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Little Miss Sure Shot: Annie Oakley's World
Little Miss Sure Shot is a fictionalized account of the life of Annie Oakley, drawing heavily on the real timelines and events of her life. However, the book is not a biography - it invents situations, people she meets, and a myriad of conversations. Moreover, while the book is presented chronologically, apart from the prologue, it skips certain periods and attempts to focus on those that are especially vital, such as the early years Annie spent with Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show, including the tours through Europe.
A special feature of the novel is the framing of Annie's loving marriage to fellow sharpshooter Frank Butler, whom she married at sixteen and remained married to for 50 years until her death. Frank was far more than just her husband - he was her manager (he gave up his own shooting for that role) and her constant companion.
The novel closes with an epilogue in Frank's voice, presenting an overview of their lives together and the circumstances of her death in 1926.
A special feature of the novel is the framing of Annie's loving marriage to fellow sharpshooter Frank Butler, whom she married at sixteen and remained married to for 50 years until her death. Frank was far more than just her husband - he was her manager (he gave up his own shooting for that role) and her constant companion.
The novel closes with an epilogue in Frank's voice, presenting an overview of their lives together and the circumstances of her death in 1926.
- GenresBiographyNonfiction
149 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 5, 2014
11 people are currently reading
765 people want to read
About the author
Jeffrey Marshall
15 books37 followersJeffrey Marshall is a writer, poet and retired journalist from Scottsdale, AZ. He is the author of five books, including the novels Undetected, Little Miss Sure Shot, and Squeeze Plays (June 2022). Undetected was named a Notable 100 indie book for 2020 by Shelf Unbound, and Squeeze Plays had a similar award in 2022.
During his 35-year journalism career in the New York area, he was a reporter, editor, feature writer, columnist and book reviewer. He was editor in chief of two national business magazines at the close of his career and has freelanced to more than two dozen publications, including The New York Times.
Marshall has freelanced recently to fishing and environmental publications, as well as publishing flash fiction in online magazines such as Brightflash Literary Review. A short story of his won first place in the 2022 Arizona Authors competition.
He has a bachelor's degree from Princeton and a master's in journalism from Northwestern. Interests include tennis, golf, fly-fishing, travel, hiking and movies. He and his wife, Judy, have a rambunctious dog, Blaze, who loves everyone and everything.
During his 35-year journalism career in the New York area, he was a reporter, editor, feature writer, columnist and book reviewer. He was editor in chief of two national business magazines at the close of his career and has freelanced to more than two dozen publications, including The New York Times.
Marshall has freelanced recently to fishing and environmental publications, as well as publishing flash fiction in online magazines such as Brightflash Literary Review. A short story of his won first place in the 2022 Arizona Authors competition.
He has a bachelor's degree from Princeton and a master's in journalism from Northwestern. Interests include tennis, golf, fly-fishing, travel, hiking and movies. He and his wife, Judy, have a rambunctious dog, Blaze, who loves everyone and everything.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
January 13, 2016
I loved the wealth of information this book had on the figure of Annie Oakley and her husband, Frank Butler. I was immersed into her life at all stages and got a real feel for the woman. I felt like I got to know her: her modesty, her self-confidence, her belief in women being independent and being able to shoot, and the intricacies of life on the road with the Wild West show. I especially adored reading about her and Frank's relationship. It seemed to be a very unique one for the times, one filled with self-sacrifice, understanding, and based on friendship and mutual respect.
But I do feel that I have to question this book's claim to be a "novel" (as the back of the book does). It in no way is one. Yes, there are fictional encounters with people she probably never met and conversations that may or may not have happened. But the sheer amount of told scenes and how information is presented in this book reads more as a light presentation of her life than anything else. Enjoyable to the hilt, yes. An in depth novel that I now have a major craving for, definitely not.
All in all, I did enjoy this book. I learned a lot, both about Annie and life in the late 19th century, and enjoyed the learning. Though I do feel that calling this book a "novel" or anything resembling that a misnomer, that in no way should keep you from enjoying it for what it is, a light presentation of her life in a very readable way.
Note: Book received for free via Good Reads First Reads program in exchange for review.
But I do feel that I have to question this book's claim to be a "novel" (as the back of the book does). It in no way is one. Yes, there are fictional encounters with people she probably never met and conversations that may or may not have happened. But the sheer amount of told scenes and how information is presented in this book reads more as a light presentation of her life than anything else. Enjoyable to the hilt, yes. An in depth novel that I now have a major craving for, definitely not.
All in all, I did enjoy this book. I learned a lot, both about Annie and life in the late 19th century, and enjoyed the learning. Though I do feel that calling this book a "novel" or anything resembling that a misnomer, that in no way should keep you from enjoying it for what it is, a light presentation of her life in a very readable way.
Note: Book received for free via Good Reads First Reads program in exchange for review.
December 19, 2014
What a charming and delightful account of Annie Oakley’s life! I thoroughly enjoyed this opportunity to really get a feel for one of the icons of the American West. Annie Oakley was someone I had heard of and knew she was famous for her marksmanship but I had never heard the story of her life before. Being a bit of a history buff I was very excited to read this book and learn more and the author did not disappoint.
Jeffrey Marshall grabs your interest from the beginning with a recounting of the period in her life when she was suing Hearst Corporation for libel and keeps you interested with his engaging writing style. He then relates the story of her life from the day she fired a gun for the first time until her death. He relays the events in her life that formed her into the star she would become. I especially enjoyed the way he was able to portray her scrappy but inquisitive personality and also that of her devoted husband.
I was mesmerized by all the rich and powerful people this little lady was able to meet during her years with the Wild West Show and how she was able to step into a man’s world and not only play their game but beat them at it. Annie Oakley was a truly remarkable person who never let her fame get the better of her. I think she is still a shining example for girls even in the 21st century.
