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Switching Gears: An Anthology of Western Short Fiction
Discover the unparalleled talent of New York Times bestselling authors W. Michael Gear and Kathleen O'Neal Gear in Switching Gears, an extraordinary collection of award-winning and critically acclaimed Western short stories.
This anthology, a must-read for fans of Western fiction, features eight masterfully crafted tales that showcase the Gears' exceptional storytelling prowess.
Highlighting the collection are Kathleen's "No Quarter"—which won both the 2023 Spur Award and a Will Rogers Medallion—and Michael's "Bad Choices", winner of the 2024 Spur Award and a Will Rogers Medallion. With both winning stories in one volume, Switching Gears is a testament to the Gears' mastery of the Western genre.
Each story in Switching Gears is introduced by the authors, offering rare insights into their creative process and unique perspectives—sometimes leading to playful contradictions that add a personal touch to the collection. Readers will be thrilled to revisit beloved characters like Travis Hartman and Baptiste de Bourgemont, while also encountering unforgettable new figures such as Bonnie Parker, Bettie and Charlie at the Alamo, and the eerie Thea Salva.
Immerse yourself in a world where history and fiction collide. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the Gears' work, Switching Gears is an essential addition to your Western fiction collection.
Don't miss out—grab your copy of Switching Gears today and experience the storytelling magic that has captivated millions of readers worldwide!
This anthology, a must-read for fans of Western fiction, features eight masterfully crafted tales that showcase the Gears' exceptional storytelling prowess.
Highlighting the collection are Kathleen's "No Quarter"—which won both the 2023 Spur Award and a Will Rogers Medallion—and Michael's "Bad Choices", winner of the 2024 Spur Award and a Will Rogers Medallion. With both winning stories in one volume, Switching Gears is a testament to the Gears' mastery of the Western genre.
Each story in Switching Gears is introduced by the authors, offering rare insights into their creative process and unique perspectives—sometimes leading to playful contradictions that add a personal touch to the collection. Readers will be thrilled to revisit beloved characters like Travis Hartman and Baptiste de Bourgemont, while also encountering unforgettable new figures such as Bonnie Parker, Bettie and Charlie at the Alamo, and the eerie Thea Salva.
Immerse yourself in a world where history and fiction collide. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the Gears' work, Switching Gears is an essential addition to your Western fiction collection.
Don't miss out—grab your copy of Switching Gears today and experience the storytelling magic that has captivated millions of readers worldwide!
270 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 15, 2024
62 people are currently reading
2 people want to read
About the author
W. Michael Gear
181 books729 followersW. Michael Gear was born in Colorado Springs, Colorado, on the twentieth of May, 1955. A fourth generation Colorado native, his family had been involved in hard-rock mining, cattle ranching, and journalism. After his father's death in 1959, Michael's mother received her Master's degree in journalism and began teaching. In 1962 she married Joseph J. Cook, who taught tool and die making, and the family lived in Lakewood, Colorado, until 1968. At that time they moved to Fort Collins so that Joe could pursue his Ph.D.. During those years the family lived in the foothills above Horsetooth Reservoir.
It was there that Mike developed a love of history, anthropology, and motorcycles. They would color his future and fill his imagination for the rest of his life. During summers he volunteered labor on local ranches or at the farm east of Greeley and landed his first real job: picking up trash at the lake and cleaning outhouses. It has been said that his exposure to trash led him into archaeology. We will not speculate about what cleaning the outhouses might have led him to. On his first dig as a professional archaeologist in 1976 he discovered that two thousand year old human trash isn't nearly as obnoxious as the new stuff.
Michael graduated from Fort Collins High School in 1972 and pursued both his Bachelor's (1976) and Master's (1979) degrees at Colorado State University. Upon completion of his Master's - his specialty was in physical anthropology - he went to work for Western Wyoming College in Rock Springs as a field archaeologist.
It was in the winter of 1978 that he wrote his first novel. Irritated by historical inaccuracies in Western fiction, he swore he could do better. He was "taking retirement in installments," archaeology being a seasonal career, in the cabin his great uncle Aubrey had built. One cold January night he read a Western novel about a trail drive in which steers (castrated males) had calves. The historical inaccuracies of the story bothered him all night. The next morning, still incensed, he chunked wood into the stove and hunkered over the typewriter. There, on the mining claim, at nine thousand feet outside of Empire, Colorado he hammered out his first five hundred and fifty page novel. Yes, that first manuscript still exists, but if there is justice in the universe, no one will ever see it. It reads wretchedly - but the historical facts are correct!
Beginning in 1981, Michael, along with two partners, put together his own archaeological consulting company. Pronghorn Anthropological Associates began doing cultural resource management studies in 1982, and, although Michael sold his interest in 1984, to this day the company remains in business in Casper, Wyoming. During the years, Michael has worked throughout the western United States doing archaeological surveys, testing, and mitigation for pipelines, oil wells, power lines, timber sales, and highway construction. He learned the value of strong black coffee, developed a palate for chocolate donuts, and ferreted out every quality Mexican restaurant in eight states. He spent nine months of the year traveling from project to project with his trowel and dig kit, a clapped-out '72 Wonder Blazer, and his boon companion, Tedi, a noble tri-color Sheltie.
That fateful day in November, 1981, was delightfully clear, cold, and still in Laramie, Wyoming. Archaeologists from all over the state had arrived at the University of Wyoming for the annual meetings of the Wyoming Association of Professional Archaeologists. It was there, in the meeting room, way too early after a much too long night, that Mike first laid eyes on the most beautiful woman in the world: Kathleen O'Neal Gear. The BLM State Archaeologist, Ray Leicht, introduced him to the pretty anthropologist and historian, and best of all, Ray invited Mike to lunch with Kathleen. It was the perfect beginning for a long and wondrous relationship.
http://us.macmillan.com/author/wmicha...
It was there that Mike developed a love of history, anthropology, and motorcycles. They would color his future and fill his imagination for the rest of his life. During summers he volunteered labor on local ranches or at the farm east of Greeley and landed his first real job: picking up trash at the lake and cleaning outhouses. It has been said that his exposure to trash led him into archaeology. We will not speculate about what cleaning the outhouses might have led him to. On his first dig as a professional archaeologist in 1976 he discovered that two thousand year old human trash isn't nearly as obnoxious as the new stuff.
Michael graduated from Fort Collins High School in 1972 and pursued both his Bachelor's (1976) and Master's (1979) degrees at Colorado State University. Upon completion of his Master's - his specialty was in physical anthropology - he went to work for Western Wyoming College in Rock Springs as a field archaeologist.
It was in the winter of 1978 that he wrote his first novel. Irritated by historical inaccuracies in Western fiction, he swore he could do better. He was "taking retirement in installments," archaeology being a seasonal career, in the cabin his great uncle Aubrey had built. One cold January night he read a Western novel about a trail drive in which steers (castrated males) had calves. The historical inaccuracies of the story bothered him all night. The next morning, still incensed, he chunked wood into the stove and hunkered over the typewriter. There, on the mining claim, at nine thousand feet outside of Empire, Colorado he hammered out his first five hundred and fifty page novel. Yes, that first manuscript still exists, but if there is justice in the universe, no one will ever see it. It reads wretchedly - but the historical facts are correct!
Beginning in 1981, Michael, along with two partners, put together his own archaeological consulting company. Pronghorn Anthropological Associates began doing cultural resource management studies in 1982, and, although Michael sold his interest in 1984, to this day the company remains in business in Casper, Wyoming. During the years, Michael has worked throughout the western United States doing archaeological surveys, testing, and mitigation for pipelines, oil wells, power lines, timber sales, and highway construction. He learned the value of strong black coffee, developed a palate for chocolate donuts, and ferreted out every quality Mexican restaurant in eight states. He spent nine months of the year traveling from project to project with his trowel and dig kit, a clapped-out '72 Wonder Blazer, and his boon companion, Tedi, a noble tri-color Sheltie.
That fateful day in November, 1981, was delightfully clear, cold, and still in Laramie, Wyoming. Archaeologists from all over the state had arrived at the University of Wyoming for the annual meetings of the Wyoming Association of Professional Archaeologists. It was there, in the meeting room, way too early after a much too long night, that Mike first laid eyes on the most beautiful woman in the world: Kathleen O'Neal Gear. The BLM State Archaeologist, Ray Leicht, introduced him to the pretty anthropologist and historian, and best of all, Ray invited Mike to lunch with Kathleen. It was the perfect beginning for a long and wondrous relationship.
http://us.macmillan.com/author/wmicha...
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
October 1, 2024
Switching Gears
By Kathleen O’neal Gear and W. Michael Gear
Opening credits
The way that the Gears write and edit their stories is shown in this opening credits. Both showing the mystery that they attempt to bring to light with their words and their personal insite. They work together on every story, editing daily writing and joining together in the research and wonderment of history.
Each story is introduced by the alternate writer as they both show their appreciation of the each other.
Dedication
The story collection is dedicated to the family that inspires their stories of murder and mayhem. To hear the names of their family members that are told in the stories is a thrill.
The only way to win
By Michael Gear
This story was written to show the nature of the beginning of the story between Baptiste de Bourgmont, and Travis Hartman. The idea that this pair were not always together is hard to believe. Baptiste and Travis are the main characters in the western expansion fur trade series The Mountain Sage story, Flight of the Hawk. As most stories they had to meet somewhere. This story shows the nature of acceptance from both of them for each other's faults, and crimes. Both have killed a man, both to gain their own freedom, and both were wanted by the law. This beginning shows the nature of their partnership, and mutual loyalty that will continue as Baptiest frees his enslaved family, and they sign on to river trade.
No Quarter
By Kathleen O’Neal Gear
A reprint of the award winning story showing the point of view of slaves during the Alamo. The loss of the battle was a rally to freedom for the old slaves of the Texan rebels. Santa Anna promised freedom for any slave found in the region. This promise was the cliff edge for these men and women. The loss of the Alamo, the death of Colonel Bowie and the soldiers gives the slaves freedom.
What’s Owed the Demon
By w. Michael Gear
At the bottom of a gulch, with broken legs, and bleeding from a gun shot the old cowboy reviews his life. The loss of his sister which started his rough road, as he ran away after accidentally shooting her. He shows the nature of all the bad choices he has made as he comes into his manhood. His final act cost him all. It shows the nature of the west, and the reckless behaviors of desperate men.
Ruins
By Kathleen O’Neal Gear
A haunting ghost story of a grieving mother. The stillbirth of her child haunts her for years as she returns to her old cabin. She sees the possibility of her child living, and knowing him. The story shows the nature of grief, and the prejudice of society. Her deformed child horrifies others although she loves him deeply.
The Oldest Profession
By W. Michael Gear
An arrested prostitute fears the nature of the woman coming to town. Tied to the bed she waits for the woman from back east leads to a mystery. The suspicious nature of a fire in the brothel shows the change in Eudora after the war. The mystery of a rich man dying and his wealth disappearing shows the nature of the historical figures.
Wolf Bait
By Kathleen O’neal Gear
A complex story mixed between historical ideology of shell shock, and western tragedy. The soldiers that survived the Civil War had many horrific stories of grim figures and haunting memories. The western tragedy has many warnings of overwhelming nature and bad choices. This story melds the two worlds in a warning against the folly of man.
