Montana Revenge

This book continues the story of a Montana sheriff started in "The Horse Creek Incident." It's not an afternoon read as there are many subplots that take Sheriff Baker off of his main case of concern-a lynching of a popular cowhand. I was at first reluctant to purchase this book as I thought it might be more of a murder mystery following the detective work of Baker. I'm glad I bought it. There are several incidents with criminals and the chase that kept this tale moving for me. The characters are believable and the writer brings out the realistic side of law enforcement. The story carries the reader along somewhat like the Lonesome Dove series, with the benefit that there is a healthy husband and wife relationship (something I just don't remember ever happening in a Larry McMurtry story). In fact, I found myself wishing that it could be made inta a movie. We see the corruptible nature in people, but Richards also allows the noble and generous aspects of his characters to shine through. I had a weekend that involved some hours of waiting and this book turned what may have been a real tedious time into a very enjoyable experience. I'd highly recommend this book to anyone that would like a western with an eye for how real people faced the realities of life during this time.