Friday 1 August 2008

Montana Hit

as by Charles Langley Hayes
A Black Horse Western from Hale, 1993

Unknown to each other two hardcases are heading into Judgement Creek. One on the run and in need of money, the other after vengeance. Here their trails will cross in a twisting drama of love, hate, double-cross, cowardice and murder. At the centre of it all is the long-standing, respected sheriff - a lawman who is as yet untested.

A story that begins almost gently as we are introduced to the main players of this tale. The author takes care with his characterizations, their backgrounds, giving the reader enough to believe they are the people they’re painted to be, yet also gives a few little hints that some, or all, may not be quite who they seem.

The story builds well through a couple of killings, and the ensuing manhunt which leads to the so far separate incidents becoming entwined in a tangle that doesn’t have a clear and easy outcome that’s obvious to the reader.

The story has a tough and brutal conclusion that’s not without surprises that left me feeling well satisfied of having read a good book.

Charles Langley Hayes (really B.J. Holmes) knows how to tell a great story, and is an author I shall be looking for more from.

Get a copy here.

3 comments:

Chris said...

"Montana Hit" has to be the most awesome title I've ever head, and the cover ain't too shabby either!

Unknown said...

Chris,
Mr Holmes has a website you might like to explore.
http://bjholmes.mysite.wanadoo-members.co.uk
Or via the "Other Wagons" link at blackhorsewesterns.com
You'll find a series of "Hit" titles, state by state!
Good hunting, Keith

Steve M said...

More of the "Hit" books will be reviewed here - although I only have the first three of the four.

Montana Hit
Dakota Hit
Utah Hit
Wyoming Hit

Utah Hit is about Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.

The B.J. Holmes site is well worth a visit.