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Once Upon a Time in the Weird West
This isn’t the same old Wild West. The usual suspects are all cowboys, outlaws, and sheriffs. There’s plenty of dust, tumbleweeds, horses, and cattle on the range, but there are also magical gems, automatons, elementals, airships… even dinosaurs and genetically modified insects. Roaming among the buffalo and coyotes, you’ll encounter skinwalkers, mad engineers, mythical beings cloaked in darkness, and lovers who stay true to their oaths… even beyond the grave. On this frontier are those at the mercy of their own elaborate devices, as well as men whose control of time and space provides a present-day vision of the West. There might even be a dragon hidden amongst the ghost towns and wagon trains.
If you like your Westerns with a splash of magic, a touch of steampunk, and plenty of passionate romance between men, these genre-bending tales will exceed expectations.
Hold on to your hats, cowboys and cowgirls. The West is about to get weird, and you’re in for a hell of a ride.
If you like your Westerns with a splash of magic, a touch of steampunk, and plenty of passionate romance between men, these genre-bending tales will exceed expectations.
Hold on to your hats, cowboys and cowgirls. The West is about to get weird, and you’re in for a hell of a ride.
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 16, 2016
12 people are currently reading
420 people want to read
About the author
Tricia Kristufek
30 books78 followersTricia Kristufek has an avid reading complex. Her writing is generally fantasy, but she has delved into the world of romance lately. When not writing or editing, she can be found with her nose in a book, passing on her love of books to her daughter, or playing with stray animals. Find out more at http://triciakristufek.com.
Author of "Accidentally Gift Wrapped" in the "Christmas Lites" Anthology, and "Accidentally Smitten" in the "Christmas Lites II" Anthology.
Editor of "The Willing" and "The Reluctant" by C.S. Splitter; Numerous works by Barb G.Tarn; "Sorrow's Child - The Taint" by Georgina Anne Taylor; "The Mission" by Bill Talcott; "Secrets of a Universe - The Mindkey Project" by H. Brian Rawson; "Path of Needles" by Hannah Kollef; "Under the Bed Across the World" by Rose Candis.
Proofreader of "Christmas Lites" Anthology.
Author of "Accidentally Gift Wrapped" in the "Christmas Lites" Anthology, and "Accidentally Smitten" in the "Christmas Lites II" Anthology.
Editor of "The Willing" and "The Reluctant" by C.S. Splitter; Numerous works by Barb G.Tarn; "Sorrow's Child - The Taint" by Georgina Anne Taylor; "The Mission" by Bill Talcott; "Secrets of a Universe - The Mindkey Project" by H. Brian Rawson; "Path of Needles" by Hannah Kollef; "Under the Bed Across the World" by Rose Candis.
Proofreader of "Christmas Lites" Anthology.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
June 23, 2019
OMG, I thought that would never end. This is an interesting collection. There's certainly a lot of imagination on display, and as with all anthologies, some were better than others. There's a good mix of steampunk, fantasy, and sci-fi. Most fell into the good to meh range for me, but the first and last were the strongest.
Reaper's Ride by Astrid Amara - 4 stars.
Basically a gay Ghost Rider minus the unfortunate skelemorphisis. Good fun. :D
Wild, Wild Heart by Shira Anthony - 3.5 stars.
This was well-written and I liked Al and Cyrus alright, but the world-building was a bit lacking. Since we're dropped right into the middle of things here, there wasn't time to really get the full impact of the MCs' connection before things got going.
Dr. Ezekiel Crumb's Heavenly Soul by Lex Chase - 2 stars.
Wow. From shot in the knee, to stitched up, to rough and wild sex in less than five minutes. That's a new record! Oh, and a former alien king something or other.
Corpse Powder by Jana Denardo - 3 stars.
A Navajo man running from a skinwalker meets a Jewish doctor after the airship Tsela was on is raided by pirates. There were a lot of good ideas here, but they didn't really have time to blossom, and the romance was very insta.
The Sheriff of Para Siempre by Jamie Fessenden - 2 stars.
So...I liked the beginning of this a lot. It was really sweet and cute, if sad 'cuz homophobia was alive and well in the Wild West, hence why Billy and Joe were always on the move. I liked Joe's voice a lot, and it was clear these two were smitten with each other, and the no-dames-in-this-town Para Siempre is pretty casual about them so long as they keep it under lock and key. But then, zombies?? Or zombie. I think? This is something I know a lot of my friends hate in romance, so spoiler.
The Tale of August Hayling by Kim Fielding - 3 stars.
It's Kim Fielding, so it's well-written. But talk about insta-love. But I guess if you're into and there's no chance of ever finding another one, your choices are pretty limited.
Time Zone by Andrew Q Gordon - 3 stars.
I thought all these were supposed to take place during the Wild West days, but this one's contemporary. Pretty interesting and it's a story more like something Marvel would do.
Get Lucky Ginn Hale - 3 stars.
Hale throws everything and the kitchen sink into this story. Mages. Theurgists. Dinosaurs. Epic flood. Gangsters. Pinkertons. Seriously, everything is in here, and yet it doesn't feel overstuffed. Unfortunately, there's no ending! A lot of stuff is set up, and then it's left hanging. I did see the note that this is story takes place in the world of another story, and I have no idea what that story is about, if it continues with these two or picks up where this leaves off, or if it deals with an entirely different cast. And it doesn't really matter. This is still an incomplete story. Well-written, greatly imagined, likable characters, so three stars.
From Ancient Grudge to New Mutiny by Langley Hyde - 2 stars.
A gay fantasy version of Romeo and Juliet, where This could've been interesting, but it was undeveloped and the ending was rushed.
POMH by Veronica Keyes - 2 stars.
This is more of a detailed outline, and doesn't make much sense. This is like a gay steampunk version of Pinocchio. Kinda weird and random.
Oh, Give Me a Home by Nicole Kimberling - 3 stars.
This one is very short, so the author wisely keeps this to just a few scenes, and she does those scenes very well. She sets up this world in a minimum of words and without spending time on unnecessary details. However, since this is so short, there's not much time to set up the relationship between the MCs. Also, it wasn't set in the wild west but on a completely new planet.
Gunner the Deadly by C.S. Poe - 2 stars.
I didn't know what to expect from this author, and I tried to go into this with an open mind. This had an interesting set up, and the action was decently written, but the "romance" was way too insta and unprofessional professional to boot. Throw in an abrupt ending and there wasn't much to recommend this one.
After the Wind by Tali Spencer - 4 stars.
This is a strong end to this anthology. Micah is a fire elemental, in hiding from the government, bounty hunters and poachers who hunt his kind down. When a couple of poachers come through selling the services of a water elemental, Micah decides to do what he can to help the man - but exposing himself would be risking his friends and neighbors as well. The author also doesn't ignore the trauma of Rain's abuse at the hands of the poachers. There's no insta here, as there shouldn't be. I actually wished this one had been a little longer.
Reaper's Ride by Astrid Amara - 4 stars.
Basically a gay Ghost Rider minus the unfortunate skelemorphisis. Good fun. :D
Wild, Wild Heart by Shira Anthony - 3.5 stars.
This was well-written and I liked Al and Cyrus alright, but the world-building was a bit lacking. Since we're dropped right into the middle of things here, there wasn't time to really get the full impact of the MCs' connection before things got going.
Dr. Ezekiel Crumb's Heavenly Soul by Lex Chase - 2 stars.
Wow. From shot in the knee, to stitched up, to rough and wild sex in less than five minutes. That's a new record! Oh, and a former alien king something or other.
Corpse Powder by Jana Denardo - 3 stars.
A Navajo man running from a skinwalker meets a Jewish doctor after the airship Tsela was on is raided by pirates. There were a lot of good ideas here, but they didn't really have time to blossom, and the romance was very insta.
The Sheriff of Para Siempre by Jamie Fessenden - 2 stars.
So...I liked the beginning of this a lot. It was really sweet and cute, if sad 'cuz homophobia was alive and well in the Wild West, hence why Billy and Joe were always on the move. I liked Joe's voice a lot, and it was clear these two were smitten with each other, and the no-dames-in-this-town Para Siempre is pretty casual about them so long as they keep it under lock and key. But then, zombies?? Or zombie. I think? This is something I know a lot of my friends hate in romance, so spoiler.
The Tale of August Hayling by Kim Fielding - 3 stars.
It's Kim Fielding, so it's well-written. But talk about insta-love. But I guess if you're into and there's no chance of ever finding another one, your choices are pretty limited.
Time Zone by Andrew Q Gordon - 3 stars.
I thought all these were supposed to take place during the Wild West days, but this one's contemporary. Pretty interesting and it's a story more like something Marvel would do.
Get Lucky Ginn Hale - 3 stars.
Hale throws everything and the kitchen sink into this story. Mages. Theurgists. Dinosaurs. Epic flood. Gangsters. Pinkertons. Seriously, everything is in here, and yet it doesn't feel overstuffed. Unfortunately, there's no ending! A lot of stuff is set up, and then it's left hanging. I did see the note that this is story takes place in the world of another story, and I have no idea what that story is about, if it continues with these two or picks up where this leaves off, or if it deals with an entirely different cast. And it doesn't really matter. This is still an incomplete story. Well-written, greatly imagined, likable characters, so three stars.
From Ancient Grudge to New Mutiny by Langley Hyde - 2 stars.
A gay fantasy version of Romeo and Juliet, where This could've been interesting, but it was undeveloped and the ending was rushed.
POMH by Veronica Keyes - 2 stars.
This is more of a detailed outline, and doesn't make much sense. This is like a gay steampunk version of Pinocchio. Kinda weird and random.
Oh, Give Me a Home by Nicole Kimberling - 3 stars.
This one is very short, so the author wisely keeps this to just a few scenes, and she does those scenes very well. She sets up this world in a minimum of words and without spending time on unnecessary details. However, since this is so short, there's not much time to set up the relationship between the MCs. Also, it wasn't set in the wild west but on a completely new planet.
Gunner the Deadly by C.S. Poe - 2 stars.
I didn't know what to expect from this author, and I tried to go into this with an open mind. This had an interesting set up, and the action was decently written, but the "romance" was way too insta and unprofessional professional to boot. Throw in an abrupt ending and there wasn't much to recommend this one.
After the Wind by Tali Spencer - 4 stars.
This is a strong end to this anthology. Micah is a fire elemental, in hiding from the government, bounty hunters and poachers who hunt his kind down. When a couple of poachers come through selling the services of a water elemental, Micah decides to do what he can to help the man - but exposing himself would be risking his friends and neighbors as well. The author also doesn't ignore the trauma of Rain's abuse at the hands of the poachers. There's no insta here, as there shouldn't be. I actually wished this one had been a little longer.
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November 14, 2016I am so excited to be a part of this anthology. I mean, just look at that lineup of authors. And that cover!
If you want to know a bit about how this book came to be, you can read here: http://www.kfieldingwrites.com/cover-...
What the book contains is 13 spec fic stories, all based on the same weird west prompt. I guarantee you'll enjoy. You might even meet some new favorite authors.
If you want to know a bit about how this book came to be, you can read here: http://www.kfieldingwrites.com/cover-...
What the book contains is 13 spec fic stories, all based on the same weird west prompt. I guarantee you'll enjoy. You might even meet some new favorite authors.
December 17, 2016
When I first saw
Once Upon a Time in the Weird West
being listed over at Dreamspinner Press website, I almost screamed with joy. How could I not -- the list of authors participating on this anthology is INSANE! These are some of my favorite authors in fantasy/urban fantasy category!! The idea of having them in one book -- total 13 stories, of 143k words -- is exhilarating.
As always with anthology, some I loved more and some I liked less. My favorite of the bunch is the first story from Astrid Amara, Reaper's Ride, because I thought it felt complete despite its length and very much satisfying. The least favorite is the one from Nicole Kimberling, Oh, Give Me Home mainly because the sci-fi element made me feel detached the whole time. The rest of them are ranging from good to really good :)
I only have short review for each of the story because I got book hangover when I finished reading the book. Couldn't think. So apologize in advance
I put everything under spoiler tag to make this review looks less space-cluttered ^^
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
As always with anthology, some I loved more and some I liked less. My favorite of the bunch is the first story from Astrid Amara, Reaper's Ride, because I thought it felt complete despite its length and very much satisfying. The least favorite is the one from Nicole Kimberling, Oh, Give Me Home mainly because the sci-fi element made me feel detached the whole time. The rest of them are ranging from good to really good :)
I only have short review for each of the story because I got book hangover when I finished reading the book. Couldn't think. So apologize in advance
I put everything under spoiler tag to make this review looks less space-cluttered ^^
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
January 17, 2020
The subtitle to Once Upon a Time in the Weird West says it all. This is an amazing anthology of "Speculative Fiction with a Western Twist" from thirteen different authors totaling 400 pages. It's impossible to do an in-depth review of every story, so perhaps imagine a bit of Wild Wild West along with Westworld plus Firefly, and topped off with Jonah Hex. If you'd like to read blurbs for each of the stories, click here and then select "Read an Excerpt" on the left-hand column underneath the cover pic.
There was not a single tale in this anthology that I did not like (and several that I madly adored). These tales ranges from fresh takes on Romeo and Juliet, the Pony Express, quixotic searches for treasure, gloriously steampunk airships, delicate craftsmanship creating mechanical wonders for the sake of love as well as hate, medicine shows, rainmakers and more. And there is M/M love threaded through each story, from young love to beyond the grave.
Even if you aren't a fan of the weird west genre, give Once Upon a Time in the Weird West a try - you might be pleasantly surprised. From the gorgeous covers to each story within, I highly recommend this anthology and give it 5 stars.
I received an ARC from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
There was not a single tale in this anthology that I did not like (and several that I madly adored). These tales ranges from fresh takes on Romeo and Juliet, the Pony Express, quixotic searches for treasure, gloriously steampunk airships, delicate craftsmanship creating mechanical wonders for the sake of love as well as hate, medicine shows, rainmakers and more. And there is M/M love threaded through each story, from young love to beyond the grave.
Even if you aren't a fan of the weird west genre, give Once Upon a Time in the Weird West a try - you might be pleasantly surprised. From the gorgeous covers to each story within, I highly recommend this anthology and give it 5 stars.
I received an ARC from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
November 22, 2017
4.5 Stars
This anthology spoke to every little bit of me as a reader. The dedication should have said:
Dear Peach,
This book and everything in it was written with just you in mind. You’re welcome.
Also, you are very pretty.
Love and hugs,
The Weird West
And it freakin’ delivered! Everyone knows that not every store in an anthology can be 5 star for every reader, that’s a completely unrealistic expectation and goes against the very nature of bringing so much variation together. That’s what I love about anthologies myself, the variation on a theme and all the perspectives. Sure, you win some, you lose some, but along the way you’ll read an author that’s new to you and you hit up their backlist and if something doesn’t appeal to you, you can move along to the next without investing too much time.
This anthology? SO MUCH GOOD STUFF. I didn’t rate each story individually because the reasons some didn’t appeal to me as much as a few others were for no real reason other than personal preference, so I gave my reasons, but those may not mean squat to you and that’s as it should be.
There are some really amazing stories here and I hope you give them all a go.
Reaper’s Ride by Astrid Amara
This take on the Grim Reaper was the perfect start to this anthology and I was hooked and hooked hard from the get go. The author’s tale on how the reapering worked in the old west and the tie to the Pony Express was very interesting and damn clever. There was plenty of detail without being overly complex which can be a tough balance for a short story, but Reaper’s Ride made it happen. There also had to be enough background for each MC so that I could buy into their connection and Johnny’s sacrifice for Sye. And the author did it with a heavy emphasis on the showing and not the telling. I really loved this one and the ending made me all happy. Of course I was completely freakin’ stressed there for a bit, but the redemption Johnny was able to get on his ride made it all worthwhile.
Wild, Wild Heart by Shira Anthony
Wild, Wild Heart has a steampunk theme mixed in and it’s a well done blend because the steampunk angle is more steampunk-lite keeping the focus on the characters and their connections. Al has had a tough and lonely existence until his master is able to strengthen his heart with the aid of mechanics. Al was devastated when his master passed away, and has resigned himself to a limited existence and a shortened lifespan. He rescues a young gunslinger one day and Clay becomes a fixture in his life bringing him some companionship and happiness. Cyrus’ past comes back to exact some revenge and Al ends up damaging his mechanical heart in the process of defending Cyrus. Al may have never trained Cyrus to become his apprentice, but Cyrus was always watching and paying attention. He’s the only one who can save Al’s heart and I loved the tension the author worked into the repair of Al’s heart, both mechanical and human. The whole procedure, as told by both MC’s made the story and made me buy into an HEA for these two.
Dr. Ezekiel Crumb’s Heavenly Soul Purifying Elixir by Lex Chase
This one was very unique with some fantastical parts and pieces mixed into a seemingly simple setup. The start with Ezekiel’s traveling medicine show was a great setup and I liked how the author had the backstory of Ezekiel/Elias and Levi evolve throughout the story. Their reunited bond got stronger as it went on and I loved reading their love as they revealed it to one another again. I wasn’t sure if I’d like Ezekiel in the beginning, I mean, he’s basically a snake oil salesman, he’s not supposed to be a sympathetic character, but as the story came out, my heart hurt for what he went through and it made complete sense why he buried Elias to survive as Ezekiel. There was definitely a more heavy paranormal element to this one and I appreciated how the author kept up the theme with the medicine until the end. There was enough, but at the same time, not enough of Levi’s history. It was a pretty big concept for a short story, and while there was nothing left hanging, the tease piqued my interest on what more there could have been.
Corpse Powder by Jana Denardo
Oh, this story fit in deliciously with the Weird West. It had all manner of elements that could have been too much but turned out to be just right. There were steamships, magic, faith, skinwalkers and then a quiet, true love between two very different men. Isaac is a doctor who survived the war but saw way too much and is having trouble finding his faith again. He moved to Virginia City because of the large Jewish community and promise of a job. The job fell through because of the greedy bastard who is the town doctor currently who reneged on his offer and so Isaac is a little rootless. He meets Tsela Zahni, a Native American shipman whose airship is attacked by pirates. Isaac comes to help the wounded and the two men form a bond of friendship and respect that slowly grows as the story progresses. I really liked these two together and could appreciate their connection from the beginning. Tsela’s past comes back to exact revenge and the action was good stuff as he and Isaac battled the baddies so they could have a future together.
