The Charmed Life of Matt Draper

From Riverboat Gambler to Frontier Banker

By: John Rayburn

Narrated by: J.P. Todd

Length: 5 hrs and 46 mins

Publisher's summary

In 1866, Matt Draper is full of ambition but without money or family to help him succeed. On the Western frontier of an ever-expanding America, toiling as a riverboat gambler seems like the best option to raise enough capital to realize his dream of opening a small-town bank.

Though gambling is lucrative for Matt, it is also an unsavory enterprise fraught with danger. Fortuitously, before any harm befalls him, Matt and his friend Charlie discover an abandoned Confederate gold cache in a fake grave, which gives him the stake he needs to leave the treacherous gambling world behind.

From then onward, his life’s purpose becomes evident as all roads lead to Neosho, Missouri, where he opens the bank and becomes a major influence on its growth and prosperity.

Matt’s exciting and uplifting saga captures the day-to-day reality of life in the tumultuous post-Civil War era, including the hardships, relative lawlessness, and indomitable spirit of settlers bent on creating a good life for themselves and their neighbors.

©2011 John Rayburm (P)2019 Wordwooze Publishing

Its no gamble betting on this book

When dreams often collide with the harsh realities of life, "The Charmed Life of Matt Draper: From Riverboat Gambler to Frontier Banker" stands as a captivating testament to the power of determination, resilience, and the pursuit of a better life. Authored by the brilliant John Rayburn and brought to life through the eloquent narration of J.P. Todd, this audiobook takes listeners on an enthralling journey through the post-Civil War American frontier, where ambition, adventure, and the quest for prosperity intertwine in the life of a remarkable protagonist.

Set against the backdrop of the transformative era of 1866, the story introduces us to the charismatic Matt Draper, a young man overflowing with dreams but lacking the means to turn them into reality. The sprawling Western frontier of an ever-expanding America becomes his canvas, as he navigates a world fraught with challenges, possibilities, and the ever-present allure of risk. The intriguing premise unfolds with the notion of riverboat gambling as a stepping stone to his dream of establishing a quaint hometown bank. John Rayburn masterfully crafts a narrative that immediately draws readers into Matt's world, skillfully conveying the era's complexities, aspirations, and underlying tensions.

What truly sets this audiobook apart is its skillful narration by J.P. Todd. With a voice that resonates and captivates, Todd breathes life into the characters and landscapes, creating an immersive experience that transports listeners to the heart of the post-war American frontier. His ability to infuse emotions, nuances, and distinct tones into each character adds a layer of authenticity that enhances the overall storytelling. Todd's narration is not merely a recitation of words; it's a performance that envelops listeners in an auditory cocoon of suspense, excitement, and heartfelt connection.

The central turning point of the story, where Matt and his friend Charlie stumble upon an abandoned Confederate gold cache, is where the tale takes a riveting twist. This discovery propels Matt's journey in an unforeseen direction, offering him the means to escape the perilous world of gambling and instead embark on a path that aligns with his moral compass. As he sets his sights on Neosho, Missouri, the audiobook seamlessly transforms into a poignant exploration of Matt's unwavering pursuit of his life's purpose.

John Rayburn artfully weaves Matt's transformation from a risk-taking gambler to a frontier banker, as he assumes a pivotal role in shaping the destiny of Neosho. With meticulous attention to historical accuracy, Rayburn paints a vivid picture of the post-Civil War era's tumultuous landscape. Listeners are treated to a panoramic view of the struggles, the unyielding spirit of settlers, and the raw determination to carve out a haven of stability amid the uncertainties of the time.

"The Charmed Life of Matt Draper" transcends being just a tale; it becomes an insightful mirror reflecting the essence of the human spirit. Matt's journey resonates as a timeless reminder that despite the odds, the pursuit of dreams can lead to a life of significance, not only for oneself but for an entire community. Through Rayburn's eloquent prose, listeners are invited to witness the profound impact one individual can have when driven by integrity, resilience, and the belief in the possibility of a better future.

In its entirety, this audiobook offers an exhilarating blend of history, adventure, and the triumphant triumph of the human spirit. John Rayburn's ability to capture the intricacies of an era, combined with J.P. Todd's masterful narration, results in an auditory masterpiece that leaves a lasting impression. "The Charmed Life of Matt Draper: From Riverboat Gambler to Frontier Banker" is more than a story—it's an expedition into the heart of a remarkable era and the captivating journey of a protagonist who embodies the essence of perseverance and ambition. So, embark on this auditory voyage; let the words and voices carry you across time and space into a world where dreams and reality converge in the most enchanting way.

Great Western!

John Rayburn has written a real adventure in the old west. I loved the history that was instilled in the story. J. P. Todd was the perfect narrator. His voice took me away to that time.

Charmed Life is Right On

Sprinkled thoroughly with actual historical facts, this story keeps you interested enough to learn more of our US history and the expansion Westward following the Civil War.

And don’t worry about being brought down by bad news, Matt’s life is definitely charmed.