as by Ross MortonA Black Horse Western from Hale, May 2009
What’s a life worth? $300, maybe.
Half Mexican Corbin Molina lost a hand during the Civil War but he has adapted. Now he’s on a mission to Walkerville. On the way, he prevents a train robbery and finds an old friend. Corbin always carries $300, which is significant, since that’s what he was paid as a substitute soldier for the Union.
When Corbin starts asking questions about Walkerville’s law and administration, he discovers that the Walker family, who seem to have bought and paid for loyalty and position, dominate the townspeople. Inevitably, Corbin’s questions attract plenty of trouble. And his past emerges to confront him during a tense showdown that threatens not only him but also his newfound love.
Ross Morton (real name Nik Morton) presents the reader with a fascinating character in Corbin Molina, not least because his mixed blood cause him problems, but due to him having a hook in place of a hand, and the fact that his reasons for coming to Walkerville are not immediately explained. These aren’t the only plotlines that grab the readers attention, there’s also the other well drawn characters, many of whom may not be who they say they are, such as Tillman who seems to have been hired as a replacement lawman by the Walkers, but is perhaps working to his own agenda, whatever that maybe.
A fair part of story is told in flashbacks, such as how Molina lost his hand. This is explained in one of the highlight sequences of the tale, that of the battle for Fort Fisher in 1864.
Ross Morton also includes plenty of action and a number of twists and turns before everything is resolved satisfactory.
The £300 Man is officially released today.
Half Mexican Corbin Molina lost a hand during the Civil War but he has adapted. Now he’s on a mission to Walkerville. On the way, he prevents a train robbery and finds an old friend. Corbin always carries $300, which is significant, since that’s what he was paid as a substitute soldier for the Union.
When Corbin starts asking questions about Walkerville’s law and administration, he discovers that the Walker family, who seem to have bought and paid for loyalty and position, dominate the townspeople. Inevitably, Corbin’s questions attract plenty of trouble. And his past emerges to confront him during a tense showdown that threatens not only him but also his newfound love.
Ross Morton (real name Nik Morton) presents the reader with a fascinating character in Corbin Molina, not least because his mixed blood cause him problems, but due to him having a hook in place of a hand, and the fact that his reasons for coming to Walkerville are not immediately explained. These aren’t the only plotlines that grab the readers attention, there’s also the other well drawn characters, many of whom may not be who they say they are, such as Tillman who seems to have been hired as a replacement lawman by the Walkers, but is perhaps working to his own agenda, whatever that maybe.
A fair part of story is told in flashbacks, such as how Molina lost his hand. This is explained in one of the highlight sequences of the tale, that of the battle for Fort Fisher in 1864.
Ross Morton also includes plenty of action and a number of twists and turns before everything is resolved satisfactory.
The £300 Man is officially released today.
I'm glad to hear it's terrific but then again I knew it would be because Nik is such a fine writer. And I've been fortunate enough to publish one at BEAT to a PULP.
ReplyDeleteI'll pick this up when I'm back in Blghty...
ReplyDeletePaul, I don't know how soon your travel plans are, but remember the Book Depository in Gloucester offers free delivery worldwide on all purchases. I've dealt with them myself and the delivery is very prompt, even when you live as far away as New Zealand. And no, I'm not being paid to say any of this!
ReplyDeleteKeith
Many thanks, Steve, for this unexpected review. Much appreciated. And thanks, David for the kind words! I endorse Keith's comments on the book depository, too - real value for money, post free and usually reduced cover price.
ReplyDeleteI've ordered this one myself.
ReplyDeleteThis is a good book. Read it.
ReplyDeleteMany thanks for that endorsement, Ray.
ReplyDelete