Books matching: old west setting
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- #1
Stage actor, Robby Riverton, accidentally witnesses a murder by a mob boss. In a bid to escape, he disguises himself as a woman named Rowena and joins a wagon train headed west. Upon arrival at the Crabtree Ranch, Robby, now Rowena, meets Clovis, his future husband, and his hunky sheriff brother, Trace. The story unfolds with Robby impacting the Crabtree family's way of life and uncovering a surprising family secret, leading to a sweet and enjoyable journey filled with humor and drama.
Robby’s melodic tenor echoed in the narrow corridors backstage as he made his way to his dressing room. He exchanged winks, grins, or backslaps with everyone who squeezed past him. He was in a damned ... - #2
"Last Train from Perdition" in the series "I Travel By Night" by Robert R. McCammon follows the adventures of Trevor Lawson, a nearly fully turned vampire, and sharpshooter Ann Kingsley as they work as private investigators and bounty hunters in the Old West. Their latest assignment takes them to Perdition, Montana, where they encounter various troubles and embark on a journey to track down a client's errant son. The novella is praised for its engaging writing style that immerses readers in the story, from the cold mountain air to the thrilling action scenes, creating a vivid reading experience that transports readers to a different time and place.
is noted for its unique blend of genres, combining elements of western and vampire lore, which adds an intriguing twist to the narrative. Readers appreciate the character development of Trevor and Ann, as well as the potential for future storylines and the unexpected twists in the plot. Despite some criticisms about pacing and length, fans of Robert R. McCammon find themselves eager for more adventures featuring these compelling characters in future installments of the series.
(Also, see 41 recommendations for the series I Travel By Night ) - #3
'Forbidden' by Beverly Jenkins is a historical romance set in the Old West, following the story of Eddy Carmichael, a strong black woman on a journey to fulfill her dream of opening a restaurant in San Francisco. Along the way, she encounters Rhine Fontaine, a wealthy man passing as white, who saves her after a series of misfortunes. The plot delves into themes of identity, race, and the challenges faced by interracial relationships in the post-Civil War era. The writing style is described as engaging, with a slow burn romance that gradually builds, allowing for a deeper connection to the characters and their community.
“Stop him!” Eddy Carmichael screamed, scrambling to her feet from the mud. The man who’d snatched her purse and shoved her down was now running away down the dark Denver street. Taking off in pursuit,... - #4
'Wild Times' by Brian Garfield is a western novel that takes readers on a journey through the Wild West, following the adventures of the protagonist Hugh Cardiff. The book covers various themes such as love, loss, ambition, success, and failures, portraying a realistic yet fictional view of turn-of-the-century America. Garfield expertly crafts characters that come to life on the pages, drawing readers into a world filled with historic references, shooting competitions, and the legendary American West. Despite some critics questioning the accuracy of the historical portrayals, the book is praised for its engaging storytelling and vivid depiction of the Old West.
Blood Meridian: Or the Evening Redness in the West by Cormac McCarthy is a brutal and violent tale set in the American Southwest and Mexico during the 19th century. The story follows a young man known as The Kid who joins a group of scalp hunters led by the enigmatic and ruthless Judge Holden. The book delves into themes of violence, survival, and the darkness of human nature, all portrayed through McCarthy's haunting and vivid prose. The narrative is bleak and unrelenting, showcasing the harsh realities of life on the border between Mexico and America, where evil takes on human form in the physical world.
The book is described as a western where the Wild West is stripped of any heroic illusions, focusing instead on a group of merciless scalp hunters collecting bounties along the US-Mexico borderlands. McCarthy's writing style is elegant, detached, and breath-catching, rendering the beauty of the desert landscapes, the brutality of survival, and the emotional bankruptcy of the characters with exquisite detail. The characters, especially the enigmatic Judge Holden, provide a glimpse into mankind's addiction to violence, making the novel a gripping and thought-provoking exploration of morality and human nature.
See the child. He is pale and thin, he wears a thin and ragged linen shirt. He stokes the scullery fire. Outside lie dark turned fields with rags of snow and darker woods beyond that harbor yet a few ...- #6
'Lonesome Dove' by Larry McMurtry is a sprawling epic Western novel that follows the journey of two aging ex-Texas Rangers, Augustus McCrae and Woodrow Call, as they set out on a perilous cattle drive from Texas to Montana. The narrative is rich in historical detail, exploring themes of friendship, adventure, love, and survival in the rugged landscape of the American West. Through vivid characterizations and intricate plotlines, the author paints a compelling portrait of the challenges and triumphs faced by a diverse cast of characters on their arduous journey.
WHEN AUGUSTUS CAME OUT on the porch the blue pigs were eating a rattlesnake—not a very big one. It had probably just been crawling around looking for shade when it ran into the pigs. They were having ... - #7
'True Grit' by Charles Portis is a Western novel that follows the story of fourteen-year-old Mattie Ross seeking revenge for her father's murder. The book is narrated in the first person by Mattie, who enlists the help of U.S. Marshal Rooster Cogburn to track down the killer, Tom Chaney. The plot is action-packed, with elements of gun battles, bravery, and a strong sense of justice prevailing throughout the story. The writing style is described as spare, clean, and filled with terse Western dialogue, making the narrative quick, to the point, and engaging.
The novel is praised for its strong and memorable protagonist, Mattie Ross, who is depicted as brave, stubborn, independent, and smart. The character of Mattie is highlighted as the heart of the story, with her unsentimental and matter-of-fact narration adding depth and humor to the events unfolding in the book. Readers appreciate the humor, character development, and the unique voice of Mattie as a narrator, making 'True Grit' a compelling and enjoyable read that delves into themes of revenge, courage, and perseverance in the Wild West.
People do not give it credence that a fourteen-year-old girl could leave home and go off in the wintertime to avenge her father's blood but it did not seem so strange then, although I will say it did ... - #8
'Skull Moon' by Tim Curran is a brilliantly creepy and gory 'weird western' novel that combines elements of police procedural, supernatural, and Western genres. The story follows Deputy Marshal Joe Longtree as he investigates gruesome murders in Wolf Creek, Montana, where tensions are high between settlers and Blackfoot Indians. The setting is atmospheric, with vivid imagery and a strong plot that keeps readers engaged and on edge. The writing style is described as fast-paced, with a masterful blend of horror, mystery, and Western adventure, making it a captivating and unique read for fans of the Western horror sub-genre.
- #9
'The Shootist' is a modern classic Western novel that tells the story of John Bernard Books, a legendary gunslinger facing a terminal cancer diagnosis. Set in the Old West, the book explores the decline of craftsmanship in the profession of gunfighting and the character development of Books as he navigates his impending death. The writing style captures the essence of the time and the protagonist, offering a gripping and poignant tale that delves into themes of mortality and legacy.
It was noon of a bodeful day. The sun was an eye bloodshot by dust. His horse was fistulowed. Some friction between saddle and hide, of thorn or stone or knot of thread, had created an abscess on the ... - #10
Centennial by James A. Michener is a sprawling historical fiction novel that spans from prehistoric times to the 20th century, focusing on the fictional town of Centennial, Colorado. The book delves into the geology, history, and diverse cultures that shaped the region, including Native Americans, settlers, ranchers, and miners. Michener weaves together the lives of various characters over generations, providing a comprehensive look at the development of the American West. The writing style incorporates detailed historical facts and vivid descriptions of the landscape, making the story immersive and educational.
Only another writer, someone who had worked his heart out on a good book which sold three thousand copies, could appreciate the thrill that overcame me one April morning in 1973 when Dean Rivers of ou...