If you enjoy American history or just like a good story you will really like reading this book. I highly recommend it.
Jeffrey Marshall grabs your interest from the beginning with a recounting of the period in her life when she was suing Hearst Corporation for libel and keeps you interested with his engaging writing style. He then relates the story of her life from the day she fired a gun for the first time until her death. He relays the events in her life that formed her into the star she would become. I especially enjoyed the way he was able to portray her scrappy but inquisitive personality and also that of her devoted husband.
I was mesmerized by all the rich and powerful people this little lady was able to meet during her years with the Wild West Show and how she was able to step into a man’s world and not only play their game but beat them at it. Annie Oakley was a truly remarkable person who never let her fame get the better of her. I think she is still a shining example for girls even in the 21st century.
If you enjoy American history or just like a good story you will really like reading this book. I highly recommend it.
December 4, 2014
I requested this book from NetGalley on a whim, I don’t normally read non-fiction and I don’t normally read western type books but it sounded interesting. And I have to admit, there’s always been something intriguing about the Wild West for me. This was an easy to read book and I enjoyed it but I’m not quite sure I’d call it a novel. A lot of it is simply telling the facts, there’s not a whole lot of dialogue and no plot as such. But it tells the facts in a way that doesn’t bore you and is easy to take in.
This was an interesting read and I’d read more along the same lines. I knew nothing about Annie Oakley when I picked up the book and although this is a fictionalized account of her life it does seem to stick quite closely to the facts in most respects. At least as far as a quick google search shows anyway. It’s not going to make you an expert on her or the time she lived in but if you just want a basic knowledge of who she was and what she did then I think it’s worth a read.
This was an interesting read and I’d read more along the same lines. I knew nothing about Annie Oakley when I picked up the book and although this is a fictionalized account of her life it does seem to stick quite closely to the facts in most respects. At least as far as a quick google search shows anyway. It’s not going to make you an expert on her or the time she lived in but if you just want a basic knowledge of who she was and what she did then I think it’s worth a read.
October 25, 2014
This took me a while to read, though it wasn't bad -- I just had it on my iPod and kept forgetting about it until I was in line or waiting somewhere and needed something to read. Finally I just pushed through and finished it. Overall I enjoyed it, and felt it was accurate and well-told. I would've liked a bit more of a linear telling, as the story opens with Annie looking to clear her reputation but then goes back over the story of her life and doesn't reference when the lawsuits she brought against those slandering her name.
Still, I learned quite a bit about her life, and enjoyed the story.
Still, I learned quite a bit about her life, and enjoyed the story.
October 20, 2014
Enjoyed this a lot. I've loved Annie Oakley since seeing Annie Get Your Gun as a child, and it was wonderful to read all about her real life. Amazingly, Hollywood got quite a lot of it right, according to this biography, although naturally it was a musical, so changed to fit the dramatics needed. The relationship between Annie and Frank (called Jimmy) was charming and she was clearly an engaging personality. A really worthwhile read.
October 21, 2014
A very nice short read that gives a brief glimpse into Annie's life. It makes me want to read more about her and her travels and about the Wild West Show she was involved with.
February 11, 2015
This is a fantastic book about the life of Annie Oakley, from her early life in Ohio to when she passed away. The author is able to bring you to the beginning when she began to shot for food for her family after her father passed away. Using a Kentucky long rifle she was bringing home rabbits and squirrels, and most of the time she was able to shot the head off the squirrel. She soon found out that a man who ran the local store a few miles away would pay for animals like squirrels if their heads were shot off and after a while she was making .50 cent that would also help her mom, sisters and brother. Soon she was gaining a reputation as an excellent shot and was starting to outshoot the local men in competitions. Soon she was having her brother help set up targets for practice and all would be at different heights and angles. Then she would go through her practice of firing, reloading, then with her back towards the targets turning and firing. This was just one of her practices. By the age of fifteen her reputation was starting to grow and a promoter for a fair asked if she would like to compete against Frank Butler, another sharp shooter, and she agreed. When they meet they both were taken with each other but he was 10 years older than her. After she gained her composer she ended up defeating him. This meeting would turn into a lifelong affair, they were married almost a year later. They would begin touring putting on shooting demonstrations and she would still compete when the opportunities would come up. They were making a decedent living when the opportunity came to join Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show, the only thing was they just wanted her not Frank. They agreed that Frank would be her manager and she would join the show. This where she really became famous doing her trick shots from, horses, bicycle, running, Frank tossing glass globes in the air, and then later her shooting from behind looking through a mirror. This had to be an amazing performance, I have problems shooting looking straight ahead without a mirror. This show and her shooting took her to Europe where she meet Kings, Queens, Princes, Dukes, and other royalty. She was invited to go hunting with these men and always came back with more birds, she would also out shot them in a completion when someone would say for her to let them win she would say that is not how it is done in America. She became good friends with Libby Custer, her husband taught her to read and wright. After a horrible train accident in 1901 that broke her leg and injured her back she stopped touring with the show, she had to have a few surgeries. In 1904 she sued Hearst newspaper for libel for a story that was about a women with the same name but spelled the same. Hearst would not print an apology so she sued and won 54 out 55 cases having to travel to each town or city for the trials and it cost her more than what she won but for her it was about reputation and not letting Hearst get away with lies. This part of her story I had never heard before, good for her. Her and her husband settled in Pinehurst, North Carolina, and would eventually open a gun club to teach people how to shot, and safety around weapons, she would go on in her fifties and sixties doing demonstrations and still shooting 100 out of 100 clay pigeons which is amazing. This is a fantastic book about an extraordinary women who stood only five feet tall but was a giant to many. To have her mother tell her before she passed that she was proud of her world traveler and would have never expected her to be the one out of all her children to see and do what she did probably meant more to her than all of those things combined, that is what a child wants to hear, that their parent is proud of them. She had come full circle. The sad part of the book is that Annie got sick and made Frank go to Detroit for a shooting convention they agreed to speak at. Frank took ill when he got their and was rushed to the hospital and three days later found and out that Annie had passed, he would pass in eighteen days. Her family made sure that they were together in the family cemetery. A fantastic book about a strong women and a strong couple. I normally don’t give stars but five out of five. I got this book from net galley.
