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Dorn of the Mountains
Milt Dorn is a quiet man. He wasn’t looking for trouble that day in the deep mountain forest, but trouble found him. Dorn overheard an ambitious rancher plotting with an outlaw to kidnap the daughters of the owner of a neighboring spread. If he acted quickly, Dorn hoped he could save the girls by spiriting them away before the outlaw’s gang took them off the stage on the way to town. But now the gang’s begun a ruthless search of the forest, determined to find their prey…and kill anyone who tries to stop them!
When this powerful tale of adventure, danger, romance, and hope was first published—under the title Man of the Forest—it was dramatically different from what Zane Grey had originally written. Long passages had been removed, other passages written by someone else were inserted, and the hero’s name had been changed to Dale. Now, restored from Grey’s original manuscript, this wonderful novel can finally be enjoyed the way its author actually wrote it.
When this powerful tale of adventure, danger, romance, and hope was first published—under the title Man of the Forest—it was dramatically different from what Zane Grey had originally written. Long passages had been removed, other passages written by someone else were inserted, and the hero’s name had been changed to Dale. Now, restored from Grey’s original manuscript, this wonderful novel can finally be enjoyed the way its author actually wrote it.
342 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2008
721 people are currently reading
160 people want to read
About the author
Zane Grey
2,078 books590 followersPearl Zane Grey was an American author best known for his popular adventure novels and stories that presented an idealized image of the rugged Old West. As of June 2007, the Internet Movie Database credits Grey with 110 films, one TV episode, and a series, Dick Powell's Zane Grey Theater based loosely on his novels and short stories.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
April 21, 2022
Zane Grey is a master of western landscape writing. His style uses concise and simple words to stitch together images of the American West that are reminiscent of an impressionist painting. Each word is its own brush stroke and when taken as a whole, the image comes together as a scenic moment in time. Dorn of the Mountains is filled with these images, which are the best parts of the novel.
It’s unfortunate that the same style of writing does not work well with Grey’s human characters. Beautiful landscapes are of the moment. In contrast, humans are far deeper than what we see on the surface at any given time. This depth is lost to Grey’s characters. They essentially remain true to their original makeup throughout the novel and its only Grey’s narrative that drives the plot.
Another element of Grey’s poorly crafted characters is the constant use of racism against Mexicans. Rather than developing conflicting philosophies and motives between the characters, Grey simply rests on racism to fuel the fire. Derogatory terms such as “greaser” are used to define Mexicans and only the “bad” characters include Mexicans in their mix. With racism established, more important issues that should be more relevant to the characters and the plot are left poorly defined.
The complete package is a novel that is simplistic with respect to the reality that was the Old West. While the backdrops are beautiful, the story that takes place out in front of the scenery is childish and foolishly deceptive in its simplicity. Furthermore, anyone who is fooled by Grey’s story may be inclined to think that Mexicans are nothing more than drug users, criminals, and rapists, which makes this novel a disgusting thing in today’s world.
It’s unfortunate that the same style of writing does not work well with Grey’s human characters. Beautiful landscapes are of the moment. In contrast, humans are far deeper than what we see on the surface at any given time. This depth is lost to Grey’s characters. They essentially remain true to their original makeup throughout the novel and its only Grey’s narrative that drives the plot.
Another element of Grey’s poorly crafted characters is the constant use of racism against Mexicans. Rather than developing conflicting philosophies and motives between the characters, Grey simply rests on racism to fuel the fire. Derogatory terms such as “greaser” are used to define Mexicans and only the “bad” characters include Mexicans in their mix. With racism established, more important issues that should be more relevant to the characters and the plot are left poorly defined.
The complete package is a novel that is simplistic with respect to the reality that was the Old West. While the backdrops are beautiful, the story that takes place out in front of the scenery is childish and foolishly deceptive in its simplicity. Furthermore, anyone who is fooled by Grey’s story may be inclined to think that Mexicans are nothing more than drug users, criminals, and rapists, which makes this novel a disgusting thing in today’s world.
October 30, 2017
My first western! Recommended by a friend. Grey's characters and descriptions are well-developed and beautifully memorable. Now I want to read another Zane Grey!
June 17, 2022
Grand Memories
I read a lot of Zane Grey and Louis Lamoure growing up in Nevada. I particularly liked this one for the main character but had great respect for the whole stable of characters. Vernacular speech was also very appropriate. One small quote and I’ll stop so I don’t give it all away. “"There is only one God, an' Him I beseech in my humble office for the woman an' man I have just wedded in holy bonds. Bless them an' watch them an' keep them through all the comin' years.”
I read a lot of Zane Grey and Louis Lamoure growing up in Nevada. I particularly liked this one for the main character but had great respect for the whole stable of characters. Vernacular speech was also very appropriate. One small quote and I’ll stop so I don’t give it all away. “"There is only one God, an' Him I beseech in my humble office for the woman an' man I have just wedded in holy bonds. Bless them an' watch them an' keep them through all the comin' years.”
March 18, 2023
This book had an interesting story about the West, but I was annoyed by its racism towards Mexicans, Blacks, and Native Americans. I was also offended in the way the women were portrayed as emotional and weak. Grey kept describing Helen and Bo as strong and spirited, but then would have them fainting out of fright, or other emotions. I don’t plan to read any more of his books, even though he is an icon in my childhood town of Zanesville, Ohio.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 27, 2019
Wow! This story well leave your soul satisfied.
I have never before read a Western. I've watched Westerns on TV, bought the DVDs, and stream them but I have never read one. This story has shown me what I have been missing. The language is at first difficult but is picked up easily. Please take the time to read this story, you will be rewarded.
I have never before read a Western. I've watched Westerns on TV, bought the DVDs, and stream them but I have never read one. This story has shown me what I have been missing. The language is at first difficult but is picked up easily. Please take the time to read this story, you will be rewarded.
March 25, 2022
Another Zane Gray masterpiece
I just love Zane Gray's books. The story has everything - good guys, bad guys, treachery and romance. The author has poetic words that refer to everything in nature, in the hearts of men and religion. You can actually see in your mind what he is describing, it's just fantastic!
I just love Zane Gray's books. The story has everything - good guys, bad guys, treachery and romance. The author has poetic words that refer to everything in nature, in the hearts of men and religion. You can actually see in your mind what he is describing, it's just fantastic!
August 27, 2019
No ordinary Western
As usual Zane Grey serves up a wonderful combination of romance, manly action, and a seriously impressive understanding of human nature. I thoroughly enjoyed it!
As usual Zane Grey serves up a wonderful combination of romance, manly action, and a seriously impressive understanding of human nature. I thoroughly enjoyed it!
July 27, 2021
Good Story. One of Grey's Best
Really liked the story. I purchased the electronic copy and there seemed to be some words that didn't fit. Maybe a scanning software issue? Still a good story if you like reading about the outdoors and the old west.
Really liked the story. I purchased the electronic copy and there seemed to be some words that didn't fit. Maybe a scanning software issue? Still a good story if you like reading about the outdoors and the old west.
March 6, 2022
Solicitation n solitude are not interchangeable
A marvelous Western, filled with romance, heroism and action. The good guys win, though there is sorrow in the battle. Could only been better with better proofreading of final copy
A marvelous Western, filled with romance, heroism and action. The good guys win, though there is sorrow in the battle. Could only been better with better proofreading of final copy
May 8, 2024
man’s soul and natures spirit
I felt transported to another place and a time of eternal peace by Zane Grey’s description of “Paradise Park” and mountain man Dorn’s mastery of the elements!
I felt transported to another place and a time of eternal peace by Zane Grey’s description of “Paradise Park” and mountain man Dorn’s mastery of the elements!
September 23, 2024
Beautiful storyline and writing!
I've always loved Zane Grey's books, had never realized how much they were changed by the editor. Wonderful book and incredible discrimination of the area!
I've always loved Zane Grey's books, had never realized how much they were changed by the editor. Wonderful book and incredible discrimination of the area!
November 8, 2024
The author who made me fall in love with the west...
I read the whole list of Zane Greys books starting when I was around 10 or 11. His words and description of the west are spot on. I fell in love with the west as he described it, before I saw it. He was a wonderful author!!!
I read the whole list of Zane Greys books starting when I was around 10 or 11. His words and description of the west are spot on. I fell in love with the west as he described it, before I saw it. He was a wonderful author!!!
July 11, 2017
Fascinating character development! Great twists in the plot. This author really knows how to keep the reader engaged.
February 18, 2019
An enjoyable story; had not read a Zane Grey in a long time.
May 24, 2019
If you love a good Western...
Zane Grey is a great author and story teller. His poetic descriptions of places and people are a gem.
You will have a hard time putting his books down!
Zane Grey is a great author and story teller. His poetic descriptions of places and people are a gem.
You will have a hard time putting his books down!
Want to read
December 18, 2019Rec by D. Nye
February 13, 2020
Two different books compose this edition, Ruin a good book!
February 18, 2021
Great book I like it better each time I read it!
I read it first when I was in junior high school. Now in my 80s It is still one of my favorites.
I read it first when I was in junior high school. Now in my 80s It is still one of my favorites.
March 12, 2022
Top 5 favorites
I totally enjoyed this old classic from one of the greatest writers of this genre. Normally wouldn’t read a book twice but this one would fit the bill.
I totally enjoyed this old classic from one of the greatest writers of this genre. Normally wouldn’t read a book twice but this one would fit the bill.
April 15, 2025
Ok to read
March 8, 2025
"Dorn of the Mountains" by Zane Grey is a gripping Western adventure that follows Milt Dorn, a quiet man who finds himself entangled in a dangerous plot. While in the deep mountain forest, Dorn overhears an ambitious rancher conspiring with an outlaw to kidnap the daughters of a neighboring ranch owner. Determined to save the girls, Dorn takes swift action but soon finds himself pursued by a ruthless gang. This tale of adventure, danger, and romance, originally published as "Man of the Forest," has been restored to its original form, allowing readers to experience Grey's powerful storytelling as he intended.
October 31, 2014
NOW I understand why Col. Potter on MASH loved Zane Grey! Incredible descriptions of the west when it was just being settled, and delightful character development!
Not to mention, you have to love a book where the highest compliment that can be given to a cowboy is "You really are a Texan!"
Not to mention, you have to love a book where the highest compliment that can be given to a cowboy is "You really are a Texan!"
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews