A couple of years ago, I beta-read Guns of Perdition, and (woot woot) I’m delighted to see it out. I’d never read a western horror before this one, and Jessica Bakkers’ debut novel was a treat. My review is below, but before going there, I wanted to pick this author’s brain a bit. If you follow Jessica’s blog, you’ve discovered a kind, friendly, introverted Australian with a wry sense of humor. So, what twisting creative road led her to write an America western horror story? I asked Jess that question, and here’s her answer:
Jessica: I’ve always loved dark fantasy – both reading and writing it, but I was always much more of a sword and magic fancier than guns and cowboys. I actually had (and still have) a massive saga outlined about an assassin in Roman times that I was all set to write, when Grace (the main character from Guns of Perdition) popped into my head and demanded to be written. Actually, it was her strange love affair with a reverse werewolf that demanded to be written. Something about the story of tortured lovers who can only appreciate each other once a month by the light of the full moon needed to be told.
So, I wrote the first chapter of GoP without any clear idea where the story was heading, only knowing that I had two star-crossed lovers to play with and there would be supernatural themes and horror aplenty. I may be inspired by romance at times, but I am a dark writer at heart! The story – as stories do – evolved from there. Grace turned into a no-nonsense hardcase, so I needed a soft foil to counterbalance her loutish ways. Jessie was born. Then, somewhere around the middle of the first Part, the whole story – for all three novels – came to me. I was finally able to outline and write to some kind of plan…well, a loose plan! Call me a Planster!
After researching a different time period, different country, and completely different way of ‘jawing’ (talking), the characters and setting came alive for me, and telling their story went smoothly. Plot holes, editing, writer’s block, and crippling self-doubt… not so smooth. But, with the support and help of my friends in this writing community, I pulled it out, and am immensely proud to finally have my debut novel finished and published.
If you take a chance on Guns of Perdition, I hope you enjoy reading it – after all, that’s why we writers write, isn’t it?
Diana’s Review: Guns of Perdition
This is the first western-horror to cross my Kindle, and the blend of genres was a treat. Jessie is a young man sweeping up a saloon when Grace, one tough and dusty drifter, saunters in. Her face is hidden by a broad Stetson, and her holsters boast a pair of pearl-handled Smith & Wessons. It doesn’t take long for Grace’s guns to start blazing. But she isn’t shooting criminals. She’s hunting demons and out to get revenge against the Darksome Gunman. With no idea of what he’s signing up for, Jessie decides to tag along. Oh, Jessie, don’t do it!
The action in this dark and bloody story starts on the first page and doesn’t let up until the last. As Grace and Jessie ride through the wild west, each destination brings evil creatures, villains, and dangers, and the gunfights are frequent. They also pick up a few unsavory horsemen who join them on the hunt for vengeance.
As a horror novel, there’s plenty of gore, death, and horrifying scenes. I actually shouted, “Oh my God” near the end. Bakkers doesn’t hold back the punches, and I appreciated her unabashed commitment to the genre and plot. The over-arching basis of the story becomes increasingly clear throughout the read, and it gave me goosebumps.
The story is told from several POVs, and the pace moves along at a gallop. The characters are well-drawn and terribly flawed. I really liked Grace’s character, and I really hated Grace’s character. She’s sympathetic and ruthless. Jessie grows up and grows wiser, and he pays a price for falling for the drifter. The language uses western vernacular and has a western twang that I needed to get used to, but ended up enjoying.
This is the first book in a series. It doesn’t wrap up in a nice neat bow in the end, but I found it satisfying and will be reading on when book 2 comes out. Definitely a gruesome, creative, entertaining tale. Recommended for readers of horror and paranormal stories, who enjoy the Old West, flawed characters, and some intense writing.
Guns of Perdition – Amazon Global Link
Jessica’s Blog
Happy Reading!
Myths of the Mirror 
Sounds exciting! May check it out one day.