March 8, 2015
I picked up this book not really knowing what to expect. Of course I had heard of Annie Oakley, but I did not expect to find there was so much more than a wild, undisciplined sharpshooter. Sure got a surprise when I started reading this account which is not a biography but rather a colorful portrait of the highlights in Annie’s illustrious career and her fifty year marriage with Frank Butler.
Annie was born in 1860 to a poor Quaker farm family living in Ohio who named her Phoebe Ann Moses. One of seven children, at the age of six her life soon became even more difficult when her father died. By the age of eight, Annie had learned to shoot small game which she sold to help support her family. Before Annie hit her teens she was competing with men in shooting competitions. During one of these she met sharpshooter Frank Butler; Annie won the competition by one point. Fifteen year old Annie promptly fell in love and married the man with whom she would soon perform in the vaudeville circuit.
A few years later the couple would join Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show with Bill Cody. They traveled throughout the country and later on to Europe. Annie wanted her name to match her frontier image; the name Oakley actually was taken from a town near her farm. When it became clear that Annie was the star feature, Frank graciously decided from that point on he would be her manager instead of her shooting partner.
Marshall does a good job of describing their whirlwind life on the tour circuit, They witness the construction of the Statue of Liberty on Bedloe Island, attend the fiftieth anniversary celebration of Queen Victoria, meet General Sherman, P.T. Barnum, and Kaiser Wilhelm. The couple sail the canals in Venice and walk the streets of Paris. Annie appears in stage plays and gets invited to participate in one of Thomas Edison’s first moving picture ventures.
After an unfortunate train wreck in 1901and a bad automobile accident in 1907, Annie and Frank open up sharpshooting training centers to teach their skills to others. Though they never had children, Annie and Frank gave generously to orphanages and children’s hospitals. Ironically, Annie died of pernicious anemia, which may have been cause by her constant exposure to the lead of the bullets that she used to shoot. Frank lived less than three weeks after her passing.
The author weaves an exciting story depicting Annie’s strong pioneer spirit of determination and stubbornness, a love story, history, adventure, and travel. Annie presents a strong female character well ahead of her time willing to take on the challenges of one whose life spanned the era from the Civil War through the end of World War I. This book can be enjoyed by readers ten and older. Teachers can certainly use it as a tool as a window to life during that era as well as a woman ahead of her time.
Annie was born in 1860 to a poor Quaker farm family living in Ohio who named her Phoebe Ann Moses. One of seven children, at the age of six her life soon became even more difficult when her father died. By the age of eight, Annie had learned to shoot small game which she sold to help support her family. Before Annie hit her teens she was competing with men in shooting competitions. During one of these she met sharpshooter Frank Butler; Annie won the competition by one point. Fifteen year old Annie promptly fell in love and married the man with whom she would soon perform in the vaudeville circuit.
A few years later the couple would join Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show with Bill Cody. They traveled throughout the country and later on to Europe. Annie wanted her name to match her frontier image; the name Oakley actually was taken from a town near her farm. When it became clear that Annie was the star feature, Frank graciously decided from that point on he would be her manager instead of her shooting partner.
Marshall does a good job of describing their whirlwind life on the tour circuit, They witness the construction of the Statue of Liberty on Bedloe Island, attend the fiftieth anniversary celebration of Queen Victoria, meet General Sherman, P.T. Barnum, and Kaiser Wilhelm. The couple sail the canals in Venice and walk the streets of Paris. Annie appears in stage plays and gets invited to participate in one of Thomas Edison’s first moving picture ventures.
After an unfortunate train wreck in 1901and a bad automobile accident in 1907, Annie and Frank open up sharpshooting training centers to teach their skills to others. Though they never had children, Annie and Frank gave generously to orphanages and children’s hospitals. Ironically, Annie died of pernicious anemia, which may have been cause by her constant exposure to the lead of the bullets that she used to shoot. Frank lived less than three weeks after her passing.
The author weaves an exciting story depicting Annie’s strong pioneer spirit of determination and stubbornness, a love story, history, adventure, and travel. Annie presents a strong female character well ahead of her time willing to take on the challenges of one whose life spanned the era from the Civil War through the end of World War I. This book can be enjoyed by readers ten and older. Teachers can certainly use it as a tool as a window to life during that era as well as a woman ahead of her time.
February 4, 2017
Note: I was provided with a copy of this book for review.
Not knowing anything about Annie Oakley before starting this book I was not sure what I was in for but it wasn't long before I became engrossed with the story. Marshall has been quite clever in his presentation of this book, stating clearly that it is not a biography, but it is also not a novel either. Somewhere in the middle is this book that looks at key moments in Oakley's life, and explores her rise to stardom and life in the spotlight with a few fictional elements added.
While Marshall admits this not a true biography, there is no doubting it has a great deal of information about Oakley's life. Marshall explores Annie's childhood and how she started shooting at 8 years old, and he also focuses intensely on her time with Buffalo Bill's Wild West show. One of the great and consistent elements in the story though is the exploration of Oakley's marriage with Frank. As her husband for 50 years it is wonderful to see their connection grow and the influence he had on her life.
While the Wild West show was interesting, discovering about life during that time and the difference in society across Europe and America not to mention Annie's place within them was fascinating. It was also wonderful to discover just how famous Annie was and the impact she had on the world. As a person she comes across as someone who is independent and knew what she wanted, and she was determined to be herself no matter what. Her strong ideals, ingenuity, and her desire that every woman should learn to shoot makes her a wonderful woman and key part of history, something which Marshall captures wonderfully.
I really enjoyed this book and I loved learning about Annie Oakley and her life. The problem of not being a real biography means there is an uncertainty about certain facts and events, but Marshall's recount about Annie's life piques your interest and curiosity in just the right way to want to go and learn more about her. Knowing this biography is based on some element of truth though makes the sad bits sadder but the good bits greater and there is no doubt it is a charming and heart-warming story and one of admiration for Annie and the life she lead.
A longer version of this review was posted on my blog https://lostinagoodbk.wordpress.com/2...
Not knowing anything about Annie Oakley before starting this book I was not sure what I was in for but it wasn't long before I became engrossed with the story. Marshall has been quite clever in his presentation of this book, stating clearly that it is not a biography, but it is also not a novel either. Somewhere in the middle is this book that looks at key moments in Oakley's life, and explores her rise to stardom and life in the spotlight with a few fictional elements added.
While Marshall admits this not a true biography, there is no doubting it has a great deal of information about Oakley's life. Marshall explores Annie's childhood and how she started shooting at 8 years old, and he also focuses intensely on her time with Buffalo Bill's Wild West show. One of the great and consistent elements in the story though is the exploration of Oakley's marriage with Frank. As her husband for 50 years it is wonderful to see their connection grow and the influence he had on her life.
While the Wild West show was interesting, discovering about life during that time and the difference in society across Europe and America not to mention Annie's place within them was fascinating. It was also wonderful to discover just how famous Annie was and the impact she had on the world. As a person she comes across as someone who is independent and knew what she wanted, and she was determined to be herself no matter what. Her strong ideals, ingenuity, and her desire that every woman should learn to shoot makes her a wonderful woman and key part of history, something which Marshall captures wonderfully.
I really enjoyed this book and I loved learning about Annie Oakley and her life. The problem of not being a real biography means there is an uncertainty about certain facts and events, but Marshall's recount about Annie's life piques your interest and curiosity in just the right way to want to go and learn more about her. Knowing this biography is based on some element of truth though makes the sad bits sadder but the good bits greater and there is no doubt it is a charming and heart-warming story and one of admiration for Annie and the life she lead.
A longer version of this review was posted on my blog https://lostinagoodbk.wordpress.com/2...
January 24, 2015
She was a natural. When she was eight, she was simply trying to help provide for her family since her father’s demise two years before.
“She spotted the [squirrel] sitting on the branch of an oak and raised the rifle almost instinctively. Annie had never shot an animal before, but the family needed food, and she knew what she needed to do. It was a cold day, but her hands were sweating slightly as she sighted the rifle and pulled the trigger; she needed only one shot, and she gave a little yelp when she saw it fall.”
She was born in 1860 in North Star Township, Ohio as Phoebe Ann Moses, one of seven children to Jacob and Susan Moses. They were Quakers, and nearly every day of Annie’s life, she read from the Bible. The prologue is an older Annie, but chapter one picks up with her life mostly in chronological order. There were several things I knew or thought I knew about Annie Oakley, but this novel fills in … the rest of the story. It wasn’t until 1884 that she changed her surname to Oakley. Oakley was the name of a neighborhood near where her sister lived, and Annie just “judged it to be a good name.”
This is a fictionalized account, but it shared more fact than fiction and provided little in background and scenery description, so it felt like a non-fiction biographical book with a little bit of fiction thrown in. The history was accurate and all encompassing. I’m not sure if the writing structure of the part introductions were intended or a mistake, but part II, for instance, showed “II 1885-86: the wiLD west show” and part III showed “III 1887-89: euroPe anD More.”
Children who are learning about historical people like Annie Oakley could read this as a reference. There is no inappropriate language or settings within the novel. Oh, and for all you ladies who think you have to lose in competition with men in order to gain their attention, just look at Annie’s life. She met her husband, Frank Butler, in a shooting competition. She beat him by one. He began spending time with her and her family after that, and shortly thereafter, they tied the knot. That was in 1876; she was sixteen years old. For the most part, she stayed humble and true to herself. I rated Little Miss Sure Shot at 3.5 out of 5.
“She spotted the [squirrel] sitting on the branch of an oak and raised the rifle almost instinctively. Annie had never shot an animal before, but the family needed food, and she knew what she needed to do. It was a cold day, but her hands were sweating slightly as she sighted the rifle and pulled the trigger; she needed only one shot, and she gave a little yelp when she saw it fall.”
She was born in 1860 in North Star Township, Ohio as Phoebe Ann Moses, one of seven children to Jacob and Susan Moses. They were Quakers, and nearly every day of Annie’s life, she read from the Bible. The prologue is an older Annie, but chapter one picks up with her life mostly in chronological order. There were several things I knew or thought I knew about Annie Oakley, but this novel fills in … the rest of the story. It wasn’t until 1884 that she changed her surname to Oakley. Oakley was the name of a neighborhood near where her sister lived, and Annie just “judged it to be a good name.”
This is a fictionalized account, but it shared more fact than fiction and provided little in background and scenery description, so it felt like a non-fiction biographical book with a little bit of fiction thrown in. The history was accurate and all encompassing. I’m not sure if the writing structure of the part introductions were intended or a mistake, but part II, for instance, showed “II 1885-86: the wiLD west show” and part III showed “III 1887-89: euroPe anD More.”
Children who are learning about historical people like Annie Oakley could read this as a reference. There is no inappropriate language or settings within the novel. Oh, and for all you ladies who think you have to lose in competition with men in order to gain their attention, just look at Annie’s life. She met her husband, Frank Butler, in a shooting competition. She beat him by one. He began spending time with her and her family after that, and shortly thereafter, they tied the knot. That was in 1876; she was sixteen years old. For the most part, she stayed humble and true to herself. I rated Little Miss Sure Shot at 3.5 out of 5.
April 24, 2015
Little Miss Sure Shot tells the story of Annie Oakley, a famous American markswoman in the 1880s. It relates her life from her birth in Ohio in 1860 to her rise to fame in Buffalo Bill Cody’s Wild West Show, until her death in 1922. In the process, we learn about the beautiful love story between Annie and her husband, Frank Butler. Frank gave up shooting for her and became her manager. They were married for 50 years.
This is Jeffrey Marshall’s first novel, a historical fiction based on real-life Annie Oakley, a remarkable woman well ahead of her time. She lead an incredible life, traveling all over the US and Europe. In the process, she met Queen Victoria in London and Prince Wilhelm in Germany. Back home, she rubbed shoulders with the likes of Mark Twain and Thomas Edison. She shot like no other woman before her, yet managed to keep her feminity intact. The book is well written and fascinating. I only wish it had been longer and more detailed, as it has only 148 pages. In particular, I would have liked to know more about her childhood and her travels. In addition, I thought there was no need for the prologue and that its content could have been integrated into the chronological story. In the end though, the book was fun to read and really interesting.
Little Miss Sure Shot was sent to me for free in exchange for an honest review.
To read the full review, please go to my blog (Cecile Sune - Book Obsessed).
This is Jeffrey Marshall’s first novel, a historical fiction based on real-life Annie Oakley, a remarkable woman well ahead of her time. She lead an incredible life, traveling all over the US and Europe. In the process, she met Queen Victoria in London and Prince Wilhelm in Germany. Back home, she rubbed shoulders with the likes of Mark Twain and Thomas Edison. She shot like no other woman before her, yet managed to keep her feminity intact. The book is well written and fascinating. I only wish it had been longer and more detailed, as it has only 148 pages. In particular, I would have liked to know more about her childhood and her travels. In addition, I thought there was no need for the prologue and that its content could have been integrated into the chronological story. In the end though, the book was fun to read and really interesting.
Little Miss Sure Shot was sent to me for free in exchange for an honest review.
To read the full review, please go to my blog (Cecile Sune - Book Obsessed).
January 13, 2015
I got a free ARC of this book in exchange for an honest opinion.
The only reason why I finished this book was because I wanted to write an informed review. However, reading it wasn't enjoyable or easy. It was like trying to eat soup with a fork. Difficult, right? Exactly. This book is way too dry and boring. I am afraid to say the author is not a very good storyteller; at times he sounded like the commentator of a documentary, and some other times the events happening were too fictionalized as to be believable. I just didn't buy most of the things in this book.
Not sure if it was intended to be a biography or a novel, the style just doesn't work and the treatment of the characters needs way more work. They are too flat and underdeveloped. It was too repetitive and I just didn't think it would be the kind of book I would have chosen for spending a lazy reading afternoon. It just doesn't work for me.
The only reason why I finished this book was because I wanted to write an informed review. However, reading it wasn't enjoyable or easy. It was like trying to eat soup with a fork. Difficult, right? Exactly. This book is way too dry and boring. I am afraid to say the author is not a very good storyteller; at times he sounded like the commentator of a documentary, and some other times the events happening were too fictionalized as to be believable. I just didn't buy most of the things in this book.
Not sure if it was intended to be a biography or a novel, the style just doesn't work and the treatment of the characters needs way more work. They are too flat and underdeveloped. It was too repetitive and I just didn't think it would be the kind of book I would have chosen for spending a lazy reading afternoon. It just doesn't work for me.
December 24, 2014
The subject matter is truly fascinating.
Annie Oakley was a forerunner in a world where women were not often found and held her own against the talents of men. This is both a biographical book and a love story.
The book starts with passages sounding more like a school report, all facts and rather dry.
Those places where the author takes a more conversational tone and the book reads like an adventure novel were very well written. The trouble is, the author kept switching back and forth between those voices.
I would have preferred he write this as if it were happening in present time and the reader was along for the ride.
The conversational passages show the autor has the talent to accomplish this.
At the end of the book we hear more from Frank's point of view.
I appreciated that. Perhaps Frank's voice should have been included more as brief chapters throughout the entire novel.
Annie Oakley was a forerunner in a world where women were not often found and held her own against the talents of men. This is both a biographical book and a love story.
The book starts with passages sounding more like a school report, all facts and rather dry.
Those places where the author takes a more conversational tone and the book reads like an adventure novel were very well written. The trouble is, the author kept switching back and forth between those voices.
I would have preferred he write this as if it were happening in present time and the reader was along for the ride.
The conversational passages show the autor has the talent to accomplish this.
At the end of the book we hear more from Frank's point of view.
I appreciated that. Perhaps Frank's voice should have been included more as brief chapters throughout the entire novel.
September 27, 2014
*I received this novel as a GoodReads giveaway.*
This is a pretty solid first novel, especially for one that was self published. (I have friends who've self published JUNK, but this isn't that.)
The book is historical fiction, and it moves back and forth between seeming like a nonfiction book telling about the life of Annie Oakley and a fiction book telling the story. Part of me wished it was more firmly in one camp or the other.
