Not sure how I missed posting a review of book 1 in the Dead West series but I will remedy that instantly.
Those Poor, Poor Bastards is a zombie western following Nina Weaver and her father through a shambling landscape of supernaturally undead. The characters are well developed, showing a range of the human condition in all of its ugliness and beauty. Setting, dialogue, characterization and overall style are true to the western genre while offering up plenty of action to keep you on the edge of your seat. There is never-ending danger of being bitten, ancient bad guys, human asshats, and a stoic, hereo-esque type in a Stetson with two very large guns. All combine nicely into a crazy train that takes you on one helluva ride.
The Ten Thousand Things barrels down the tracks with just as much action as the first book. We see some of the same characters and a few new ones, all being reassuringly predictable and still surprising as events unfold, forcing them to change in subtle ways. The humanity of the characters is hard-fought amid the shambling horde and shines through beautifully. The authors stay true to their western style while giving us a sex scene, a first use of native spiritual magic that is stunning, and a surprise at the end that I expected and still was surprised by.
I would recommend both of these books. Hopefully the third in the series will be out soon. My favorite lines so far:
Nina smiled and reached out to touch her Colt 1861 Navy where it rested just inches away. Hard iron in front, an iron-hard man behind. She was covered.
You can find Those Poor, Poor Bastards and The Ten Thousand Things on Amazon and at RagnarokPub.
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