. Ah, I don't know why I didn't do this before? I don't pay taxes, no house payment or any other bills that you'd normally be burdened down with either. So although I am basically alone out here, I got all the amenities any other person on God's green earth do.

             Now its time for me to eat some breakfast. Then I think during the hot part of the day, I might re-read an old classic that I enjoy. A book written by an author from the 21^st century, a one Scott Kelly. Lets see if I can be thrilled by the story “Frightened Boy” again?

Yes, life is good here in my secluded hideaway- “Hunter Valley!”

Author's Note

Purely fictional scenario, although who knows what will happen in the future for the US. :)

Reviews

[Rain]

Hi Jen,
I started to read Chapter 5, but decided to see if I could find your beginning Chapter. I write poetry occasionally, but prefer short stories. I've written a book of true life experiences I've had, called "Dance When You Can." I do not like reading. A Story has to hook me, in some way. This one did that. The modern feel of it is believable. I will return and read the following Chapters. THIS would sell. My book is simply Online. It cost $400 to get started. I received my sales reports for the first month. I sold 155 copies. I used Bookbaby as a Publisher. They will do it all. They help you design the cover..the color..font..they also will proof read it, but if you can find someone good to do that yourself, it's cheaper. They send it to all stores that sell Online books. Prices you receive vary. My book sells for $8.50. Amazon gives me $7.00 for each book. Some book stores only pay me $6, and one gives me $3.50. In total I've received $950.00. I believe this book has possibilities. I need to read the other Chapters. It has a "Could happen" feel to it. If you go to far out it will lose it's appeal. I encourage you to go for it, based on what I've read so far. There are 7 million books Online. I was number 30,000 for a few weeks..not Killing Lincoln, but I thought good for a first time book. Please, keep it in the realm of possibilities. You need to go for it. I'm excited to read the next Chapters. Go to BookBaby and look around. They are on Facebook. You can use any Publisher. BookBaby is what my friend found for me. They give you a site to check your sales. I launched my book Feb 28,2013. All stores are VERY slow in reporting. My name is Ray Neighbor, if you decide to look it up. It's a very plain cover. Good luck, Jen..

[Loner]

Beautifully portrayed and great expression also
enjoyed it to the fullest .......

[Coyote Poetry]

I like the way you set-up this story. Using the Unite Nation and giving back California back to the Native Americans. I like the main character. His way of life may be a real one soon if old USA doesn't chance it way. I look forward to reading more. Some fiction stories can turn to non-fiction while the writer is alive. A excellent chapter.
Coyote