The writing flows well and reads quickly; I read the whole book in the car on the way to a conference. It also reads well aloud; the driver was never confused by what was going on other than asking which character was which (there are a lot of characters!).
I recommend this for fans of historical fiction who want something lighter in between their Doctorow.
This is a pretty solid first novel, especially for one that was self published. (I have friends who've self published JUNK, but this isn't that.)
The book is historical fiction, and it moves back and forth between seeming like a nonfiction book telling about the life of Annie Oakley and a fiction book telling the story. Part of me wished it was more firmly in one camp or the other.
The writing flows well and reads quickly; I read the whole book in the car on the way to a conference. It also reads well aloud; the driver was never confused by what was going on other than asking which character was which (there are a lot of characters!).
I recommend this for fans of historical fiction who want something lighter in between their Doctorow.
January 12, 2015
“Some people can walk a tightrope. I can shoot.”
Little Miss Sure Shot tells the tale of legendary shooter Annie Oakley. This fictionalised biography novel is a decent take on her life history. At just 112 pages, the author managed to bring the events and characters to life.
It’s hard not to like the protagonist. Shy and competitive, she’s a character worth cheering on. Some parts of the stories were invented, but with the mesmerising writing, it did Annie Oakley’s life justice.
The only problem I had was the over-descriptive writing. It felt bumpy and tedious. However, with that note aside, I would say that Little Miss Sure Shot was a swift and enjoyable read. Just that it could be more.
Full review & quotes: Priscilla and her Books
Little Miss Sure Shot tells the tale of legendary shooter Annie Oakley. This fictionalised biography novel is a decent take on her life history. At just 112 pages, the author managed to bring the events and characters to life.
It’s hard not to like the protagonist. Shy and competitive, she’s a character worth cheering on. Some parts of the stories were invented, but with the mesmerising writing, it did Annie Oakley’s life justice.
The only problem I had was the over-descriptive writing. It felt bumpy and tedious. However, with that note aside, I would say that Little Miss Sure Shot was a swift and enjoyable read. Just that it could be more.
Full review & quotes: Priscilla and her Books
dnf
December 22, 2014It's not supposed to be a biography. The blurb says that... but it's TOLD just like one. There's page after page of biography-style prose, aka TELLING, and then just a quick scene with dialogue and the actual scenes are very far apart in time. It's almost as if the author couldn't decide if he wanted to write a biography or historical fiction.
The blurb is honest about one thing though. It does say it skips certain periods. But the scenes actually chosen to be scenes, I'd have picked more interesting stuff and it skips too large of periods.
The blurb is honest about one thing though. It does say it skips certain periods. But the scenes actually chosen to be scenes, I'd have picked more interesting stuff and it skips too large of periods.
September 17, 2014
Thank you Goodreads for this giveaway. I was glad to know more about Annie Oakley, but the PG version of dialogue and her life was a little forced. Maybe the intended audience was preteens? Marshall has also interwoven famous people from the time in the story and if I hadn't looked it up, I think I would have through she had met all those people. My mother grew up in Darke Co. Ohio, so I grew up hearing how that was where Annie Oakley was from. I was glad to know more about her life.
October 3, 2014
Very interesting story about Annie Oakley and her husband. It begins with her shooting squirrels with a Kentucky rifle when 8 years old and ends after her and her husband's deaths within a few days of each other.
November 10, 2014
Learning about Annie Oakley was a blast! No pun intended. What a life she led! What a beautifully written book! So easy to read and so much fun to read! I HIGHLY recommend this book.
One of the best books I've read so far this year. Pick up a copy today!
http://www.annieoakleynovel.com/
One of the best books I've read so far this year. Pick up a copy today!
http://www.annieoakleynovel.com/
May 19, 2016
i want to read this book
October 12, 2016
Interesting history of our country at that time and of that era with Buffalo Bill Cody and the Wild West Show. A nice bio of Annie Oakley.
September 17, 2025
Little Miss Sure Shot is a captivating novel that shines a spotlight on one of the most fascinating women of the 19th century, Annie Oakley. What makes this book truly remarkable is the way the author balances fact with imagination, weaving together real events and invented moments to create a story that feels authentic, emotional, and alive.
The novel transports readers into the excitement of Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show, giving us front-row seats to the thrill of Annie’s performances and the global impact of her tours. Yet beyond the glamour and spectacle, what lingers is the quiet strength of her marriage to Frank Butler. Their enduring love story, tender, loyal, and inspiring, gives the narrative a beating heart, culminating in a moving epilogue that leaves a lasting impression.
The writing is crisp, vivid, and deeply human. Annie is not portrayed as a distant legend, but as a woman of grit, grace, and vulnerability. Readers are reminded that behind every extraordinary public figure is a personal story worth telling.
This book is not just for fans of history, it’s for anyone who appreciates stories of resilience, partnership, and courage. The author deserves applause for giving Annie Oakley a voice that speaks to modern readers while honoring her legacy. Little Miss Sure Shot is a triumph of historical fiction.
The novel transports readers into the excitement of Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show, giving us front-row seats to the thrill of Annie’s performances and the global impact of her tours. Yet beyond the glamour and spectacle, what lingers is the quiet strength of her marriage to Frank Butler. Their enduring love story, tender, loyal, and inspiring, gives the narrative a beating heart, culminating in a moving epilogue that leaves a lasting impression.
The writing is crisp, vivid, and deeply human. Annie is not portrayed as a distant legend, but as a woman of grit, grace, and vulnerability. Readers are reminded that behind every extraordinary public figure is a personal story worth telling.
