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The Outlaw Noble Salt
From New York Times bestselling author Amy Harmon comes a sweepingly romantic tale of risk, redemption, and what happens when America’s most famous outlaw falls in love. When infamous outlaw Butch Cassidy decides to go straight, he discovers that too many of the powerful men he crossed won’t let bygones be bygones. To have a chance at a new life, he’ll have to become someone else entirely. A brief, fateful encounter with the celebrated singer Jane Touissant on the eve of his escape offers a glimpse of what might have been, but Butch disappears, leaving her behind, until their paths unexpectedly converge again in Paris. Despite having discovered his true identity, Jane trusts the outlaw and enlists his protection on her upcoming American tour. Although Butch is reluctant to agree, fearing his sordid past may put the woman and her young son in danger, the salvation she offers is too hard to resist. As they set forth on their journey, Butch’s past and Jane’s secrets put them at risk from threats far greater than the law, and this legend of the American West will have to decide what matters most―his life, his legacy, or the woman he loves.
367 pages, Paperback
First published April 9, 2024
1913 people are currently reading
19780 people want to read
About the author
Amy Harmon
26 books20.6k followersAmy Harmon is a Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and New York Times Bestselling author. Amy knew at an early age that writing was something she wanted to do, and she divided her time between writing songs and stories as she grew. Having grown up in the middle of wheat fields without a television, with only her books and her siblings to entertain her, she developed a strong sense of what made a good story. Her books are now being published in two dozen languages, truly a dream come true for a little country girl.
Amy Harmon has written eighteen novels including the USA Today Bestsellers, Making Faces and Running Barefoot, as well as The Law of Moses, Infinity + One and the New York Times Bestseller, A Different Blue. Her fantasy novel, The Bird and the Sword, was a Goodreads Book of the Year finalist. Her newest release, What the Wind Knows, is an Amazon charts and Wall Street Journal bestseller. For updates on upcoming book releases, author posts and more, join Amy at www.authoramyharmon.com.
Amy Harmon has written eighteen novels including the USA Today Bestsellers, Making Faces and Running Barefoot, as well as The Law of Moses, Infinity + One and the New York Times Bestseller, A Different Blue. Her fantasy novel, The Bird and the Sword, was a Goodreads Book of the Year finalist. Her newest release, What the Wind Knows, is an Amazon charts and Wall Street Journal bestseller. For updates on upcoming book releases, author posts and more, join Amy at www.authoramyharmon.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,227 reviews
July 26, 2024
4.5 Sobbed my face off⭐s
Amy Harmon has done it again ya'll. I've read several of her books, almost all of them and every single one of them has been 4-5 stars for me. Her writing is always impeccable, her stories always beautiful and emotional. Such an underrated author in my opinion.
╰┈➤ For those who are not familiar with Butch Cassidy, he was a real life gang leader (Wild Bunch), bank and train robber from the old west during the 1900's. He was almost like a real life Robin Hood. He would only steal from the rich but was always kind to the poor, often fighting on behalf of them. While he may have been an outlaw and robbed plenty, he never killed anyone, nor had any wish to.
In the novel The Outlaw Noble Salt, Harmon brings Cassidy to life with vivid imagination, along with The Sundance Kid. And to top of this historical fiction masterpiece she gives Butch a romance, because everyone deserves love after all. And omg it's epic.
╰┈➤ When I tell you that Butch Cassidy- Amy Harmon's version of Butch Cassidy is the ultimate Hero, the ultimate man. I am not lying folks. The intimacy is so beautiful, the love that this man feels for Jane to the point that he would hang for something that he didn't do in order for her to live in peace. My eyes couldn't help but react, and oh the tears and the broken sobs that came out of me.
To take things a step further, Jane has a son who is 'disfigured' (what the asshole town's people call it, nah me) with a large birthmark on his face who feels he needs to stay hidden, who is ashamed of who he is because of the gawking and the stares. Butch teaches him how to hold his head high and not be ashamed. He loves him as if he was his own son and omg the feels.
I won't fake the front, the beginning of the story starts out slow and it took me a little while to get my footing with it, so if you decide to read this - please be patient. It's so worth it. It may start slow but it blossoms into one of the most gripping and emotional stories I've read in a while.
There's a rawness to it that I haven't felt in a while - such a pure and selfless romance/love, from a man who is an outlaw, a legend but still a man of great integrity and honor.
╰┈➤ Cassidy, as written is such a complex character. All of these different pieces to him that come together perfectly to create such an undeniably heartfelt character.
'The hope scared him most of all. Hope was dangerous. Hope made a man attempt the impossible. Hope kept a man coming back when he should have stayed away. “You opened me up,” he whispered to his sleeping wife. “And took my heart from my chest. Now how will I live?”'
╰┈➤ I highly recommend this for anyone who loves a captivating and unwavering romance story in a historical fiction setting.
₊˚ ‿︵‿︵‿︵୨୧ · · 𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽𝓮𝓼 · · ୨୧‿︵‿︵‿︵ ˚₊
"I too have felt thee captive void of noble rage love has set me free."
｡ﾟ•┈꒰ა ♡ ໒꒱┈• ｡ﾟ
"Live in a way you can hold your head up high because people will remember you."
｡ﾟ•┈꒰ა ♡ ໒꒱┈• ｡ﾟ
"But that's the way I feel about you. Like I swallowed a star or something. A bolt of light. And I'm all lit up inside." ✨
｡ﾟ•┈꒰ა ♡ ໒꒱┈• ｡ﾟ
"His sins were laid out on the table for her to examine, and instead of being repulsed, she found herself intrigued.
｡ﾟ•┈꒰ა ♡ ໒꒱┈• ｡ﾟ
"Instead of fear, she had the sensation of a deep exhale, a setting in her soul." 🥹
｡ﾟ•┈꒰ა ♡ ໒꒱┈• ｡ﾟ
'Some people are just ours.' 🫂
｡ﾟ•┈꒰ა ♡ ໒꒱┈• ｡ﾟ
"When I look at you, I might forget what I need to say. I might forget my damn name, so I'm thanking you now.
｡ﾟ•┈꒰ა ♡ ໒꒱┈• ｡ﾟ
You're the best thing, by a desert mile, that's ever happened to me, and don't think for one minute, that I don't know it." ❤️
｡ﾟ•┈꒰ა ♡ ໒꒱┈• ｡ﾟ
Amy Harmon has done it again ya'll. I've read several of her books, almost all of them and every single one of them has been 4-5 stars for me. Her writing is always impeccable, her stories always beautiful and emotional. Such an underrated author in my opinion.
╰┈➤ For those who are not familiar with Butch Cassidy, he was a real life gang leader (Wild Bunch), bank and train robber from the old west during the 1900's. He was almost like a real life Robin Hood. He would only steal from the rich but was always kind to the poor, often fighting on behalf of them. While he may have been an outlaw and robbed plenty, he never killed anyone, nor had any wish to.
In the novel The Outlaw Noble Salt, Harmon brings Cassidy to life with vivid imagination, along with The Sundance Kid. And to top of this historical fiction masterpiece she gives Butch a romance, because everyone deserves love after all. And omg it's epic.
