Shortgrass Song

Caleb's adventures take him through the Civil War, buffalo hunts, Indian Wars, and barroom shoot outs. During these times he meets a Comanche slave woman who kidnaps him, and a renegade Arapaho who likes scalping people, and finally meets Marisol a Mexican beauty who gives him his children and wins his love. Some times the story slows down quite a bit and other times you won't want to put it down.

I'm going to add my five stars to the list, because Mike Blakely deserves it. This book delves into the life of young Caleb Holcomb, and we get to watch him grow up. It, like Kirby Jonas books I'm always touting, is not your standard western, but it is a good homespun tale all the same. Caleb is heroic without being super human, and you will fall in love with his affable, musical character who is always finding almost too much trouble for him to handle. Read Mike Blakely and anything by Kirby Jonas, and you won't need to turn anywhere else. If these two authors ever got together they would have a lot in common and a lot to talk about. You can bet they would be friends!

This book is EXCELLENT !!! Anyone who has any intrest in the old west should read this book !!!! It is absolutely amazing !!!!! The writer has such style and grace !!! He is an amazing writer and I think he is great!

The youngest son of two american pioneers, Caleb Holcomb tries desperately to show his manhood. The plot is well developed as Caleb picks and chooses the adventures in his life. Blakely uses accurate historical insight as well as first hand knowledge of the cowboy way to show his readers what growing up in the 1800's was like. A true american storyteller Blakely has turned out another timeless classic with "Shortgrass Song"

It is hard to imagine a more comprehensive, satisfying read in the western genre. Blakely's characters are real people. We care about them, and feel as if we know them. I always look forward to Mike Blakely's efforts. Even if your not a regular reader of westerns, give this book a chance. But be prepared to be spoiled. "Formula" westerns will pale by comparison. Note: I have begun reading the sequel, "Too Long at the Dance" and find it well-crafted as well.