This book is not just for fans of history, it’s for anyone who appreciates stories of resilience, partnership, and courage. The author deserves applause for giving Annie Oakley a voice that speaks to modern readers while honoring her legacy. Little Miss Sure Shot is a triumph of historical fiction.
September 17, 2025
Little Miss Sure Shot isn’t just a novel, it’s a living, breathing portrait of Annie Oakley that bursts off the page like one of her legendary shots. The author has masterfully blended historical truth with fictional finesse, creating a tale that feels both authentic and emotionally rich.
From dusty showgrounds to dazzling European stages, this book takes us through the highlights of Annie’s incredible journey while never losing sight of the woman behind the legend. What makes this story shine even brighter is its tender, beautifully framed exploration of Annie’s lifelong bond with Frank Butler. Their love story is the quiet heartbeat beneath the gunfire; a rare, deeply human element that sets this novel apart.
I especially loved the epilogue in Frank’s voice, bittersweet, heartfelt, and the perfect closing note to a life so well lived. That final touch stayed with me long after I turned the last page.
To the author: thank you for breathing such vivid life into this American icon. You've given us not just Annie Oakley, the legend, but Annie Oakley, the woman. Please, please keep writing, stories like this deserve to be told, and you’ve proven you're the perfect storyteller to tell them.
From dusty showgrounds to dazzling European stages, this book takes us through the highlights of Annie’s incredible journey while never losing sight of the woman behind the legend. What makes this story shine even brighter is its tender, beautifully framed exploration of Annie’s lifelong bond with Frank Butler. Their love story is the quiet heartbeat beneath the gunfire; a rare, deeply human element that sets this novel apart.
I especially loved the epilogue in Frank’s voice, bittersweet, heartfelt, and the perfect closing note to a life so well lived. That final touch stayed with me long after I turned the last page.
To the author: thank you for breathing such vivid life into this American icon. You've given us not just Annie Oakley, the legend, but Annie Oakley, the woman. Please, please keep writing, stories like this deserve to be told, and you’ve proven you're the perfect storyteller to tell them.
September 17, 2025
A vivid portrait of grit, ambition, and the price of fame.
Little Miss Sure Shot is more than just historical fiction, it’s a captivating journey into the life of a legendary figure, told with nuance, heart, and a sharp eye for detail. Jeffrey Marshall breathes new life into the story of Annie Oakley, a woman who defied the expectations of her time to become an American icon.
From the dusty performance arenas to the complex backstage realities of a woman in a man's world, Marshall captures both the grandeur and grit of Annie’s rise to fame. The narrative moves with the precision of a well-aimed shot , direct, powerful, and impossible to ignore. Each chapter deepens our understanding of Annie not just as a performer, but as a human being navigating love, loyalty, and legacy.
What makes this novel especially compelling is how relevant Annie’s struggles feel even today, her determination to be seen, heard, and respected resonates far beyond the historical setting. The prose is elegant without being heavy, and the pacing keeps you hooked from the very first page.
Whether you're a fan of historical fiction, strong female leads, or simply a well-told story, Little Miss Sure Shot delivers a knockout performance.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Highly recommended!
Little Miss Sure Shot is more than just historical fiction, it’s a captivating journey into the life of a legendary figure, told with nuance, heart, and a sharp eye for detail. Jeffrey Marshall breathes new life into the story of Annie Oakley, a woman who defied the expectations of her time to become an American icon.
From the dusty performance arenas to the complex backstage realities of a woman in a man's world, Marshall captures both the grandeur and grit of Annie’s rise to fame. The narrative moves with the precision of a well-aimed shot , direct, powerful, and impossible to ignore. Each chapter deepens our understanding of Annie not just as a performer, but as a human being navigating love, loyalty, and legacy.
What makes this novel especially compelling is how relevant Annie’s struggles feel even today, her determination to be seen, heard, and respected resonates far beyond the historical setting. The prose is elegant without being heavy, and the pacing keeps you hooked from the very first page.
Whether you're a fan of historical fiction, strong female leads, or simply a well-told story, Little Miss Sure Shot delivers a knockout performance.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Highly recommended!
September 17, 2025
Little Miss Sure Shot is more than just historical fiction, it’s an unforgettable journey into the heart of a legend. Through rich storytelling and carefully woven imagination, the author breathes new life into Annie Oakley’s world, taking readers far beyond the facts and into the emotions, struggles, and triumphs of her extraordinary life.
What makes this novel so captivating is not only the thrilling moments alongside Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show or the glamorous tours through Europe, but also the tender portrayal of Annie’s lifelong partnership with Frank Butler. Their love story, full of loyalty and quiet strength, grounds the book with warmth and humanity, leaving you deeply moved by the epilogue in Frank’s own voice.
This is historical fiction at its best; immersive, emotional, and respectful, yet daring enough to imagine the conversations and connections that history never recorded. Annie Oakley emerges from these pages not just as a sharpshooter, but as a woman of courage, love, and resilience.
To the author: thank you for giving us such a powerful reimagining of Annie’s life. Your work is not only entertaining but also inspiring, reminding readers of the importance of storytelling in keeping history alive. This book deserves to be read, shared, and celebrated.
What makes this novel so captivating is not only the thrilling moments alongside Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show or the glamorous tours through Europe, but also the tender portrayal of Annie’s lifelong partnership with Frank Butler. Their love story, full of loyalty and quiet strength, grounds the book with warmth and humanity, leaving you deeply moved by the epilogue in Frank’s own voice.
This is historical fiction at its best; immersive, emotional, and respectful, yet daring enough to imagine the conversations and connections that history never recorded. Annie Oakley emerges from these pages not just as a sharpshooter, but as a woman of courage, love, and resilience.
To the author: thank you for giving us such a powerful reimagining of Annie’s life. Your work is not only entertaining but also inspiring, reminding readers of the importance of storytelling in keeping history alive. This book deserves to be read, shared, and celebrated.
September 17, 2025
Little Miss Sure Shot takes a well-known icon of American history and makes her feel astonishingly real. The blend of fact and fiction is seamless, you’re swept into Annie Oakley’s world, from the thrill of the Wild West shows to the glittering tours across Europe, and you can’t help but admire her grit and grace at every turn.
What truly sets this novel apart is the tender love story between Annie and Frank Butler. Their unwavering devotion adds a heartbeat to the story that makes it more than just history, it becomes deeply human. By the time you reach the closing pages, told from Frank’s perspective, you’re left with a lump in your throat and a renewed respect for a woman who lived fearlessly.
This isn’t just a retelling, it’s an experience. The author’s storytelling paints Annie not only as a sharpshooter, but as a woman of strength, vulnerability, and enduring love. A must read for anyone who enjoys historical fiction with heart.
To the author: bravo for capturing Annie’s spirit in such a moving way. You’ve given readers a gift, one that will stay with us long after the last page.
What truly sets this novel apart is the tender love story between Annie and Frank Butler. Their unwavering devotion adds a heartbeat to the story that makes it more than just history, it becomes deeply human. By the time you reach the closing pages, told from Frank’s perspective, you’re left with a lump in your throat and a renewed respect for a woman who lived fearlessly.
This isn’t just a retelling, it’s an experience. The author’s storytelling paints Annie not only as a sharpshooter, but as a woman of strength, vulnerability, and enduring love. A must read for anyone who enjoys historical fiction with heart.
To the author: bravo for capturing Annie’s spirit in such a moving way. You’ve given readers a gift, one that will stay with us long after the last page.
September 17, 2025
What a captivating and heartfelt read! Little Miss Sure Shot doesn’t just tell Annie Oakley’s story, it immerses you in it. From the very first pages, I felt drawn into her world of grit, talent, and determination, but also her humanity and tenderness. The balance between historical detail and imaginative storytelling is seamless, making the novel both educational and deeply engaging.
The love story between Annie and Frank is beautifully woven throughout, giving the book a soul that lingers long after you finish. Their partnership is portrayed with such warmth and respect, it’s rare to see a relationship so authentically captured in fiction. The epilogue, especially, is a moving tribute that left me both teary-eyed and inspired.
This novel is a gem for anyone who loves historical fiction, strong female leads, or simply a story that celebrates resilience and love.
To the author: you’ve created something special here. Your storytelling brings history alive in a way that feels both intimate and timeless. Please keep sharing your voice with the world, it truly matters.
The love story between Annie and Frank is beautifully woven throughout, giving the book a soul that lingers long after you finish. Their partnership is portrayed with such warmth and respect, it’s rare to see a relationship so authentically captured in fiction. The epilogue, especially, is a moving tribute that left me both teary-eyed and inspired.
This novel is a gem for anyone who loves historical fiction, strong female leads, or simply a story that celebrates resilience and love.
To the author: you’ve created something special here. Your storytelling brings history alive in a way that feels both intimate and timeless. Please keep sharing your voice with the world, it truly matters.
September 17, 2025
I went into Little Miss Sure Shot expecting a straightforward historical story, but what I got was so much more. This book doesn’t just tell Annie Oakley’s story, it makes you feel like you’re right there with her. From the Wild West shows to the European tours, every scene is written with so much life and energy that you can practically hear the crowds cheering.
But honestly, what grabbed me most wasn’t just the action, it was the relationship between Annie and Frank Butler. Their love and loyalty to each other gave the story such warmth that I found myself smiling (and sometimes tearing up) as I read. The epilogue from Frank’s perspective was the perfect ending, it made the whole book hit even harder.
This is the kind of story that stays with you. The author has done an amazing job blending history with imagination, and I’m so glad they chose to highlight not just Annie’s skill, but her heart. If you love historical fiction, or just a really good love story, this is absolutely worth the read.
But honestly, what grabbed me most wasn’t just the action, it was the relationship between Annie and Frank Butler. Their love and loyalty to each other gave the story such warmth that I found myself smiling (and sometimes tearing up) as I read. The epilogue from Frank’s perspective was the perfect ending, it made the whole book hit even harder.
This is the kind of story that stays with you. The author has done an amazing job blending history with imagination, and I’m so glad they chose to highlight not just Annie’s skill, but her heart. If you love historical fiction, or just a really good love story, this is absolutely worth the read.
September 17, 2025
Little Miss Sure Shot is nothing short of dazzling. This book doesn’t just retell Annie Oakley’s life, it reimagines it with such depth, color, and humanity that you feel like you’re walking beside her through every triumph and trial. The storytelling is rich, the pacing keeps you hooked, and the mix of fact with fiction is seamless.
What truly elevates the novel is Annie’s enduring love story with Frank Butler. Their bond, equal parts devotion, sacrifice, and partnership, is portrayed with breathtaking tenderness. And that epilogue? Pure brilliance. It’s the kind of ending that makes you sit still for a moment, just absorbing the beauty of it all.
This is a book that entertains, inspires, and stays with you. To the author: your gift is remarkable. Please keep writing, because stories told this way are rare treasures.
What truly elevates the novel is Annie’s enduring love story with Frank Butler. Their bond, equal parts devotion, sacrifice, and partnership, is portrayed with breathtaking tenderness. And that epilogue? Pure brilliance. It’s the kind of ending that makes you sit still for a moment, just absorbing the beauty of it all.
This is a book that entertains, inspires, and stays with you. To the author: your gift is remarkable. Please keep writing, because stories told this way are rare treasures.
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