Books Like...
Escape from Five Shadows, written by Elmore Leonard, is a western novel set in the 1800s about Corey Bowen, a man wrongly convicted of cattle rustling and serving his term in a brutal work camp in Five Shadows. The plot revolves around Corey's determination to break out of the camp and seek justice, with the help of a brave young woman who believes in his innocence. The narrative features vivid descriptions of the setting and authentic characters, showcasing Leonard's early skill at plotting a good story with genuine personalities. Despite some plot improbabilities and flat characters, the book offers a classic western read that transports readers to the Old West.
The writing style in Escape from Five Shadows is characterized by Leonard's ability to craft engaging dialogues and a tightly woven plot. While the novel may lack the idiosyncratic characters found in his later works, Leonard's storytelling shines through in this early western, where the characters, especially Corey and Karla, are portrayed as strong, confident, and determined individuals who navigate a world filled with violence, romance, and moral dilemmas.
If you liked Escape from Five Shadows, here are the top 3 books to read next:
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Save:'Hombre' by Elmore Leonard is a classic Western tale that follows the story of John Russell, a man raised by Apaches but living in a white world that rejects him. When a stagecoach robbery leaves him and other passengers stranded in the desert, Russell must decide whether to help them or look out for himself. The book explores themes of survival, prejudice, and moral honesty, with a fast-paced plot and snappy dialogue that keeps the reader engaged. Leonard's writing style is described as lean and unassuming, with a focus on action and human interaction over lengthy descriptions.
Here is where I think it begins—with Mr. Henry Mendez, the Hatch & Hodges Division Manager at Sweetmary and still my boss at the time, asking me to ride the sixteen miles down to Delgado’s with him in... - #2
Save:In "Valdez Is Coming: A Novel" by Elmore Leonard, the story follows Bob Valdez, a town constable who is tricked into killing an innocent man by a powerful rancher named Frank Tanner. Valdez seeks justice and recompense for the victim's widow, but faces opposition and violence from Tanner and his men. The book is a classic Western tale filled with action, revenge, and moral dilemmas, showcasing Leonard's skill in crafting a compelling story with memorable characters and unexpected twists.
Picture the ground rising on the east side of the pasture with scrub trees thick on the slope and pines higher up. This is where everybody was. Not all in one place but scattered in small groups, abou... - #3
Save:'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 ...