Bad Choices by W. Michael Gear
You should now know like all of us fans that Michael does not disappoint. The Wyoming Chronicles story is amazing in the three books that have been published. This short story shows us so much that hasn’t yet been told in the dissolution of America. Michael blends in current events in his story, shows the prickly nature of a lawless state, and the resolution of humanity. The idea of sharing the tragedy of modern life, drugs, assault, and violence can be solved by one good man. When someone stands up to the violence only to protect others, especially children, and women. Or that sometimes violence only answer is a show of force. I can’t wait to see what other stories he can come up with in this series.
The Hammer By Kathleen O’neal Gear
Bonnie Parker is a historic figure, the haunting part of Legends people don't know the story. I did not know that she was a poet until reading this story. The blank places allow the imagination area to fill in the spaces. Kathleen shows the psychology of the criminal mind. How does evil come into our lives? What Possibly could have happened to Bonnie Parker to allow her to have such a high disregard for human life, and property? This is a sad story of circumstances, the cost of poverty and neglect.
End Credit.
By Kathleen O’neal Gear and W. Michael Gear
Opening credits
The way that the Gears write and edit their stories is shown in this opening credits. Both showing the mystery that they attempt to bring to light with their words and their personal insite. They work together on every story, editing daily writing and joining together in the research and wonderment of history.
Each story is introduced by the alternate writer as they both show their appreciation of the each other.
Dedication
The story collection is dedicated to the family that inspires their stories of murder and mayhem. To hear the names of their family members that are told in the stories is a thrill.
The only way to win
By Michael Gear
This story was written to show the nature of the beginning of the story between Baptiste de Bourgmont, and Travis Hartman. The idea that this pair were not always together is hard to believe. Baptiste and Travis are the main characters in the western expansion fur trade series The Mountain Sage story, Flight of the Hawk. As most stories they had to meet somewhere. This story shows the nature of acceptance from both of them for each other's faults, and crimes. Both have killed a man, both to gain their own freedom, and both were wanted by the law. This beginning shows the nature of their partnership, and mutual loyalty that will continue as Baptiest frees his enslaved family, and they sign on to river trade.
No Quarter
By Kathleen O’Neal Gear
A reprint of the award winning story showing the point of view of slaves during the Alamo. The loss of the battle was a rally to freedom for the old slaves of the Texan rebels. Santa Anna promised freedom for any slave found in the region. This promise was the cliff edge for these men and women. The loss of the Alamo, the death of Colonel Bowie and the soldiers gives the slaves freedom.
What’s Owed the Demon
By w. Michael Gear
At the bottom of a gulch, with broken legs, and bleeding from a gun shot the old cowboy reviews his life. The loss of his sister which started his rough road, as he ran away after accidentally shooting her. He shows the nature of all the bad choices he has made as he comes into his manhood. His final act cost him all. It shows the nature of the west, and the reckless behaviors of desperate men.
Ruins
By Kathleen O’Neal Gear
A haunting ghost story of a grieving mother. The stillbirth of her child haunts her for years as she returns to her old cabin. She sees the possibility of her child living, and knowing him. The story shows the nature of grief, and the prejudice of society. Her deformed child horrifies others although she loves him deeply.
The Oldest Profession
By W. Michael Gear
An arrested prostitute fears the nature of the woman coming to town. Tied to the bed she waits for the woman from back east leads to a mystery. The suspicious nature of a fire in the brothel shows the change in Eudora after the war. The mystery of a rich man dying and his wealth disappearing shows the nature of the historical figures.
Wolf Bait
By Kathleen O’neal Gear
A complex story mixed between historical ideology of shell shock, and western tragedy. The soldiers that survived the Civil War had many horrific stories of grim figures and haunting memories. The western tragedy has many warnings of overwhelming nature and bad choices. This story melds the two worlds in a warning against the folly of man.