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It was great fun. Quite a mash-up of genres and some great characters. Definitely some shocking moments too! I’m looking forward to the next in the series. 🙂
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This had me hooked at a love story involving a reverse werewolf!! 😀 Although I’m horrible at reading horror novels (I know, poor pun but someone had to do it 😉). Just watched a horror thriller last night (47 Meters Down) and was gnawing my teeth on my fists from all that tension! 😂
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I’m not much of a horror fan either, Sarah, but I’m more freaked out by serial killer psychopaths than werewolves and monsters. That said, Jess’s book is gruesome! But it’s well done, and the love story element is pretty cool. 🙂 Happy Reading in your fridge! Lol.
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Haha! Just need to figure out how I can keep the lights on once the fridge door is closed! 😁
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Lol. So funny.
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[…] Guns of Perdition: Interview and Review […]
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I don’t read gruesome (just can’t take the nightmares that follow) but I surely love this interview of a terrific writer who follows her characters to make a good book. The research this took for Jessica is impressive, as well as her fabulous imagination. Two thumbs up for all those reasons.
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Horror isn’t for everyone, Pam, but your enthusiasm is welcome! Jess did a great job with this genre mashup. I’m glad you enjoyed the interview. Thanks for the visit. Be well, my friend. ❤
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I love a “weird Western” and I’m so glad to know about Jessica’s book and blog!
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She has a great sense of humor to go along with the gore, Sean. I think you’d get a kick out of Jessica’s book. It would make a good movie. 🙂 Happy Reading!
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Oh I’ve already cast the movie!
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Lol. I’ll bet you have. 🙂
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Nice to ‘meet’ you Sean 🙂
Thanks for the comments and popping by!
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Likewise, Jessica! I am a horror author myself; I’ll look forward to following you on your own blog!
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Nice to meet another horror aficianado! Not too many of us about these days!
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Sorry to be late to the party. Diana, this sounds like a great story. Thanks for including the link in your June review post, because I had missed this. It’s a treat to meet Jessica. Hugs to you both.
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No problem, Teagan, and thanks for taking a peek. Jess did a great job with her debut… certainly had my heart pumping. Happy Sunday, my friend. ❤ Hugs
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Nice to ‘meet’ you too, Teagan and I’ll gladly accept hugs 🙂
Thanks for stopping by!!
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That cover alone is enough to hook anyone!
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Isn’t it great? Jess’s cover artist did a great job capturing the main character and the tone of the book. I’m a sucker for a great cover and it sounds like you are too. Happy weekend and Happy Reading. 😀
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Thanks–you too!
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I was utterly thrilled with the cover. IndieDesignz did an AMAZING job! Thanks for popping by 🙂
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Thanks so much for sharing this with us! I haven’t seen this genre mix before either. Going to GoodReads right away. I must investigate!
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It’s brand new, so I don’t think you’ll find many reviews yet, but a fun read if you like something original and horrifying! Lol. Happy Reading, Jonny.
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Yeah, the only review I found was yours so far, but I think it’s worth a gander, especially if it’s horrifying. I love my chills!
Thanks!
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It’s plenty of that! Enjoy.
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Thanks!
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I hope it’s chilling enough! Thank you, Jonny 🙂
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Thanks for the comments Jonny! It’s not a genre for the faint of heart, but (the genre) certainly allows for a lot of fun to be had 😉
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Sure thing! I haven’t really read any westerns, but the genre mashup sounds fascinating. Looking forward to the read!
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Hope you enjoy it 🙂
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Oh, excellent review of what seems like a fascinating read. Congratulations ms. Bakker. I could help but think of Revenant in relation to this genre! ❤️
Take care Diana.
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A good comparison, Holly. Although this one has demons, and other paranormal creatures. Definitely speculative fiction. 🙂 Thanks for swinging by to read, my friend. Stay safe while things hopefully get under control in FL. I feel for you. ❤ ❤
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Thank you Diana, it’s very frustrating, didn’t have to be this way with a national plan to fight this virus. I hope you and yours are safe. ❤️
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We’re fine. Oregon is going up, but our governor has everyone in a mask, OR ELSE. She’s one of the good ones.
