Blood Duel

Great writing, and an unusual tale about a small and dying western town make this a terrific book. Some of the story is completely implausible, but it is, after all...fiction. If you are able to overlook those few instances, the story really is memorable and fun. The characters are all enjoyable and you feel they are real. It's a good read.

Given the name the "Missouri Man-Killer" by reporters, Jeeter Frost learns that the newshounds have already published larger-than-life tales of his exploits. To get to the bottom of his newfound fame, he has to tackle his one weakness and learn how to read. But what his teacher, Ernestine, gives him is more than he ever expected. Meanwhile, the one-horse town of Coffin Varnish gets the idea to make a buck off Frost's bloodshed by putting the dead bodies on display. When visitors run dry, they invite more gunslingers to shoot it out - for a fee, of course. This book is filled with great characters, Jeeter Frost, Ernestine, the weary lawman Seamus Glickman, and the leading citizens of Coffin Varnish. None of them are overly admirable people but they are definitely fascinating and their interactions and dealings make for a terrific read. The story is fast moving, action packed, and has many moments of humour. The dying town of Coffin Varnish is wonderfully described and you can feel the despair of those who live there. Greed and dreams of greatness fuel the motives of many of the characters. The mayors' disenchantment with Dodge City - and all who live there - allows for some wonderful dialogue exchanges. Blood Duel is a well plotted and beautifully paced book that is virtually impossible to put down as everyone is drawn to Coffin Varnish for the final violent showdown. Another must read western from author David Robbins, highly recommended.