The Sheriff of Para Siempre by Jamie Fessenden
This was a sublime piece of storytelling. It broke my heart and the bittersweet ending couldn’t have been any better. The Sheriff of Para Siempre is told from Joe Brady’s POV as he and his lover Billy Slade try to eke out a living in the harsh landscape of New Mexico. Billy is one of the fastest gunmen in the area and their travels take them to Para Siempre where Billy becomes the town sheriff and Joe is his deputy. Para Siempre is basically a ghost town that refuses to die. There is just enough in the mines to keep the diehards there and it’s a perfect opportunity for the Cassidy brothers to take advantage of the men who are left in town.
Billy does his job as sheriff, but the Cassidy’s don’t fight fair and the absolute worst happens. It’s just so damned sad and you would think the story would be over, but Joe and Billy’s lives in Para Siempre have many, many more years to go. The tales turns beautifully creepy at this point and one simple statement that Billy made to Joe around the campfire before they made it to Para Siempre turned out to be a prophecy neither of them could have seen coming.
The Epilogue was exactly what an epilogue should be. It told the end of the story from another perspective and given the otherworldly aspect of Billy and Joe by this point, the balance and that bit of distance were perfect. I’ll be rereading this story.
The Tale of August Hayling by Kim Fielding
The Tale of August Hayling is a unique offering to the Weird West and I enjoyed the difference very much. August is a big bear of a man and what he lacks in book smarts he more than makes up for in common sense and insight. August is somewhat ‘between jobs’ and is hired by a stranger in the saloon to come help him bring back a fortune in gold. August is somewhat skeptical, but it’s not like he has anything to lose, so off he goes. He quickly learns his employer is on a completely different mission that has been continuing on for centuries. Turns out Georgios, (the employer) has been battling a dragon (who shifts into a man) for basically ever and the dragon is SO over this nonsense. The cycle never seems to end because Georgios won’t give up. August and the dragon, Sarkany, hit it off pretty quickly and August has been alone entirely too long to give up the opportunity for some happiness. It’s a quick trip to love, but I really liked August and given his life and somewhat bleak future, I couldn’t nitpick over the timeline, I just was happy he was happy.
Time Zone by Andrew Q Gordon
Time Zone keeps us in the West but leaves the past behind for a modern setting. I liked finding a different period in here, it helped keep the stories fresh which was good because I loved binge reading this book. Wesley Blake, I would say, is somewhat comparable to an X-Men character. He can manipulate time and was tapped to become a field agent for the Department of Gifted Americans. He’s a bit of a maverick and doesn’t let anyone get too close to him. His past heartbreak makes him keep his distance and the only consistent ‘person’ in his life is his handler Lothar who he has never even met in person. He gets a new partner, Eric, and the two of them begin training for a mysterious and dangerous assignment. Eric was a really good guy and I liked his character very much. He’s a perfect partner for Wes, and the two of them begin to forge a tenuous friendship. Romance is not in their cards though as Wes is carrying a torch for the one man he knows he can never have and it was so sad to read his hopelessness. It’s why he throws himself into his work and when the assignment starts to go sideways Wes is ready to make the ultimate sacrifice as he feels like he’s got nothing to lose. I loved the ending and it was just right for a short story. Wes’ future is going to be interesting and I’d love to read a full story with these characters if the author decided to keep this one going.
Get Lucky by Ginn Hale
On the surface, a story about gunslingers, mages, Pinkerton’s and dinosaurs and a one-eyed crocodile should be ridiculous, but the author turned this into an intense piece of storytelling and the story had me hooked from the beginning. Lucky is somewhat ironically named and his life has been pretty rough up until now. He has his one way out years ago and his lover never came for him, skipped town and left Lucky behind. Or did he? That’s the great twist in Get Lucky. There was plenty of action while still time for Lucky and Dalfon to reconnect believably. The two plot lines worked in conjunction and moved the story along towards the two MC’s HEA. The package is wrapped up very neatly and with an air of fairy tale magic as everything perfectly possible happened for Lucky, but he’s had a really rough go, so he deserved every little bit.
From Ancient Grudge to New Mutiny by Langley Hyde
This retelling of the Shakespearean feud between the Capulets and the Montagues (in this case, the Caplins and the Montgomerys) is a great idea and I liked how the author took it and made is work with the overall theme of the anthology. It’s as if the Hatfield’s and the McCoy’s had rare magical stones to fight over and two young sons that fell in to a love that was doomed from the beginning. The story read a little choppy at times as there was a lot going on with little nuggets of backstory reference thrown in at the same time. I didn’t get a chance to connect with James and Frank’s history and I think that was the only thing I was missing. I did like the ending very much and wish I could have had a little more balance on the MC’s perspective of their outcome and what it meant to them to finally be together.
POMH by Venona Keyes
The world building in POMH started out really well. The interaction between the MC and the rest of the cast gave a good feel as to who Lorem was and his motivations for his inventions. I loved reading the interaction between he and his friends, especially his mentor Chron. Lorem needs an apprentice himself, pretty badly and decides to build one of his own after finding a valuable red prism. I was just getting into it and was looking forward to how the backstory was going to tie together with the Lorem’s invention. See, Lorem had the perfect apprentice lined up pre-story but he was killed in a gruesome accident and I was anxious to read about the lost perfect apprentice and the invention coming together while defeating the greedy baddy. Unfortunately the buildup just kind of petered out there, it was as if time ran out, so magic had to happen to pull it together and I was kind of bummed. The buildup had been really good and then ‘poof’ it was done.
Oh, Give Me a Home by Nicole Kimberling
Space cowboys FTW you guys!
This is easily one of my favorites in this anthology, the world building and all the subtle bits that built the environment for Henry and Gordon were some of the best I’ve read in a long time. Gordon and Henry are an established couple but the author works in their backstory easily through Gordon’s memories. The two of them are complete opposites but it’s obvious how well they complement one another. Because they are already an established couple there isn’t all the getting-to-know you delicious tension, but the subtle banter and memories serve to fill all that space with something even better because their relationship was built up for me just right. I appreciated the snark that comes along with an established couple and still swooned at the consideration they showed for one another given their differences. The action was tense and yet still fun to read at the same time. I’ll definitely be looking for more from Nicole Kimberling.
Gunner the Deadly by C.S. Poe
Gunner the Deadly is a total kick and then completely romantic at the end. The story of unlikely allies who are total opposites is teeming with the fun kind of action that’s full of snark and doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s exactly how I like my action. The setup is well done without being overly complicated so the focus on the MC’s growing attraction had equal footing with all the steampunky shenanigans. Gunner is a mystery that Gillian and I couldn’t get enough of, he’s pretty charismatic for a total enigma and as Gillian untangles the legend he can’t help but dig on everything about the man that he discovers. The end is perfectly perfect. Subtle and sweet and completely Gunner. I loved it.
After the Wind by Tali Spencer
Tali Spencer is a master at world building, if you haven’t read her words before, trust me on this one, she totally owns that skill so hard. After the Wind tells a complete story and leaves nothing hanging, but man I just wanted more. I was totally fascinated and would love to have a whole novel based on the setup here. There is SO much here that could fuel a whole series and I would be all over it. The idea of weirdlings being persecuted for their powers and basically being poached for their parts was a horrifyingly fascinating setup with entirely too much that can be tied to human history, it’s pretty sobering to be honest. Micah is a great character and I would love to have more backstory for him as well as the rest of the folks on Win’s ranch as well as the Comanches and their whole connection with the Wind. Micah’s interest in Rain is more than just as a rescuer, but he also recognizes Rain’s past and respects his new found freedom. The ending had them beginning to find their balance and while I’m sure there is an HEA in store for them, I would have loved to have read every detail of their new relationship.
WHEW, that’s a lot of me running my yapper.
Enjoy the weirdness!
**a copy of this story was provided for an honest review**
This anthology spoke to every little bit of me as a reader. The dedication should have said:
Dear Peach,
This book and everything in it was written with just you in mind. You’re welcome.
Also, you are very pretty.
Love and hugs,
The Weird West
And it freakin’ delivered! Everyone knows that not every store in an anthology can be 5 star for every reader, that’s a completely unrealistic expectation and goes against the very nature of bringing so much variation together. That’s what I love about anthologies myself, the variation on a theme and all the perspectives. Sure, you win some, you lose some, but along the way you’ll read an author that’s new to you and you hit up their backlist and if something doesn’t appeal to you, you can move along to the next without investing too much time.
This anthology? SO MUCH GOOD STUFF. I didn’t rate each story individually because the reasons some didn’t appeal to me as much as a few others were for no real reason other than personal preference, so I gave my reasons, but those may not mean squat to you and that’s as it should be.
There are some really amazing stories here and I hope you give them all a go.
Reaper’s Ride by Astrid Amara
This take on the Grim Reaper was the perfect start to this anthology and I was hooked and hooked hard from the get go. The author’s tale on how the reapering worked in the old west and the tie to the Pony Express was very interesting and damn clever. There was plenty of detail without being overly complex which can be a tough balance for a short story, but Reaper’s Ride made it happen. There also had to be enough background for each MC so that I could buy into their connection and Johnny’s sacrifice for Sye. And the author did it with a heavy emphasis on the showing and not the telling. I really loved this one and the ending made me all happy. Of course I was completely freakin’ stressed there for a bit, but the redemption Johnny was able to get on his ride made it all worthwhile.
Wild, Wild Heart by Shira Anthony
Wild, Wild Heart has a steampunk theme mixed in and it’s a well done blend because the steampunk angle is more steampunk-lite keeping the focus on the characters and their connections. Al has had a tough and lonely existence until his master is able to strengthen his heart with the aid of mechanics. Al was devastated when his master passed away, and has resigned himself to a limited existence and a shortened lifespan. He rescues a young gunslinger one day and Clay becomes a fixture in his life bringing him some companionship and happiness. Cyrus’ past comes back to exact some revenge and Al ends up damaging his mechanical heart in the process of defending Cyrus. Al may have never trained Cyrus to become his apprentice, but Cyrus was always watching and paying attention. He’s the only one who can save Al’s heart and I loved the tension the author worked into the repair of Al’s heart, both mechanical and human. The whole procedure, as told by both MC’s made the story and made me buy into an HEA for these two.
Dr. Ezekiel Crumb’s Heavenly Soul Purifying Elixir by Lex Chase
This one was very unique with some fantastical parts and pieces mixed into a seemingly simple setup. The start with Ezekiel’s traveling medicine show was a great setup and I liked how the author had the backstory of Ezekiel/Elias and Levi evolve throughout the story. Their reunited bond got stronger as it went on and I loved reading their love as they revealed it to one another again. I wasn’t sure if I’d like Ezekiel in the beginning, I mean, he’s basically a snake oil salesman, he’s not supposed to be a sympathetic character, but as the story came out, my heart hurt for what he went through and it made complete sense why he buried Elias to survive as Ezekiel. There was definitely a more heavy paranormal element to this one and I appreciated how the author kept up the theme with the medicine until the end. There was enough, but at the same time, not enough of Levi’s history. It was a pretty big concept for a short story, and while there was nothing left hanging, the tease piqued my interest on what more there could have been.
Corpse Powder by Jana Denardo
Oh, this story fit in deliciously with the Weird West. It had all manner of elements that could have been too much but turned out to be just right. There were steamships, magic, faith, skinwalkers and then a quiet, true love between two very different men. Isaac is a doctor who survived the war but saw way too much and is having trouble finding his faith again. He moved to Virginia City because of the large Jewish community and promise of a job. The job fell through because of the greedy bastard who is the town doctor currently who reneged on his offer and so Isaac is a little rootless. He meets Tsela Zahni, a Native American shipman whose airship is attacked by pirates. Isaac comes to help the wounded and the two men form a bond of friendship and respect that slowly grows as the story progresses. I really liked these two together and could appreciate their connection from the beginning. Tsela’s past comes back to exact revenge and the action was good stuff as he and Isaac battled the baddies so they could have a future together.
The Sheriff of Para Siempre by Jamie Fessenden
This was a sublime piece of storytelling. It broke my heart and the bittersweet ending couldn’t have been any better. The Sheriff of Para Siempre is told from Joe Brady’s POV as he and his lover Billy Slade try to eke out a living in the harsh landscape of New Mexico. Billy is one of the fastest gunmen in the area and their travels take them to Para Siempre where Billy becomes the town sheriff and Joe is his deputy. Para Siempre is basically a ghost town that refuses to die. There is just enough in the mines to keep the diehards there and it’s a perfect opportunity for the Cassidy brothers to take advantage of the men who are left in town.
Billy does his job as sheriff, but the Cassidy’s don’t fight fair and the absolute worst happens. It’s just so damned sad and you would think the story would be over, but Joe and Billy’s lives in Para Siempre have many, many more years to go. The tales turns beautifully creepy at this point and one simple statement that Billy made to Joe around the campfire before they made it to Para Siempre turned out to be a prophecy neither of them could have seen coming.
The Epilogue was exactly what an epilogue should be. It told the end of the story from another perspective and given the otherworldly aspect of Billy and Joe by this point, the balance and that bit of distance were perfect. I’ll be rereading this story.
The Tale of August Hayling by Kim Fielding
The Tale of August Hayling is a unique offering to the Weird West and I enjoyed the difference very much. August is a big bear of a man and what he lacks in book smarts he more than makes up for in common sense and insight. August is somewhat ‘between jobs’ and is hired by a stranger in the saloon to come help him bring back a fortune in gold. August is somewhat skeptical, but it’s not like he has anything to lose, so off he goes. He quickly learns his employer is on a completely different mission that has been continuing on for centuries. Turns out Georgios, (the employer) has been battling a dragon (who shifts into a man) for basically ever and the dragon is SO over this nonsense. The cycle never seems to end because Georgios won’t give up. August and the dragon, Sarkany, hit it off pretty quickly and August has been alone entirely too long to give up the opportunity for some happiness. It’s a quick trip to love, but I really liked August and given his life and somewhat bleak future, I couldn’t nitpick over the timeline, I just was happy he was happy.
Time Zone by Andrew Q Gordon
Time Zone keeps us in the West but leaves the past behind for a modern setting. I liked finding a different period in here, it helped keep the stories fresh which was good because I loved binge reading this book. Wesley Blake, I would say, is somewhat comparable to an X-Men character. He can manipulate time and was tapped to become a field agent for the Department of Gifted Americans. He’s a bit of a maverick and doesn’t let anyone get too close to him. His past heartbreak makes him keep his distance and the only consistent ‘person’ in his life is his handler Lothar who he has never even met in person. He gets a new partner, Eric, and the two of them begin training for a mysterious and dangerous assignment. Eric was a really good guy and I liked his character very much. He’s a perfect partner for Wes, and the two of them begin to forge a tenuous friendship. Romance is not in their cards though as Wes is carrying a torch for the one man he knows he can never have and it was so sad to read his hopelessness. It’s why he throws himself into his work and when the assignment starts to go sideways Wes is ready to make the ultimate sacrifice as he feels like he’s got nothing to lose. I loved the ending and it was just right for a short story. Wes’ future is going to be interesting and I’d love to read a full story with these characters if the author decided to keep this one going.
Get Lucky by Ginn Hale
On the surface, a story about gunslingers, mages, Pinkerton’s and dinosaurs and a one-eyed crocodile should be ridiculous, but the author turned this into an intense piece of storytelling and the story had me hooked from the beginning. Lucky is somewhat ironically named and his life has been pretty rough up until now. He has his one way out years ago and his lover never came for him, skipped town and left Lucky behind. Or did he? That’s the great twist in Get Lucky. There was plenty of action while still time for Lucky and Dalfon to reconnect believably. The two plot lines worked in conjunction and moved the story along towards the two MC’s HEA. The package is wrapped up very neatly and with an air of fairy tale magic as everything perfectly possible happened for Lucky, but he’s had a really rough go, so he deserved every little bit.
From Ancient Grudge to New Mutiny by Langley Hyde
This retelling of the Shakespearean feud between the Capulets and the Montagues (in this case, the Caplins and the Montgomerys) is a great idea and I liked how the author took it and made is work with the overall theme of the anthology. It’s as if the Hatfield’s and the McCoy’s had rare magical stones to fight over and two young sons that fell in to a love that was doomed from the beginning. The story read a little choppy at times as there was a lot going on with little nuggets of backstory reference thrown in at the same time. I didn’t get a chance to connect with James and Frank’s history and I think that was the only thing I was missing. I did like the ending very much and wish I could have had a little more balance on the MC’s perspective of their outcome and what it meant to them to finally be together.
POMH by Venona Keyes
The world building in POMH started out really well. The interaction between the MC and the rest of the cast gave a good feel as to who Lorem was and his motivations for his inventions. I loved reading the interaction between he and his friends, especially his mentor Chron. Lorem needs an apprentice himself, pretty badly and decides to build one of his own after finding a valuable red prism. I was just getting into it and was looking forward to how the backstory was going to tie together with the Lorem’s invention. See, Lorem had the perfect apprentice lined up pre-story but he was killed in a gruesome accident and I was anxious to read about the lost perfect apprentice and the invention coming together while defeating the greedy baddy. Unfortunately the buildup just kind of petered out there, it was as if time ran out, so magic had to happen to pull it together and I was kind of bummed. The buildup had been really good and then ‘poof’ it was done.
Oh, Give Me a Home by Nicole Kimberling
Space cowboys FTW you guys!
This is easily one of my favorites in this anthology, the world building and all the subtle bits that built the environment for Henry and Gordon were some of the best I’ve read in a long time. Gordon and Henry are an established couple but the author works in their backstory easily through Gordon’s memories. The two of them are complete opposites but it’s obvious how well they complement one another. Because they are already an established couple there isn’t all the getting-to-know you delicious tension, but the subtle banter and memories serve to fill all that space with something even better because their relationship was built up for me just right. I appreciated the snark that comes along with an established couple and still swooned at the consideration they showed for one another given their differences. The action was tense and yet still fun to read at the same time. I’ll definitely be looking for more from Nicole Kimberling.
Gunner the Deadly by C.S. Poe
Gunner the Deadly is a total kick and then completely romantic at the end. The story of unlikely allies who are total opposites is teeming with the fun kind of action that’s full of snark and doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s exactly how I like my action. The setup is well done without being overly complicated so the focus on the MC’s growing attraction had equal footing with all the steampunky shenanigans. Gunner is a mystery that Gillian and I couldn’t get enough of, he’s pretty charismatic for a total enigma and as Gillian untangles the legend he can’t help but dig on everything about the man that he discovers. The end is perfectly perfect. Subtle and sweet and completely Gunner. I loved it.
