Books Like...
Conagher is a western novel that follows the story of a lone drifter named Conagher, who finds notes tied to tumbleweeds in the isolated canyons while searching for missing cattle. These notes lead him to Evie Teale, a woman left alone with her children in a harsh and untamed country. As Conagher battles rustlers and outlaws, he also battles his own feelings for Evie, ultimately learning lessons about love and companionship in the rugged western landscape. Louis L'Amour's writing style brings the characters and setting to life, portraying a tale of survival, love, and justice in the old West.
If you liked Conagher, here are the top 20 books to read next:
- #1
Save:'Crossfire Trail' by Louis L'Amour follows the story of Rafe Caradec, a man who is shanghaied and escapes, promising a dying crewmate to deliver a message to his wife and daughter. As Rafe fulfills his promise, he gets entangled in disputes and adversities, facing evil men and a damsel in distress. The plot unfolds with themes of loyalty, courage, and standing up against overwhelming odds for the sake of principles and beliefs. The story is set in the rugged, unforgiving life of the early pioneering days of Wyoming, where power and wealth were fought for by ruthless men.
Louis L'Amour's writing style in 'Crossfire Trail' is described as engaging, with a focus on action, loyalty, and the battle between good and evil. The narrative captures the essence of western-themed stories, drawing readers in with its compelling storyline and well-developed characters. explores themes of honor, duty, and the timeless struggle between right and wrong, making it a captivating read for fans of the genre.
IN THE DANK, odorous fo’c’sle a big man with wide shoulders sat at a scarred mess table, his feet spread to brace himself against the roll of the ship. A brass hurricane lantern, its light turned low,... - #2
Save:'Monte Walsh' by Jack Schaefer is a classic Western novel that follows the life of the titular character, Monte Walsh, a cowboy in the Old West. The book provides a realistic portrayal of ranching life, showcasing the bond of friendship among cowboys and the challenges they face as civilization encroaches on their way of life. The writing style is described as outstanding, similar to other acclaimed Western authors, with a focus on character development and episodic storytelling.
Contents A Beginning Monte Two of a Kind Slash Y In Harmony XYZ Antelope Junction Christmas Eve at the Slash Y Trail Herd Payment in Full Dobe Chavez Hattie Harmonizing Powder Kent Hellfire All in One... - #3
Save:'Comstock Lode' by Louis L'Amour is a sprawling epic set during the Nevada gold rush, revolving around the story of Val Trevallion, a loner haunted by a violent past, and Grita Redaway, a beautiful actress with unfulfilled needs. The plot begins with a tragedy witnessed by two youngsters, leading to a lifelong quest for revenge, intertwined with the challenges of the Comstock Lode and the boom town of Virginia City. The narrative is rich in historical details about mining history, gunfights, betrayal, love, and the dynamics of a society fueled by greed and ambition.
The writing style of Louis L'Amour in 'Comstock Lode' is described as fast-paced, action-packed, and engaging. The author expertly weaves together layers of incidents, building a vivid picture of the characters and the historical backdrop. offers a mix of romance, adventure, and moral dilemmas, keeping the reader enthralled with its well-crafted story and compelling characters.
It began in a thatched cottage with wind around it and rain beating on the shutters, with a flagstone floor and the smell of fish frying, and his mother putting blue plates on the table and his father...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Louis L'Amour's Lost Treasures ) - #4
Save:'Shane' by Jack Schaefer is a classic Western tale that follows the story of a mysterious stranger named Shane who arrives in a small Wyoming valley in the summer of 1889. The book is narrated through the eyes of a young boy, Bob Starrett, who idolizes Shane as he becomes involved in a conflict between homesteaders and a ruthless cattle baron. The plot revolves around Shane's efforts to help the farmers resist the land baron's bullying tactics and protect their livelihoods, ultimately leading to a tense and inevitable showdown.
He drew rein not twenty feet from me. His glance hit me, dismissed me, flicked over our place. This was not much, if you were thinking in terms of size and scope. But what there was was good. You coul... - #5
Save:'The Lonesome Gods' by Louis L'Amour follows the journey of Johannes Verne, a boy abandoned in the desert who is raised by outlaws and Indians. As he grows up, he becomes a rugged adventurer and educated man, facing challenges from his vengeful grandfather and struggling to overcome the lasting memory of his past. Set in early Los Angeles and the Mojave Desert, the novel explores themes of revenge, survival, and the clash between good and evil. L'Amour's writing style delves into philosophical introspection, mystical elements, and the harsh yet harmonious relationship between man and the desert.