╰┈➤ When I tell you that Butch Cassidy- Amy Harmon's version of Butch Cassidy is the ultimate Hero, the ultimate man. I am not lying folks. The intimacy is so beautiful, the love that this man feels for Jane to the point that he would hang for something that he didn't do in order for her to live in peace. My eyes couldn't help but react, and oh the tears and the broken sobs that came out of me.
To take things a step further, Jane has a son who is 'disfigured' (what the asshole town's people call it, nah me) with a large birthmark on his face who feels he needs to stay hidden, who is ashamed of who he is because of the gawking and the stares. Butch teaches him how to hold his head high and not be ashamed. He loves him as if he was his own son and omg the feels.
I won't fake the front, the beginning of the story starts out slow and it took me a little while to get my footing with it, so if you decide to read this - please be patient. It's so worth it. It may start slow but it blossoms into one of the most gripping and emotional stories I've read in a while.
There's a rawness to it that I haven't felt in a while - such a pure and selfless romance/love, from a man who is an outlaw, a legend but still a man of great integrity and honor.
╰┈➤ Cassidy, as written is such a complex character. All of these different pieces to him that come together perfectly to create such an undeniably heartfelt character.
'The hope scared him most of all. Hope was dangerous. Hope made a man attempt the impossible. Hope kept a man coming back when he should have stayed away. “You opened me up,” he whispered to his sleeping wife. “And took my heart from my chest. Now how will I live?”'
╰┈➤ I highly recommend this for anyone who loves a captivating and unwavering romance story in a historical fiction setting.
₊˚ ‿︵‿︵‿︵୨୧ · · 𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽𝓮𝓼 · · ୨୧‿︵‿︵‿︵ ˚₊
"I too have felt thee captive void of noble rage love has set me free."
｡ﾟ•┈꒰ა ♡ ໒꒱┈• ｡ﾟ
"Live in a way you can hold your head up high because people will remember you."
｡ﾟ•┈꒰ა ♡ ໒꒱┈• ｡ﾟ
"But that's the way I feel about you. Like I swallowed a star or something. A bolt of light. And I'm all lit up inside." ✨
｡ﾟ•┈꒰ა ♡ ໒꒱┈• ｡ﾟ
"His sins were laid out on the table for her to examine, and instead of being repulsed, she found herself intrigued.
｡ﾟ•┈꒰ა ♡ ໒꒱┈• ｡ﾟ
"Instead of fear, she had the sensation of a deep exhale, a setting in her soul." 🥹
｡ﾟ•┈꒰ა ♡ ໒꒱┈• ｡ﾟ
'Some people are just ours.' 🫂
｡ﾟ•┈꒰ა ♡ ໒꒱┈• ｡ﾟ
"When I look at you, I might forget what I need to say. I might forget my damn name, so I'm thanking you now.
｡ﾟ•┈꒰ა ♡ ໒꒱┈• ｡ﾟ
You're the best thing, by a desert mile, that's ever happened to me, and don't think for one minute, that I don't know it." ❤️
｡ﾟ•┈꒰ა ♡ ໒꒱┈• ｡ﾟ
August 25, 2024
Butch Cassidy? The Wild West? Throw in some France and a singer and this is more than just a rodeo! But hold on to that cowboy hat … as I started reading an itch turned into a twitch…
What is this?
I love Harmon. She is in the top 5 of authors for HF. But something isn't jiving here. We have a gunslinging cowboy wanted by the law- who is as tough as nails- so when he started using ‘honey’ to a woman who wasn’t so keen on his advances, it just didn’t sit right. And I don’t mean once or twice. It became an annoying rattling when I read it and wasn’t consistent with his character.I had to see how this one was classified. Low and behold: HF romance: Big Ick. If I wanted a romance I’d pick up a harlequin.
However, this is Harmon after all. I’ll see it through.
I do love her writing about the country from NY to Colorado to California. She created some interesting side kick characters in Sundance, Van & Gus.
If you are looking for a lusty romance, this is your ticket. If you want to learn more about Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, this isn’t that.
So although this love rodeo wasn’t my thing, this one will work for many others.
I give you a get out of jail pass for this one, Harmon. Can you just stick to the HF that I love? A side of romance is ok but not a full course please.
3.5⭐️
What is this?
I love Harmon. She is in the top 5 of authors for HF. But something isn't jiving here. We have a gunslinging cowboy wanted by the law- who is as tough as nails- so when he started using ‘honey’ to a woman who wasn’t so keen on his advances, it just didn’t sit right. And I don’t mean once or twice. It became an annoying rattling when I read it and wasn’t consistent with his character.I had to see how this one was classified. Low and behold: HF romance: Big Ick. If I wanted a romance I’d pick up a harlequin.
However, this is Harmon after all. I’ll see it through.
I do love her writing about the country from NY to Colorado to California. She created some interesting side kick characters in Sundance, Van & Gus.
If you are looking for a lusty romance, this is your ticket. If you want to learn more about Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, this isn’t that.
So although this love rodeo wasn’t my thing, this one will work for many others.
I give you a get out of jail pass for this one, Harmon. Can you just stick to the HF that I love? A side of romance is ok but not a full course please.
3.5⭐️
September 30, 2025
AH really had her work cut out for her with this. to take a real world character who has a reputation for being one of the most notorious criminals in the history of the american west and aim to make the reader connect with, and even empathize with him is a lofty goal.
but, if any author could have made that happen, its AH. however, i didnt personally feel like that goal was achieved.
butch cassidy was known for being a “gentleman bandit,” but AH didnt provide anything showing why he got that reputation. was it just because he was mild-mannered? because he fell in love with someone? because none of that is going to help me overlook all of the bad choices i already know he made. sure, hes nice enough. but hes also really boring and i feel like AH didnt explore butch cassidy as a character, his motivations, his history as much as she could have.
that being said, i do think on a story level, there is a really good message and strong emotional potential to it all. the writing is also nice and i enjoyed the time period and setting. which makes me sad because if AH had just written this story about two fictional characters, rather than one being inspired by someone real, i feel like this story would have been more impactful.
so not my favorite AH book, but one i feel like readers less picky than me would enjoy. especially is they have an interest in the old american west.
↠ 3 stars
but, if any author could have made that happen, its AH. however, i didnt personally feel like that goal was achieved.
butch cassidy was known for being a “gentleman bandit,” but AH didnt provide anything showing why he got that reputation. was it just because he was mild-mannered? because he fell in love with someone? because none of that is going to help me overlook all of the bad choices i already know he made. sure, hes nice enough. but hes also really boring and i feel like AH didnt explore butch cassidy as a character, his motivations, his history as much as she could have.
that being said, i do think on a story level, there is a really good message and strong emotional potential to it all. the writing is also nice and i enjoyed the time period and setting. which makes me sad because if AH had just written this story about two fictional characters, rather than one being inspired by someone real, i feel like this story would have been more impactful.
so not my favorite AH book, but one i feel like readers less picky than me would enjoy. especially is they have an interest in the old american west.
↠ 3 stars
Read
April 6, 2024From the New York Times bestselling author Amy Harmon comes a sweepingly romantic tale of risk, redemption, and what happens when America’s most famous outlaw falls in love.
When infamous outlaw Butch Cassidy decides to go straight, he discovers that too many of the powerful men he crossed won’t let bygones be bygones. To have a chance at a new life, he’ll have to become someone else entirely.
