5-Stars

A lone tumbleweed rolls across a dusty trail... Rik Danielsen's Courageous Women and Black Cowboys of the Old West is a short story collection that introduces champions of the Old West. Meet Ida Russell, a former Indian captive who returns to white culture and struggles to reconcile her two identities. Join the Donovan family as they fight off a deer invasion, and follow Sadie Hughes, a former stage robber, as she tries to leave her past behind. You will also encounter Rebecca Rogers, a pioneer woman who learned to fend for herself in the untamed wilderness, and Deputy U.S. Marshal Wills Johnson as he navigates the treacherous world of law enforcement. These are just a few of the unforgettable characters. From ranchers and wranglers to former slaves and Buffalo Soldiers, each story pays homage to the lesser-known heroes of the American West.

Rik Danielsen's Courageous Women and Black Cowboys of the Old West is teeming with adventure, danger, powerful emotions, and gripping conflicts. This collection will leave a lasting impression on readers. Danielsen's vivid prose stimulates the senses whether it be the smell and taste of bacon or the sights and sounds of the desert landscape. His characters, some loosely based on actual historical figures, are memorable for their inner turmoil and relatable characteristics. The collection resonates with overarching themes of good versus evil and faith versus treachery. The fast-paced action will keep the pages turning and the reader thirsting for more. Fans of Western short stories and U.S. historical fiction will enjoy Courageous Women and Black Cowboys of the Old West.

Reviewed by P. Rosenthal for Readers' Favorite