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I Wish we had one of the good ones. We have the worst one, he’s Done all the wrong things. He has as man crush Trump. 😊
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“man crush on Trump” – oh, that nearly made me spit out my cereal 😉
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😎😏
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Doesn’t Diana do the BEST reviews? I’m so thankful to her for promoting GoP! Thanks for your lovely comments, Holly 🙂
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She does indeed! It’s always a treat to read her, I know I can count on a good detailed review.
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A Western-Horror combo, interesting.
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It is, Mark. Plus the paranormal element. It makes for an wild read. I was so curious to learn how the idea came about for Jessica. It’s been fun sharing her book and I appreciate the visit. Take care. 🙂
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It certainly made for a fun writing environment, Mark 🙂
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I enjoyed your review of Jessica’s genre-fushion, as well as her discussion of its inspiration. It sounds like a heart-pounding and compelling read.
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Thanks for the visit, Liz. It was wild, that’s for sure. It’s been fun supporting her with this first book. Such an exciting time as you well know. Be well, my friend, and take care during our own strange times. 🙂
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Thanks for the lovely comments, Liz! Diana certainly knows how to write a review! I’m deeply humbled and thankful to her for sharing GoP.
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You’re welcome, Jessica. I agree that Diana has a way with reviews!
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I like Western and I don’t usually read horror, but this one is so intriguing. I appreciated the interview and review, Diana. Wow, Jessica, when you had a story demanded to be written, it got to be good. Diana, your review – you liked Grace’s character and you hated Grace’s character. It sounds like a million dollar character.
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Thank you for such lovely comments, Miriram! I must say, Diana’s description of Grace had me over the moon – that’s exactly how I feel about her and I hope(d) my readers do too 🙂
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You’re welcome, Jessica. I only get that feeling about a few characters. 🙂
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🤗❤️
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Thanks so much for the visit, Miriam. Yes, Grace is quite a character, balancing right on the line of villain and sympathetic soul. If you give it a try, I hope you enjoy the story and craft. Jess did a great job. Happy Writing, my friend, and be well. ❤
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You’re welcome, my friend, and thanks again for your insightful review.
Did I tell you that I revived some children’s stories written 15 years ago? I expanded one story and had it professionally edited. I hired an artist to do the illustration and it should be done in a month or two, depending on the time for revisions. 🙂 ❤
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Oh, how wonderful, Miriam. That sounds lovely. I can’t wait until you unveil it. 🙂
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The test page was supposed to take four days but took 12 days to complete. The artist is good in making revisions, so I didn’t mind. It may take longer than expected to complete. This is the third person I hired. The other two did’t come through. The last one waited for a whole month to tell me he couldn’t do it!! Anything can go wrong so I’ll wait. 🙂
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I left my horror reading days in the past – for some reason, the older I grew, the more faint-hearted I became. I can take a scene or two of horror (I’m a fantasy reader, after all) as well as gore and death, but outright horror is something I can no longer do. Still, the review sounds enticing enough – I don’t mind demons on a story either, btw. Goosebumps are welcome too, and I love flawed characters the reader can’t decide is likable or not. Well, aren’t I a paradox?
Great review, Diana, and congrats on the release, Jessica.
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Lol. You are such a paradox, Jina. I actually don’t read “present day, psycho horror.” To me, that’s too real, too possible, and I get freaked out. But set in the past with paranormal creatures… that sits just fine. It’s dark, dark fantasy in a cool setting. Thanks so much for stopping by, and I hope you’re writing some. Be well, my friend. ❤
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Thanks for stopping by and commenting, Jina! If you do decide to try GoP, you’ll certainly find demons and flawed characters, and yes, scenes of horror, but by no means Stephen King horror!! His stuff scares even me!