Bad Choices by W. Michael Gear
You should now know like all of us fans that Michael does not disappoint. The Wyoming Chronicles story is amazing in the three books that have been published. This short story shows us so much that hasn’t yet been told in the dissolution of America. Michael blends in current events in his story, shows the prickly nature of a lawless state, and the resolution of humanity. The idea of sharing the tragedy of modern life, drugs, assault, and violence can be solved by one good man. When someone stands up to the violence only to protect others, especially children, and women. Or that sometimes violence only answer is a show of force. I can’t wait to see what other stories he can come up with in this series.
The Hammer By Kathleen O’neal Gear
Bonnie Parker is a historic figure, the haunting part of Legends people don't know the story. I did not know that she was a poet until reading this story. The blank places allow the imagination area to fill in the spaces. Kathleen shows the psychology of the criminal mind. How does evil come into our lives? What Possibly could have happened to Bonnie Parker to allow her to have such a high disregard for human life, and property? This is a sad story of circumstances, the cost of poverty and neglect.
End Credit.
October 15, 2024
Fellow followers of Michael & Kathleen Gear, here's their new collection of Western Short Fiction.
"Switching Gears" by Michael and Kathleen Gear is a compelling anthology that transports readers to the heart of the American West. This collection of Western short fiction is a mosaic of courage, survival, and the indomitable human spirit. The stories are set against the backdrop of a wild and unforgiving landscape, where each character's journey is as tumultuous and unpredictable as the terrain itself. The anthology opens with a powerful narrative that sets the tone for the entire collection. The characters we meet are vividly drawn, each with their own struggles and triumphs, embodying the essence of the Western spirit. The Gears' storytelling is immersive, with a keen eye for historical detail that lends authenticity to each tale. Readers are not merely observers but are drawn into the heart of each story, experiencing the trials and tribulations of the characters firsthand.
As the anthology progresses, the themes of loyalty, betrayal, and redemption are explored in depth. The Gears have a unique ability to weave complex narratives that capture the nuances of human relationships set against the harsh realities of frontier life. Each story builds upon the last, creating a rich tapestry of tales that resonate with the reader long after the final page is turned. In conclusion, "Switching Gears" is more than just a collection of stories; it is an experience that echoes the enduring allure of the Western genre. Michael and Kathleen Gear have once again proven their mastery in crafting narratives that are both enthralling and thought-provoking. This anthology is a must-read for anyone captivated by the lore and legend of the American West. It is a reminder of the power of fiction to transport us to another time and place and the enduring legacy of the West as a cornerstone of American literature. So don't miss this incredible new read; get your copy today.
• ASIN: B0DF54NRD1
• Publisher: Wolfpack Publishing
• Publication Date: 10/15/2024
• File Size: 4259 KB
• Print Length: 250 pages
• Genre: Historical Fiction Anthologies - Fiction Anthologies - Historical Fiction
"Switching Gears" by Michael and Kathleen Gear is a compelling anthology that transports readers to the heart of the American West. This collection of Western short fiction is a mosaic of courage, survival, and the indomitable human spirit. The stories are set against the backdrop of a wild and unforgiving landscape, where each character's journey is as tumultuous and unpredictable as the terrain itself. The anthology opens with a powerful narrative that sets the tone for the entire collection. The characters we meet are vividly drawn, each with their own struggles and triumphs, embodying the essence of the Western spirit. The Gears' storytelling is immersive, with a keen eye for historical detail that lends authenticity to each tale. Readers are not merely observers but are drawn into the heart of each story, experiencing the trials and tribulations of the characters firsthand.
As the anthology progresses, the themes of loyalty, betrayal, and redemption are explored in depth. The Gears have a unique ability to weave complex narratives that capture the nuances of human relationships set against the harsh realities of frontier life. Each story builds upon the last, creating a rich tapestry of tales that resonate with the reader long after the final page is turned. In conclusion, "Switching Gears" is more than just a collection of stories; it is an experience that echoes the enduring allure of the Western genre. Michael and Kathleen Gear have once again proven their mastery in crafting narratives that are both enthralling and thought-provoking. This anthology is a must-read for anyone captivated by the lore and legend of the American West. It is a reminder of the power of fiction to transport us to another time and place and the enduring legacy of the West as a cornerstone of American literature. So don't miss this incredible new read; get your copy today.
