Books Like...
The Broken Gun by Louis L'Amour is a modern western mystery novel set in the 1960s. The story follows a protagonist who uncovers a century-old mystery related to missing cattle and a hidden property claim. The plot unfolds with a mix of action, suspense, and historical revelations, as the protagonist navigates through the challenges of solving the past while being hunted by descendants of the criminals involved. Louis L'Amour's writing style is concise and descriptive, painting a vivid picture of the modern western setting and engaging the readers with a fast-paced narrative.
If you liked The Broken Gun, here are the top 17 books to read next:
- #1
Buckskin Brigades by L. Ron Hubbard is a historical fiction novel set in the Western expanse of the Canadian American north. The book follows the adventures of Yellow Hair, a youth raised by the Blackfeet tribe, as he navigates the complexities of the changing world around him. The story delves into the clash between the indigenous way of life and the encroachment of commercialism by fur traders, all against the backdrop of a struggle for survival and cultural clashes. Through vivid battle scenes and character interactions, the author paints a picture of a time where heroism, honor, and cultural differences collide.
The narrative weaves together the perspectives of both the Blackfeet tribe and the white fur traders, offering a multifaceted view of the era's challenges and conflicts. With elements of adventure, history, and cultural exploration, Buckskin Brigades presents a compelling tale of Yellow Hair's journey to find his place in a rapidly changing world.
- #2
Radigan by Louis L'Amour is a Western novel that follows the story of Tom Radigan, a hard-working man who finds himself in a land war over grazing grounds when a group of gunslinging cattlemen led by a woman named Angelina Foley comes to take his land. Radigan stands up to them and fights back, determined to make his enemies taste the bitterness of their greed and stupidity. The book is set in a rugged landscape that plays a major part in the story, adding to the overall atmosphere and tension. Despite facing challenges, Radigan must use his experience and resilience to outwit his opponents and protect his home.
The plot of Radigan unfolds at a cracking pace, blending elements of mystery, romance, and Western adventure. Louis L'Amour's writing style is described as stark, spare, and cutting to the core, creating a gripping narrative that keeps readers interested throughout. The characters, particularly Radigan and Angelina, are memorable and believable, adding depth to the story as they navigate the conflicts and challenges presented in the novel.
- #3
Louis L'Amour's book "Utah Blaine" is a classic western adventure that follows the story of Utah Blaine, a hero with a mysterious past, as he navigates through a treacherous territory filled with vigilantes and villains seeking to undermine the social structure of the Old West. The book is praised for its exciting plot, swift action, and well-developed characters like Rink Witter, a ruthless gangster, and Utah's sidekick Ortmann. L'Amour's writing style is described as lean and mean, reminiscent of Hemingway, with an emphasis on propelling the story forward without excess verbiage.
Louis L'Amour's "Utah Blaine" brings to life the struggles and adventures of the protagonist, Utah Blaine, in a gripping narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. The book is commended for its detailed descriptions of western settings, Indian practices, and historical accuracy, showcasing L'Amour's expertise in crafting old-school westerns with heroes reminiscent of John Wayne. The dialogue is noted for being cut and dried, with catchy phrases that add to the overall charm and authenticity of the story.
- #4
'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 ) - #5
'Reilly's Luck' by Louis L'Amour follows the journey of Val Darrant, a young boy abandoned by his mother and left to die in the cold, who is taken in by a gentlemanly gambler named Will Reilly. Together, they navigate the American frontier, facing challenges and adventures that shape Val's path to manhood. The story delves into themes of abandonment, survival, mentorship, and revenge, all set against the backdrop of the wild west. L'Amour's writing style is described as captivating and compelling, with a focus on clear-cut characters and a plot that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
It was dark and cold, the only light coming from the crack under the ill-fitting door. The boy huddled in the bed, shivered against the cold, listening to the low mutter of voices from the adjoining r...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Louis L'Amour's Lost Treasures ) - #6
'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 ) - #7
'The Thousand Crimes of Ming Tsu' is a unique blend of adult fiction adventure and western genres, set during the time of the transcontinental railroad construction in the 1870s. The story follows Ming Tsu, a Chinese assassin seeking revenge for the injustice done to him, accompanied by a blind prophet and a group of individuals with magical abilities. The narrative combines elements of violence, romance, magical realism, and historical context, offering a captivating and action-packed journey from Salt Lake City to Sacramento.
The book introduces readers to Ming Tsu, a complex protagonist navigating a world of retribution, magic, and racial discrimination. As Ming embarks on his quest for vengeance and redemption, he encounters a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique abilities and backgrounds. The writing style seamlessly weaves together themes of violence, love, and resilience, creating a compelling narrative that delves into the complexities of identity and morality.
For a long time it had ceased to trouble him to kill. The town of Corinne was behind him, together with its gambling dens and saloons and bars full of angry men. Not two hours ago Ming had killed a ma... - #8
'Appaloosa' by Robert B. Parker follows the story of Virgil Cole and Everett Hitch, two traveling lawmen who arrive in the town of Appaloosa to establish law and order. They aim to bring a local rancher, Randall Bragg, to justice for murder, despite the challenges they face in a town controlled by the ruthless Bragg. is described as a classic Western tale with elements such as gunfights, strong leading characters, a femme fatale, and a narrative that keeps the readers engaged. The writing style is noted for its terse and to-the-point dialogue, reminiscent of Parker's other works, creating an enjoyable and immersive reading experience.
It was a long time ago, now, and there were many gunfights to follow, but I remember as well, perhaps, as I remember anything, the first time I saw Virgil Cole shoot. Time slowed down for him. He foug... - #9
'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
'The Haunted Mesa' by Louis L'Amour follows renowned investigator Mike Raglan as he is summoned to a dark desert plateau by a desperate letter from an old friend, drawing him into a world of mystery, violence, and mysticism. The story delves into the enigmatic race of southwestern cliff dwellers known as the Anasazi, exploring their sudden disappearance and the astonishing legacy they left behind. As Raglan uncovers the extraordinary world of the Anasazi, he crosses borders beyond the laws of man and nature, encountering a frontier like never before.
Louis L'Amour's writing style in 'The Haunted Mesa' combines elements of mystery, ghostly horror, science fiction, and Western genres, crafting a tale that starts mysteriously and evolves into a narrative rich in vivid location descriptions, historical references, and philosophical musings. weaves together themes of parallel dimensions, Native American culture, and supernatural elements, challenging the protagonist, Mike Raglan, to navigate through a world of uncertainty, danger, and self-discovery.
He shivered. What was the matter with him? Ever since leaving the highway he had felt a growing uneasiness. Had he not traveled hundreds of lonely roads before this? Or was it that old memory, hauntin...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Louis L'Amour's Lost Treasures )