A brief, fateful encounter with the celebrated singer Jane Touissant on the eve of his escape offers a glimpse of what might have been, but Butch disappears, leaving her behind, until their paths unexpectedly converge again in Paris.
Despite having discovered his true identity, Jane trusts the outlaw and enlists his protection on her upcoming American tour. Although Butch is reluctant to agree, fearing his sordid past may put the woman and her young son in danger, the salvation she offers is too hard to resist.
As they set forth on their journey, Butch’s past and Jane’s secrets put them at risk from threats far greater than the law, and this legend of the American West will have to decide what matters most―his life, his legacy, or the woman he loves.
KINDLE | PAPERBACK | AUDIO
Copyright © Amy Harmon
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | X | INSTAGRAM | AMAZON | BOOKBUB | NEWSLETTER
When infamous outlaw Butch Cassidy decides to go straight, he discovers that too many of the powerful men he crossed won’t let bygones be bygones. To have a chance at a new life, he’ll have to become someone else entirely.
A brief, fateful encounter with the celebrated singer Jane Touissant on the eve of his escape offers a glimpse of what might have been, but Butch disappears, leaving her behind, until their paths unexpectedly converge again in Paris.
Despite having discovered his true identity, Jane trusts the outlaw and enlists his protection on her upcoming American tour. Although Butch is reluctant to agree, fearing his sordid past may put the woman and her young son in danger, the salvation she offers is too hard to resist.
As they set forth on their journey, Butch’s past and Jane’s secrets put them at risk from threats far greater than the law, and this legend of the American West will have to decide what matters most―his life, his legacy, or the woman he loves.
KINDLE | PAPERBACK | AUDIO
Copyright © Amy Harmon
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | X | INSTAGRAM | AMAZON | BOOKBUB | NEWSLETTER
May 1, 2024
This was SO GOOD - I haven't been this compelled by a book in ages.
April 11, 2024
Audiobook: fantastic narration! Highly recommend.
I’m not sure how well I would do with this book if I physically read it because at times, the pacing felt very slow. I think generally, this book all around is a slow burn with the actual story, but also the character development and romance. The middle lagged a bit, but then by the end, I couldn’t stop listening and truly came to love all the characters. I wanted to love Jane more, but didn’t think her character ever grew on me. Even with her tragic story, it didn’t give me enough to root for. But Gus, he was ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ What a sweetie! Noble/Butch was such a notorious man in his time and I’m honestly not sure what Amy grabbed from non fiction or fiction, but he was absolute fire.
I feel like out of the 3 AH books I’ve read, this had the most language and sex (nothing graphic but definitely a crack of open door scenes!). Felt edgier and I loved it.
I’m not sure how well I would do with this book if I physically read it because at times, the pacing felt very slow. I think generally, this book all around is a slow burn with the actual story, but also the character development and romance. The middle lagged a bit, but then by the end, I couldn’t stop listening and truly came to love all the characters. I wanted to love Jane more, but didn’t think her character ever grew on me. Even with her tragic story, it didn’t give me enough to root for. But Gus, he was ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ What a sweetie! Noble/Butch was such a notorious man in his time and I’m honestly not sure what Amy grabbed from non fiction or fiction, but he was absolute fire.
I feel like out of the 3 AH books I’ve read, this had the most language and sex (nothing graphic but definitely a crack of open door scenes!). Felt edgier and I loved it.
May 21, 2024
5 Stunning Stars!! I am from Utah and my husband’s family descendants of the Parker family so I was interested to see which way this story was going to go. There are conflicting views to whether or not Butch was killed in South America or escaped with an unknown identity.
Amy Harmon’s book is filled with both a wonderful Tall Tale and hard facts. There was plenty of drama and suspense to keep me listening to keep me captivated! It was a wonderful love story with a fabulous ending!
Trigger warnings: Rape and some partially open bedroom scenes.
Amy Harmon’s book is filled with both a wonderful Tall Tale and hard facts. There was plenty of drama and suspense to keep me listening to keep me captivated! It was a wonderful love story with a fabulous ending!
Trigger warnings: Rape and some partially open bedroom scenes.
May 7, 2024
Amy Harmon is one of my must-read authors. She did not disappoint with this imaginative alternate tale of Butch Cassidy finding love.
March 4, 2024
"He was accustomed to people's fear and disappointment, but when he left the hotel he actually felt noble, maybe for the first time in his life. And he liked the feeling."
Amy Harmon’s tall tale of the outlaw Noble Salt and Butch Cassidy is a love story inspired by this American legend.
I knew VERY little about Robert LeRoy Parker (Butch Cassidy) going into this story and I’d never read an Amy Harmon book. What an experience. I needn’t have worried because the story was really about a man who is inspired to change his life around and become courageous enough to take his eyes off himself and protect those he loves.
I’ve discovered that Harmon makes her characters very relatable. She’s taken a hardened criminal, a famous outlaw of the Wild West, placed some hurdles in his path to redemption, given him the courage and determination to let go of his past and crafted him with the softest, tender heart capable of love and honour. His swoon-worthy nature revealed itself when the onion layers were peeled away and Harmon was able to show that we should never judge someone on appearances and history.
“The outlaw life was not what I wanted, but it’s what I chose. I didn’t know I was choosing it. Not until it was too late, and I sure as hell didn’t understand the cost. But I’m paying it. I’m paying it now that I want a life with you.”
Harmon’s characters will pull you in, her story will captivate you, and her ability to combine music, poetry, outlaws and romance will amaze you!
I was gifted this copy by Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Amy Harmon’s tall tale of the outlaw Noble Salt and Butch Cassidy is a love story inspired by this American legend.
I knew VERY little about Robert LeRoy Parker (Butch Cassidy) going into this story and I’d never read an Amy Harmon book. What an experience. I needn’t have worried because the story was really about a man who is inspired to change his life around and become courageous enough to take his eyes off himself and protect those he loves.
I’ve discovered that Harmon makes her characters very relatable. She’s taken a hardened criminal, a famous outlaw of the Wild West, placed some hurdles in his path to redemption, given him the courage and determination to let go of his past and crafted him with the softest, tender heart capable of love and honour. His swoon-worthy nature revealed itself when the onion layers were peeled away and Harmon was able to show that we should never judge someone on appearances and history.
“The outlaw life was not what I wanted, but it’s what I chose. I didn’t know I was choosing it. Not until it was too late, and I sure as hell didn’t understand the cost. But I’m paying it. I’m paying it now that I want a life with you.”
Harmon’s characters will pull you in, her story will captivate you, and her ability to combine music, poetry, outlaws and romance will amaze you!
I was gifted this copy by Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
April 4, 2024
'He was good even though he did bad things. He was honest even though he was a thief. He was foolish even though he was wise'.
Butch Cassidy, an icon of America's Wild West: train robber, bank robber, and leader of the notorious 'Wild Bunch'. But what if this dastardly bandit was misunderstood? What if he is a good person trapped within the bad circumstances of his own making? When Butch meets opera singer Jane Touissant, he recognises a good woman who has also been trapped by her circumstances. If he can't save himself, then just maybe he can save her and her son.
'The Outlaw Noble Salt' is Butch Cassidy: he is noble and he is the salt of the earth. Amy Harmon's latest book is really a romance about redemption and the self-sacrificing power of love. Harmon excels at building the connection and yearning between Butch and Jane. Everyone loves a rogue with a true heart.
Thank you NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Butch Cassidy, an icon of America's Wild West: train robber, bank robber, and leader of the notorious 'Wild Bunch'. But what if this dastardly bandit was misunderstood? What if he is a good person trapped within the bad circumstances of his own making? When Butch meets opera singer Jane Touissant, he recognises a good woman who has also been trapped by her circumstances. If he can't save himself, then just maybe he can save her and her son.
'The Outlaw Noble Salt' is Butch Cassidy: he is noble and he is the salt of the earth. Amy Harmon's latest book is really a romance about redemption and the self-sacrificing power of love. Harmon excels at building the connection and yearning between Butch and Jane. Everyone loves a rogue with a true heart.
Thank you NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this book.
January 29, 2024
She’s done it again, folks. ❤️
———
I have decided I will always read Amy Harmon’s books. She writes about the human condition with honesty, poignancy, and beauty. I am always swept away by her love stories (please pull out the fainting chaise, I might swoon) and her attention to historical detail. This particular book, this “untold story” of Butch Cassidy, captured my heart, broke it a little, and put it back together again in this adventure tale of an outlaw who finds that while his life might be that of a tumbleweed, his heart can still put down roots to find healing, love, and redemption. Maybe it’s the little girl in me who fell in love with Disney’s Robin Hood so many moons ago, but I’m a goner for the wanted man with a heart of gold and “The Outlaw Noble Salt” not only gave me a taste of that first love of mine but also left me wanting more.
I received an ARC of this amazing story from the author herself and I am delighted to say that I can and do unreservedly recommend this book. It comes out April 9th!
———
I have decided I will always read Amy Harmon’s books. She writes about the human condition with honesty, poignancy, and beauty. I am always swept away by her love stories (please pull out the fainting chaise, I might swoon) and her attention to historical detail. This particular book, this “untold story” of Butch Cassidy, captured my heart, broke it a little, and put it back together again in this adventure tale of an outlaw who finds that while his life might be that of a tumbleweed, his heart can still put down roots to find healing, love, and redemption. Maybe it’s the little girl in me who fell in love with Disney’s Robin Hood so many moons ago, but I’m a goner for the wanted man with a heart of gold and “The Outlaw Noble Salt” not only gave me a taste of that first love of mine but also left me wanting more.
I received an ARC of this amazing story from the author herself and I am delighted to say that I can and do unreservedly recommend this book. It comes out April 9th!
April 16, 2024
Reading an Amy book always feels like greeting that early dappled morning light. It's warm and comforting yet just like the day ahead...completely unexpected every time. And just like her books of the past, this one is full of rich historical detail, complicated characters and a timeless unselfish love.
The Outlaw Noble Salt is the retelling of Butch Cassidy's latter end of life...ultimately giving him somewhat of a redemption arc. It is the story of Jane Touissant...a famous singer who has been walked on by men longer than a soul should be able to bear. This is a book that explores two damaged humans...doing what they need not only to survive but to live a little better than they did before, by somewhat unconventional means.
So many characters carried open wounds and scars...seen and unseen... and this story slowly built a salve on every one...healing the past with love and tenderness. The traumas are grown through but never quite forgotten and I appreciated how everything was handled.
This book has a way with words that will settle heavy on your bones. Every action had intention behind it, every scene was purposeful and well thought out. There were so many historical aspects that had me intrigued to know more and I loved that the history of the west and my home state were the backbone of this story.
This is a romance heavy book, but it is so much more than that. The bonds between mother and son, son and guardian, brother to brother were impactful, moving and sentimental to the very core. You can't read this book and not be affected by it. It's unfathomable.
To spend any time at all with these characters is to love them. Thank you Amy for sharing a part of yourself through Butch in these stories. An incredible addition to Amy's repetoire. Not one of us is all goood or all bad...we are mostly somewhere in between...and I think this book holds a space for every one of us who feels a bit tired, a bit morally grey, but yet still desperately yearns to be loved.
The Outlaw Noble Salt is the retelling of Butch Cassidy's latter end of life...ultimately giving him somewhat of a redemption arc. It is the story of Jane Touissant...a famous singer who has been walked on by men longer than a soul should be able to bear. This is a book that explores two damaged humans...doing what they need not only to survive but to live a little better than they did before, by somewhat unconventional means.
So many characters carried open wounds and scars...seen and unseen... and this story slowly built a salve on every one...healing the past with love and tenderness. The traumas are grown through but never quite forgotten and I appreciated how everything was handled.
This book has a way with words that will settle heavy on your bones. Every action had intention behind it, every scene was purposeful and well thought out. There were so many historical aspects that had me intrigued to know more and I loved that the history of the west and my home state were the backbone of this story.
This is a romance heavy book, but it is so much more than that. The bonds between mother and son, son and guardian, brother to brother were impactful, moving and sentimental to the very core. You can't read this book and not be affected by it. It's unfathomable.
To spend any time at all with these characters is to love them. Thank you Amy for sharing a part of yourself through Butch in these stories. An incredible addition to Amy's repetoire. Not one of us is all goood or all bad...we are mostly somewhere in between...and I think this book holds a space for every one of us who feels a bit tired, a bit morally grey, but yet still desperately yearns to be loved.
April 13, 2024
4.25 stars
Amy Harmon is a master of her craft when it comes to storytelling. I love the historical details along with the imagination she puts in her stories when she writes historical books. The Outlaw Noble Salt is a historical fiction with a bit of romance, adventure, and lots of heart.
This story follows outlaw Butch Cassidy. There is much more to Butch (or Noble) than meets the eye. He meets Jane Touissant, a famous singer one night when he’s on the run, then he meets her again years later in Paris. Jane has a son who becomes friendly with Butch and together they go on a journey.
Things don’t go according to plan… there are a lot of factors to this. Noble is one of those characters that is so special. I adored his relationship with Augustus and how careful he was with him and Jane. The ending was bittersweet in some ways, but I was happy. This one had a bit of a slow start for me personally, but once I got into it I enjoyed it lots!
Amy Harmon is a master of her craft when it comes to storytelling. I love the historical details along with the imagination she puts in her stories when she writes historical books. The Outlaw Noble Salt is a historical fiction with a bit of romance, adventure, and lots of heart.
This story follows outlaw Butch Cassidy. There is much more to Butch (or Noble) than meets the eye. He meets Jane Touissant, a famous singer one night when he’s on the run, then he meets her again years later in Paris. Jane has a son who becomes friendly with Butch and together they go on a journey.
Things don’t go according to plan… there are a lot of factors to this. Noble is one of those characters that is so special. I adored his relationship with Augustus and how careful he was with him and Jane. The ending was bittersweet in some ways, but I was happy. This one had a bit of a slow start for me personally, but once I got into it I enjoyed it lots!
Audio book source: Audible
Story Rating: 4.25 stars
Narrators: Rob Shapiro
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Historical Fiction
Length: 13h 44m
April 3, 2024
I love Amy Harmon’s writing. Her stories are always a rip-roaring adventure filled with heart, humor, and enough twists and turns to keep you hooked until the very end and Outlaw Noble Salt wasn’t any different and I ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT!
Now, we all know the legend of Butch Cassidy, the infamous outlaw who terrorized the West with his band of outlaws, the 'Wild Bunch.' But what if there's more to the story than meets the eye?
So in this rendition, Butch Cassidy isn't just a hardened criminal. He's a man trapped in a life of his chosen, struggling to find redemption in a world that's stacked against him. When he crosses paths with Jane Touissant, an opera singer with a very fierce spirit, he sees a kindred soul—a good woman caught in the web of unfortunate circumstances. What ensues is a romance sizzling with heat and chemistry and tender moments that made my heart swoon.
But as much as I loved Jane and Noble Salt, Jane's son, Gus is the heart of the story. Now that kid is something else. He's got this way of seeing the world that's both innocent and wise beyond his years. His curiosity knows no bounds, and his adorableness is off the charts. He just added a whole new dimension to Noble and Jane's adventures, turning them into a somewhat makeshift family on the run.
Overall, this was a story of redemption filled with depth and emotion. Amy Harmon really weaves a tale of longing and connection that'll leave you breathless, rooting for Butch, Jane and Gus’s adventures every step of the way.
Thank you to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC!
Now, we all know the legend of Butch Cassidy, the infamous outlaw who terrorized the West with his band of outlaws, the 'Wild Bunch.' But what if there's more to the story than meets the eye?
So in this rendition, Butch Cassidy isn't just a hardened criminal. He's a man trapped in a life of his chosen, struggling to find redemption in a world that's stacked against him. When he crosses paths with Jane Touissant, an opera singer with a very fierce spirit, he sees a kindred soul—a good woman caught in the web of unfortunate circumstances. What ensues is a romance sizzling with heat and chemistry and tender moments that made my heart swoon.
But as much as I loved Jane and Noble Salt, Jane's son, Gus is the heart of the story. Now that kid is something else. He's got this way of seeing the world that's both innocent and wise beyond his years. His curiosity knows no bounds, and his adorableness is off the charts. He just added a whole new dimension to Noble and Jane's adventures, turning them into a somewhat makeshift family on the run.
Overall, this was a story of redemption filled with depth and emotion. Amy Harmon really weaves a tale of longing and connection that'll leave you breathless, rooting for Butch, Jane and Gus’s adventures every step of the way.
Thank you to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC!
April 11, 2024
I believe in second chances and I have no doubt Butch Cassidy would be proud of his. If I could have anyone write my story, I’d be blessed for it to be Amy Harmon.
This was a moving novel of Noble Salt (Butch Cassidy) trying to reclaim his life. He had a rebellious righteousness about him, and I couldn’t look away. Amy’s character depth was shining bright in this book, and I will not be moved in saying that each character is wonderfully layered. While the cast may not be everyone’s cup of tea, I’ll take it by the gallon please.
Some books have only a few quality quotes, but this is bursting with memorable scenes and lines that kept me annotating.
The romance had me in a puddle and a particular scene moved me to tears. Historical romance readers take note that this should not be missed.
For any Steinbeck lovers, there were aspects of this story that gave a friendly salut to his book, Of Mice and Men.
OVERALL:
If you like outlaw vibes, character complexity/growth, redemption, western history, smart and beautiful writing, romance and a bit of laughter, then pre order this book and clear your schedule for April 9th.
▪︎ ▪︎ ▪︎ ▪︎ ▪︎ ▪︎ ▪︎ ▪︎ ▪︎ ▪︎ ▪︎ ▪︎ ▪︎ ▪︎ ▪︎ ▪︎
CONTENT: some violence, mild language, talk of some heavier themes.
ROMANCE: Open door/moderately descriptive love scene.
FORMAT: I adored reading the physical book, and I've heard the audio is going to be wonderful so I will be listening as soon as I can to experience it again.
This was a moving novel of Noble Salt (Butch Cassidy) trying to reclaim his life. He had a rebellious righteousness about him, and I couldn’t look away. Amy’s character depth was shining bright in this book, and I will not be moved in saying that each character is wonderfully layered. While the cast may not be everyone’s cup of tea, I’ll take it by the gallon please.
Some books have only a few quality quotes, but this is bursting with memorable scenes and lines that kept me annotating.
The romance had me in a puddle and a particular scene moved me to tears. Historical romance readers take note that this should not be missed.
For any Steinbeck lovers, there were aspects of this story that gave a friendly salut to his book, Of Mice and Men.
OVERALL:
If you like outlaw vibes, character complexity/growth, redemption, western history, smart and beautiful writing, romance and a bit of laughter, then pre order this book and clear your schedule for April 9th.
▪︎ ▪︎ ▪︎ ▪︎ ▪︎ ▪︎ ▪︎ ▪︎ ▪︎ ▪︎ ▪︎ ▪︎ ▪︎ ▪︎ ▪︎ ▪︎
CONTENT: some violence, mild language, talk of some heavier themes.
ROMANCE: Open door/moderately descriptive love scene.
FORMAT: I adored reading the physical book, and I've heard the audio is going to be wonderful so I will be listening as soon as I can to experience it again.
May 17, 2024
4.25 Stars.
March 11, 2024
This book, once again, confirms that Amy Harmon is a master storyteller and I am here for every word. I tried so hard to savor this book but there came a point where I could only devour it.
The writing was beautiful, the weaving and setting of the story was pure genius, and the love story was surprisingly sweet and awe-inspiring.
I grew up watching Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid regularly with my family. I was very familiar with Butch Cassidy and his story and I was surprised to find myself so moved by him in this book. Both by his past and the person he was striving to be. I adored how he was portrayed.
Amy Harmon’s words have previously made me fall for a British English teacher, a powerful king named Tiras, a boxer, a general in the continental army, and many more—and just like all those times before…I’m now in love with an outlaw.
Put this one at the top of your list in April. It’s a beautiful tale you won’t want to miss. Thank you so much, Amy, for the early copy. I completely adored it.
The writing was beautiful, the weaving and setting of the story was pure genius, and the love story was surprisingly sweet and awe-inspiring.
I grew up watching Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid regularly with my family. I was very familiar with Butch Cassidy and his story and I was surprised to find myself so moved by him in this book. Both by his past and the person he was striving to be. I adored how he was portrayed.
Amy Harmon’s words have previously made me fall for a British English teacher, a powerful king named Tiras, a boxer, a general in the continental army, and many more—and just like all those times before…I’m now in love with an outlaw.
Put this one at the top of your list in April. It’s a beautiful tale you won’t want to miss. Thank you so much, Amy, for the early copy. I completely adored it.
September 21, 2024
The Outlaw Noble Salt is a touching historical romance that explores redemption, identity, and love amidst the dangerous time of the American West and beyond. Amy Harmon has masterfully crafted a beautiful story of the legendary Butch Cassidy and a beautiful opera singer named Jane!
“This is what I’m going to do, Jane. I’m going to love you with everything I have left, all the good and the bad. All the rusty and the rarely used. I’m going to love you. I’m going to take care of you and your boy, as long as you need me. And that’s all. Okay?"Jane Touissant is a woman who has overcome much in her life. However, she knows that she and her son are in danger. After a chance meeting with Butch Cassidy, or as she knows him- Noble Salt, she decides to ask him for help. She knows she and her son Augustus will be safe if he works for her as an escort and bodyguard on her upcoming tour, so she asks him for help. Butch is reluctant to agree, fearing his tainted past may endanger Jane and her young son. However, the salvation she offers is too hard to resist. As they embark on this dangerous journey, the baggage they carry weighs them down, yet somehow they find their way.