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Hi Diana, your review entices me to dive into Jessica’s book, but honestly, I’m not a horror fan. My hubby is, though, and her book also being a western adds even more spice and intrigue. So, I’ll surprise my hubby with this and I’m sure he’ll love it as much as you did. Thanks for introducing Jessica to us. ❤
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Aww. Thanks, Lauren. A first book is an exciting time and I’m delighted to cheer Jessica on. Thank you so much for joining in the fun. I hope your husband enjoys it. If he likes horror and westerns, it should be right up his alley. Have a lovely day and be well. ❤
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Wow, my little story being gifted to a hubby 🙂 You humble me Lauren! Diana did a fantastic job reviewing my book, she’s such a super star to new authors 🙂
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I’m not a horror fan, Diana and Jessica, but I love when my jaw drops when reading, and I can say OMG for whatever reason. But…this one is a western, so…that kind of changes everything. Loved the interview and review.
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It’s the total opposite of the westerns you write, Mary. It’s pretty gruesome. I’m glad you enjoyed the interview and review. And if you give it a try, you will definitely be saying OMG. Lol. Have a great day and be well, my friend.
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Yes, as Diana says, my western setting isn’t your traditional western (especially the hero riding off into the sunset HEA ending 🙂 ) – I’d love to hear what a REAL western writer thinks though! Thanks for the lovely comments, Mary.
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I’m a horror fan, but like you, I’ve never read western horror. I really admire Jessica’s patience with all the research this required. I was excited to read this book before, but after reading your review, I need to get to it even sooner. Thanks, Diana – and congrats to Jessica!
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Great news, Teri. I think you’ll enjoy it. I can’t think of another book I’ve read quite like it, which makes it extra interesting. I hope you enjoy it. Have an amazing day. 😀
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Boy, I hope you enjoy it Teri – your taste in books is SO much up my alley, I am both excited and terrified to hear what you think of GoP 🙂
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I like Teri’s picks too, Jess.
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Same warped taste as us, hey D 😉
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AMAZING WORK
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Thanks so much for stopping by, Nancy. It’s been great fun raving about Jess’s debut book. Have a lovely day and be well. 🙂
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Thanks for commenting, Nancy 🙂 – Diana truly does an amazing job on reviewing books. I’m so grateful she’s hosting me!
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Diana, A western horror genre. I am now intrigued. Your review is great! Your sentence “I really liked Grace’s character and I really hated Grace’s character” speaks volumes about the author’s ability to develop the characters. Thank you for sharing Jessica and “Guns of Perdition” with us.🙂
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Thank you for stopping by, Erica. Yes, Grace is one tough character to like and yet she does have her soft spots and a sympathetic history. Jessica goes right to the edge with her. It’s an entertaining read, and I’m delighted to rave a little. Have a lovely week, my beautiful friend. Be well. ❤
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Diana truly did a wonderful job with her review, I am so thrilled 🤗
Thanks for your comments Erica!
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Wow! I’ve never read a Western horror and this one certainly grabs my attention. I LOVE the cover! Thanks for sharing, Diana!
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Thanks for the visit, Jan. I hadn’t read one either and it was a treat. Isn’t the cover awesome? It’s perfect for the story. If you give it a try, I hope you enjoy it. Have a lovely week and stay safe down there in Texas. ❤
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My cover artist did a fabulous job, I couldn’t have asked for better 😁
Thanks for the comments, Jan!
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I’ve been hoping to see a review of this one. It’s on my long list, but I’ll get there eventually. The post is getting a lot of action, so I suspect there is a lot of interest.
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Thanks so much for the visit, Craig. After beta-reading the book, I became a nag, urging Jess to get it done and out. I’m so glad she did. It’s a great mash-up of genres and definitely intense. I hope you enjoy it. 😀
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It kind of sounds like my style. I love a good mashup.