After the Wind by Tali Spencer
Tali Spencer is a master at world building, if you haven’t read her words before, trust me on this one, she totally owns that skill so hard. After the Wind tells a complete story and leaves nothing hanging, but man I just wanted more. I was totally fascinated and would love to have a whole novel based on the setup here. There is SO much here that could fuel a whole series and I would be all over it. The idea of weirdlings being persecuted for their powers and basically being poached for their parts was a horrifyingly fascinating setup with entirely too much that can be tied to human history, it’s pretty sobering to be honest. Micah is a great character and I would love to have more backstory for him as well as the rest of the folks on Win’s ranch as well as the Comanches and their whole connection with the Wind. Micah’s interest in Rain is more than just as a rescuer, but he also recognizes Rain’s past and respects his new found freedom. The ending had them beginning to find their balance and while I’m sure there is an HEA in store for them, I would have loved to have read every detail of their new relationship.
WHEW, that’s a lot of me running my yapper.
Enjoy the weirdness!
**a copy of this story was provided for an honest review**
September 22, 2018
Most I can say about this anthology is that it was okay.
There were some good stories, but mostly I struggled with them.
Reaper’s Ride by Astrid Amara - ★★★½
Wild, Wild Heart by Shira Anthony - ★★
Dr. Ezekiel Crumb’s Heavenly Soul Purifying Elixir by Lex Chase - ★★
Corpse Powder by Jana Denardo - ★★★½
The Sheriff of Para Siempre by Jamie Fessenden - DNF
The Tale of August Hayling by Kim Fielding - ★★★½
Time Zone by Andrew Q. Gordon - ★★½
Get Lucky by Ginn Hale - ★★★★
From Ancient Grudge to New Mutiny by Langley Hyde - DNF
POMH by Venona Keyes - ★★★
Oh, Give Me a Home by Nicole Kimberling - ★★★½
Gunner the Deadly by C.S. Poe - ★★★
After the Wind by Tali Spencer - ★★★½
There were some good stories, but mostly I struggled with them.
Reaper’s Ride by Astrid Amara - ★★★½
Wild, Wild Heart by Shira Anthony - ★★
Dr. Ezekiel Crumb’s Heavenly Soul Purifying Elixir by Lex Chase - ★★
Corpse Powder by Jana Denardo - ★★★½
The Sheriff of Para Siempre by Jamie Fessenden - DNF
The Tale of August Hayling by Kim Fielding - ★★★½
Time Zone by Andrew Q. Gordon - ★★½
Get Lucky by Ginn Hale - ★★★★
From Ancient Grudge to New Mutiny by Langley Hyde - DNF
POMH by Venona Keyes - ★★★
Oh, Give Me a Home by Nicole Kimberling - ★★★½
Gunner the Deadly by C.S. Poe - ★★★
After the Wind by Tali Spencer - ★★★½
February 9, 2017
4.5 stars. Soooooooooo fun. I had so much fun reading this! Overall a fantastic collection. See my full review here: http://www.thenovelapproachreviews.co...
Read
August 20, 2025OUT OF PRINT.
The Engineer, Book One in the Magic & Steam series, by C.S. Poe (formally titled Gunner the Deadly) has been expanded and republished April 2020. It is available for sale and review separately in ebook, paperback, and audio.
The Engineer, Book One in the Magic & Steam series, by C.S. Poe (formally titled Gunner the Deadly) has been expanded and republished April 2020. It is available for sale and review separately in ebook, paperback, and audio.
February 7, 2018
Aside from a kick-ass cover and three good stories at the end, this anthology was a big fat MEH for me. Maybe it was too many short stories in a row. Or too many cyberpunk/paranormal westerns in a row. Either way, I struggled with this tome, only perking up at C.S. Poe’s story and the one that followed.
I think I would have enjoyed it more had I not read it through at once, and picked it up every now and then as a brain break between other activities or books.
I think I would have enjoyed it more had I not read it through at once, and picked it up every now and then as a brain break between other activities or books.
December 15, 2016
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
Steampunk, dust storms, and dinosaurs! Oh my! The imaginative and varied collection of stories in Once Upon A Time in the Weird West offer fans of western and science fiction fantasy a special treat. Some of the best authors in the genre have rustled up a host of short stories that center around the West, but always have a special twist. Some of the stories are stronger than others and there were a couple whose resolutions lost me completely, but for the most part this is one of the stronger anthologies I’ve seen in awhile. Instead of going through each story for this review, I decided to pull out three of my favorites to give you all a little overview.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
Steampunk, dust storms, and dinosaurs! Oh my! The imaginative and varied collection of stories in Once Upon A Time in the Weird West offer fans of western and science fiction fantasy a special treat. Some of the best authors in the genre have rustled up a host of short stories that center around the West, but always have a special twist. Some of the stories are stronger than others and there were a couple whose resolutions lost me completely, but for the most part this is one of the stronger anthologies I’ve seen in awhile. Instead of going through each story for this review, I decided to pull out three of my favorites to give you all a little overview.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
February 21, 2020
2020 Re-Read:
Nothing to add, really, except to say this is still one of my all-time favorite anthologies, and the only multi-author anthology I've ever bought a physical copy of. It does, indeed, make my bookshelf look cool.
2018 Re-Read:
Whenever I review anthologies, it's always like, "Oh, you know, some of these stories were good and some of them were not-so-good . . ." But with this anthology, I like all of the stories and some of them I really, really love. After the Wind by Tali Spencer, Corpse Powder by Jana Denardo, POMH by Venona Keyes, and Get Lucky by Ginn Hale are particularly good, and The Sheriff of Para Siempre by Jamie Fessenden is one of the creepiest stories I've ever read. And I mean that in a good way.
I like this collection so much I think I'll order a paperback. It'll make my bookshelf look cool.
Original 2017 Review:
This anthology made me so happy. These are exactly my kind of stories.
Nothing to add, really, except to say this is still one of my all-time favorite anthologies, and the only multi-author anthology I've ever bought a physical copy of. It does, indeed, make my bookshelf look cool.
2018 Re-Read:
Whenever I review anthologies, it's always like, "Oh, you know, some of these stories were good and some of them were not-so-good . . ." But with this anthology, I like all of the stories and some of them I really, really love. After the Wind by Tali Spencer, Corpse Powder by Jana Denardo, POMH by Venona Keyes, and Get Lucky by Ginn Hale are particularly good, and The Sheriff of Para Siempre by Jamie Fessenden is one of the creepiest stories I've ever read. And I mean that in a good way.
I like this collection so much I think I'll order a paperback. It'll make my bookshelf look cool.
Original 2017 Review:
This anthology made me so happy. These are exactly my kind of stories.
June 10, 2018
This was a good anthology with a mix of western/steampunk/sci-fi themed stories. There wasn't a story in the the anthology that I didn't enjoy and some I wish could be turned in to full length books.
Reapers Ride by Astrid Amara (4 stars)- This one starts out a little slow but picks up the pace towards the end. I like how Johnny gets a little bit of revenge at the end. I also like that the story didn't feel rushed or incomplete in the end of it.
Will Wild Heart by Shira Anthony (3 stars) - This was a quick little story that I wish was a little bit longer. I liked how Al was able to fix Cyrus but I kind of wish we had a little bit more time to get to know the two of them together.
Dr. Ezekiel Crumb’s Heavenly Soul Purifying Elixir by Lex Chase (3 stars)- This one was a little bit strange with Elias being a sham doctor and his Levi being something that I would have never expected. For being a short story I did think the characters were well developed and the story did take an few unexpected
turns.
Corpse Powder by Jana Denardo (4 stars) - This one did a great job of blending the old west and steampunk them. The almost shy blossoming romance between Issac and Tsela was a joy to read. I also liked how the skinwalker theme was blending into the story. This is a world I really wouldn't mind seeing more of.
The Sheriff of Para Siempre by Jamie Fessenden (4 star) - This was one of the more memerable stories in the book simply because it was so strange. Billy and Joe don't spend a huge amount of time together as a normal couple but I really liked them together. I also liked how this took a completely unexpected direction for the end of it.
The Tale of August Hayling by Kim Fielding (3 stars) - This was way too short for me to connect with the characters especially for Sarkany and August to a couple. Insta love time twenty. We spent more time getting to know George. The story had some interesting themes and might have worked better in a longer format.
Time Zone by Andrew Q. Gordon (5 stars) - This was interesting in the fact it is my second favorite story of the book and the one that I just didn't feel like it fit the theme of the book at all. I love the world building in this story. I also love the tension between Wesley and Lothar. I really wish this was a full length book to explore their backstories in more depth because they were interesting characters.
Get Lucky by Ginn Hale (4stars) - A couple of stars just for having dinosaurs in the story. I actually liked the theme of the lost heir that was in this story. I also enjoyed the world building.
From Ancient Grudge to New Mutiny by Langley Hyde ( 3 stars) - This one had a Romeo and Juliet type theme with warring families. It was a quick little romp through an old theme but I still enjoyed it. I especially liked the ending with the family finally getting their heads out of their asses to join forces against the ones truly stealing from them and James and Frank getting away.
POHM by Venona Keyes (4 stars) - I liked this one but I didn't feel like it fit the theme real well. I enjoyed how Lerom got his wish in an apprentice in an unexpected way in the end. I also enjoyed watching Markus taken down as well.
Oh, Give Me a Home by Nicole Kimberling (4 stars)- This was a original take on the cowboy theme with bugs in space. The plot was pretty simple but the world building was great and love the originally. This on is one I love to see expanded on.
Gunner the Deadly by C.S. Poe (3 stars)- The bad guy and the lawman team up for this one. This is one of the stories I expected to see in this book. It does have some steam punk elements incorporated into it and a lot of action to push the story along.
After the Wind by Tali Spencer (5 stars) - This was my favorite of the anthology. I loved the world and think the whole thing would make an excellent series. I want to know how Win's plan works out and how the various tribes fare against the government. For this story I loved how Micah ends up deciding to save Rain.
Reapers Ride by Astrid Amara (4 stars)- This one starts out a little slow but picks up the pace towards the end. I like how Johnny gets a little bit of revenge at the end. I also like that the story didn't feel rushed or incomplete in the end of it.
Will Wild Heart by Shira Anthony (3 stars) - This was a quick little story that I wish was a little bit longer. I liked how Al was able to fix Cyrus but I kind of wish we had a little bit more time to get to know the two of them together.
Dr. Ezekiel Crumb’s Heavenly Soul Purifying Elixir by Lex Chase (3 stars)- This one was a little bit strange with Elias being a sham doctor and his Levi being something that I would have never expected. For being a short story I did think the characters were well developed and the story did take an few unexpected
turns.
Corpse Powder by Jana Denardo (4 stars) - This one did a great job of blending the old west and steampunk them. The almost shy blossoming romance between Issac and Tsela was a joy to read. I also liked how the skinwalker theme was blending into the story. This is a world I really wouldn't mind seeing more of.
The Sheriff of Para Siempre by Jamie Fessenden (4 star) - This was one of the more memerable stories in the book simply because it was so strange. Billy and Joe don't spend a huge amount of time together as a normal couple but I really liked them together. I also liked how this took a completely unexpected direction for the end of it.
The Tale of August Hayling by Kim Fielding (3 stars) - This was way too short for me to connect with the characters especially for Sarkany and August to a couple. Insta love time twenty. We spent more time getting to know George. The story had some interesting themes and might have worked better in a longer format.
Time Zone by Andrew Q. Gordon (5 stars) - This was interesting in the fact it is my second favorite story of the book and the one that I just didn't feel like it fit the theme of the book at all. I love the world building in this story. I also love the tension between Wesley and Lothar. I really wish this was a full length book to explore their backstories in more depth because they were interesting characters.
Get Lucky by Ginn Hale (4stars) - A couple of stars just for having dinosaurs in the story. I actually liked the theme of the lost heir that was in this story. I also enjoyed the world building.
From Ancient Grudge to New Mutiny by Langley Hyde ( 3 stars) - This one had a Romeo and Juliet type theme with warring families. It was a quick little romp through an old theme but I still enjoyed it. I especially liked the ending with the family finally getting their heads out of their asses to join forces against the ones truly stealing from them and James and Frank getting away.
POHM by Venona Keyes (4 stars) - I liked this one but I didn't feel like it fit the theme real well. I enjoyed how Lerom got his wish in an apprentice in an unexpected way in the end. I also enjoyed watching Markus taken down as well.
Oh, Give Me a Home by Nicole Kimberling (4 stars)- This was a original take on the cowboy theme with bugs in space. The plot was pretty simple but the world building was great and love the originally. This on is one I love to see expanded on.
Gunner the Deadly by C.S. Poe (3 stars)- The bad guy and the lawman team up for this one. This is one of the stories I expected to see in this book. It does have some steam punk elements incorporated into it and a lot of action to push the story along.
After the Wind by Tali Spencer (5 stars) - This was my favorite of the anthology. I loved the world and think the whole thing would make an excellent series. I want to know how Win's plan works out and how the various tribes fare against the government. For this story I loved how Micah ends up deciding to save Rain.
December 31, 2016
3.5 stars
Bring on the weird and the west! :)
My favorite is Astrid Amara's Reaper's Ride. Overall this is an interesting mix of stories that would entertain readers.
Bring on the weird and the west! :)
My favorite is Astrid Amara's Reaper's Ride. Overall this is an interesting mix of stories that would entertain readers.
March 13, 2017
★★★★☆½ ~ 4.5 Stars
One of the better anthologies I've read and there were a couple of new authors to me that I have books from, I'm even more excited to read them now.
As far as I'm concerned, except for one story I'd rate a 3, all were 4/4.5 stories. [There was even a story by an author I had decided I wouldn't read from anymore and they knocked a tale out of the park!] Inventive, good world- building in a limited length format, good characters; a little bit western, steampunk, sci-fi.
I think all would enjoy this anthology.
One of the better anthologies I've read and there were a couple of new authors to me that I have books from, I'm even more excited to read them now.
As far as I'm concerned, except for one story I'd rate a 3, all were 4/4.5 stories. [There was even a story by an author I had decided I wouldn't read from anymore and they knocked a tale out of the park!] Inventive, good world- building in a limited length format, good characters; a little bit western, steampunk, sci-fi.
I think all would enjoy this anthology.
April 3, 2017
So I was super pumped about this book! GAYS! WIERD GAYS! COWBOYS! MY WHEEELHOUSE MY JAM RIGHT?
well, the quality of these stories is really uneven. There are 1-2 REALLY GOOD good stories, a few that are just "ok", and some that just plain bad. A lot of the stories tried to do too much- like they're gay magical cowboys on steamships trying to stop bad guys in a world where indian genocide never happened, and its like --- hold it bud, I can only follow so many tropes at once!
My favorite stories were the 1st one, with gay pony express rider falls for hot grim reaper, and the last one, where fire-mage rancher falls for water-mage indian in an AU where indians and a few white settlers develop super powers. Oh and the space cowboys was good too!
well, the quality of these stories is really uneven. There are 1-2 REALLY GOOD good stories, a few that are just "ok", and some that just plain bad. A lot of the stories tried to do too much- like they're gay magical cowboys on steamships trying to stop bad guys in a world where indian genocide never happened, and its like --- hold it bud, I can only follow so many tropes at once!
My favorite stories were the 1st one, with gay pony express rider falls for hot grim reaper, and the last one, where fire-mage rancher falls for water-mage indian in an AU where indians and a few white settlers develop super powers. Oh and the space cowboys was good too!
February 9, 2017
4.5 Stars ~ Weird West, indeed! I enjoyed this book so much, you guys. Once Upon a Time in the Weird West is a collection of thirteen short stories which were all based on the same prompt, “Once upon a time in the weird west…” With a couple of exceptions, the prompt was awesomely brought to life. These stories capture the west in cool, strange, and extremely imaginative ways. I did have the usual thoughts one might have going into an anthology…wondering which would be the strongest stories…if there would be any that didn’t work for me…But, I’m happy to report that, at least on some level, all the stories worked for me. In fact, I didn’t want the book to end.
Astrid Amara starts things off with a bang with her reimagining of the Grim Reaper in the fantastic Reaper’s Ride. Johnny has no idea what is going on with the handsome, mysterious Sye Fairchild, whom he sees every evening at the Pony Express outpost he is stuck at for a week. His reaction when he first considers the truth is fantastic:
‘Of course, the idea that Sye was some sort of grim reaper was absurd. The reaper was a mythical character. And if he were real, he wouldn’t be some dashing young American blond with cowboy boots and dimples when he smiled.’
I loved where Amara took the story, and Sye and Johnny’s relationship. And, there was some fabulously cool and spooky imagery. Reaper’s Ride was one of my favorites for sure.
The next group of stories had diverse and likeable characters, as well as interesting premises. Shira Anthony’s Wild, Wild Heart was pretty straightforward steampunk. Al is a clockwork tinkerer who has taken in Cyrus, a wounded outlaw. Al and Cyrus were sweet and I enjoyed the writing; but, aside from the brief inclusion/mention of ‘outlaws’, it didn’t necessarily scream Western. Lex Chase’s story, Dr. Ezekiel Crumb’s Heavenly Soul Purifying Elixir, on the other hand, did have a great Western feel. I loved the medicine show premise. Levi was pretty damn sexy. And, I liked the epilogue a lot. Then we had Corpse Powder—which gave us Dr. Isaac Adler, a Jewish doctor trying to find his way in post-Civil War Nevada, and Tsela, the Navajo first mate of the privateer airship, Aurora. Isaac and Tsela go through some intense, airborne battles together! I definitely loved the diversity of this one, as well as the romance and drama.
After the excitement of emergency heart repairs, deadly sandstorms, and fighting pirates, things slow down a bit in both Jamie Fessenden’s The Sheriff of Para Siempre and Kim Fielding’s The Tale of August Hayling. Both of these stories touched me in different ways, and had unexpected twists. I really liked Joe’s voice in Jamie Fessenden’s story. It was very authentic, and lent it that perfect, personal edge. Joe and Billy’s love jumped off the page. They just wanted to live their lives in peace. Together. But, here come the asshole Cassidy brothers. *heavy sigh* The ‘weird’ in this one actually snuck up on me. I kept wondering when it was going to get weird. And then boy, did it. The Tale of August Hayling was touching and sweet. And, I adoooored August. This one was a little tougher for me to get into, initially, for some reason—I think I just didn’t connect with George—but, I completely dug the ending.
Time Zone by Andrew Q. Gordon was sort of the odd man out for me here. In terms of storyline and characters, I liked it. It had a lot of good moments, and I liked the dynamic between Lothar and Wesley. The idea behind the story was a good one. BUT—there were no Western elements at all. This was modern day San Diego. I’m just not sure how it fit into the anthology.
Things get right back on the Western track with Ginn Hale’s Get Lucky. This was, for me, one of the best stories in the group. And, one of the weirdest! Which is absolutely a compliment.
Astrid Amara starts things off with a bang with her reimagining of the Grim Reaper in the fantastic Reaper’s Ride. Johnny has no idea what is going on with the handsome, mysterious Sye Fairchild, whom he sees every evening at the Pony Express outpost he is stuck at for a week. His reaction when he first considers the truth is fantastic:
‘Of course, the idea that Sye was some sort of grim reaper was absurd. The reaper was a mythical character. And if he were real, he wouldn’t be some dashing young American blond with cowboy boots and dimples when he smiled.’
I loved where Amara took the story, and Sye and Johnny’s relationship. And, there was some fabulously cool and spooky imagery. Reaper’s Ride was one of my favorites for sure.
The next group of stories had diverse and likeable characters, as well as interesting premises. Shira Anthony’s Wild, Wild Heart was pretty straightforward steampunk. Al is a clockwork tinkerer who has taken in Cyrus, a wounded outlaw. Al and Cyrus were sweet and I enjoyed the writing; but, aside from the brief inclusion/mention of ‘outlaws’, it didn’t necessarily scream Western. Lex Chase’s story, Dr. Ezekiel Crumb’s Heavenly Soul Purifying Elixir, on the other hand, did have a great Western feel. I loved the medicine show premise. Levi was pretty damn sexy. And, I liked the epilogue a lot. Then we had Corpse Powder—which gave us Dr. Isaac Adler, a Jewish doctor trying to find his way in post-Civil War Nevada, and Tsela, the Navajo first mate of the privateer airship, Aurora. Isaac and Tsela go through some intense, airborne battles together! I definitely loved the diversity of this one, as well as the romance and drama.
After the excitement of emergency heart repairs, deadly sandstorms, and fighting pirates, things slow down a bit in both Jamie Fessenden’s The Sheriff of Para Siempre and Kim Fielding’s The Tale of August Hayling. Both of these stories touched me in different ways, and had unexpected twists. I really liked Joe’s voice in Jamie Fessenden’s story. It was very authentic, and lent it that perfect, personal edge. Joe and Billy’s love jumped off the page. They just wanted to live their lives in peace. Together. But, here come the asshole Cassidy brothers. *heavy sigh* The ‘weird’ in this one actually snuck up on me. I kept wondering when it was going to get weird. And then boy, did it. The Tale of August Hayling was touching and sweet. And, I adoooored August. This one was a little tougher for me to get into, initially, for some reason—I think I just didn’t connect with George—but, I completely dug the ending.
Time Zone by Andrew Q. Gordon was sort of the odd man out for me here. In terms of storyline and characters, I liked it. It had a lot of good moments, and I liked the dynamic between Lothar and Wesley. The idea behind the story was a good one. BUT—there were no Western elements at all. This was modern day San Diego. I’m just not sure how it fit into the anthology.
Things get right back on the Western track with Ginn Hale’s Get Lucky. This was, for me, one of the best stories in the group. And, one of the weirdest! Which is absolutely a compliment.
February 5, 2017
Overall I'm giving this a full 5 stars as together these stories proved a fascinating read.
Reapers Ride by Astrid Amara
Very entertaining idea. I loved Johnny and Sye. Interesting take on reapers. Would love to see this couple again. 3.5 stars
Wild, Wild Heart by Shira Anthony
A sweet story with an interesting theme. I loved Cyrus and Al but I want more.
3.5 stars
Dr. Ezekiel Crumb’s Heavenly Soul Purifying Elixir by Lex Chase
Maybe if this had been longer it might of worked for me, but as it stands with so little detail it failed. 2 stars
Corpse Powder by Jana Denardo
Enjoyable, interesting and a nice paced read.
3 stars
The Sheriff of Para Siempre by Jamie Fessenden
Such mixed feelings on this one. Story wise it was interesting and my feelings were invested early. I loved Billy and Joe. But that twist OMG that was not what I was expecting. That ending reduced me to tears but it was not the kind of HEA I was hoping for. Still this one engaged my emotions.
4 stars
The Tale of August Hayling by Kim Fielding
Sweet story. I admit I was expecting a slightly different outcome and in a strange way I think I'm disappointed despite threesomes not being to my taste. 3 stars
Time Zone by Andrew Q Gordon
I enjoyed this one, the love shared by Lothar and Wes was sweet and the ending a surprise. But I'm not sure why it was included in this anthology. 3 stars
Get Lucky by Ginn Hale
This was another winner for me. I loved Lucky and was captured by the idea of this world. Would love to read more on this couple, and this world. I didn't like the ending as much. It felt too abrupt.
3.5 stars
From Ancient Grudge to New Mutiny by Langley Hyde
An entertaining twist on the Romeo and Juliet theme. I wish these were just a tad longer.
3 stars
POMH by Venona Keyes
Very enjoyable tale. I was intrigued to how this would play out. I guess the fairy tale ending was the only way. Although I'm puzzled as to why he had to keep the hand. Still a sweet read 3 stars
Oh, Give me a Home by Nicole Kimberling
Oh this I definitely want more of. A great place and interesting people, and those MSTI were adorable. There must be more stories here. Did remind me of an old episode of Futurama but still a great read. 4 stars
Gunner the Deadly by C S Poe
Interesting and enjoyable story. I'd love to see how Gunner and Gillian get on down the line.
3 stars
After the Wind by Tali Spencer
I could certainly read more on this town. Rain and Micah were sweet and their talents well matched.
Plenty of room to explore these elements. 3 stars
Reapers Ride by Astrid Amara
Very entertaining idea. I loved Johnny and Sye. Interesting take on reapers. Would love to see this couple again. 3.5 stars
Wild, Wild Heart by Shira Anthony
A sweet story with an interesting theme. I loved Cyrus and Al but I want more.
3.5 stars
Dr. Ezekiel Crumb’s Heavenly Soul Purifying Elixir by Lex Chase
Maybe if this had been longer it might of worked for me, but as it stands with so little detail it failed. 2 stars
Corpse Powder by Jana Denardo
Enjoyable, interesting and a nice paced read.
3 stars
The Sheriff of Para Siempre by Jamie Fessenden
Such mixed feelings on this one. Story wise it was interesting and my feelings were invested early. I loved Billy and Joe. But that twist OMG that was not what I was expecting. That ending reduced me to tears but it was not the kind of HEA I was hoping for. Still this one engaged my emotions.
4 stars
The Tale of August Hayling by Kim Fielding
Sweet story. I admit I was expecting a slightly different outcome and in a strange way I think I'm disappointed despite threesomes not being to my taste. 3 stars
Time Zone by Andrew Q Gordon
I enjoyed this one, the love shared by Lothar and Wes was sweet and the ending a surprise. But I'm not sure why it was included in this anthology. 3 stars
Get Lucky by Ginn Hale
This was another winner for me. I loved Lucky and was captured by the idea of this world. Would love to read more on this couple, and this world. I didn't like the ending as much. It felt too abrupt.
3.5 stars
From Ancient Grudge to New Mutiny by Langley Hyde
An entertaining twist on the Romeo and Juliet theme. I wish these were just a tad longer.
3 stars
POMH by Venona Keyes
Very enjoyable tale. I was intrigued to how this would play out. I guess the fairy tale ending was the only way. Although I'm puzzled as to why he had to keep the hand. Still a sweet read 3 stars
Oh, Give me a Home by Nicole Kimberling
Oh this I definitely want more of. A great place and interesting people, and those MSTI were adorable. There must be more stories here. Did remind me of an old episode of Futurama but still a great read. 4 stars
Gunner the Deadly by C S Poe
Interesting and enjoyable story. I'd love to see how Gunner and Gillian get on down the line.
3 stars
After the Wind by Tali Spencer
I could certainly read more on this town. Rain and Micah were sweet and their talents well matched.
Plenty of room to explore these elements. 3 stars
June 10, 2018
'WILD WILD HEART' by Shira Anthony
As a young boy, Al of 'Wild Wild Heart' by Shira Anthony, becomes the apprentice to an inventor who makes fantastical clockwork creations. Al had a bad heart and wasn't expected to live very long, but his master gives Al a remarkable gift to change that; he implants one of his inventions in Al's heart to regulate the beat. Al is more than grateful and loyal to a fault. He works hard and learns his trade well. When his master dies, Al continues to work just as he has always done. One day on the way home from town, he finds a dying man. Al doesn't want to become involved with anyone, but there's something about the man that he's drawn to, perhaps he reminds Al of himself when he was so helpless and dying and was saved. Against his better judgement, he takes the man, Cyrus, home with him to nurse him back to health. Cyrus ends up staying. When he's better, Cyrus observes Al and becomes fascinated with the skill involved in his creations as well as the man himself and the feeling is mutual. Al's master may have given him life, but Cyrus is able to give Al love. Then Al's implant begins to malfunction and they both know what that means: Al's borrowed time has caught up with him. If the mechanism stops, Al will die. This a powerful, steam-punk type tale about two men who find each other when they needed love and fulfillment the most, and, against all odds, find a way to be happy together. It is very well written, full of emotion and exceptional characters. Thanks, Shira, for the odd, but touching love story. NOTE: The anthology this short story was published in has been provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
'PARA SIEMPRE' by Jamie Fessenden
Even though most folks would have thought it wrong, Billy and Joe, from 'Para Siempre' by Jamie Fessenden, are as devoted to each other as two people could be. After being discovered by the farmer they are currently working for, they head to a town called Para Siempre. Calling Para Siempre a town is a stretch, because there's not much to it. What is left is controlled by a couple of bullies called the Cassidys. They killed the town sheriff the day before, so the townspeople offer Billy the job and he accepts. Naturally, Joe stays with him. When Billy arrests one of the brothers for being drunk, the Cassidys become hell-bent on killing him. Billy may be an excellent shot, but the Cassidy brothers don't play fair. They set up an ambush for Billy, shoot him down in the street, and tie Joe to a horse post. But then a remarkable thing happens…This is a brilliant, spooky story with a unique ending. The authentic feeling of the tale is enhanced by the Western dialect. The romance between Billy and Joe left me breathless. I adored how they loved each other. The emotion is almost tangible. So is the pain of what happened to them. It's definitely not a traditional happy ending, but in a way it is one. Billy and Joe were determined to be together para siempre (for forever) and they found a way to make that happen. Although you almost ripped my heart out with this one, thanks, Jamie, for the compelling story. I'm sure to remember it for a long time. NOTE: The anthology this short story was published in has been provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews
THE TALE OF AUGUST HAYLING' by Kim Fielding
August Hayling, of 'The Tale of August Hayling' by Kim Fielding, has no idea why the odd man at the end of the bar is staring at him, checking him out. August watches as the man walks up to August to ask if he's a prospector. The man's name is Georgios Cappadosia. August calls him George. It seems he needs a guide and some protection and thinks that August will be the perfect person to help him. August is puzzled by this eccentric man with a strange accent, but it takes a lot to rattle August so he accepts the offer. George explains that there is gold a two-day walk from where they are and George desperately wants to get to it. His idea of provisions is as odd as he appears to be, not at all the normal gear for a mining expedition. Through their many conversations, August learns that George is driven by an old vendetta that he's determined to fulfill, regardless of the outcome. When they get close to the location, inexplicably, George wants to wait until morning to finish their journey. The next morning George and August continue their trip, quickly end up where they are headed. At this point, George tells him that he's there to kill his rival, Sarkany. George tries to engage Sarkany in a fight, but Sarkany refuses, not wanting to go down a path they have obviously been down before. He's tired of the fight. August speaks up and tells George that he is not going to help him steal the gold and he's certainly not going to shoot an unarmed man. When George drew back his sword, August fires his gun, stopping George from killing Sarkany. Kim has created an intriguing story with a provocative cast of characters. Each one is a puzzle within a puzzle. The theme appears to have been inspired by the legend of George the Dragon Slayer but with several unique twists, making it much more interesting. The “moral” of it is: if you continually make the same mistakes, you are destined to repeat them. It's only when you change direction that you make progress. Thanks, Kim, for giving August and Sarkany a chance. NOTE: The anthology this short story was published in has been provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
'GET LUCKY' by Ginn Hale
Lucky, from 'Get Lucky' by Ginn Hale, lives in a very dangerous world: a cross between the Wild West with gunslingers and horses on one hand and dinosaurs and other predators on the other. Then there are magic charms, spells, and mages thrown in for good measure. Every day is a struggle for survival but Lucky has become adept at avoiding most of the obstacles. During one of Lucky's “ordinary” days he hears shooting and swearing. Then he sees the Swaimms, who are the nastiest, meanest opponents in his world, and whose land he is presently trespassing on. When Lucky sees someone trying to escape, against his best judgement, Lucky decides to intervene. Lucky helps the man whom he doesn't recognize until later—his ex-lover, Dalfon, the man who left him with a broken heart. Just the thought of being in a place with so many monsters was enough to chill my bones. The idea of men with only evil in their hearts was nothing new, but I was stunned at the extent of evil the Swaimms were capable of. I fell in love with Lucky and the more I read about him and his special talents the more I realized just how special he was and all that he'd overcome. Lucky had so many losses, Dalfon almost killed him. Yet, he still survive. This exotic, spooky story is a reminder that sometimes when a person makes assumptions, they may not be accurate. Thanks, Ginn, for the unique tale. NOTE: The anthology this short story was published in has been provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
'REAPER'S REVENGE' by Astrid Amara
Johnny has been carrying mail west for the Pony Express for a few years now. He thought he'd seen just about everything, but finding that the station master at one of his stops has been scalped is a whole different level of “everything”. With the attackers so nearby, Johnny pushes his tired horse to the next station where he finds that the station master, Kermit, has also been attacked and severely wounded. Since all the other horses are gone, Kermit takes Johnny's horse to try to make it to civilization so he can be properly treated. Essentially, that makes Johnny temporarily in charge. Before Kermit goes, he informs Johnny that a special rider will be coming in and gives him instructions as to what to do with the messages he brings. Johnny hates being out in the middle of nowhere alone, so any company will be welcome. Johnny waits for the other rider, whose name is Sye, but when Sye arrives, covered by a long black cape, on a huge black stallion, Johnny has second thoughts. Sye stays long enough to eat, then is off again, leaving Johnny with more questions than answers. Sye does tell Johnny that he will be back soon. Each time Sye returns to the station, he looks more exhausted and Johnny grows more concerned. Sye confides a little more of his story on each visit until he has told Johnny the entire story. After that, Johnny understands why Sye has to ride so hard and long in order to finish. Johnny watches Sye attempt to make his deadline, but it's obvious that he isn't going to make it; Johnny offers to help. This love story is dark and intense but emotional as well. The tension that Astrid creates is remarkable. Johnny and Sye are awesome characters and as much as I had to stretch my imagination, I found myself believing them. Thanks, Astrid, for the mind-bending tale. NOTE: The anthology this short story was published in has been provided by XXX for the purpose of a review href="http://www.rainbow bookreviews.com/book-reviews/reapers-... Book Reviews.
'CORPSE POWDER' by Jana Denaro Dr. Isaac Adler, of 'Corpse Powder' by Jana Denaro, came out west to become a partner in an established practice but when the other doctor, Dr. Bird, realized that his attitude was so different from his own materialistic one, he decided not to keep Isaac in his employ. Discouraged, but too humanitarian to continue in a practice where money was more important that people, Isaac resigns himself to building up a practice of his own. Isaac is on his way back home one night when he sees a huge airship limping across the sky to the landing dock. They are privateers who fight to protect the towns from pirates; this one looks like it has been on the bad end of a battle. As news is coming out of high casualties and need for medical care, Isaac runs toward the ship. It has been ambushed by pirates and has many serious injuries, more than he can handle alone. Isaac does all he can but it is discouraging without proper assistance. Isaac encounters one man, Tsela, a handsome Navajo, who is willing to assist him. After they had gotten as much under control as they can, Tslea insists on walking the exhausted doctor home. Isaac is touched by his peacefulness and compassion. Although, they have only said a few words, Isaac is also attracted to him. All week, Isaac faithfully visits the ship to check up on the wounded. When Saturday comes and Isaac doesn't appear, Tsela goes to check up on him. Isaac is pleasantly surprised to see him and explains that he didn't come visit today because he is an Orthodox Jew and not allowed to travel on the Sabbath. Tesla realizes that Isaac is also an outsider trying to fit into a foreign world. That explains some of their affinity, but not the physical attraction that they are feeling. They begin to see each other more frequently and eventually give in to their desire for each other. All seems well until one night when a coyote attacks Isaac. Tslea recognizes the coyote as the spirit walker who has vowed to kill him. Although not seriously, Isaac is wounded. Tslea fears that he's putting Isaac in jeopardy because the spirit walker may go after Isaac in order to hurt Tslea. It makes him wonder if he should leave Isaac alone in order to protect him. This is a unique story about two men discovering that, even though they come from completely different backgrounds, this is the very thing that makes them similar. They understand how it is to be an “outcast” of sorts, always having to try harder to appear “normal” and use this knowledge to make their world better. Thank you, Jana, for reminding me that normal is not always better. NOTE: The anthology this short story was published in has been provided by XXX for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
'POHM' by Venona Keyes
Lorem, of 'Pomh' by Venona Keyes, is searching through a trash heap for parts to reuse for his latest project when he comes upon a remarkable find – a perfect red prism pulsing with power. Lorem is a genius who shares his ideas with the local craftsmen in order to improve all of their lives and has more jobs than he can handle. Lorem has been thinking about building a mechanical assistant and the red prism is going to enable him to complete that dream. Lorem's mechanical man looks as human as possible and he names him Pomh. Looking at his face, Lorem realizes that he has fashioned him in his last apprentice's likeness, who had been killed by a car. When Pomh far surpasses what other mechanical beings are capable of, Lorem fears that someone might want to take Pomh away. Therefore, he shelters him more than ever. Unfortunately, people hear of and want to see his new invention. Most are merely curious, but Marcus Reighn, an unscrupulous man, has an ulterior motive. Markus insists on seeing Pomh because he, too, has a patent for a mechanical man and wants to make sure it does not infringe upon his patent. Lorem doesn't trust Marcus because he has been known to take ideas from his own apprentices and call them his own. Lorem has no intention of showing Pomh to Marcus, but, unfortunately, Pomh appears before Marcus leaves. After a scuffle in which Marcus attacks Lorem, Marcus is thrown out; he threatens to get revenge. The next day Lorem's biggest fear comes to fruition. The sheriff shows up with a warrant to take away Lorem and Pohm for assaulting Marcus. Venona has created an imaginative steampunk love story about two endearing and likeable characters. Lorem is an admirable, compassionate person who gives more than he gets. When he creates Pomh, he puts his heart and soul into making him as real as possible, not consciously realizing what he's doing. This unique tale is a superb example of love conquering all. Thanks, Venona, you have touched my heart. NOTE: The anthology this short story was published in has been provided by XXX for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
'OH,GIVE ME A HOME' by Nicole Kimberling
It is just another day on New Saturn. Gordon, of 'Oh, Give Me a Home' by Nicole Kimberling, is moseying along on Paint, his mechanical horse that actually looks like a big spider, rounding up his herd of MISTI's (microb-seeding terrestrial injectors) to go where they needed to be. The bugs hear him whistle but are reluctant to respond because they don't like to go into new territory. Gordon loads up a new burst of scent from Paint's dispersal unit to further encourage their cooperation. When they continue to balk, Gordon starts singing to them; an artful version of Tumbling Tumbleweed. Meanwhile, back at the station, his partner and lover, Henry, is cracking up. Henry is getting nervous because Gordon has been out too long and is afraid he will run out of air. Gordon tries to reassure him that he's done this many times before and he knows when to quit and come back. It does little to reassure Henry. The problem at present is that one of the 'herd', an adventurous type Gordon calls Bonnies, has gotten lost. Gordon fears that she will wander into their unfriendly and vindictive neighbor's geographical area, Vanguard Property, and she will be destroyed. Vanguard does not want more settlers on New Saturn and does whatever he can to disrupt efforts to make it habitable. The Bonnie is too valuable to lose, so Gordon does what any cowpoke worth his salt would do. He goes after her. Gordon is inexplicably fond of these little mechanical beings and it seems they return the affection, in their own way. He finds the wayward MISTI, whom he names Screw Loose, and brings her back to the station to be checked out. When Gordon is woken up in the middle of the night by silent alarms telling him that there has been a breach in their compound, he immediately contacts Henry, but there is no answer. Gordon is alarmed when he can't reach Henry, he rushes to find him, but he is nowhere in sight. This was an odd, but amusing story with some great worldbuilding and unique characters. The analogy of the MISTIs being like cattle and Gordon being a space cowboy and a singing one at that, was so peculiarly familiar that it made me smile. Gordon and Henry's relationship was nurturing and endearing. I even fell in love with the MISTIs. Thanks, Nicole, for a unique and quite entertaining tale. NOTE: The anthology this short story was published in has been provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
REVIEW CONTINUED IN COMMENTS
As a young boy, Al of 'Wild Wild Heart' by Shira Anthony, becomes the apprentice to an inventor who makes fantastical clockwork creations. Al had a bad heart and wasn't expected to live very long, but his master gives Al a remarkable gift to change that; he implants one of his inventions in Al's heart to regulate the beat. Al is more than grateful and loyal to a fault. He works hard and learns his trade well. When his master dies, Al continues to work just as he has always done. One day on the way home from town, he finds a dying man. Al doesn't want to become involved with anyone, but there's something about the man that he's drawn to, perhaps he reminds Al of himself when he was so helpless and dying and was saved. Against his better judgement, he takes the man, Cyrus, home with him to nurse him back to health. Cyrus ends up staying. When he's better, Cyrus observes Al and becomes fascinated with the skill involved in his creations as well as the man himself and the feeling is mutual. Al's master may have given him life, but Cyrus is able to give Al love. Then Al's implant begins to malfunction and they both know what that means: Al's borrowed time has caught up with him. If the mechanism stops, Al will die. This a powerful, steam-punk type tale about two men who find each other when they needed love and fulfillment the most, and, against all odds, find a way to be happy together. It is very well written, full of emotion and exceptional characters. Thanks, Shira, for the odd, but touching love story. NOTE: The anthology this short story was published in has been provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
'PARA SIEMPRE' by Jamie Fessenden
Even though most folks would have thought it wrong, Billy and Joe, from 'Para Siempre' by Jamie Fessenden, are as devoted to each other as two people could be. After being discovered by the farmer they are currently working for, they head to a town called Para Siempre. Calling Para Siempre a town is a stretch, because there's not much to it. What is left is controlled by a couple of bullies called the Cassidys. They killed the town sheriff the day before, so the townspeople offer Billy the job and he accepts. Naturally, Joe stays with him. When Billy arrests one of the brothers for being drunk, the Cassidys become hell-bent on killing him. Billy may be an excellent shot, but the Cassidy brothers don't play fair. They set up an ambush for Billy, shoot him down in the street, and tie Joe to a horse post. But then a remarkable thing happens…This is a brilliant, spooky story with a unique ending. The authentic feeling of the tale is enhanced by the Western dialect. The romance between Billy and Joe left me breathless. I adored how they loved each other. The emotion is almost tangible. So is the pain of what happened to them. It's definitely not a traditional happy ending, but in a way it is one. Billy and Joe were determined to be together para siempre (for forever) and they found a way to make that happen. Although you almost ripped my heart out with this one, thanks, Jamie, for the compelling story. I'm sure to remember it for a long time. NOTE: The anthology this short story was published in has been provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews
THE TALE OF AUGUST HAYLING' by Kim Fielding
August Hayling, of 'The Tale of August Hayling' by Kim Fielding, has no idea why the odd man at the end of the bar is staring at him, checking him out. August watches as the man walks up to August to ask if he's a prospector. The man's name is Georgios Cappadosia. August calls him George. It seems he needs a guide and some protection and thinks that August will be the perfect person to help him. August is puzzled by this eccentric man with a strange accent, but it takes a lot to rattle August so he accepts the offer. George explains that there is gold a two-day walk from where they are and George desperately wants to get to it. His idea of provisions is as odd as he appears to be, not at all the normal gear for a mining expedition. Through their many conversations, August learns that George is driven by an old vendetta that he's determined to fulfill, regardless of the outcome. When they get close to the location, inexplicably, George wants to wait until morning to finish their journey. The next morning George and August continue their trip, quickly end up where they are headed. At this point, George tells him that he's there to kill his rival, Sarkany. George tries to engage Sarkany in a fight, but Sarkany refuses, not wanting to go down a path they have obviously been down before. He's tired of the fight. August speaks up and tells George that he is not going to help him steal the gold and he's certainly not going to shoot an unarmed man. When George drew back his sword, August fires his gun, stopping George from killing Sarkany. Kim has created an intriguing story with a provocative cast of characters. Each one is a puzzle within a puzzle. The theme appears to have been inspired by the legend of George the Dragon Slayer but with several unique twists, making it much more interesting. The “moral” of it is: if you continually make the same mistakes, you are destined to repeat them. It's only when you change direction that you make progress. Thanks, Kim, for giving August and Sarkany a chance. NOTE: The anthology this short story was published in has been provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
'GET LUCKY' by Ginn Hale
Lucky, from 'Get Lucky' by Ginn Hale, lives in a very dangerous world: a cross between the Wild West with gunslingers and horses on one hand and dinosaurs and other predators on the other. Then there are magic charms, spells, and mages thrown in for good measure. Every day is a struggle for survival but Lucky has become adept at avoiding most of the obstacles. During one of Lucky's “ordinary” days he hears shooting and swearing. Then he sees the Swaimms, who are the nastiest, meanest opponents in his world, and whose land he is presently trespassing on. When Lucky sees someone trying to escape, against his best judgement, Lucky decides to intervene. Lucky helps the man whom he doesn't recognize until later—his ex-lover, Dalfon, the man who left him with a broken heart. Just the thought of being in a place with so many monsters was enough to chill my bones. The idea of men with only evil in their hearts was nothing new, but I was stunned at the extent of evil the Swaimms were capable of. I fell in love with Lucky and the more I read about him and his special talents the more I realized just how special he was and all that he'd overcome. Lucky had so many losses, Dalfon almost killed him. Yet, he still survive. This exotic, spooky story is a reminder that sometimes when a person makes assumptions, they may not be accurate. Thanks, Ginn, for the unique tale. NOTE: The anthology this short story was published in has been provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
'REAPER'S REVENGE' by Astrid Amara
Johnny has been carrying mail west for the Pony Express for a few years now. He thought he'd seen just about everything, but finding that the station master at one of his stops has been scalped is a whole different level of “everything”. With the attackers so nearby, Johnny pushes his tired horse to the next station where he finds that the station master, Kermit, has also been attacked and severely wounded. Since all the other horses are gone, Kermit takes Johnny's horse to try to make it to civilization so he can be properly treated. Essentially, that makes Johnny temporarily in charge. Before Kermit goes, he informs Johnny that a special rider will be coming in and gives him instructions as to what to do with the messages he brings. Johnny hates being out in the middle of nowhere alone, so any company will be welcome. Johnny waits for the other rider, whose name is Sye, but when Sye arrives, covered by a long black cape, on a huge black stallion, Johnny has second thoughts. Sye stays long enough to eat, then is off again, leaving Johnny with more questions than answers. Sye does tell Johnny that he will be back soon. Each time Sye returns to the station, he looks more exhausted and Johnny grows more concerned. Sye confides a little more of his story on each visit until he has told Johnny the entire story. After that, Johnny understands why Sye has to ride so hard and long in order to finish. Johnny watches Sye attempt to make his deadline, but it's obvious that he isn't going to make it; Johnny offers to help. This love story is dark and intense but emotional as well. The tension that Astrid creates is remarkable. Johnny and Sye are awesome characters and as much as I had to stretch my imagination, I found myself believing them. Thanks, Astrid, for the mind-bending tale. NOTE: The anthology this short story was published in has been provided by XXX for the purpose of a review href="http://www.rainbow bookreviews.com/book-reviews/reapers-... Book Reviews.
'CORPSE POWDER' by Jana Denaro Dr. Isaac Adler, of 'Corpse Powder' by Jana Denaro, came out west to become a partner in an established practice but when the other doctor, Dr. Bird, realized that his attitude was so different from his own materialistic one, he decided not to keep Isaac in his employ. Discouraged, but too humanitarian to continue in a practice where money was more important that people, Isaac resigns himself to building up a practice of his own. Isaac is on his way back home one night when he sees a huge airship limping across the sky to the landing dock. They are privateers who fight to protect the towns from pirates; this one looks like it has been on the bad end of a battle. As news is coming out of high casualties and need for medical care, Isaac runs toward the ship. It has been ambushed by pirates and has many serious injuries, more than he can handle alone. Isaac does all he can but it is discouraging without proper assistance. Isaac encounters one man, Tsela, a handsome Navajo, who is willing to assist him. After they had gotten as much under control as they can, Tslea insists on walking the exhausted doctor home. Isaac is touched by his peacefulness and compassion. Although, they have only said a few words, Isaac is also attracted to him. All week, Isaac faithfully visits the ship to check up on the wounded. When Saturday comes and Isaac doesn't appear, Tsela goes to check up on him. Isaac is pleasantly surprised to see him and explains that he didn't come visit today because he is an Orthodox Jew and not allowed to travel on the Sabbath. Tesla realizes that Isaac is also an outsider trying to fit into a foreign world. That explains some of their affinity, but not the physical attraction that they are feeling. They begin to see each other more frequently and eventually give in to their desire for each other. All seems well until one night when a coyote attacks Isaac. Tslea recognizes the coyote as the spirit walker who has vowed to kill him. Although not seriously, Isaac is wounded. Tslea fears that he's putting Isaac in jeopardy because the spirit walker may go after Isaac in order to hurt Tslea. It makes him wonder if he should leave Isaac alone in order to protect him. This is a unique story about two men discovering that, even though they come from completely different backgrounds, this is the very thing that makes them similar. They understand how it is to be an “outcast” of sorts, always having to try harder to appear “normal” and use this knowledge to make their world better. Thank you, Jana, for reminding me that normal is not always better. NOTE: The anthology this short story was published in has been provided by XXX for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
'POHM' by Venona Keyes
Lorem, of 'Pomh' by Venona Keyes, is searching through a trash heap for parts to reuse for his latest project when he comes upon a remarkable find – a perfect red prism pulsing with power. Lorem is a genius who shares his ideas with the local craftsmen in order to improve all of their lives and has more jobs than he can handle. Lorem has been thinking about building a mechanical assistant and the red prism is going to enable him to complete that dream. Lorem's mechanical man looks as human as possible and he names him Pomh. Looking at his face, Lorem realizes that he has fashioned him in his last apprentice's likeness, who had been killed by a car. When Pomh far surpasses what other mechanical beings are capable of, Lorem fears that someone might want to take Pomh away. Therefore, he shelters him more than ever. Unfortunately, people hear of and want to see his new invention. Most are merely curious, but Marcus Reighn, an unscrupulous man, has an ulterior motive. Markus insists on seeing Pomh because he, too, has a patent for a mechanical man and wants to make sure it does not infringe upon his patent. Lorem doesn't trust Marcus because he has been known to take ideas from his own apprentices and call them his own. Lorem has no intention of showing Pomh to Marcus, but, unfortunately, Pomh appears before Marcus leaves. After a scuffle in which Marcus attacks Lorem, Marcus is thrown out; he threatens to get revenge. The next day Lorem's biggest fear comes to fruition. The sheriff shows up with a warrant to take away Lorem and Pohm for assaulting Marcus. Venona has created an imaginative steampunk love story about two endearing and likeable characters. Lorem is an admirable, compassionate person who gives more than he gets. When he creates Pomh, he puts his heart and soul into making him as real as possible, not consciously realizing what he's doing. This unique tale is a superb example of love conquering all. Thanks, Venona, you have touched my heart. NOTE: The anthology this short story was published in has been provided by XXX for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
'OH,GIVE ME A HOME' by Nicole Kimberling
It is just another day on New Saturn. Gordon, of 'Oh, Give Me a Home' by Nicole Kimberling, is moseying along on Paint, his mechanical horse that actually looks like a big spider, rounding up his herd of MISTI's (microb-seeding terrestrial injectors) to go where they needed to be. The bugs hear him whistle but are reluctant to respond because they don't like to go into new territory. Gordon loads up a new burst of scent from Paint's dispersal unit to further encourage their cooperation. When they continue to balk, Gordon starts singing to them; an artful version of Tumbling Tumbleweed. Meanwhile, back at the station, his partner and lover, Henry, is cracking up. Henry is getting nervous because Gordon has been out too long and is afraid he will run out of air. Gordon tries to reassure him that he's done this many times before and he knows when to quit and come back. It does little to reassure Henry. The problem at present is that one of the 'herd', an adventurous type Gordon calls Bonnies, has gotten lost. Gordon fears that she will wander into their unfriendly and vindictive neighbor's geographical area, Vanguard Property, and she will be destroyed. Vanguard does not want more settlers on New Saturn and does whatever he can to disrupt efforts to make it habitable. The Bonnie is too valuable to lose, so Gordon does what any cowpoke worth his salt would do. He goes after her. Gordon is inexplicably fond of these little mechanical beings and it seems they return the affection, in their own way. He finds the wayward MISTI, whom he names Screw Loose, and brings her back to the station to be checked out. When Gordon is woken up in the middle of the night by silent alarms telling him that there has been a breach in their compound, he immediately contacts Henry, but there is no answer. Gordon is alarmed when he can't reach Henry, he rushes to find him, but he is nowhere in sight. This was an odd, but amusing story with some great worldbuilding and unique characters. The analogy of the MISTIs being like cattle and Gordon being a space cowboy and a singing one at that, was so peculiarly familiar that it made me smile. Gordon and Henry's relationship was nurturing and endearing. I even fell in love with the MISTIs. Thanks, Nicole, for a unique and quite entertaining tale. NOTE: The anthology this short story was published in has been provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
REVIEW CONTINUED IN COMMENTS
January 5, 2017
The amazing cover drew me, the fantastic list of authors drew me, the great many stories drew me. This is one great book.
This book has such a great variety in the sci-fi fantasy paranormal genre with a strong Western theme throughout. You're transported to the Old West where you can taste the dust and feel baking heat and smell the leather. You are then transported to a Dragon's Lair and you get to meet an alien king. There is so much in this book it's amazing.
There is really a story for everyone. From zombies to dragons, from magic to steampunk. If you love sci-fi / fantasy and the paranormal, and if you love cowboys and The Wild Wild West, then you will absolutely love this book.
I highly recommend it and encourage you to get a copy.
I received this book in exchange for my honest review by Gay Book Reviews
This book has such a great variety in the sci-fi fantasy paranormal genre with a strong Western theme throughout. You're transported to the Old West where you can taste the dust and feel baking heat and smell the leather. You are then transported to a Dragon's Lair and you get to meet an alien king. There is so much in this book it's amazing.
There is really a story for everyone. From zombies to dragons, from magic to steampunk. If you love sci-fi / fantasy and the paranormal, and if you love cowboys and The Wild Wild West, then you will absolutely love this book.
I highly recommend it and encourage you to get a copy.
I received this book in exchange for my honest review by Gay Book Reviews
February 14, 2017
Review can be read at It's About The Book
4.5 stars
From Ancient Grudge to New Mutiny by Langley Hyde This world took a little time for me to settle into but once I got it was pretty brilliant. The idea of infusing magic into items through stones was totally unique to me. I also loved the Romeo and Juliet vibe going on in this story. James is summoned back from college after he graduates. He’d hoped to stay in the city where men with his preferences had more freedoms the part of the country they’re from allows slave collars made of magical stone and his parents have him collared. He has one last night before heading to his parents home and he plans to spend it with some male company. He chooses a guy who reminds him of his family’s mortal enemy and school boy crush, Frank. After a night together he heads home to learn their precious illudine has been stolen and the man he hooked up with the night before is actually the boy he grew up with. Frank’s family’s illudine was also stolen. They of course blame each other.
I really liked this story. There was a lot of character struggle for a short. I could practically feel he adoration Frank has always had for James. Which of course James wanted but thought would never happen. It did feel like a short which isn’t my favorite thing. The ending is wrapped up pretty quickly. Worth the read for the characters and world building. The guys get their HEA and I’d love to read more about it!
Gunner the Deadly by CS Poe This is probably my favorite of the shorts in this anthology I’ve read so far. It’s a mash up of when western meets mad men and magic. I was hooked from the first page. Gillian is a special agent with powers sent to Arizona to apprehend a mechanical creator of devices who is wanted for murder. He has no idea what he’s gotten himself into. During a gunfight Gillian inadvertently pairs up with he notorious outlaw Gunner the Deadly. Gunner wants the crazy creator dead. Gillian wants him stopped. Teaming up sounds like a good plan.
I loved some of the witty dialogue in this book while the guys were fighting and flirting. The MCs are on opposite sides of the law but can’t fight their attraction for each other. Gillian learns Gunner isn’t quite what he thought so the law man falls for one of the most wanted men in this world. Gillian’s powers were cool. The story has great world building. I would love to read more adventures from Gunner and Gillian. Or anything set in this fantastic world created really. This short was excellent and absolutely worth a read.
Get Lucky by Ginn Hale I loved the world created in this story. It’s lush and vivid which always impresses me in short stories. I also liked how there was so much history between the characters packed into Get Lucky that it felt like a full length book. Which I would of course love to read.
The story starts off right away with a feeling of despair and reluctance to accept the life Lucky currently has. Then he’s thrust into danger as a trio of brothers chase to kill a man in the swamp Lucky knows so well. Something about the man triggers a memory of a lover that left him brokenhearted years before. Lucky’s magical gift is somewhat of a secret so helping the guy means possible exposure but he does it anyway. Turns out the stranger is in fact the man who left him. Stirring up all those feelings once again.
I really liked this story. The love story felt very well developed with the back story and emotions expressed. I adored both characters. I wanted them to find their HEA. The world and the magic caught my attention from the first page. This is an excellent short.
Reaper’s Ride by Astrid Amara Riding for the Pony Express is dangerous. Johnny Jenkins finds himself taking the place of a wounded man on his usual route. Waiting in a cabin for the next rider is lonely. Johnny also finds out Pony Express riders aren’t the only ones out there. Sye rides a black horse and shows up late. Sye is beautiful. Johnny knows he shouldn’t notice, so he does the best he can to provide basic hospitality without rousing any possible suspicion Johnny may be interested in more than is seemly. It doesn’t take long for Johnny to find out what Sye is delivering. It also doesn’t take long for Sye and Johnny to realize they want the same things. It’s going to take a lot of hard work and luck for them to get what they want.
This story is beautifully evocative and it’s easy to romanticize the past, but it was a pretty horrible time for a lot of people. Got a nasty wound? You may survive it. Hopefully you also survive the infection you’re likely going to get afterwards. You got something in your personal life the greater society doesn’t like? Hide it or die. Some things are timeless, though, and they’re shown well in this story. If something seems too good to be true, it is. Know exactly what you’re agreeing to before you agree. No matter what or when, if you find someone you can trust willing to help when you’ve got nowhere else to turn you can count yourself lucky.
Oh, Give Me a Home by Nicole Kimberling Terraforming is going to help a lot of people who have been stuck their entire lives on space stations. Gordon and his husband Henry have a good life on New Saturn. They’re not creating homes so much as their creating a place for people to create their own homes. Unsurprisingly, not everyone wants the teeming mass of humanity on space stations to be able to create their own homes on the wide open planet of New Saturn. Gordon notices some of their land has been disturbed. He resigns himself to deal with it the next day but finds himself awakened by alarms and a missing husband in the middle of the night. Gordon has to ride to the rescue.
This story got me really excited. So many things could mean something else. It was metaphor heaven. Gordon finds himself handicapped by the weight of his world. As much as that sounds wonderfully metaphorical, I’m being literal. Gordon was raised in space. His body isn’t accustomed to gravity. He needs devices to assist him in gravity. The beauty of New Saturn is everyone needs some kind of device to live. It’s prohibitively cold and doesn’t have a breathable atmosphere. Everyone is handicapped by something. Gordon is not only battling the bad guys but also nature. Man vs. nature is all fine and dandy when man is winning, it gets pretty intense when Gordon and Henry’s battery levels get low and Gordon is reminded how easily someone can be crushed under the weight of his environment.
The Tale of August Hayling by Kim Fielding August is in a rut. But, things could be worse. He has his camp in the wide open gold mining hills of California. He makes enough to stay comfortable, keep his belly full, and imbibe in some whisky on a regular basis. He may also imbibe in pleasures of the flesh occasionally. The over-abundance of men in the area doesn’t bother him, in fact, he prefers them to the ladies. August’s staid life gets a big shake when the enigmatic, mysterious Georgios (call me George) sidles up to him at the bar one day, plunks down a huge gold nugget, and enlists August to accompany him on a quest.
Kim colors this story with wonderful humor. I love how accepting August was with all the bizzare turn of events and revelations that happen after he and George headed into the mountains. He’s really a colorful, extraordinary man stuck in an ordinary existence. As the two men traveled, they bickered and sparred in a most robust battle of words. Great fun. What August thinks is a quest for gold turns out to be a quest of a much different sort. Enough hints were given from which I gleaned what George was about fundamentally, but I was eagerly turning pages to find out just exactly who or what these men were going to find when they reached the cave on George’s map. And was I ever surprised and delighted. As was August! As will you be. There is quite an unexpected twist – or two- to this one! Kim Fielding never fails to astound and delight me. This story is another in a long line of satisfying reads from this gifted author.
After the Wind by Tali Spencer The Llano Estacado region of West Texas is in the throes of a dry spell. Micah Dawes knows of a way to make it rain, or more preferably, to find a new water source for his land. Trouble is, the way is fraught with hazards, not the least of which is a man finding himself murdered. And he most definitely does not want that fate for himself, or for Rain – the intriguing, captive man Micah finds himself driven to save.
This story made a strong impression on me. It features two groups of people who, due to their differences, their uniqueness, and their power – are hunted, feared, and treated as chattel by those in power. The two groups work together to find common ground (literally!) and solutions which benefit them all. They also discover they are really not as different from each other as it would appear. I love that the power here involves the elements. The individuals who have the power are able to harness earth, wind, fire, or water. These are the pure, base ingredients of our world and something the Comanche – who comprise one of the maligned groups – especially revere. That fact was evident in this story. Micah and Rain build a palpable connection of trust and love as they face their hardships and their enemies. Tali Spencer wove a fabulous, intriguing and fantastical story of bravery, hope and kinship. I’ve not read her work previously, but I’ll be looking for more now.
4.5 stars
From Ancient Grudge to New Mutiny by Langley Hyde This world took a little time for me to settle into but once I got it was pretty brilliant. The idea of infusing magic into items through stones was totally unique to me. I also loved the Romeo and Juliet vibe going on in this story. James is summoned back from college after he graduates. He’d hoped to stay in the city where men with his preferences had more freedoms the part of the country they’re from allows slave collars made of magical stone and his parents have him collared. He has one last night before heading to his parents home and he plans to spend it with some male company. He chooses a guy who reminds him of his family’s mortal enemy and school boy crush, Frank. After a night together he heads home to learn their precious illudine has been stolen and the man he hooked up with the night before is actually the boy he grew up with. Frank’s family’s illudine was also stolen. They of course blame each other.
I really liked this story. There was a lot of character struggle for a short. I could practically feel he adoration Frank has always had for James. Which of course James wanted but thought would never happen. It did feel like a short which isn’t my favorite thing. The ending is wrapped up pretty quickly. Worth the read for the characters and world building. The guys get their HEA and I’d love to read more about it!
Gunner the Deadly by CS Poe This is probably my favorite of the shorts in this anthology I’ve read so far. It’s a mash up of when western meets mad men and magic. I was hooked from the first page. Gillian is a special agent with powers sent to Arizona to apprehend a mechanical creator of devices who is wanted for murder. He has no idea what he’s gotten himself into. During a gunfight Gillian inadvertently pairs up with he notorious outlaw Gunner the Deadly. Gunner wants the crazy creator dead. Gillian wants him stopped. Teaming up sounds like a good plan.
I loved some of the witty dialogue in this book while the guys were fighting and flirting. The MCs are on opposite sides of the law but can’t fight their attraction for each other. Gillian learns Gunner isn’t quite what he thought so the law man falls for one of the most wanted men in this world. Gillian’s powers were cool. The story has great world building. I would love to read more adventures from Gunner and Gillian. Or anything set in this fantastic world created really. This short was excellent and absolutely worth a read.
Get Lucky by Ginn Hale I loved the world created in this story. It’s lush and vivid which always impresses me in short stories. I also liked how there was so much history between the characters packed into Get Lucky that it felt like a full length book. Which I would of course love to read.
The story starts off right away with a feeling of despair and reluctance to accept the life Lucky currently has. Then he’s thrust into danger as a trio of brothers chase to kill a man in the swamp Lucky knows so well. Something about the man triggers a memory of a lover that left him brokenhearted years before. Lucky’s magical gift is somewhat of a secret so helping the guy means possible exposure but he does it anyway. Turns out the stranger is in fact the man who left him. Stirring up all those feelings once again.
I really liked this story. The love story felt very well developed with the back story and emotions expressed. I adored both characters. I wanted them to find their HEA. The world and the magic caught my attention from the first page. This is an excellent short.
Reaper’s Ride by Astrid Amara Riding for the Pony Express is dangerous. Johnny Jenkins finds himself taking the place of a wounded man on his usual route. Waiting in a cabin for the next rider is lonely. Johnny also finds out Pony Express riders aren’t the only ones out there. Sye rides a black horse and shows up late. Sye is beautiful. Johnny knows he shouldn’t notice, so he does the best he can to provide basic hospitality without rousing any possible suspicion Johnny may be interested in more than is seemly. It doesn’t take long for Johnny to find out what Sye is delivering. It also doesn’t take long for Sye and Johnny to realize they want the same things. It’s going to take a lot of hard work and luck for them to get what they want.
This story is beautifully evocative and it’s easy to romanticize the past, but it was a pretty horrible time for a lot of people. Got a nasty wound? You may survive it. Hopefully you also survive the infection you’re likely going to get afterwards. You got something in your personal life the greater society doesn’t like? Hide it or die. Some things are timeless, though, and they’re shown well in this story. If something seems too good to be true, it is. Know exactly what you’re agreeing to before you agree. No matter what or when, if you find someone you can trust willing to help when you’ve got nowhere else to turn you can count yourself lucky.
Oh, Give Me a Home by Nicole Kimberling Terraforming is going to help a lot of people who have been stuck their entire lives on space stations. Gordon and his husband Henry have a good life on New Saturn. They’re not creating homes so much as their creating a place for people to create their own homes. Unsurprisingly, not everyone wants the teeming mass of humanity on space stations to be able to create their own homes on the wide open planet of New Saturn. Gordon notices some of their land has been disturbed. He resigns himself to deal with it the next day but finds himself awakened by alarms and a missing husband in the middle of the night. Gordon has to ride to the rescue.
This story got me really excited. So many things could mean something else. It was metaphor heaven. Gordon finds himself handicapped by the weight of his world. As much as that sounds wonderfully metaphorical, I’m being literal. Gordon was raised in space. His body isn’t accustomed to gravity. He needs devices to assist him in gravity. The beauty of New Saturn is everyone needs some kind of device to live. It’s prohibitively cold and doesn’t have a breathable atmosphere. Everyone is handicapped by something. Gordon is not only battling the bad guys but also nature. Man vs. nature is all fine and dandy when man is winning, it gets pretty intense when Gordon and Henry’s battery levels get low and Gordon is reminded how easily someone can be crushed under the weight of his environment.
The Tale of August Hayling by Kim Fielding August is in a rut. But, things could be worse. He has his camp in the wide open gold mining hills of California. He makes enough to stay comfortable, keep his belly full, and imbibe in some whisky on a regular basis. He may also imbibe in pleasures of the flesh occasionally. The over-abundance of men in the area doesn’t bother him, in fact, he prefers them to the ladies. August’s staid life gets a big shake when the enigmatic, mysterious Georgios (call me George) sidles up to him at the bar one day, plunks down a huge gold nugget, and enlists August to accompany him on a quest.
Kim colors this story with wonderful humor. I love how accepting August was with all the bizzare turn of events and revelations that happen after he and George headed into the mountains. He’s really a colorful, extraordinary man stuck in an ordinary existence. As the two men traveled, they bickered and sparred in a most robust battle of words. Great fun. What August thinks is a quest for gold turns out to be a quest of a much different sort. Enough hints were given from which I gleaned what George was about fundamentally, but I was eagerly turning pages to find out just exactly who or what these men were going to find when they reached the cave on George’s map. And was I ever surprised and delighted. As was August! As will you be. There is quite an unexpected twist – or two- to this one! Kim Fielding never fails to astound and delight me. This story is another in a long line of satisfying reads from this gifted author.
After the Wind by Tali Spencer The Llano Estacado region of West Texas is in the throes of a dry spell. Micah Dawes knows of a way to make it rain, or more preferably, to find a new water source for his land. Trouble is, the way is fraught with hazards, not the least of which is a man finding himself murdered. And he most definitely does not want that fate for himself, or for Rain – the intriguing, captive man Micah finds himself driven to save.
This story made a strong impression on me. It features two groups of people who, due to their differences, their uniqueness, and their power – are hunted, feared, and treated as chattel by those in power. The two groups work together to find common ground (literally!) and solutions which benefit them all. They also discover they are really not as different from each other as it would appear. I love that the power here involves the elements. The individuals who have the power are able to harness earth, wind, fire, or water. These are the pure, base ingredients of our world and something the Comanche – who comprise one of the maligned groups – especially revere. That fact was evident in this story. Micah and Rain build a palpable connection of trust and love as they face their hardships and their enemies. Tali Spencer wove a fabulous, intriguing and fantastical story of bravery, hope and kinship. I’ve not read her work previously, but I’ll be looking for more now.
February 4, 2017
Reaper's Ride - 4/5
Wild, Wild Heart - 3/5
Dr. Ezekiel Crumb's Heavenly Soul Purifying Elixir - 2/5
Corpse Powder - 3/5
The Sheriff of Para Siempre - 1/5
The Tale of August Hayling - 2/5
Time Zone - 2/5
Get Lucky - 3/5
From Ancient Grudge to New Mutiny - 2/5
POMH - 2/5
Oh, Give Me a Home - 3/5
Gunner the Deadly - 3/5
After the Wind - 3/5
TBC
February 7, 2017
First compilation I've read where I've liked every story in it. Usually there is one that stands out and in this case it was Ginn Hale's short story. They were all good. The only reason my score isn't higher is that I wished that the heat factor in the stories were higher. Other than that, it was good writing and good stories. Loads of fun.
January 16, 2017
What a Wild Ride! This anthology has just about everything you could want. The stories were long enough to thoroughly enjoy, yet short enough that I could actually get some sleep at night.
Each was unique, extremely well written, fantastic character development and I felt engaged.
This is definitely a book you don't want to miss!!!
Each was unique, extremely well written, fantastic character development and I felt engaged.
This is definitely a book you don't want to miss!!!
February 4, 2018
Honestly, I'm not big on anthologies, but I love historical westerns, and paranormal is a favorite, so really, how could I not take a chance? That said, the overall rating comes from an average of the stories I read. As for those I didn't read... some are in first person, which I just don't read, typically, and the others - no offense to the authors - just weren't for me.
Reaper's Ride, by Astrid Amara - 3.5 stars
To start, I am a history nerd. I love the Old West, and I probably know far too much for my own good. So, all the bits with the Pony Express operations had me giddy. Everything from dropping company names, to the breeds of horses they used, to the way they ran the routes was so on point. It was well researched and the authenticity of it helped to set me into time and place.
Geeking out from the history tidbits aside, I also enjoyed the paranormal elements weaved into this very real and historic place. The descriptions of Sye and his horse were a mixture of alluring, mysterious, and chilling. In fact, that's a good part of Sye's appeal: the mystery of who he really is and just what it is he's doing through this short story, as we're told this entirely through Johnny's POV. Not that Johnny doesn't have a bit of mystery of his own, though I didn't find it quite so intriguing.
Both men were endearing, with a bit of both Old West mystery and paranormal mystery combining to make them a unique blend. I wanted to know what it was about their pasts that set them on their paths. And I certainly was rooting for their HEA. Overall, this was a sweet romance with that touch of paranormal. It was a stand-out for me, and one of my favorites of the anthology.
Wild, Wild Heart, by Shira Anthony - 3 stars
Another sweet romance. This one takes us to a touch of steampunk instead of paranormal, with Al who has a clockwork device helping to keep his heart beating correctly. This story is told through dual POV's, though I think we end up knowing more about Al's past in the end, with only the highlights of Cyrus'. The style may not be for everyone, as we're plopped down into the middle of the action, after they've already known each other for a bit, and some of the story is then told via flashback. Even being short, you get a decent sense of who these characters are, and who they want to be. Their romance is, as I said, a sweet one.
Corpse Powder, by Jana Denardo - 3.5 stars
Another really sweet - and very interesting - read. I loved the mix of alternative history and steampunk with Native American lore. It was a really nice combination that just worked. The setting of the airship and it's cast of side characters was rich - I especially enjoyed Captain Perrine.
Both the MC's were charming, with their own past hurts that get fleshed out as the story goes on. They truly did belong together, to heal through love. It was rather beautiful in that way. It was great watching their love blossom, and to watch them fight for each other and that burgeoning love.
The Tale of August Hayling, by Kim Fielding - 2.5 stars
This one started out strong, but ended up falling short for me. The set-up was great. Once again, my history nerd self was so happy with all the tidbits used to create an accurate picture of the era. I was intrigued by the mystery George posed, and August was an interesting character. They had a good dynamic going.
Once we got to the cave though, it deteriorated a bit for me. Sarkany was another interesting character (and awesome twist to the story), and the past between him and George is intriguing, but it never really got explored like I thought it deserved. Likewise, the interplay between Sarkany and August is great, and there's definitely something there, but it just all happens so fast.
I think this is a case where the last bit needed more page time devoted to it, and with how short this one was, it certainly could have achieved it.
Get Lucky, by Ginn Hale - 3.5 stars
This one sounded so intriguing when I read the blurb, and also a bit out there - dinosaurs? But, hey, I love dinos, so, I was totally willing to go for it. This crazy combo somehow works. The world building was really well done. It was noted at the started that this takes place in the same verse as another work by the author, but not once did I feel lost about how this world was supposed to work. If anything, it made me want to know more about what laid beyond this small corner of the world.
Our couple, Lucky and Dalfon, are so perfect together. Lucky's life hasn't been an easy one, and some things that have happened to him are downright heartbreaking. Dalfon was a bright spot in that life that up and left Lucky hanging three years ago. But, of course, there's more to the story than meets the eye. I was so happy to see them get their second chance at love, and at a better life that they both deserved.
This was a beautifully told story, with a really great couple. It was definitely my other stand-out favorite of the anthology.