“You make me believe . . . what my mother used to say. Some folks are just ours.”Overall, I highly recommend The Outlaw Noble Salt to fans of historical romance who appreciate tales of adventure, intrigue, and passionate love. The novel offers richly detailed settings, complex characters, and a romance that defies the odds. I am a huge Amy Harmon fan and once again her skillful writing blew me away! The twists and turns will keep you on the edge of your seat the entire read!
This was a ▶️ Shh... Book Talk 웃웃웃 read and audible read!
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
April 10, 2024
April 10, 2024
I just finished for the second time via audiobook. It added so much richness to the story. Or it could just be the magic of a reread. But either way you consume this story, please do so. This book is as deep as the ocean. I highly recommend it and I truly, truly hope you love it. Happy reading!
February 12, 2024
5++"Some people are just ours." Stars!
I am feeling overwhelmed right now. Feeling so many feelings. Amy Harmon has ripped into my heart and buried these characters deep within me forever. This book is phenomenal! Amy took a folklore, an infamous character from my dads old Western movies that I was forces to watch as a kid, then came to love as an adult, and turned him into a fully fleshed out human. A man, and I do mean man, with feeling and flaws, hopes, dreams, regrets, deep connections, and loves. All the kinds of loves a person can have. With all the complexities love brings. I Love Noble Salt so much. And Butch Cassidy... He is absolutely going on the "Favorite Males" list.
I also love Jane Toussaint. Amy Harmon has a way of writing her female characters with the most quiet steel running through their veins. On the surface they seem so fragile, but inside they are singing "You won't break my soul" over and over. Jane is just that type of woman. This lady is put through the wringer. Not only does she not break, she barely bends. I am in awe of her. She and her son Augustus are the key to this story. Speaking of August... I absolutely adore this child. He is everything. Actually, he's the real key to this story. Y'all know I love the kiddos.
I really could go on and on. There is not one thing I didn't love about this book. Amy Harmon is a writer jewel of our time. Her historical fiction is just fantastic. I'm convinced her books and writing style will be studied one day. Anyway, I HIGHLY recommend this book if you like beautiful, sweet, slow burn romance with fantastic main, and side characters, please read this book. Happy reading!
PS. I was gifted an ARC by the author, but I was not asked to write a review. These thoughts are volunteered 100% my own.
I just finished for the second time via audiobook. It added so much richness to the story. Or it could just be the magic of a reread. But either way you consume this story, please do so. This book is as deep as the ocean. I highly recommend it and I truly, truly hope you love it. Happy reading!
February 12, 2024
5++"Some people are just ours." Stars!
I am feeling overwhelmed right now. Feeling so many feelings. Amy Harmon has ripped into my heart and buried these characters deep within me forever. This book is phenomenal! Amy took a folklore, an infamous character from my dads old Western movies that I was forces to watch as a kid, then came to love as an adult, and turned him into a fully fleshed out human. A man, and I do mean man, with feeling and flaws, hopes, dreams, regrets, deep connections, and loves. All the kinds of loves a person can have. With all the complexities love brings. I Love Noble Salt so much. And Butch Cassidy... He is absolutely going on the "Favorite Males" list.
I also love Jane Toussaint. Amy Harmon has a way of writing her female characters with the most quiet steel running through their veins. On the surface they seem so fragile, but inside they are singing "You won't break my soul" over and over. Jane is just that type of woman. This lady is put through the wringer. Not only does she not break, she barely bends. I am in awe of her. She and her son Augustus are the key to this story. Speaking of August... I absolutely adore this child. He is everything. Actually, he's the real key to this story. Y'all know I love the kiddos.
I really could go on and on. There is not one thing I didn't love about this book. Amy Harmon is a writer jewel of our time. Her historical fiction is just fantastic. I'm convinced her books and writing style will be studied one day. Anyway, I HIGHLY recommend this book if you like beautiful, sweet, slow burn romance with fantastic main, and side characters, please read this book. Happy reading!
PS. I was gifted an ARC by the author, but I was not asked to write a review. These thoughts are volunteered 100% my own.
April 19, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for access to this title. All opinions expressed are my own.
A love story, set in the early 1900s featuring a widowed French singer and one of the most famed American outlaws- Butch Cassidy.
I am a big fan of Amy Harmon but this wasn't one of my favorites. It took a long time for me to feel invested in the story but I give props for a nicely written slow-burn romance. However, I appreciated the very personal author's note which conveyed what a special story this was for the author. After all, the stories of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid have always been fascinating and I can see why Harmon wanted her latest novel to focus on that aspect of American history. Of course, the romance at the centre of the story is 100% fictional but I don't see that necessarily as a bad thing.
Overall, nothing made me dislike this novel but I just didn't feel as if it would stay with me.
Publication Date 09/04/24
Goodreads Review 18/04/24
#TheOutlawNobleSalt #NetGalley
A love story, set in the early 1900s featuring a widowed French singer and one of the most famed American outlaws- Butch Cassidy.
I am a big fan of Amy Harmon but this wasn't one of my favorites. It took a long time for me to feel invested in the story but I give props for a nicely written slow-burn romance. However, I appreciated the very personal author's note which conveyed what a special story this was for the author. After all, the stories of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid have always been fascinating and I can see why Harmon wanted her latest novel to focus on that aspect of American history. Of course, the romance at the centre of the story is 100% fictional but I don't see that necessarily as a bad thing.
Overall, nothing made me dislike this novel but I just didn't feel as if it would stay with me.
Publication Date 09/04/24
Goodreads Review 18/04/24
#TheOutlawNobleSalt #NetGalley
Read
March 21, 2025Classic Amy Harmon. Excellent plotting, a slow burn romance, and a villain that made me physically uncomfortable. The story follows the famous 1800s train robber Butch Cassidy told from a new lens, the singer he falls in love with, and her son Augustus. A lot of true history woven into the story.
May 10, 2024
The Outlaw Noble Salt by Amy Harmon. I really enjoyed this novel about Butch Cassidy. Please listen to the authors notes. Not all of it based on fact. Hence the fiction in the novel. The author states why she added fiction into the book that doesn’t follow the timeline of his events.
March 27, 2024
Ya’ll don’t come for me but I had some major problems with this book which is why I rated it the way I did.
I LOVE Amy. Love her books guys. And loved what she tried to do here: give an alternative view on the American legend Butch Cassidy.
BUT remember that three stars from me means while I liked it, I recommend YOU read it to form your own opinion. Chances are you will like it more than me (see all those other five stars???)
I just genuinely could not get behind the pacing of this book. 60% in and we are finally off of the boat. I felt like Noble was under developed or perhaps getting him at face value (what you see is what you get) was too predictable for me. I expected him to have the most character development and felt he had the least. I knew what he would do every step of the way even though as a historical figure I knew his legendary end. The ending was not at all a surprise.
Jane. Jane was a tough prickly pear (even is referred to as a cactus with burs in the text). Her story was tragic and yet I never once liked her and she drove me nuts. Absolutely nuts.