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Thanks Craig, and Diana is being much too hard on herself – she didn’t ‘nag’ me, just encouraged forcefully 😜
Just as well too, or GOP might never have seen the light of day.
Thanks so much for popping by, Craig ❤️
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Wow! Diana, thank you for your superb review of an intense and most unusual genre book! I like the notion of the mix up of the horror with western plus an additional paranormal on top! It was fascinating to learn from Jessica how the book came together and just had to be written! That’s an amazing feeling, I’m sure!
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Thanks for stopping by, Annika. Jess’s debut book is definitely an intense mash-up of genres. 🙂 I also enjoy learning about how books came to be. Authors have such interesting imaginations, don’t they? Have a lovely week, my friend. ❤
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Thanks for the comments, Annika 🤗
Yes, this one just demanded to be written – I had others I’d intended to write first, but the muse wants what it wants 😉
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Drat, Diana! Guns of Perdition sounds so different it’s really piqued by curiosity. Plus I’d love to support another Aussie writer but I can’t read horror. Not won’t, can’t. I OD’d on Stephen King many decades ago and now I simply…can’t. Please wish Jessica the very best from me.
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Lol. I read a couple King and Koontz books as a teenager and wow, Andrea, I had to leave the lights on. I thought I was going to be murdered in my sleep. So, I get it. Thanks so much for stopping by and cheering Jess on. It’s an exciting time. Have a great week and Happy Reading. ❤
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-hugs- Thanks for not thinking I’m a complete wimp. Stay well and happy reading to you too!
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Haha, you made me chuckle with you comments, Andrea 😊
I too love Mr King and devoured his books when I was younger. For me, it had the opposite effect – I became hooked on horror! Now I can’t help but chucking a bit of horror in whatever I write ☺️
Thanks for popping by!
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-grin- I’m glad you weren’t offended. If it’s any consolation I don’t read apocalyptic scifi any more either. I think I’m just getting more risk averse as I age. 😦
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Haha, you probably only have to look out the window these days to get your fill of horror and post apocalyptic dystopia anyway. Who needs books nowadays?
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I agree re the window, but I’ll always need books. 🙂
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So true! We’re living it.
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Uh oh. My latest trilogy is my response to Trump. It’s rather apocalyptic. Lol
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lmao – I’ll take a valium before I start. I /am/ thrilled that you’ve got a new story coming, even if it is ‘awful’. 😀
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Ha ha ha. You crack me up.
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-cheese eating grin-
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Lovely to read of a new genre Diana. Western+ Horror makes for an exciting mix. Unfortunately, I am a bit too sensitive for horror, but it sounds like Jessica has penned a great book.
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Horror definitely isn’t for everyone, Brigid. I don’t read it often, but prefer it over romance. Lol. Thanks for the visit and for cheering Jess on. Have a lovely week, my friend. ❤
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Thanks for popping by and leaving your lovely comments. Diana does an amazing job with her reviews and I’m so humbled to be on the end of this one 😊
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Nice to meet you, Jessica:) I’m adding this to my TBR list after Diana’s review.
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Very nice to ‘meet’ you too, and woohoo! Thanks ever so much. Diana did such an amazing job on the review!
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🙂
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Thanks for the visit, Denise, and for taking the time to read. Based on your scary/thrilling stories, I think you’ll like this one when you get to it. 😀 Have a great week and Happy Writing!
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I’m not one for horror, but do enjoy a great western every now and then… Wonderful review! Sharing…
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Thanks for sharing, Bette, and for stopping by to check out Jess’s new book. Have a lovely week, my friend. ❤
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Thanks for popping by and for sharing, Bette! Really appreciate it 🙂
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Nice meeting you, Jessica. Wonderful interview and such an eye-catching cover and title for your book. Sharing and wishing you great success! 🙂
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Many thanks Bette!
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Reblogged this on Jessica Bakkers and commented:
An absolutely wonderful review of Guns of Perdition from D Wallach Peach – Thanks so much D 🙂
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Thanks for the reblog!
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My absolute pleasure!
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Oh my goodness, what a review!! SO many thanks, lovely one! It’s been…interesting…writing a debut novel. Can’t say it’s been wonderful…more like giving birth I imagine – time consuming, painful, at times gross, but ultimately, the most satisfying thing I’ve ever done.
Now I just need to do it again 🙂
Thanks again, Diana. xx
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I am reading Guns of Perdition right now. So far it’s great! (And I’m glad there were no spoilers in your revew!)
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D’s review was wonderful, wasn’t it? Just enough to tease but not give anything away. Masterful. Hope you enjoy it, Priscilla!!
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No spoilers, Priscilla. I wouldn’t do that to anyone. I’m glad you’re enjoying it. Jess did a great job with her debut book. I’m so happy for her. Happy Reading!
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Nicely written review, Diana. I like prose written in dialect so I would probably like this book. Conflicting emotions is high praise. 🙂
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Thanks for stopping by, Robert. The book is definitely horrifying (though not nearly as horrifying as our president). I can’t imagine the research Jessica put in to get the dialect down. It’s impressive. If you give it a try, I hope you enjoy the read. 😀 ❤
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It hard to write in dialect. There is music in the way we speak. I was impressed with your experience of the character. That’s good writing.
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Oh yes, Diana’s review was just gorgeous. I’m humbled by her words! The dialect was challenging, but fun, and now I’m tempted to talk like that in real life!
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Lol
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Writing dialect is like having an ear for music. I will be sure to check out the book. 🙂
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Many thanks, Robert!
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P.S. Diana is a fabulous writer. 🙂
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Awww. Thanks.
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Oh I know! I loved her Rose Shield series and have the Shattered Sea book 1 waiting patiently on my TBR pile 🙂
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Yay!
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🙂
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I have a love for horror and loved westerns as a kid, but never had them in the same book. This sounds very daring!
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Thanks for taking a peek, Basilike. It’s a daring book and the OMG moment is going to stick with me for a long time. If you decide to take a chance on the book, I hope you enjoy it! Have a wonderful creative and safe week. ❤
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I always enjoy reading your presentations, you write them with the same love you do your books.
Have a great week too 🙂
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Aw, thank you. I like getting a little creative with my reviews. It makes writing them more fun. 🙂
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Definitely!
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Thanks for the comments! Diana sure knows how to garner interest! I quite enjoy a bit of a genre mash-up, hence why horror and western. I have ideas bubbling away for future series’ involving historical fantasy horror, and two fantasy tropes that would never normally mingle!
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These plans sound fantastic! Especially horror and historical fantasy.
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The only hitch is that we’re a few years off them coming to fruition!
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It is often the case 🙂
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Glowing review Diana. Isn’t that great when our characters stand up and let us now who they are. 🙂 xx
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Thanks for stopping by to read, Debby. Horror isn’t really my go-to genre, but if I’m going to read it, I want to be horrified, right? Lol. I’m so happy for Jessica. A first book is a huge achievement. Have a lovely week, my friend. Stay safe and keep that hubby healthy. ❤
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Thanks my Lovely. Exactly, if it’s going to be horror, it better scare the beejeebees out of you LOL. You too my friend, stay safe and masked!!! ❤
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I do, every time I go anywhere, which is infrequently. The US is out. of. control.
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Yes, my friend it is 😦 Let us pray for the blue Tsunami, that there are places to vote, and that the Russians can’t manipulate the voting 😦 ❤
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Wasn’t it a wonderful review? I’m humbled by Diana’s lovely words 🙂
Oh boy did these characters assert themselves! Some I had mapped out wandered off course by a mile, one tore up my map and used it as toilet paper and went her own dang way! Eh, the joys of writing 🙂
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That’s wonderful Jessica. Nothing better than when our characters lead the way for us! 🙂
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Sometimes in completely opposite directions of where they’re SUPPOSED to go 🙂
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That’s the beauty! ❤
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This sounds like an interesting read. Western + Horror, absolutely. I hope you and your family are all doing well, Diana.
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It was interesting, Steven, and what I liked most was the total investment in the genres, both of them at the same time. That OMG moment in the read will stick with me for years. Thanks so much for the visit. We’re doing well, and I hope the same goes for you and yours. Happy Writing and have a peaceful week.
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Those OMG moments are my favorite. 🙂 We’re doing well, thanks. I hope you have a wonderful week as well.
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Thanks Steven – nice to hear from another fan of the mash-up genre 🙂
Diana’s frequent mention of the OMG moment makes me realise how big an impact it had on her. Sometimes I think we get too close to our own work and take things for granted 🙂
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And you know the scene I’m talking about, don’t you? Lol
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Yup 🙂
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You’re welcome, Jessica. You’re right, it easy easy to be too close to realize what we’ve accomplished. Diana is such a generous cheerleader for writers, and I trust her opinion when she recommends a writer and their work. 🙂
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Thanks, Steven. ❤
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Of course you’re welcome. 🙂
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I agree wholeheartedly – the help she’s given me on my debut novel has been phenomenal. It literally wouldn’t be the book it is today without D’s beta reading help.
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From experience, she is patient and generous with her advice and experience, and she’s encouraged me more times than I can count. Of course, it helps to have talent, and I’m sure you do. I wish you much success. 🙂
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Thanks Steven ❤️
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Ooh, this sounds interesting! I love the cover concept, too. Thanks for the recommendation, Diana, will definitely check this out.
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The cover came out great, Jacquie, didn’t it? I’m so pleased for Jess. It’s an wild read if you can handle being shocked and horrified. Lol. I’m not much of a horror reader, but if I’m going there, I like to go all the way. I’m glad I tempted you. Happy Reading!
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Thanks Jacquie! If you do check it out, I hope you enjoy it! My cover artist did an absolutely brilliant job – I am so thrilled with the way it turned out.
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Thanks for introducing Jessica to us, I’ll check this book out. Your review is impelling me to read it. 🙂
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I’m so surprised, Balroop. I would never thought of you as a horror fan. Lol. Well, if you give it a try, buckle your seat belts. Thanks so much for stopping by to take a peek. Have a lovely Sunday!
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Lately I’ve been exposed to some weird books through Goodreads groups though horror books give me nightmares! 🙂
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Goodreads has introduced me to a lot of books I wouldn’t normally read either. Kind of fun!
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If you do take a chance on it, Balroop, I hope the horror isn’t too horrific! As Diana says, I generally don’t hold back 🙂
Thanks so much for commenting, and I hope I don’t give you nightmares!
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I am so glad you asked Jessica this question, Diana. It was the first thing that popped into my head when I read the blurb – why would an Aussie chose to write a Western. Good answer. I have this book on my kindle and will get to it soon.
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Her western lingo and knowledge impressed me so much, Robbie, that I wondered if there was a wild west in Australia! Lol. Jessica did a great job with it. Thanks for the visit and Happy Reading!
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Haha, you know, it’s funny, when I was writing this, the fact I was an Aussie writing a western/horror never entered my mind. Then, as I began to put the word out, people were saying, what? An Aussie writing a Western, and I realised just how odd it was! Ah, but that’s me. Odd.
I do hope you enjoy it, Robbie – I put a lot of stock in what you think as such a horror aficionado.
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I am looking forward to it, Jessica.
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I grew up watching every western tv series I could, there were plenty back then! I’ve always avoided horror though, not my cup of tea at all – and then I read your interview/review and you’ve done it yet again – should I read this, could I read this, maybe, I don’t know, perhaps I will – hope all as well as can be, Diana from indecisive me!
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Ha ha ha. Horror isn’t my go-to either, Eric, but I’m pretty flexible. This was certainly unique and memorable. Jessica doesn’t hold back and honestly I liked that. If I’m going to read horror, I don’t want the usual tropes; I want to be shocked! :-). Well, I hope that if you give it a try, you are horrified! Lol. And my dad was a huge western fan, so I grew up with it too. So fun. Have a wonderful Sunday.
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Doesn’t Diana have the best way of reviewing? I’ve picked up many a book based on her recommendations! Like D said, if you do give it a try, I hope the horror isn’t too horrific – though I don’t hold back 🙂
Thanks for the comments!
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Sounds interesting and seeing old western movies have always been good. Great review, Diana.
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Thanks, Kamal. I grew up on westerns since my dad read a lot of them, and he liked the movies. Thanks for taking a peek at the review, my friend. Be well.
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You are always welcome Diana. You too take care of yourself. Much love and light dear.
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Thanks for your comments Kamal! Diana wrote an absolutely fabulous review – I’m so humbled by her words and praise 🙂
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You are welcome 😊😊😊😊
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Who would have thought western and horror could be part of the same genre, but why not?! Sounds interesting.
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That’s what I thought too, Anneli, and it was a creative setting. And you’re right, why not? Lol. This is an entertaining read if you venture into the horror genre. Happy Reading. 😀
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Thanks. I just may give it a try.
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Yay!
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Thanks for your comments, Anneli! I do love a good genre mash-up! If you do give it a try, I hope you enjoy it 🙂
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Thanks, I think I will.
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🤗
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I think a lot of westerns are if not ‘horror’ at least ‘horrifying’ in the amount of vigilante justice. That definitely didn’t bother me but I do like the HEA sort of ending. Hmm…
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No Happily Ever After here, Jacqui. This is true horror, and Jessica doesn’t hold back. It definitely got a rise out of me, and in a way, the OMG moment is what felt the most original to me. It was a memorable read. If you pick it up, I’ll be curious to hear your thoughts. Happy Reading, my friend. 🙂
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Hi Jacqui, very good point about a lot of the themes in westerns being horrifying. They were certainly brutal times. But, as Diana said, no HEA here! More of a Determined Ever After 🙂
If you give it a try, I hope the lack of HEA doesn’t disturb you too much!
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Great review, Diana! Thanks so much for sharing.
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Thanks for the visit, Jill. I imagine horror isn’t your genre preference – lol, but I appreciate your stopping by to cheer Jess on. Have a wonderful Sunday. ❤
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LOL! Yes I’m too much of a chicken!❤️
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Ha!
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It was a great review, wasn’t it? Diana does such an amazing job with reviews, and I’m so humbled to be on the receiving end of one 🙂
Thanks for your comments, Jill!
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I don’t usually read dark fantasy but Jessica’s explanation of how the story came about coupled with your wonderful review makes me willing to try it. Definitely one for the TBR 😊
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Thanks for stopping by, Tessa. There’s a theme running through the book that I didn’t want to give it away, but it’s an added treat. An excellent debut novel, but definitely horror… with a western twist. I hope that you enjoy it when it comes up. Have a restful Sunday and take care. ❤
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Wow, I couldn’t ask for anything more from a review than to kindle someone’s interest so much. If you do pick it up, I hope you enjoy it, Tessa! Thanks for the lovely comments.
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Tessa reviews a lot of fantasy so she’s a go-to for me to find new books to read.
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Love a good fantasy reviewer 🙂
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Sounds like fun. Westerns are a great genre – and hey, tossing in a few demons might spice them up. Thanks for the review.
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My dad loved westerns, so we always had them around, Greg. But never with demons. It was a fun twist. Thanks for stopping by to take a peek. And have a peaceful Sunday. 🙂
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Haha, I love tossing in a few demons for spice 😉
Thanks, Greg, and I agree – westerns are a pretty great genre – demons or not!
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