“He is a proud man, Connie. Pride of name and pride of family are an obsession with him. Of course, he isn’t the only one. Most of the old Spanish families are that way. The difference is that in Cali...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Louis L'Amour's Lost Treasures ) - #6
Save:Riders of the Purple Sage by Zane Grey is a classic Western novel set in Utah in 1871. The story follows Jane Withersteen, a wealthy landowner who defies the Mormon community and faces opposition from church leaders. The plot includes elements typical of the Western genre such as gunfights, rustlers, and a love story between Jane and the mysterious Lassiter. Grey's lush descriptions of Utah's wilderness and vivid portrayal of the conflict between the characters create a slow-moving but engaging plot that culminates in dramatic endings.
Jane Withersteen gazed down the wide purple slope with dreamy andtroubled eyes. A rider had just left her and it was his messagethat held her thoughtful and almost sad, awaiting the churchmenwho were ... - #7
Save:"Down the Long Hills" by Louis L'Amour tells the story of seven-year-old Hardy and three-year-old Betty Sue who escape a massacre of a wagon train, leaving them stranded in the wilderness of Wyoming. With only a horse named Big Red and a few supplies, the children must navigate through harsh conditions, evade dangers like wolves and a lone warrior, and find a way to reach safety. The book is praised for its tension-filled plot, the portrayal of a young boy's courage and resourcefulness, and the engaging storytelling style of Louis L'Amour.
The narrative revolves around the journey of Hardy and Betty Sue as they face various challenges, including surviving in the wild, outsmarting adversaries, and finding their way to Fort Bridger where Hardy's father resides. The book combines elements of survival, adventure, and coming-of-age themes, showcasing the resilience and determination of the young protagonists in a setting filled with danger and uncertainty.
WHEN HARDY COLLINS woke up, Big Red was gone. Hardy had picketed the stallion himself, and with sudden guilt he remembered that in his hurry to return to the supper fire he had struck the picket-pin o...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Louis L'Amour's Lost Treasures ) - #8
Save:'The Ox-Bow Incident' by Walter Van Tilburg Clark is a classic Western novel that delves into the themes of justice, morality, and mob mentality. Set in Nevada, the story revolves around the lynching of three men suspected of cattle rustling and murder by a frenzied mob. The book explores the consequences of vigilante justice and the fine line between right and wrong, all portrayed through a gripping narrative that builds tension and emotion page by page.
The writing style of 'The Ox-Bow Incident' is described as engaging, thought-provoking, and intense. The author skillfully develops characters that are complex and emotionally charged, creating a story that is both tragic and morally challenging. Through the lens of a Western setting, the book raises profound questions about human nature, justice, and the impact of collective actions driven by fear and anger.
Max Westbrook’s little book Walter Van Tilburg Clark (Twayne, 1969)—a book whose perceptions I often agree with, though its metaphysical terminology and its Zen-and-Jung dialectic leave me pretty conf... - #9
Save:'Warlock' by Oakley Hall is an epic Western novel that delves into the complexities of law and order in the fictional town of Warlock. The story follows the hired sheriff, Clay Blaisedell, as he navigates through conflicts between the citizens' committee, townspeople, and outlaws. The narrative weaves together multiple Western themes intricately, with a focus on character development and moral ambiguity. The writing style is dense, with every sentence carrying significant meaning, similar to the works of Frank Norris and Thomas Pynchon.
DEPUTY CANNING had been Warlock’s hope. During his regime we had come to think, in man’s eternal optimism, that progress was being made toward at least some mild form of Law & Order in Warlock. Certai... - #10
Save:In "Whiskey When We're Dry" by John Larison, the story follows Jessilyn Harney, a young girl who embarks on a dangerous journey to find her outlaw brother, Noah, in the harsh setting of the untamed West. The plot is filled with gunfights, whiskey, and a strong sense of family ties as Jess navigates through a world of corrupt men, violence, and self-discovery. Larison's writing style captures the essence of the Western genre while offering a fresh perspective through the character of Jess, a sharpshooter who challenges societal norms and embarks on a coming-of-age journey filled with courage and resilience.
Our kin homesteaded where desert met lake. The hills in the near distance wore blankets of pine. Patterns of aspen marked the water. Beyond them the mountains stood blue on clear days and devoured the...