Gus. He is worth five stars alone ⭐️
Content: some language, depictions of rape, open doorish (with honestly the weirdest aggressive intimacy I have EVER read), and depictions of Goshutes that may have been the prevalent view, but found it really sad.
I think I am more okay with having fictional characters in a historical setting than historical characters in a fictional setting.
Thank you to #NetGalley for an advance copy of this book! ❤️
I LOVE Amy. Love her books guys. And loved what she tried to do here: give an alternative view on the American legend Butch Cassidy.
BUT remember that three stars from me means while I liked it, I recommend YOU read it to form your own opinion. Chances are you will like it more than me (see all those other five stars???)
I just genuinely could not get behind the pacing of this book. 60% in and we are finally off of the boat. I felt like Noble was under developed or perhaps getting him at face value (what you see is what you get) was too predictable for me. I expected him to have the most character development and felt he had the least. I knew what he would do every step of the way even though as a historical figure I knew his legendary end. The ending was not at all a surprise.
Jane. Jane was a tough prickly pear (even is referred to as a cactus with burs in the text). Her story was tragic and yet I never once liked her and she drove me nuts. Absolutely nuts.
Gus. He is worth five stars alone ⭐️
Content: some language, depictions of rape, open doorish (with honestly the weirdest aggressive intimacy I have EVER read), and depictions of Goshutes that may have been the prevalent view, but found it really sad.
I think I am more okay with having fictional characters in a historical setting than historical characters in a fictional setting.
Thank you to #NetGalley for an advance copy of this book! ❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 13, 2024
The Outlaw Noble Salt is a historical fiction novel centered around Butch Cassidy, an outlaw, exploring what would happen if he were given a second chance. I particularly appreciated the heartfelt relationship he developed with the young son of the lead female character. It portrayed Noble (aka Butch) as a compassionate character.
Amy Harmon fans, particularly those intrigued by historical fiction, will find this story appealing. The characters are intriguing, and the historical setting is compelling.
Amy Harmon fans, particularly those intrigued by historical fiction, will find this story appealing. The characters are intriguing, and the historical setting is compelling.
Audiobook source: Audible
Narrator: Rob Shapiro
Length: 13H 44M
April 8, 2024
Reasons to read:
-incredibly written characters
- Complex themes
- Lyrical writing
- Romance with Depth
- heartbreaking and hopeful plot
My Thoughts:
Amy Harmon captures the tragic but thrilling spirit of the Wild West in her latest novel, The Outlaw Nobel Salt.
Famed outlaw, Butch Cassidy was a genuine historical figure. A legend born during a turbulent time in American history. I so loved the way that Amy Harmon chose to portray him in Noble Salt, as I will refer to him from this point on. He embodied the name he adopted in this story, a character that, while famous for his crimes, held high morals and abided by a set of principles he carried close. I thoroughly enjoyed the many uses of poetry, or haiku, throughout the story as it added insight into Noble’s character, expressing the emotions and revealing a complex story underneath the calm and collected personality he portrayed.
The side characters, and female lead, Jane, were memorable and influential on the plot. They were pinnacle to the growth of Noble, and wonderfully complex - down to the detestable villain. I was invested in the outcomes of each character's life and was not disappointed. The romance between Noble and Jane developed quickly, yet held an intensity unique to them. They felt things deeply, yet were hardened by life. I enjoyed the patience shown by Noble and the strong connection he developed with Jane and her young son, Gus.
There is no denying the quality of the writing found in Noble Salt. Harmon has a gift for weaving emotion into every word. Nothing is forgotten in the plot, and no scene is without meaning. I love finding the small connections she creates throughout the story, slowly lighting your mind, moment by moment for a breathtaking conclusion. I found myself loving and pitying characters who, in real life would be considered criminals and loathing others who were deemed “ good” based on their class. It was a brilliant reading experience and a reminder that not everyone is who they seem.
The Outlaw Noble Salt, for me, was more than the thrilling grit you come to expect from a Western, it was a novel with incredible depth, a love story between wounded souls, and the liberating tale of a man on the run who came to be known as Noble.
I recommend it.
****The following content guide may contain potential spoilers***
𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 :
Romance: Vague open door
Trigger warnings: Murder, death, strong language, rape, torture, miscarriage
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
-incredibly written characters
- Complex themes
- Lyrical writing
- Romance with Depth
- heartbreaking and hopeful plot
My Thoughts:
Amy Harmon captures the tragic but thrilling spirit of the Wild West in her latest novel, The Outlaw Nobel Salt.
Famed outlaw, Butch Cassidy was a genuine historical figure. A legend born during a turbulent time in American history. I so loved the way that Amy Harmon chose to portray him in Noble Salt, as I will refer to him from this point on. He embodied the name he adopted in this story, a character that, while famous for his crimes, held high morals and abided by a set of principles he carried close. I thoroughly enjoyed the many uses of poetry, or haiku, throughout the story as it added insight into Noble’s character, expressing the emotions and revealing a complex story underneath the calm and collected personality he portrayed.
The side characters, and female lead, Jane, were memorable and influential on the plot. They were pinnacle to the growth of Noble, and wonderfully complex - down to the detestable villain. I was invested in the outcomes of each character's life and was not disappointed. The romance between Noble and Jane developed quickly, yet held an intensity unique to them. They felt things deeply, yet were hardened by life. I enjoyed the patience shown by Noble and the strong connection he developed with Jane and her young son, Gus.
There is no denying the quality of the writing found in Noble Salt. Harmon has a gift for weaving emotion into every word. Nothing is forgotten in the plot, and no scene is without meaning. I love finding the small connections she creates throughout the story, slowly lighting your mind, moment by moment for a breathtaking conclusion. I found myself loving and pitying characters who, in real life would be considered criminals and loathing others who were deemed “ good” based on their class. It was a brilliant reading experience and a reminder that not everyone is who they seem.
The Outlaw Noble Salt, for me, was more than the thrilling grit you come to expect from a Western, it was a novel with incredible depth, a love story between wounded souls, and the liberating tale of a man on the run who came to be known as Noble.
I recommend it.
****The following content guide may contain potential spoilers***
𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 :
Romance: Vague open door
Trigger warnings: Murder, death, strong language, rape, torture, miscarriage
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
May 29, 2024
Amy Harmon is one of my favourite authors as her stories are both memorable and beautifully crafted. Her most recent novels have been historical fiction and she has proven she can write anything.
With rich historical details this fictional story is based on the Outlaw Butch Cassidy.
The author gives us a tale of love, self-sacrifice and redemption.
The Outlaw Noble Salt is a unique and captivating alternate ending to an American Legend of the Old West.
Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for an arc of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
With rich historical details this fictional story is based on the Outlaw Butch Cassidy.
The author gives us a tale of love, self-sacrifice and redemption.
The Outlaw Noble Salt is a unique and captivating alternate ending to an American Legend of the Old West.
Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for an arc of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
May 5, 2024
"I've stopped trying to unravel sorrow from joy, pain from happiness. It's impossible to do because they go together."
This stunning story tells an imagined history of Butch Cassidy, the famous Utah outlaw. It takes place during the unknown years of his life (1900-1907) when it is said he went overseas.
In this novel, Butch takes on a fake name - Noble Salt - and meets an opera singer in Paris who is running from her past. She hires him to be her bodyguard during an American tour. The two become friends and eventually more as they open their lives and hearts to each other.
"You make me believe. Some folks are just ours."
This is a story of two imperfect people, trying to create a fresh start, learning to trust again, learning to open their hearts enough to love. They have the most beautiful connection.
Jane is a single mom, trying to protect her son and get out from under the people who control her.
Noble is a man on the run, tryng to prove he is a good man and make up for his decisions of the past.
The two of them live with regret and longing. But also hope.
Amy always writes hope so perfectly. This tension between what is and what could be. She explores themes of sin and repentance, what makes someone either good or bad, and the power of love and forgiveness to make a person whole, no matter the outcome.
She cannot rewrite what happened to Butch in the end, but I loved that she gave him some grace and these beautiful moments in between. This story will trasnport you and be one you won't soon forget.
Out now!
https://bookshop.org/a/85005/97816625...
We read this for Book Friends Book Club and had the opportunity to chat with Amy Harmon during a live Zoom when we finished. You can find that recording here on my BookTube Channel !
This stunning story tells an imagined history of Butch Cassidy, the famous Utah outlaw. It takes place during the unknown years of his life (1900-1907) when it is said he went overseas.
In this novel, Butch takes on a fake name - Noble Salt - and meets an opera singer in Paris who is running from her past. She hires him to be her bodyguard during an American tour. The two become friends and eventually more as they open their lives and hearts to each other.
"You make me believe. Some folks are just ours."
This is a story of two imperfect people, trying to create a fresh start, learning to trust again, learning to open their hearts enough to love. They have the most beautiful connection.
Jane is a single mom, trying to protect her son and get out from under the people who control her.
Noble is a man on the run, tryng to prove he is a good man and make up for his decisions of the past.
The two of them live with regret and longing. But also hope.
Amy always writes hope so perfectly. This tension between what is and what could be. She explores themes of sin and repentance, what makes someone either good or bad, and the power of love and forgiveness to make a person whole, no matter the outcome.
She cannot rewrite what happened to Butch in the end, but I loved that she gave him some grace and these beautiful moments in between. This story will trasnport you and be one you won't soon forget.
Out now!
https://bookshop.org/a/85005/97816625...
We read this for Book Friends Book Club and had the opportunity to chat with Amy Harmon during a live Zoom when we finished. You can find that recording here on my BookTube Channel !
April 13, 2024
4 Noble Stars ⭐️
March 17, 2024
I think this book was written just for me.
Growing up, I never forgot that I lived in what used to be the Wild West, thanks to my cowboy grandpa and his love for Mormon history, wild west stories, Butch Cassidy, and Native Americans. He told endless stories and wrote scores of fiction books about the wild frontier, so I like to think these stories are somehow imprinted in me too.
The Outlaw Noble Salt combines my ancestral history, my ceaseless love and fascination with the wild west, and my current love for romances and books that make me cry. I was enthralled with every chapter, and I have a deep love for each character in this book. I feel so grateful to have spent time with these characters and to never forget them.
The plot, though not full of train and bank robberies, holds its own heart-stopping tension. I was so stressed through this book, wondering how everything would work out. Amy Harmon isn't afraid of addressing difficult subjects and creating a torrent of emotions for the reader. But true to her style, I trust her endings. And this book had the perfect ending I think it could have had. But that didn't stop me from sobbing.
This is without a doubt my favorite Amy Harmon book so far. It touched me in a deeply personal way, and reminded me of hiding in my grandpa's barn with the horses, reading his wild west stories and wondering what it would be like to have nothing but a horse, a saddlebag, a dream, and wide open space. I love this book with my whole heart.
Writing Aesthetic/Style: 5
Plot/Movement: 5
Character Development: 5
Overall: 5
Thank you, Amy Harmon, for the arc!
Releases April 9, 2024
Trigger/Content Warnings: fighting violence and death, swearing, miscarriage, sexual abuse recounted, two vague open door scenes
Growing up, I never forgot that I lived in what used to be the Wild West, thanks to my cowboy grandpa and his love for Mormon history, wild west stories, Butch Cassidy, and Native Americans. He told endless stories and wrote scores of fiction books about the wild frontier, so I like to think these stories are somehow imprinted in me too.
The Outlaw Noble Salt combines my ancestral history, my ceaseless love and fascination with the wild west, and my current love for romances and books that make me cry. I was enthralled with every chapter, and I have a deep love for each character in this book. I feel so grateful to have spent time with these characters and to never forget them.
The plot, though not full of train and bank robberies, holds its own heart-stopping tension. I was so stressed through this book, wondering how everything would work out. Amy Harmon isn't afraid of addressing difficult subjects and creating a torrent of emotions for the reader. But true to her style, I trust her endings. And this book had the perfect ending I think it could have had. But that didn't stop me from sobbing.
This is without a doubt my favorite Amy Harmon book so far. It touched me in a deeply personal way, and reminded me of hiding in my grandpa's barn with the horses, reading his wild west stories and wondering what it would be like to have nothing but a horse, a saddlebag, a dream, and wide open space. I love this book with my whole heart.
Writing Aesthetic/Style: 5
Plot/Movement: 5
Character Development: 5
Overall: 5
Thank you, Amy Harmon, for the arc!
Releases April 9, 2024
Trigger/Content Warnings: fighting violence and death, swearing, miscarriage, sexual abuse recounted, two vague open door scenes
March 3, 2024
I didn’t cry until the end.
I’m pretty proud of myself. Amy Harmon knows how to weave words in just the way to break my heart. Then she goes and stitches it back up.
This book. I’m calling it now. It’s the book of 2024 for me.
It’s about the infamous outlaw that we have little details of at a certain point in his life. Amy Harmon wrote the love story of redemption. If there’s a common theme throughout it’s how everything in life is a juxtaposition.
I loved the poetry throughout, pretty sure I highlighted all the haikus.
The characters. They all added something special. Noble is that prickly man with a warm center. He’s the pineapple of the west. Prickly with a core of gold. The romance that comes because of him, oh melt my heart. I was a puddle while taking in all the tender moments.
Now. For the content. Skip if you rather go in blind:
.
..
…
….
Swearing sprinkled throughout (Bible swears), murder, very vague open door (not descriptive, but you know what’s going on), and flashbacks of rape (leading up to the act)
I’m pretty proud of myself. Amy Harmon knows how to weave words in just the way to break my heart. Then she goes and stitches it back up.
This book. I’m calling it now. It’s the book of 2024 for me.
It’s about the infamous outlaw that we have little details of at a certain point in his life. Amy Harmon wrote the love story of redemption. If there’s a common theme throughout it’s how everything in life is a juxtaposition.
I loved the poetry throughout, pretty sure I highlighted all the haikus.
The characters. They all added something special. Noble is that prickly man with a warm center. He’s the pineapple of the west. Prickly with a core of gold. The romance that comes because of him, oh melt my heart. I was a puddle while taking in all the tender moments.
Now. For the content. Skip if you rather go in blind:
.
..
…
….
Swearing sprinkled throughout (Bible swears), murder, very vague open door (not descriptive, but you know what’s going on), and flashbacks of rape (leading up to the act)
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