Reaper's Ride, by Astrid Amara - 3.5 stars
To start, I am a history nerd. I love the Old West, and I probably know far too much for my own good. So, all the bits with the Pony Express operations had me giddy. Everything from dropping company names, to the breeds of horses they used, to the way they ran the routes was so on point. It was well researched and the authenticity of it helped to set me into time and place.
Geeking out from the history tidbits aside, I also enjoyed the paranormal elements weaved into this very real and historic place. The descriptions of Sye and his horse were a mixture of alluring, mysterious, and chilling. In fact, that's a good part of Sye's appeal: the mystery of who he really is and just what it is he's doing through this short story, as we're told this entirely through Johnny's POV. Not that Johnny doesn't have a bit of mystery of his own, though I didn't find it quite so intriguing.
Both men were endearing, with a bit of both Old West mystery and paranormal mystery combining to make them a unique blend. I wanted to know what it was about their pasts that set them on their paths. And I certainly was rooting for their HEA. Overall, this was a sweet romance with that touch of paranormal. It was a stand-out for me, and one of my favorites of the anthology.
Wild, Wild Heart, by Shira Anthony - 3 stars
Another sweet romance. This one takes us to a touch of steampunk instead of paranormal, with Al who has a clockwork device helping to keep his heart beating correctly. This story is told through dual POV's, though I think we end up knowing more about Al's past in the end, with only the highlights of Cyrus'. The style may not be for everyone, as we're plopped down into the middle of the action, after they've already known each other for a bit, and some of the story is then told via flashback. Even being short, you get a decent sense of who these characters are, and who they want to be. Their romance is, as I said, a sweet one.
Corpse Powder, by Jana Denardo - 3.5 stars
Another really sweet - and very interesting - read. I loved the mix of alternative history and steampunk with Native American lore. It was a really nice combination that just worked. The setting of the airship and it's cast of side characters was rich - I especially enjoyed Captain Perrine.
Both the MC's were charming, with their own past hurts that get fleshed out as the story goes on. They truly did belong together, to heal through love. It was rather beautiful in that way. It was great watching their love blossom, and to watch them fight for each other and that burgeoning love.
The Tale of August Hayling, by Kim Fielding - 2.5 stars
This one started out strong, but ended up falling short for me. The set-up was great. Once again, my history nerd self was so happy with all the tidbits used to create an accurate picture of the era. I was intrigued by the mystery George posed, and August was an interesting character. They had a good dynamic going.
Once we got to the cave though, it deteriorated a bit for me. Sarkany was another interesting character (and awesome twist to the story), and the past between him and George is intriguing, but it never really got explored like I thought it deserved. Likewise, the interplay between Sarkany and August is great, and there's definitely something there, but it just all happens so fast.
I think this is a case where the last bit needed more page time devoted to it, and with how short this one was, it certainly could have achieved it.
Get Lucky, by Ginn Hale - 3.5 stars
This one sounded so intriguing when I read the blurb, and also a bit out there - dinosaurs? But, hey, I love dinos, so, I was totally willing to go for it. This crazy combo somehow works. The world building was really well done. It was noted at the started that this takes place in the same verse as another work by the author, but not once did I feel lost about how this world was supposed to work. If anything, it made me want to know more about what laid beyond this small corner of the world.
Our couple, Lucky and Dalfon, are so perfect together. Lucky's life hasn't been an easy one, and some things that have happened to him are downright heartbreaking. Dalfon was a bright spot in that life that up and left Lucky hanging three years ago. But, of course, there's more to the story than meets the eye. I was so happy to see them get their second chance at love, and at a better life that they both deserved.
This was a beautifully told story, with a really great couple. It was definitely my other stand-out favorite of the anthology.
March 23, 2017
This collection of stories is a solid 4 stars in my book. Among my favorite shorts were.....
Reaper's Ride by Astrid Amara....This was a whole lot of aww.
The Sheriff of Para Siempre by Jamie Fessenden....Great characters, great story but not the ending I was hoping for, this one wreaked havoc with my emotions!
The Tale of August Hayling by Kim Fielding....I really want more of this story and I loved the surprise ending, I didn't see that coming.
Time Zone by Andrew Q. Gordon....This was really, really cute. More please!
Pomh by Venona Keyes....This one was so, so sweet I wish this one was longer.
There were a couple of the shorts that needed something more but all the stories were imaginative and fun to read.
Reaper's Ride by Astrid Amara....This was a whole lot of aww.
The Sheriff of Para Siempre by Jamie Fessenden....Great characters, great story but not the ending I was hoping for, this one wreaked havoc with my emotions!
The Tale of August Hayling by Kim Fielding....I really want more of this story and I loved the surprise ending, I didn't see that coming.
Time Zone by Andrew Q. Gordon....This was really, really cute. More please!
Pomh by Venona Keyes....This one was so, so sweet I wish this one was longer.
There were a couple of the shorts that needed something more but all the stories were imaginative and fun to read.
June 26, 2017
Astrid Amara: 3 stars
Shira Anthony: 2 stars
Lex Chase: 2.75 stars
Jane Denardo: 3.5 stars
Jaime Fessenden: DNF
Kim Fielding: 3 stars
Andrew Q Gordon: 4 stars
Ginn Hale: 4 stars
Langley Hyde: DNF
Verona Keyes: DNF
Nicole Kimberling: 4 stars
CS Poe: DNF
Tali Spencer: 4.5 stars, wish it had been a full novel, I wanted more background knowledge and worldbuilding.
Overall a good read, higly recommend it.
Shira Anthony: 2 stars
Lex Chase: 2.75 stars
Jane Denardo: 3.5 stars
Jaime Fessenden: DNF
Kim Fielding: 3 stars
Andrew Q Gordon: 4 stars
Ginn Hale: 4 stars
Langley Hyde: DNF
Verona Keyes: DNF
Nicole Kimberling: 4 stars
CS Poe: DNF
Tali Spencer: 4.5 stars, wish it had been a full novel, I wanted more background knowledge and worldbuilding.
Overall a good read, higly recommend it.
December 1, 2018
I'll leave a more in-depth review later (probably). I liked a lot of the stories in here and tried to rate them as I read but sometimes forgot... Some were a lot more mushy than I like but... What did I really expect...? XD
Definitely didn't expect it to be quite so religious/spiritual. I am not at all and was thrown by it. I guess it isn't too surprising considering it's supposed to be about the "wild west" but it was all about religion and/or homophobia. Understandable but...
Definitely didn't expect it to be quite so religious/spiritual. I am not at all and was thrown by it. I guess it isn't too surprising considering it's supposed to be about the "wild west" but it was all about religion and/or homophobia. Understandable but...
December 16, 2016
Book – Once Upon a Time in the Weird West
Star rating - ★★★★☆
No. of Pages – 400
Cover – Gorgeous!
Would I read it again – Yes!
Genre – Speculative fiction, fantasy, western, LGBT
** I WAS GIVEN THIS BOOK FOR MY READING PLEASURE **
Reviewed for Divine Magazine
Combining some of the biggest names in MM fiction into one anthology, Once Upon a Time in the Weird West is a keeper!
~
Reaper's Ride, by Astrid Amara
★★★★★
POV: 3rd person, one character
Length: 0-13%
Theme: the Devil
This story began an incredible journey. After a brief mention of scalping, attacks on postal routes and the authors incredible gift for world building, we're immediately settled into the desert scenery, in the middle of nowhere. Adding in extensive attention to detail, a well thought out plot and timing, with the added paranormal element, this story packed a punch. I loved the characterisation and originality. I would definitely read more of these characters and this world, without hesitation.
Favourite Quote
““How about this – you get everyone on that damned list done today, then come back here, and I'll make it worth your while.”
Sye's dimples reappeared. “Why, here I thought you were an upstanding young gentleman.”
“Whatever it takes to keep you motivated through the night.””
~
Wild, Wild Heart, by Shira Anthony
★★★★★
POV: 3rd person, dual character
Length: 13%-20%
Theme: Steampunk
Wow! I loved this one. It had an emotional punch that left me reeling for a while. Instead of jumping into writing my review and moving on to the next story, I had to take a bit of a break, figure out my feelings and how to get them down into proper, understandable words. The steampunk, clockwork element was fantastically written, with such an intense attention to detail that every moment of clockwork and animation felt alive. There was a touch of the Iron Man Arc Reactor in the clockwork element that I loved! But I also really liked that we got the POV of both characters, because although Al was a great guy and a good POV, it was Cyrus who made me fall in love with the story. It was shorter than the previous story, but it was oh-so sweet!
Favourite Quote
““What are you making?” he asked when he first watched his master work.
“A gift” was his masters reply. “For you.”
“For me? Al didn't deserve such a gift. “But I–”
“I will give you life, and you will in turn devote that life to me.” His master opened his hand to reveal a gleaming silver watch, or what Al thought was a watch until his master said, “This is your life, Aloysius. A heart that will heal you. And in return for this gift,” his master added, “you will be my legacy.””
~
Dr. Ezekiel Crumb's Heavenly Soul Purifying Elixir, by Lex Chase
★★★★★
POV: 3rd person, one character
Length: 20-26%
Theme: Alien
This was a great new twist on the whole 'supernatural' element of a western. Not only did it explore the present day in a way that was believable and fun, but it had a great attention to detail for the past and the way it explored such a small location as Ezekiel's wagon, without feeling like the story was being oppressed or confined in any way. I loved the characters – Ezekiel was a great showman and yet so wounded underneath the façade. Levi was an enigma that slowly unraveled to reveal that he was just as broke.
Favourite Quote
“You've lost yourself, haven't you? Levi whispered in return. He reached up once again, cupping Ezekiel's cheek. “You could have been anyone. Instead you became a false prophet peddling moonshine strong enough to strip paint at forty paces.”
~
Corpse Powder, by Jana Denardo
★★★☆☆
POV: 3rd person, dual character
Length: 27-26%
Theme: Steampunk, Skinwalkers
The concept of bringing a Jewish man and a Navajo together was intriguing. I feel, however, that the first few pages really let it down.
The choice of language was something strange, with no sense of timing, as the character drifted between three or four different locations within one paragraph, without a good flow of explanation. It felt confusing, at first, because of that and it was hard to imagine the scene and locations because there was so little description available.
I didn't get the whole way of writing God as G-d, either. It felt strange and jarred me out of the flow of the story more than once.
As did the multiple names for Tsela; Alexander, Zahni and Tsela were all used frequently, swapping one out for another throughout the story. It wouldn't have been so confusing if one name had been used throughout the story writing and another within the dialogue, to show that he had all these various names. Instead, they were used in place of each other that it often became confusing.
It also didn't help that the entire 10% of the story was one long chapter, with the only break being between scenes. It made it a little more difficult to read in one sitting, because it was harder on the eyes.
Saying that, I enjoyed the crux of the story. The skinwalker, the two main characters both affected differently by the war, the airships and the steampunk elements were fine. Once the story got started, about 3% in, the writing improved and the story had more flow; the characters came into their own and the whole thing began to come together. But it felt very much like too much was being forced into a small space and we were given no real sense of setting.
Favourite Quote
“Sleep wouldn't come easy, not just because of the strange attack, but because he thought Alexander telling him his Navajo name meant something important. Isaac had been shown a way in, but was it merely friendship, or could he dare dream or something more?”
~
The Sheriff of Para Siempre, by Jamie Fessenden
★★★★★
POV: 1st person, one character (and an epilogue from another character)
Length: 36-44%
Theme: Zombie/Reanimation
I'm a blubbering mess right now, so if I'm not making sense, you can blame it on Jamie Fessenden. Quite simply, this story broke me. It broke my heart and it made me speechless. The story is told in a diary-like 1st person narrative that is absolutely perfect. I usually don't get along with 1st person, but this one needed it. And the dedication to the language, the detail and the perfect balance between giving us enough to build a world and not going over the top made me feel like I was watching an old Clint Eastwood movie, right until the paranormal stuff happened. It's so perfectly a western and yet so perfectly paranormal. And, I know, I keep using the word perfect, but it really is. It's the only fitting thing.
Another thing I really loved was that this is the first story in the anthology that has an established couple as the main characters, which was really great, because I could feel the chemistry between them right from the start. It's also the first to have on-page, explicit sex scenes, which weren't bad, either.
I thought the last chapter killed me, but it was the Epilogue of Wyatt Long's diary entry that really did me in.
As for the rest of it, I can't tell you much except that you have to read it.
Favourite Quote
““Do you ever wonder about all that Bible stuff?”
“Not much.”
“You don't think we're endangerin' our immortal souls, or whatever the heck Ellie said?”
Billy snorted. Then he kissed me nice and sweet on the mouth. When he was done, he said, “I ain't worried about it. If God don't want my soul, when I die, you can have it.””
~
The Tale of August Hayling, by Kim Fielding
★★★☆☆
POV: 3rd person, one character
Length: 44-50%
Theme: Dragon
This was an odd one for me and the shortest of the stories so far, which might account for that. I really felt like the story was building up to a friendship or romance between George and August, with all the sharing and the understanding they attempted with each other, though it was slight. However, the ending was really off-putting and didn't fit with the rest of the story.
I liked the dragon/hunter aspect of the story and it made sense of George's up to that point, but once we met Sarkany, things just turned on their head and happened way too fast. Perhaps if less time had been spent on the travelling and more time given to the end events, it wouldn't have felt that way. But, sadly, I just found it all really unbelievable. I didn't understand or warm to August much, as there was little characterisation and half the explanations of him that we got hinted at some kind of otherworldly origins that were never followed through on or explained. I also found his acceptance of the dragon situation – and his decision to give up everything he'd ever known for one man that he'd only just met – as bordering on ridiculous.
Unfortunately, not a story I'd read again.
Favourite Quote
““Never been questing in my lifetime. Don't reckon I'm the type. But anytime my life's been up the spout, I try an' do things different. I'd do it as a ghost too. If my questing wasn't working, I'd try it a new way.”
“I cannot find a new way,” George whispered. And after that he said nothing at all.”
~
Time Zone, by Andrew Q. Gordon
★★★★★
POV: 1st person, one character
Length: 50-57%
Theme: Enhanced Abilities, Contemporary
This one really, really confused me. It was a great story, but there wasn't one ounce of a western about it. I kept expecting Wesley's gift to jump them into a western time zone or setting, but it didn't happen. Everything about this story was contemporary super-hero related.
I liked the characters and great writing, world building and the easy flow of the story, but due to the anthology it's included in, I kept waiting for something that never came. My rating is for the story itself, as a singular entity, but if I were rating it in relation to the anthology, I'd have to knock a mark off for the lack of connection to a western.
Favourite Quote
“Lothar's smooth baritone was all the contact I was allowed with my handler. Handler? He was more like my guardian angel. I wanted to meet the man behind the damn sexy voice, but face-to-face consultations violated a safety protocol. More likely he was an AI, and they didn't want me to know I had a major boner for a computer program.”
~
Get Lucky, by Ginn Hale
★★★☆☆
POV: 3rd person, one character
Length: 58-67%
Theme: Magic, Dinosaurs, Pinkertons
This story is part of a world that I'm unfamiliar with. It doesn't say that you have to have read the novella The Long Past to understand it, but I'm pretty sure that might be the case. Unfortunately, for me, there was just far too much crammed into this story that didn't make sense. I'm guessing the year is sometime in the last 1800's, since it mentions New York, mortgages and denim all in one story and the latter didn't exist until around the 1870's. There are dinosaurs, however, which really messed with my understanding of the timeline, especially since we got no indication of the year until 2% into the story, which is a lot considering the story is only 9% in total. There are also Pinkerton's, water mages, clockwork automatons, spells and an official US government branch for magic users.
For me, the character of Lucky was intriguing, but there was just so much outside stuff going on that it was hard to get a focus on anything. I found my attention wandering, too exhausted to take in all this information and try to figure out if it was historically accurate to include in this time frame or not and then wondering if I'd missed something, because...hello...unexplained dinosaurs roaming around!
By the time the dino's were explained, I really felt like that should have come first or should have been something explained with more importance and urgency.
I also hate to say that I didn't get a western feel, at all. The Pinkerton thing kind of helped, but it was more like a fantasy story than a western with a twist; it felt like the 'western' aspect really took a back seat and the story lacked a little, because of that.
I didn't feel much chemistry between the star-crossed lovers, either and found that the whole misunderstanding and the danger aspect were glossed over too quickly and with little real plot forwarding. They felt less important than the reunion and Lucky's hurt feelings, which could also be said for the huge revelation that Lucky was about to step into a new future, thanks to the news Dalfon had come to deliver. The ending addressed none of that aspect of the story, though it was apparently the driving force for everything that had happened.
Favourite Quote
“Sure this man resembled Dalfon, but a scarlet snake resembling a coral snake didn't make them the same thing. And mistaking one for the other could get a man killed.”
~
From Ancient Grudge to New Mutiny, by Langley Hyde
★★★★★
POV: 3rd person, one character
Length: 67-73%
Theme: Romeo-Juliet, Mages
I really liked this one. It had that classic Romeo and Juliet storyline, in a brand new way. I loved the chemistry between James and Frank, the simplicity of it all and the natural way that the mage aspect flowed within the western setting.
I would have liked to have seen the final scenes in full, rather than an “imagine this” scenario, but it worked, somehow.
Favourite Quote
“He couldn't see another way out. In order to save his life, he had to clear the Montgomery name. Tonight.”
~
POMH, by Verona Keyes
★★★★☆
POV: 3rd person, one character, with one scene of another character
Length: 73-80%
Theme: Steampunk
It took me a little while to warm up to this story, because there were quite a few info dumps of background story that we had to learn, before moving off into the next scene. Though I understand the need for them and the few moments of flashback conversations, it did jar the reading a little.
There was also a continuity, understanding issue with the scene in the prison cell. A visitor stops by the to see POHM, but the POV changes abruptly from Lorem's to POHM without warning and doesn't make sense for a while, because there's a person there when there wasn't before and there's no arrival, no suddenly someone appearing or blinking and a person is there. It's just a person talks and is referred to as “the man” without any explanation whatsoever and I had to go back to re-read the half page before it to make sure I hadn't missed something.
I loved the ending and that salvaged the story for me. It made sense, it was well written and I loved the way that the chemistry and affection felt real, even though only one character had been present through the entire story.
Favourite Quote
“He ran to see what was the matter, and there lay Xander's body broken in the street, trampled to death by a trek carriage. He pushed by all the people, knelt next to the lifeless young man, and lifted him into his arms. A scream rent the air, and Sienna ran over to Loren and her dead brother.”