• ASIN: B0DF54NRD1
• Publisher: Wolfpack Publishing
• Publication Date: 10/15/2024
• File Size: 4259 KB
• Print Length: 250 pages
• Genre: Historical Fiction Anthologies - Fiction Anthologies - Historical Fiction
October 14, 2024
Switching Gears: An Anthology of Western Short Fiction
W. Michael Gear and Kathleen O'Neal Gear
Wolfpack Publishing, 2024
https://wolfpackpublishing.com/produc...
As I write this review, Switching Gears is only available as an audio book ($9.99) or ebook ($4.99). By the time you read this, it should be available as a dead tree book. It is a collection of eight short stories by the Gears, who are best known for their carefully plotted novels and series about pre-Colombian North America. Archaeologists and anthropologists by trade, they are known for well researched works.
Long time Gear readers will be glad to learn, up close and uncomfortable, how Baptiste de Bourgemont and Travis Hartman first met in the swamps of Louisiana, each fleeing from his less than savory past. We also learn more about the Wyoming Chronicles universe, Michael's look at how Wyoming survives a collapse.
History comes alive, too, with the touching love story of a woman who survive the siege at the Alamo, and a psychological examination of Bonnie Parker, of Bonnie and Clyde fame. Some things never change, in a detective story set in oil boom Casper, Wyoming.
I've said it before, and I'll say it again: the Gears are excellent writers. They've shown that in their novels, and now in short story form. They've shown it as a writing team, and now each with their own short stories.
Which is a problem. Some of these stories remind me of Harlan Ellison. He, too, was an excellent writer. But a lot of his stories are downers. A Boy and His Dog? The Beast that Shouted Love at the Heart of the World? Downers! Miserere nobis! But well written downers: both won Hugos. And a well written downer is worse than a badly written downer.
No, I'm not going to tell you which ones are the downers. They're all well written, and a story that starts out a downer isn't necessarily one. So all you get is the warning: here there be downers!
Your reviewer is not usually a fan of audio books, but listening to the Gears narrate the stories they wrote makes the experience much better.
W. Michael Gear and Kathleen O'Neal Gear
Wolfpack Publishing, 2024
https://wolfpackpublishing.com/produc...
As I write this review, Switching Gears is only available as an audio book ($9.99) or ebook ($4.99). By the time you read this, it should be available as a dead tree book. It is a collection of eight short stories by the Gears, who are best known for their carefully plotted novels and series about pre-Colombian North America. Archaeologists and anthropologists by trade, they are known for well researched works.
Long time Gear readers will be glad to learn, up close and uncomfortable, how Baptiste de Bourgemont and Travis Hartman first met in the swamps of Louisiana, each fleeing from his less than savory past. We also learn more about the Wyoming Chronicles universe, Michael's look at how Wyoming survives a collapse.
History comes alive, too, with the touching love story of a woman who survive the siege at the Alamo, and a psychological examination of Bonnie Parker, of Bonnie and Clyde fame. Some things never change, in a detective story set in oil boom Casper, Wyoming.
I've said it before, and I'll say it again: the Gears are excellent writers. They've shown that in their novels, and now in short story form. They've shown it as a writing team, and now each with their own short stories.
Which is a problem. Some of these stories remind me of Harlan Ellison. He, too, was an excellent writer. But a lot of his stories are downers. A Boy and His Dog? The Beast that Shouted Love at the Heart of the World? Downers! Miserere nobis! But well written downers: both won Hugos. And a well written downer is worse than a badly written downer.
No, I'm not going to tell you which ones are the downers. They're all well written, and a story that starts out a downer isn't necessarily one. So all you get is the warning: here there be downers!