~
Oh, Give Me a Home, by Nicole Kimberling
★★★☆☆
POV: 3rd person, one character
Length: 80-85%
Theme: Space, Terraforming
I loved that we once again had an established couple and that I could feel the chemistry between them right from the start. The space, terraforming and robot idea was great and really well written. The slight criminal aspect was a good diversion and something that allowed some natural character exploration and development, while showing us the strength of the relationship. Thoroughly enjoyed it.
Favourite Quote
“A couple of lusty Leroys who'd landed by each other had decided to hump instead.
“They're at it again,” Henry remarked. “You'd think they'd go after a Shirley.”
Gordon shrugged. “Some Leroys prefer the simplicity of other Leroys, apparently.””
~
Gunner the Deadly, by C.S. Poe
★★★★★
POV: 1st person, one character
Length: 85-92%
Theme: Steampunk
I loved this little snippet of western-steampunk crossover. The technology, the world building and the writing are excellent. The story is unique and clever, with just enough of a dash of danger. The chemistry between the main characters was great, very real and palpable right from the start.
Favourite Quote
““Your surprise tells me you didn't come to Shallow Grave for me, Special Agent Hamilyon,” Gunner said quietly.
“Rumor had it you were in Tombstone.”
“I left. Too many Earps and too many cowboys for my liking.””
~
After the Wind, by Tali Spencer
★★★★★
POV: 1st person, one character
Length: 92-99%
Theme: Elementals
This was fantastic! I liked that the 'elementals' were given their own name of 'weirdlings' to separate them from the type of elementals we know from other stories. I loved the way that it showed the Comanches in a good light, showing their brotherhood and their acceptance of the strange and unusual, without demonising them. The chemistry between the characters was great and well explored throughout the story, even with one being blindfolded for half the story.
Favourite Quote
““I've thought about you,” he said. Again he ducked his head, but this time he rested his forehead on my shoulder.
It was all I could do to not bury my face in his scent of fresh rainwater. “Yeah?”
“Yeah. A lot.”
“Not as much as I thought about you.” Being this near to him, my body burned. When I took the chance and placed my hands on his arms, his skin felt cool and so damn welcome.”
~
Overall, this was a fantastic compilation of speculative fiction and western themed stories. Though I loved the majority of them, I have to admit that The Sheriff of Para Siempre, by Jamie Fessenden was my favourite. It just got me, right in the feels and didn't let go, even after the story was done.
Star rating - ★★★★☆
No. of Pages – 400
Cover – Gorgeous!
Would I read it again – Yes!
Genre – Speculative fiction, fantasy, western, LGBT
** I WAS GIVEN THIS BOOK FOR MY READING PLEASURE **
Reviewed for Divine Magazine
Combining some of the biggest names in MM fiction into one anthology, Once Upon a Time in the Weird West is a keeper!
~
Reaper's Ride, by Astrid Amara
★★★★★
POV: 3rd person, one character
Length: 0-13%
Theme: the Devil
This story began an incredible journey. After a brief mention of scalping, attacks on postal routes and the authors incredible gift for world building, we're immediately settled into the desert scenery, in the middle of nowhere. Adding in extensive attention to detail, a well thought out plot and timing, with the added paranormal element, this story packed a punch. I loved the characterisation and originality. I would definitely read more of these characters and this world, without hesitation.
Favourite Quote
““How about this – you get everyone on that damned list done today, then come back here, and I'll make it worth your while.”
Sye's dimples reappeared. “Why, here I thought you were an upstanding young gentleman.”
“Whatever it takes to keep you motivated through the night.””
~
Wild, Wild Heart, by Shira Anthony
★★★★★
POV: 3rd person, dual character
Length: 13%-20%
Theme: Steampunk
Wow! I loved this one. It had an emotional punch that left me reeling for a while. Instead of jumping into writing my review and moving on to the next story, I had to take a bit of a break, figure out my feelings and how to get them down into proper, understandable words. The steampunk, clockwork element was fantastically written, with such an intense attention to detail that every moment of clockwork and animation felt alive. There was a touch of the Iron Man Arc Reactor in the clockwork element that I loved! But I also really liked that we got the POV of both characters, because although Al was a great guy and a good POV, it was Cyrus who made me fall in love with the story. It was shorter than the previous story, but it was oh-so sweet!
Favourite Quote
““What are you making?” he asked when he first watched his master work.
“A gift” was his masters reply. “For you.”
“For me? Al didn't deserve such a gift. “But I–”
“I will give you life, and you will in turn devote that life to me.” His master opened his hand to reveal a gleaming silver watch, or what Al thought was a watch until his master said, “This is your life, Aloysius. A heart that will heal you. And in return for this gift,” his master added, “you will be my legacy.””
~
Dr. Ezekiel Crumb's Heavenly Soul Purifying Elixir, by Lex Chase
★★★★★
POV: 3rd person, one character
Length: 20-26%
Theme: Alien
This was a great new twist on the whole 'supernatural' element of a western. Not only did it explore the present day in a way that was believable and fun, but it had a great attention to detail for the past and the way it explored such a small location as Ezekiel's wagon, without feeling like the story was being oppressed or confined in any way. I loved the characters – Ezekiel was a great showman and yet so wounded underneath the façade. Levi was an enigma that slowly unraveled to reveal that he was just as broke.
Favourite Quote
“You've lost yourself, haven't you? Levi whispered in return. He reached up once again, cupping Ezekiel's cheek. “You could have been anyone. Instead you became a false prophet peddling moonshine strong enough to strip paint at forty paces.”
~
Corpse Powder, by Jana Denardo
★★★☆☆
POV: 3rd person, dual character
Length: 27-26%
Theme: Steampunk, Skinwalkers
The concept of bringing a Jewish man and a Navajo together was intriguing. I feel, however, that the first few pages really let it down.
The choice of language was something strange, with no sense of timing, as the character drifted between three or four different locations within one paragraph, without a good flow of explanation. It felt confusing, at first, because of that and it was hard to imagine the scene and locations because there was so little description available.
I didn't get the whole way of writing God as G-d, either. It felt strange and jarred me out of the flow of the story more than once.
As did the multiple names for Tsela; Alexander, Zahni and Tsela were all used frequently, swapping one out for another throughout the story. It wouldn't have been so confusing if one name had been used throughout the story writing and another within the dialogue, to show that he had all these various names. Instead, they were used in place of each other that it often became confusing.
It also didn't help that the entire 10% of the story was one long chapter, with the only break being between scenes. It made it a little more difficult to read in one sitting, because it was harder on the eyes.
Saying that, I enjoyed the crux of the story. The skinwalker, the two main characters both affected differently by the war, the airships and the steampunk elements were fine. Once the story got started, about 3% in, the writing improved and the story had more flow; the characters came into their own and the whole thing began to come together. But it felt very much like too much was being forced into a small space and we were given no real sense of setting.
Favourite Quote
“Sleep wouldn't come easy, not just because of the strange attack, but because he thought Alexander telling him his Navajo name meant something important. Isaac had been shown a way in, but was it merely friendship, or could he dare dream or something more?”
~
The Sheriff of Para Siempre, by Jamie Fessenden
★★★★★
POV: 1st person, one character (and an epilogue from another character)
Length: 36-44%
Theme: Zombie/Reanimation
I'm a blubbering mess right now, so if I'm not making sense, you can blame it on Jamie Fessenden. Quite simply, this story broke me. It broke my heart and it made me speechless. The story is told in a diary-like 1st person narrative that is absolutely perfect. I usually don't get along with 1st person, but this one needed it. And the dedication to the language, the detail and the perfect balance between giving us enough to build a world and not going over the top made me feel like I was watching an old Clint Eastwood movie, right until the paranormal stuff happened. It's so perfectly a western and yet so perfectly paranormal. And, I know, I keep using the word perfect, but it really is. It's the only fitting thing.
Another thing I really loved was that this is the first story in the anthology that has an established couple as the main characters, which was really great, because I could feel the chemistry between them right from the start. It's also the first to have on-page, explicit sex scenes, which weren't bad, either.
I thought the last chapter killed me, but it was the Epilogue of Wyatt Long's diary entry that really did me in.
As for the rest of it, I can't tell you much except that you have to read it.
Favourite Quote
““Do you ever wonder about all that Bible stuff?”
“Not much.”
“You don't think we're endangerin' our immortal souls, or whatever the heck Ellie said?”
Billy snorted. Then he kissed me nice and sweet on the mouth. When he was done, he said, “I ain't worried about it. If God don't want my soul, when I die, you can have it.””
~
The Tale of August Hayling, by Kim Fielding
★★★☆☆
POV: 3rd person, one character
Length: 44-50%
Theme: Dragon
This was an odd one for me and the shortest of the stories so far, which might account for that. I really felt like the story was building up to a friendship or romance between George and August, with all the sharing and the understanding they attempted with each other, though it was slight. However, the ending was really off-putting and didn't fit with the rest of the story.
I liked the dragon/hunter aspect of the story and it made sense of George's up to that point, but once we met Sarkany, things just turned on their head and happened way too fast. Perhaps if less time had been spent on the travelling and more time given to the end events, it wouldn't have felt that way. But, sadly, I just found it all really unbelievable. I didn't understand or warm to August much, as there was little characterisation and half the explanations of him that we got hinted at some kind of otherworldly origins that were never followed through on or explained. I also found his acceptance of the dragon situation – and his decision to give up everything he'd ever known for one man that he'd only just met – as bordering on ridiculous.
Unfortunately, not a story I'd read again.
Favourite Quote
““Never been questing in my lifetime. Don't reckon I'm the type. But anytime my life's been up the spout, I try an' do things different. I'd do it as a ghost too. If my questing wasn't working, I'd try it a new way.”
“I cannot find a new way,” George whispered. And after that he said nothing at all.”
~
Time Zone, by Andrew Q. Gordon
★★★★★
POV: 1st person, one character
Length: 50-57%
Theme: Enhanced Abilities, Contemporary
This one really, really confused me. It was a great story, but there wasn't one ounce of a western about it. I kept expecting Wesley's gift to jump them into a western time zone or setting, but it didn't happen. Everything about this story was contemporary super-hero related.
I liked the characters and great writing, world building and the easy flow of the story, but due to the anthology it's included in, I kept waiting for something that never came. My rating is for the story itself, as a singular entity, but if I were rating it in relation to the anthology, I'd have to knock a mark off for the lack of connection to a western.
Favourite Quote
“Lothar's smooth baritone was all the contact I was allowed with my handler. Handler? He was more like my guardian angel. I wanted to meet the man behind the damn sexy voice, but face-to-face consultations violated a safety protocol. More likely he was an AI, and they didn't want me to know I had a major boner for a computer program.”
~
Get Lucky, by Ginn Hale
★★★☆☆
POV: 3rd person, one character
Length: 58-67%
Theme: Magic, Dinosaurs, Pinkertons
This story is part of a world that I'm unfamiliar with. It doesn't say that you have to have read the novella The Long Past to understand it, but I'm pretty sure that might be the case. Unfortunately, for me, there was just far too much crammed into this story that didn't make sense. I'm guessing the year is sometime in the last 1800's, since it mentions New York, mortgages and denim all in one story and the latter didn't exist until around the 1870's. There are dinosaurs, however, which really messed with my understanding of the timeline, especially since we got no indication of the year until 2% into the story, which is a lot considering the story is only 9% in total. There are also Pinkerton's, water mages, clockwork automatons, spells and an official US government branch for magic users.
For me, the character of Lucky was intriguing, but there was just so much outside stuff going on that it was hard to get a focus on anything. I found my attention wandering, too exhausted to take in all this information and try to figure out if it was historically accurate to include in this time frame or not and then wondering if I'd missed something, because...hello...unexplained dinosaurs roaming around!
By the time the dino's were explained, I really felt like that should have come first or should have been something explained with more importance and urgency.
I also hate to say that I didn't get a western feel, at all. The Pinkerton thing kind of helped, but it was more like a fantasy story than a western with a twist; it felt like the 'western' aspect really took a back seat and the story lacked a little, because of that.
I didn't feel much chemistry between the star-crossed lovers, either and found that the whole misunderstanding and the danger aspect were glossed over too quickly and with little real plot forwarding. They felt less important than the reunion and Lucky's hurt feelings, which could also be said for the huge revelation that Lucky was about to step into a new future, thanks to the news Dalfon had come to deliver. The ending addressed none of that aspect of the story, though it was apparently the driving force for everything that had happened.
Favourite Quote
“Sure this man resembled Dalfon, but a scarlet snake resembling a coral snake didn't make them the same thing. And mistaking one for the other could get a man killed.”
~
From Ancient Grudge to New Mutiny, by Langley Hyde
★★★★★
POV: 3rd person, one character
Length: 67-73%
Theme: Romeo-Juliet, Mages
I really liked this one. It had that classic Romeo and Juliet storyline, in a brand new way. I loved the chemistry between James and Frank, the simplicity of it all and the natural way that the mage aspect flowed within the western setting.
I would have liked to have seen the final scenes in full, rather than an “imagine this” scenario, but it worked, somehow.
Favourite Quote
“He couldn't see another way out. In order to save his life, he had to clear the Montgomery name. Tonight.”
~
POMH, by Verona Keyes
★★★★☆
POV: 3rd person, one character, with one scene of another character
Length: 73-80%
Theme: Steampunk
It took me a little while to warm up to this story, because there were quite a few info dumps of background story that we had to learn, before moving off into the next scene. Though I understand the need for them and the few moments of flashback conversations, it did jar the reading a little.
There was also a continuity, understanding issue with the scene in the prison cell. A visitor stops by the to see POHM, but the POV changes abruptly from Lorem's to POHM without warning and doesn't make sense for a while, because there's a person there when there wasn't before and there's no arrival, no suddenly someone appearing or blinking and a person is there. It's just a person talks and is referred to as “the man” without any explanation whatsoever and I had to go back to re-read the half page before it to make sure I hadn't missed something.
I loved the ending and that salvaged the story for me. It made sense, it was well written and I loved the way that the chemistry and affection felt real, even though only one character had been present through the entire story.
Favourite Quote
“He ran to see what was the matter, and there lay Xander's body broken in the street, trampled to death by a trek carriage. He pushed by all the people, knelt next to the lifeless young man, and lifted him into his arms. A scream rent the air, and Sienna ran over to Loren and her dead brother.”
~
Oh, Give Me a Home, by Nicole Kimberling
★★★☆☆
POV: 3rd person, one character
Length: 80-85%
Theme: Space, Terraforming
I loved that we once again had an established couple and that I could feel the chemistry between them right from the start. The space, terraforming and robot idea was great and really well written. The slight criminal aspect was a good diversion and something that allowed some natural character exploration and development, while showing us the strength of the relationship. Thoroughly enjoyed it.
Favourite Quote
“A couple of lusty Leroys who'd landed by each other had decided to hump instead.
“They're at it again,” Henry remarked. “You'd think they'd go after a Shirley.”
Gordon shrugged. “Some Leroys prefer the simplicity of other Leroys, apparently.””
~
Gunner the Deadly, by C.S. Poe
★★★★★
POV: 1st person, one character
Length: 85-92%
Theme: Steampunk
I loved this little snippet of western-steampunk crossover. The technology, the world building and the writing are excellent. The story is unique and clever, with just enough of a dash of danger. The chemistry between the main characters was great, very real and palpable right from the start.
Favourite Quote
““Your surprise tells me you didn't come to Shallow Grave for me, Special Agent Hamilyon,” Gunner said quietly.
“Rumor had it you were in Tombstone.”
“I left. Too many Earps and too many cowboys for my liking.””
~
After the Wind, by Tali Spencer
★★★★★
POV: 1st person, one character
Length: 92-99%
Theme: Elementals
This was fantastic! I liked that the 'elementals' were given their own name of 'weirdlings' to separate them from the type of elementals we know from other stories. I loved the way that it showed the Comanches in a good light, showing their brotherhood and their acceptance of the strange and unusual, without demonising them. The chemistry between the characters was great and well explored throughout the story, even with one being blindfolded for half the story.
Favourite Quote
““I've thought about you,” he said. Again he ducked his head, but this time he rested his forehead on my shoulder.
It was all I could do to not bury my face in his scent of fresh rainwater. “Yeah?”
“Yeah. A lot.”
“Not as much as I thought about you.” Being this near to him, my body burned. When I took the chance and placed my hands on his arms, his skin felt cool and so damn welcome.”
~
Overall, this was a fantastic compilation of speculative fiction and western themed stories. Though I loved the majority of them, I have to admit that The Sheriff of Para Siempre, by Jamie Fessenden was my favourite. It just got me, right in the feels and didn't let go, even after the story was done.
December 26, 2016
The title of this anthology says it all really doesn't it? this anthology is all speculative fiction with a western twist which for me was perfect I have always been fascinated with America's frontier. This Anthology which spans more than 400 pages is hard to describe in detail but they span from looking at the Pony Express to an alternative world full of dionosars, to a fresh take on Romeo and Juliet and George and the Dragon.
My favourite tales were Astrid Amara's take on the Pony Express a tale called Reaper's Ride; Jamie Fessenden's 'The Sheriff of Para Siempre; Time Zone Andrew Q Gordon; and of course Ginn Hale's Get Lucky (Re-read this one it was that good); Oh, Give me a home Kimberling; From Ancient Grudge to New Mutiny Langley Hyde. Out of all of the tales, these were the best I feel because of their sheer originality and twist on the Western sory.
Yet I highly recommend the whole Anthology and am so glad that I bought it and devoured it in days.
My favourite tales were Astrid Amara's take on the Pony Express a tale called Reaper's Ride; Jamie Fessenden's 'The Sheriff of Para Siempre; Time Zone Andrew Q Gordon; and of course Ginn Hale's Get Lucky (Re-read this one it was that good); Oh, Give me a home Kimberling; From Ancient Grudge to New Mutiny Langley Hyde. Out of all of the tales, these were the best I feel because of their sheer originality and twist on the Western sory.
Yet I highly recommend the whole Anthology and am so glad that I bought it and devoured it in days.
December 27, 2016
An anthology of short stories based on the theme of Speculative Fiction/ Wild West. The stories include sci-fi versions of the wild west in the future, alternative steam punk versions of the wild west and our normal western history with a fantasy element. All of the stories have some component of the M/M romance, some more explicit than others. Overall, the stories are creative and well-done, with the sci/fi fantasy component definitely stronger than the romance component. My favorites were "After the Wind," "Oh, Give Me a Home" and "The Tale of August Hayling." All of the stories were readable -- some suffered from trying to pack too much into a short page count. As a result, plot overshadows character development in most of them. But overall, a very strong showing from a diverse set of authors.
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