Your reviewer is not usually a fan of audio books, but listening to the Gears narrate the stories they wrote makes the experience much better.
October 17, 2024
Stories
Every time Michael and Kathleen O'Neal Gear put out a story, they raise the bar. Switching Gears is prime example. Each of the entries in this anthology reach deep into the reader's soul, grips, and brings it to the light to be examined. Experts in human behavior, this pair touches the essence of human existence. From the crumbling walls of the Alamo in in the spring of 1836 to the dystopian near future, these stories capture the optimism of the human experience and the depths of human depression. And every episode portrays a time and place as accurately as only authors of the Gears' background can. Switching Gears should go straight to the top of the charts!
Every time Michael and Kathleen O'Neal Gear put out a story, they raise the bar. Switching Gears is prime example. Each of the entries in this anthology reach deep into the reader's soul, grips, and brings it to the light to be examined. Experts in human behavior, this pair touches the essence of human existence. From the crumbling walls of the Alamo in in the spring of 1836 to the dystopian near future, these stories capture the optimism of the human experience and the depths of human depression. And every episode portrays a time and place as accurately as only authors of the Gears' background can. Switching Gears should go straight to the top of the charts!
January 2, 2025
Switching Gears
What a perfect title! This book is a huge switch from the longer novels the Gears usually write! These stories are shorter, but every bit as mesmerizing as their full length novels! I also enjoyed the separation of the Gears writing styles. Most of what I read are written by the two of them together, however this book allows them to "go their own way" (& yes, I was singing that as I typed it!), & shine their own light! I recommend this book to anyone who likes Western, historical, & psychological genres, but with a note that it doesn't show the true depth & width of Michael & Kathleen's talent!
What a perfect title! This book is a huge switch from the longer novels the Gears usually write! These stories are shorter, but every bit as mesmerizing as their full length novels! I also enjoyed the separation of the Gears writing styles. Most of what I read are written by the two of them together, however this book allows them to "go their own way" (& yes, I was singing that as I typed it!), & shine their own light! I recommend this book to anyone who likes Western, historical, & psychological genres, but with a note that it doesn't show the true depth & width of Michael & Kathleen's talent!
January 9, 2025
Entertaining short stories from this award winning duo. If you are fans of the highly productive Gears, you know they always meet our expectations of writing a great story. If you've never heard of them, this is the perfect book to start with. I had planned to read story #1 in this anthology and then go to sleep, but found myself reading well into the night. It's a page turner! Enjoy.
February 20, 2025
I enjoyed reading this anthology of short fiction. Two authors (a married couple) alternating stories most of them set in the west in the 1800's or early 1900's. Some unusual perspectives and interesting twists. Always have liked short stories and was craving some "western" fiction. These were well written and I gobbled them up.
September 26, 2024
This book is a collection of short stories by Michael Gear and Kathleen Gear. It has a variety of stories that will easily keep your interest. Many are multiple award winners. It was interesting from beginning to the very end. I totally enjoyed the reading.
January 8, 2025
The Gears score a hit here.
The Gears have put together a fine collection of short fiction and I’m anxious to read more. Based on real events or real people these stories stir the imagination and makes me wonder what other adventures the authors can conjure. Highly recommended.
The Gears have put together a fine collection of short fiction and I’m anxious to read more. Based on real events or real people these stories stir the imagination and makes me wonder what other adventures the authors can conjure. Highly recommended.
October 28, 2024
The Gears never disappoint
I've been reading their stories for years and I have never read a bad one. This one continues that streak.
I've been reading their stories for years and I have never read a bad one. This one continues that streak.
January 5, 2025
The Gears are the best story tellers ever!
Once I started reading each story, I couldn't quit. When I turned the last page, I couldn't believe I had finished the entire book.
Once I started reading each story, I couldn't quit. When I turned the last page, I couldn't believe I had finished the entire book.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews