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The Stranger-A Horror Western
Josh Lemmings was nine years old when he saw his parents gunned down on the front porch of their ranch, and he was taken in by the kind Reverend Gatlin.
Josh isn't nine anymore. He's spent years growing up, growing stronger, and growing angrier.
Now, he's ready.
Ready to take on the three men who made him an orphan, and the bastard who sent them.
A dark stranger rides toward Spectre, Wyoming. Despite his appearance, he is not quite human.
But something much worse.
And his black heart is bent on vengeance.
And what of the beautiful huntress that is tracking him? A hunter of the undead, those who thirst for blood.
Human blood.
What will happen in the town of Spectre?
Who will survive the final showdown between man, vampire, and demon?
And the biggest question....
WHO is The Stranger?
Josh isn't nine anymore. He's spent years growing up, growing stronger, and growing angrier.
Now, he's ready.
Ready to take on the three men who made him an orphan, and the bastard who sent them.
A dark stranger rides toward Spectre, Wyoming. Despite his appearance, he is not quite human.
But something much worse.
And his black heart is bent on vengeance.
And what of the beautiful huntress that is tracking him? A hunter of the undead, those who thirst for blood.
Human blood.
What will happen in the town of Spectre?
Who will survive the final showdown between man, vampire, and demon?
And the biggest question....
WHO is The Stranger?
- GenresHorror
200 pages, ebook
Published November 30, 2025
About the author
Jim Donohue
17 books53 followersJim Donohue is a New York author, born and bred. He has been writing since he was a teenager in the Bronx, but he decided to go professional at the age of 68 in February of 2025, with the release of his short story, Hard Labor. He has followed those up with other stories, such as Ramona, Repossession, Blood Diamond, and The Turning, along with a novella called Unliving Legends. His debut novel, The Stranger, was released in November of 2025 to great reviews. He has recently released a collection of short stories called Depths of Degradation.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
November 2, 2025
Boy howdy…
Jim has brought a twist to the vampire trope that I am here for. We get light walkers and night walkers. Don’t worry, no sparkles. There is terror here. True, gripping terror between these pages, and the monsters aren’t beautiful beings that we’ve seen in the last few decades - they are brutal, violent, depraved…
This western-horror is everything you didn’t know you needed. While the first few pages are a bit of a wind up, once it starts rolling, you’re roped in for the ride. We join the journeys of three different characters and see where worlds collide, each arc wrapping up beautifully. Don’t worry, if you like to be hurt a little, this here is the book for you. There’s also plenty of blood.
This debut novel should be on your TBR yesterday. I’m truly excited to see what Jim brings us next. His writing pulls you in, inviting a thirst for vengeance you didn’t know lurked in your own gut.
Jim has brought a twist to the vampire trope that I am here for. We get light walkers and night walkers. Don’t worry, no sparkles. There is terror here. True, gripping terror between these pages, and the monsters aren’t beautiful beings that we’ve seen in the last few decades - they are brutal, violent, depraved…
This western-horror is everything you didn’t know you needed. While the first few pages are a bit of a wind up, once it starts rolling, you’re roped in for the ride. We join the journeys of three different characters and see where worlds collide, each arc wrapping up beautifully. Don’t worry, if you like to be hurt a little, this here is the book for you. There’s also plenty of blood.
This debut novel should be on your TBR yesterday. I’m truly excited to see what Jim brings us next. His writing pulls you in, inviting a thirst for vengeance you didn’t know lurked in your own gut.
November 30, 2025
Salem's Lot travels to the old west in Jim Donohue's debut novel. Masterfully woven tales of heartache, vengance, and greed across the desert collide with evil forces beyond mans' comprehension. Will you be able to withstand The Stranger?
November 29, 2025
I wasn't sure if liked Western horror...but yes... yes I do! This was absolutely thrilling and down right bloody. A revenge story that brings together two unlikely people with the same goal. Murder those that hurt them. Vampires, demons and hunters all wrapped up in this fabulous story. That last chapter 🤧 got me.
Favorite quote...
“We are what happens when the world forgets to be afraid of the dark.”
Favorite quote...
“We are what happens when the world forgets to be afraid of the dark.”
November 7, 2025
Where do I start??? Well, thank you Jim Donohue for trusting me to read all your new books. With that said said , if you’re a horror fan then this is the book for you. It’s the author’s first novel, his other books are like chapbooks but still amazing. This book grabbed me from the first sentence and held me captive to the very end. I read in a few short hours because I couldn’t put it down. It’s about a small town with very big problems that spread to other smalls towns. It has monsters, maniacs and more, oh my. It’s so intricate and complex and interweaves many different families. It’s on preorder on his website https://jimdonohuebooks.bigcartel.com/, hurry and get it now. Take a look at his other books. This is an author to follow. Thanks again Jim for an amazing book.
December 25, 2025
The Stranger by Jim Donohue is a fun blend of western and horror. The story is driven by vengeance, revenge, and an undying hatred for the men responsible for years of pain and suffering. The atmosphere is gritty and tense, perfectly matching the brutal setting. It’s a fast, engaging read that delivers both violence and justice in equal measure!
November 2, 2025
Jim Donohue delivers a bloodsoaked rush through the old west, ever thoughtful with enough surprises and turns to satiate even the most demanding reader. THE STRANGER is a weird, wild debut novel, sure to draw swarms of new fans to Donohue’s bright flame.
March 29, 2026
I’ll start by saying I absolutely loved this book, and that’s saying a lot, because I don’t normally enjoy westerns at all.
But The Stranger completely won me over. The writing is what did it. There’s something about Donohue’s prose that pulls you into the setting so naturally that you stop thinking about genre altogether. The atmosphere feels gritty and lived-in, and the story unfolds in a way that keeps you fully locked in.
What really stood out was how well the horror elements were woven into the western backdrop. The tension builds steadily, the characters feel purposeful, and there’s an underlying sense of dread that carries through the entire book.
This is one of those reads where you can tell the storytelling is doing the heavy lifting. Even if westerns aren’t your thing (like me), it’s still worth picking up.
If you are a fan of westerns, horror, or just strong, immersive writing, this is an easy recommendation.
But The Stranger completely won me over. The writing is what did it. There’s something about Donohue’s prose that pulls you into the setting so naturally that you stop thinking about genre altogether. The atmosphere feels gritty and lived-in, and the story unfolds in a way that keeps you fully locked in.
What really stood out was how well the horror elements were woven into the western backdrop. The tension builds steadily, the characters feel purposeful, and there’s an underlying sense of dread that carries through the entire book.
This is one of those reads where you can tell the storytelling is doing the heavy lifting. Even if westerns aren’t your thing (like me), it’s still worth picking up.
If you are a fan of westerns, horror, or just strong, immersive writing, this is an easy recommendation.
September 23, 2026
Here we go, horror fans! If you haven't read this one, you must add it to your TBR list. This is so good that I read it in one sitting. Jim Donohue takes horror to a whole other level. I absolutely loved this book and Josh's thirst for vengeance. Spectre, Wyoming just won't be the same. I can't wait to see what this author comes up with next.
November 7, 2025
just finished The Stranger by Jim Donohue and honestly? i loved every single thing about it. the characters were built with so much intention. every interaction felt deliberate and well crafted. you can tell the author spent time making sure each dynamic mattered in their own unique ways.
the writing itself is cinematic af. every line paints the desert, the decay, and the quiet horror of it all so vividly that you feel like you’re standing right there in the dust. it’s one of those stories that lingers, not because it demands your attention, but because it settles deep in your bones.
and that ending? absolutely beautiful. bittersweet and haunting in truly the best way. i really hope Lorelei’s story isn’t over. i feel there’s something about her that will refuse to let go. hoping for a continuation of her story in either a prequel or sequel!
the writing itself is cinematic af. every line paints the desert, the decay, and the quiet horror of it all so vividly that you feel like you’re standing right there in the dust. it’s one of those stories that lingers, not because it demands your attention, but because it settles deep in your bones.
and that ending? absolutely beautiful. bittersweet and haunting in truly the best way. i really hope Lorelei’s story isn’t over. i feel there’s something about her that will refuse to let go. hoping for a continuation of her story in either a prequel or sequel!
August 21, 2026
A Story of Gunsmoke and Copper
With his first full-length level, Jim Donohue quickly made a name for himself in the Weird West. And that’s an honor well earned.
Not its official leader, banker Arthur Morgan rules the town of Spectre through shady methods. When he sends three henchmen to collect a debt, the situation escalates quickly, leaving a young boy alone with nothing but himself and an appetite for revenge. To spice things up, it soon turns out that dark forces haunt the frontier—and they have debts of their own to collect.
Add to the picture the fierce monster hunter Lorelei Ravenwood, a faithful priest, an overpowered sheriff, and, of course, the mysterious Stranger himself: a sinister-looking figure riding a horse called “Black Magic.” But the Stranger has an agenda of his own—and a dark secret.
The result is a convincing Weird West novel that combines the elements of a classic western with horror. Both sides of the book find a great middle ground between well-established tropes and original ideas. The storytelling uses enough familiar elements to make the world feel recognizable, but it never overplays its hand.
The real strength of this book lies in its atmospheric setting, its fitting and thematic writing style, and its well-developed characters. It’s a story of gunsmoke, copper and revenge—and most importantly a very enjoyable read.
With his first full-length level, Jim Donohue quickly made a name for himself in the Weird West. And that’s an honor well earned.
Not its official leader, banker Arthur Morgan rules the town of Spectre through shady methods. When he sends three henchmen to collect a debt, the situation escalates quickly, leaving a young boy alone with nothing but himself and an appetite for revenge. To spice things up, it soon turns out that dark forces haunt the frontier—and they have debts of their own to collect.
Add to the picture the fierce monster hunter Lorelei Ravenwood, a faithful priest, an overpowered sheriff, and, of course, the mysterious Stranger himself: a sinister-looking figure riding a horse called “Black Magic.” But the Stranger has an agenda of his own—and a dark secret.
The result is a convincing Weird West novel that combines the elements of a classic western with horror. Both sides of the book find a great middle ground between well-established tropes and original ideas. The storytelling uses enough familiar elements to make the world feel recognizable, but it never overplays its hand.
The real strength of this book lies in its atmospheric setting, its fitting and thematic writing style, and its well-developed characters. It’s a story of gunsmoke, copper and revenge—and most importantly a very enjoyable read.
December 12, 2025
Excellent read! I couldn’t stop turning the pages! The first chapter sets it off with blood-shed and a young boy losing everything.
Meet the menacing trio that ride across the hills threatening families that money must be paid to their boss or else.
But deep in the towns something lingers. Far more sinister than guns and the bank loans.
Meet Western with horror mixed in. Demonic forces keeping the town locked and loaded in their own way! Thirst and prey!
Revenge slides along two boys that were ripped apart from all they knew! No one is safe.
My fave character is Lorelei! Stunning in beauty and darkness as she rides in with motives of her own. She captivates the reader as she rides into town. Calculating and calm.
Meet The Stranger. Dark and brooding. Riding with his own sins and holding no mercy for the gangsters of this town robbing and spilling blood.
Stay out of the woods! Day and night as nothing stirs but menace and blood lust, taste for flesh!
Twist and turns like a snake, coils up in a final Stand off? But is it the end?
Read and find out. Just keep your senses together. One hell of a ride!
Meet the menacing trio that ride across the hills threatening families that money must be paid to their boss or else.
But deep in the towns something lingers. Far more sinister than guns and the bank loans.
Meet Western with horror mixed in. Demonic forces keeping the town locked and loaded in their own way! Thirst and prey!
Revenge slides along two boys that were ripped apart from all they knew! No one is safe.
My fave character is Lorelei! Stunning in beauty and darkness as she rides in with motives of her own. She captivates the reader as she rides into town. Calculating and calm.
Meet The Stranger. Dark and brooding. Riding with his own sins and holding no mercy for the gangsters of this town robbing and spilling blood.
Stay out of the woods! Day and night as nothing stirs but menace and blood lust, taste for flesh!
Twist and turns like a snake, coils up in a final Stand off? But is it the end?
Read and find out. Just keep your senses together. One hell of a ride!
May 11, 2026
Y’all, Josh Lemmings is fueled by grief, rage, and vengeance, while a dark stranger rides toward Spectre, Wyoming bringing pure chaos with him. Add in a deadly vampire huntress and suddenly this dusty western town feels like it’s one bad decision away from hell itself. 😳
Jim Donohue’s writing is gritty, cinematic, and packed with atmosphere. You can practically smell the gunpowder and blood in the air. The slow burn tension builds perfectly before exploding into absolute carnage.
If westerns, vampires, demons, and morally gray characters are your thing, saddle up immediately because this one BITES!!
Jim Donohue’s writing is gritty, cinematic, and packed with atmosphere. You can practically smell the gunpowder and blood in the air. The slow burn tension builds perfectly before exploding into absolute carnage.
If westerns, vampires, demons, and morally gray characters are your thing, saddle up immediately because this one BITES!!
December 4, 2025
Very good Horror Western story. A sub-genre that is one of my favorites, Jim has excelled in providing a good, character driven story filled with emotion, and of course, gore. Short chapters and cool internal art work were an added bonus!
There were a couple of points in the story when the wrong character name appeared, which confused me, but apart from that, a solid effort. First novel, and a great one at that.
There were a couple of points in the story when the wrong character name appeared, which confused me, but apart from that, a solid effort. First novel, and a great one at that.
May 3, 2026
I truly enjoyed this story. Even though this is a genre I normally wouldn't pick up and read but this book was definitely interesting and kept you interested in reading the book. I really like the storyline it was different. The twist at the end with the Stranger was good. I was trying to figure out who the stranger was. Also Mr. Morgan got what he deserved.
December 17, 2025
I love a gritty western. This did not disappoint.
November 26, 2025
A western horror with heart, The Stranger is much more than your average vampire story. It's a strong character driven tale that is multi-layered and has far more focus on the human element and emotion which heightens the stakes right up until its fangtastic explosive finale.
Jim has done an exceptional job here with the characters, really bringing them to life with sharp dialogue in a love letter to the westerns of old. For the most part, the story follows Josh Lemmings, a nine year old boy living in the outskirts of the township of Spectre who is living with his parents when he sees them murdered right before his eyes. From there, he embarks on a multi-year journey with one thing in mind - revenge. As he gets older, Josh prepares to return to Spectre to finally claim his revenge. Unbenownst to Josh, There are rumous of a dark stranger that is also on their way to Spectre. A huntress, seeking revenge herself against the dark stranger is in pursuit.
It all builds up to a finale that I didn't see coming and was a thouroughly enjoyable conclusion.
While the story itself was great, Jim also paints a vivid picture of the surroundings to the point where you could picture yourself right there in the story. There were several points in the writing that made me stop and appreciate the prose for the great writing it is.
If you're after a horror western book that will keep you glued to each page, this is one you'll want to add right at the top of your TBR list.
Jim has done an exceptional job here with the characters, really bringing them to life with sharp dialogue in a love letter to the westerns of old. For the most part, the story follows Josh Lemmings, a nine year old boy living in the outskirts of the township of Spectre who is living with his parents when he sees them murdered right before his eyes. From there, he embarks on a multi-year journey with one thing in mind - revenge. As he gets older, Josh prepares to return to Spectre to finally claim his revenge. Unbenownst to Josh, There are rumous of a dark stranger that is also on their way to Spectre. A huntress, seeking revenge herself against the dark stranger is in pursuit.
It all builds up to a finale that I didn't see coming and was a thouroughly enjoyable conclusion.
While the story itself was great, Jim also paints a vivid picture of the surroundings to the point where you could picture yourself right there in the story. There were several points in the writing that made me stop and appreciate the prose for the great writing it is.
If you're after a horror western book that will keep you glued to each page, this is one you'll want to add right at the top of your TBR list.
November 30, 2025
The story is told in three different POVs. Josh Lemmings was a child when he witnessed the murder of his parents. Now he is a man with only vengeance in his heart. A ruthless huntress that stalks vampires. And a demon that has his own agenda. All coming together in a final showdown.
I absolutely love western horror and this one was absolutely fantastic. The characters were written so vivid they were coming off the page. There were vampires, blood, love, laughter, and tears all wrapped up in a fantastic western horror story.
I absolutely love western horror and this one was absolutely fantastic. The characters were written so vivid they were coming off the page. There were vampires, blood, love, laughter, and tears all wrapped up in a fantastic western horror story.
November 23, 2025
The Wild West. It was a simpler time… or was it…
I will admit that westerns aren’t typically my thing, but after reading Jim’s shorter works I knew I had to check out his first full length novel. And I LOVED IT! This story is so well written and atmospheric you feel like you are standing right there in the saloon with the gunslingers. And the characters, they are just fantastic. The bad guys are dark as hell (no pun intended), and the good guys have hearts of gold. This is a story of love, vengeance and incomprehensible evil. And that ending was just the cherry on top of a perfectly crafted sundae. You definitely don’t want to miss out on this story!
I will admit that westerns aren’t typically my thing, but after reading Jim’s shorter works I knew I had to check out his first full length novel. And I LOVED IT! This story is so well written and atmospheric you feel like you are standing right there in the saloon with the gunslingers. And the characters, they are just fantastic. The bad guys are dark as hell (no pun intended), and the good guys have hearts of gold. This is a story of love, vengeance and incomprehensible evil. And that ending was just the cherry on top of a perfectly crafted sundae. You definitely don’t want to miss out on this story!
November 14, 2025
This is Jim's first attempt at a full-length novel. I will say, he knocks it out of the park with a horror western. To be honest, my experience with westerns has been watching Gunsmoke and Bonanza. So this would be an interesting read and I was correct. Vampires, the undead, and revenge all make for a fun western romp.
Just as you think you know what will happen next, Jim throws in another plot twist. When I read the acknowledgements, Jim mentioned that he was tempted to stop at 14,000 words. I'm glad that he kept going with it because this was too much fun to read. Despite my busy schedule, I knocked it out in a couple of days. Loved it.
Give this Western Horror a read, you won't regret it!
Just as you think you know what will happen next, Jim throws in another plot twist. When I read the acknowledgements, Jim mentioned that he was tempted to stop at 14,000 words. I'm glad that he kept going with it because this was too much fun to read. Despite my busy schedule, I knocked it out in a couple of days. Loved it.
Give this Western Horror a read, you won't regret it!
July 24, 2026
Lorelei Ravenwood and Josh Lemmings are very different people with very similar backgrounds. After having their parents brutally taken from them at young ages, they grew up with the same quest in mind—revenge for the being responsible for tearing their lives apart.
Westerns have never really been my genre, but a horror western? I couldn't resist. And now I'm wondering why I waited so long to try this one. This was an intense read. Action-packed from start to finish. And I never realized how well vampires and demons work with a western theme!
I loved Lorelei. Her determination and unapologetic feminine rage made her impossible not to root for. Josh's journey was just as compelling, and I found myself equally invested in his search for justice. By the end, I was genuinely attached to both characters.
I don’t want to talk about that ending. Had me all in my feelings.
The narrator deserves a shout-out, too. He captured the grit, intensity, and rugged cowboy atmosphere perfectly, making the story even more immersive.
If you're looking for a fast-paced supernatural adventure with plenty of horror, memorable characters, and an ending that sticks with you, this is one you won't want to miss.
Westerns have never really been my genre, but a horror western? I couldn't resist. And now I'm wondering why I waited so long to try this one. This was an intense read. Action-packed from start to finish. And I never realized how well vampires and demons work with a western theme!
I loved Lorelei. Her determination and unapologetic feminine rage made her impossible not to root for. Josh's journey was just as compelling, and I found myself equally invested in his search for justice. By the end, I was genuinely attached to both characters.
I don’t want to talk about that ending. Had me all in my feelings.
The narrator deserves a shout-out, too. He captured the grit, intensity, and rugged cowboy atmosphere perfectly, making the story even more immersive.
If you're looking for a fast-paced supernatural adventure with plenty of horror, memorable characters, and an ending that sticks with you, this is one you won't want to miss.
May 15, 2026
Y’all, Josh Lemmings is fueled by grief, rage, and vengeance, while a dark stranger rides toward Spectre, Wyoming bringing pure chaos with him. Add in a deadly vampire huntress and suddenly this dusty western town feels like it’s one bad decision away from hell itself. 😳
Jim Donohue’s writing is gritty, cinematic, and packed with atmosphere. You can practically smell the gunpowder and blood in the air. The slow burn tension builds perfectly before exploding into absolute carnage.
If westerns, vampires, demons, and morally gray characters are your thing, saddle up immediately because this one BITES!!
Jim Donohue’s writing is gritty, cinematic, and packed with atmosphere. You can practically smell the gunpowder and blood in the air. The slow burn tension builds perfectly before exploding into absolute carnage.
If westerns, vampires, demons, and morally gray characters are your thing, saddle up immediately because this one BITES!!
March 31, 2026
Unique take on a western, make it horror, paranormal, adventurous, it was jus freaking fantastic.
This was a quick and easy ready, hard to put down.
This was a quick and easy ready, hard to put down.
October 31, 2025
The Stranger - A Horror Western
By: Jim Donohue
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Release Date: November 30, 2025
Length: 215 pages
Content Warnings: Violence, Gore, Loss, Supernatural Horror
At first, I was a little worried. I had no expectations and no idea what this story was really about, and it felt a bit slow at the beginning. But it didn’t take long to realize this wasn’t just a simple western horror story, and oh man, was I right.
Jim shares how he grew up with his sister Sharon, watching horror films like House on Haunted Hill and The Sadist, and TV shows like The Twilight Zone, The Outer Limits, and Alfred Hitchcock Presents. But what truly shaped him was discovering a young Stephen King together.
While this isn’t Jim’s first published work, it’s his first full-length novel, and my only question is: why didn’t he do this sooner?
I want to thank everyone who told him to keep going, even when he thought about stopping the story at 13,000 words. From now on, you can add me to that list of people who will say: keep going, always.
This is a raw, chilling western horror that drags you deep into the Wild West and the evil, both human and supernatural, that lurks there. In this world, vampires exist. Not the romantic kind, but vile, merciless creatures that strike with fury. When Josh was nine years old, a corrupt banker sent his men to his family’s ranch. They murdered his parents, and Josh swore revenge.
Throughout the story, you can feel Jim’s past inspirations. He’s not copying Stephen King, but his admiration shines through. Jim has a unique storytelling voice that is immersive, passionate, and full of heart. After reading The Turning, I didn’t expect to step into an even larger world he’s building, but now I know there’s much more to come, and I’m eagerly waiting for whatever he writes next.
What truly got me was Josh. He’s a complete, fully developed character whose arc is packed with adventure, horror, heartbreak, and even humor. This isn’t a horror-comedy, but I found myself laughing out loud more than once. Example?
“I’m glad you remember the story. Tell me, though, which was the one that made you remember?”
This full scene may well be my favorite. I’m not going to spoil it, but those who have read it will know, and you will too once you have.
When this novel is released, don’t hesitate. Give it a chance. You’ll have one hell of a ride.
🎯 Recommended for:
• Readers who love gritty westerns with a horror edge
• Fans of vampire stories that go back to their monstrous roots
• Anyone looking for character-driven storytelling with heart and grit
🚫 Not for:
• Readers expecting a traditional western with romance or redemption arcs
• Those sensitive to violence or emotional trauma
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✅ REAL – A haunting, blood-soaked western that proves horror can ride on horseback and still have heart.
— Angel R. Sánchez
Author. Reader. Creator of The Real Review
Disclaimer: I received an advance copy of this book from the author. This review is voluntary and reflects my honest opinion.
By: Jim Donohue
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Release Date: November 30, 2025
Length: 215 pages
Content Warnings: Violence, Gore, Loss, Supernatural Horror
At first, I was a little worried. I had no expectations and no idea what this story was really about, and it felt a bit slow at the beginning. But it didn’t take long to realize this wasn’t just a simple western horror story, and oh man, was I right.
Jim shares how he grew up with his sister Sharon, watching horror films like House on Haunted Hill and The Sadist, and TV shows like The Twilight Zone, The Outer Limits, and Alfred Hitchcock Presents. But what truly shaped him was discovering a young Stephen King together.
While this isn’t Jim’s first published work, it’s his first full-length novel, and my only question is: why didn’t he do this sooner?
I want to thank everyone who told him to keep going, even when he thought about stopping the story at 13,000 words. From now on, you can add me to that list of people who will say: keep going, always.
This is a raw, chilling western horror that drags you deep into the Wild West and the evil, both human and supernatural, that lurks there. In this world, vampires exist. Not the romantic kind, but vile, merciless creatures that strike with fury. When Josh was nine years old, a corrupt banker sent his men to his family’s ranch. They murdered his parents, and Josh swore revenge.
Throughout the story, you can feel Jim’s past inspirations. He’s not copying Stephen King, but his admiration shines through. Jim has a unique storytelling voice that is immersive, passionate, and full of heart. After reading The Turning, I didn’t expect to step into an even larger world he’s building, but now I know there’s much more to come, and I’m eagerly waiting for whatever he writes next.
What truly got me was Josh. He’s a complete, fully developed character whose arc is packed with adventure, horror, heartbreak, and even humor. This isn’t a horror-comedy, but I found myself laughing out loud more than once. Example?
“I’m glad you remember the story. Tell me, though, which was the one that made you remember?”
This full scene may well be my favorite. I’m not going to spoil it, but those who have read it will know, and you will too once you have.
When this novel is released, don’t hesitate. Give it a chance. You’ll have one hell of a ride.
🎯 Recommended for:
• Readers who love gritty westerns with a horror edge
• Fans of vampire stories that go back to their monstrous roots
• Anyone looking for character-driven storytelling with heart and grit
🚫 Not for:
• Readers expecting a traditional western with romance or redemption arcs
• Those sensitive to violence or emotional trauma
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✅ REAL – A haunting, blood-soaked western that proves horror can ride on horseback and still have heart.
— Angel R. Sánchez
Author. Reader. Creator of The Real Review
Disclaimer: I received an advance copy of this book from the author. This review is voluntary and reflects my honest opinion.
May 27, 2026
The Stranger is what happens when you throw a classic revenge western straight into the jaws of horror, and somehow make it feel completely natural. Vampires, demons, gunslingers, blood-soaked vengeance… this book absolutely commits to the chaos, and it works.
From the opening tragedy of Josh Lemmings witnessing his parents’ murder as a child, the story hooks you fast. His grief and rage simmer underneath every page, turning his journey into more than just revenge. You feel the years he’s spent carrying that anger, sharpening himself into someone capable of facing the monsters who destroyed his life.
And the best part? The human monsters aren’t even the only threat.
The atmosphere in this book is incredible. Spectre, Wyoming feels like a cursed town waiting to erupt. Dust, blood, gunpowder, fear, it all has this gritty cinematic quality that makes the entire story play out like the darkest western movie you’ve never seen. You can practically hear the boots hitting the saloon floor and feel the tension building every time a stranger rides into town.
Speaking of which… The Stranger himself is easily one of the most compelling parts of the story. Mysterious, terrifying, and somehow tragic underneath it all, every scene involving him crackles with tension. The slow reveal of who and what he truly is keeps the suspense razor sharp the entire way through.
Lorelei was another standout for me. A vampire huntress tracking something even worse than the undead? Instantly interesting. She adds another layer to the story that keeps the collision course between all three main characters feeling inevitable and explosive.
What surprised me most was how emotional the story gets beneath all the horror. For a book filled with vampires, demons, death, and brutality, there’s still a strong emotional core about grief, humanity, and what revenge ultimately turns people into. Even the monsters feel layered in a way that makes you question where the line between human and monster actually is.
The pacing is fantastic too. Quick chapters, constant tension, and enough twists to keep things unpredictable without losing momentum. Once the story gets moving, it doesn’t really let you breathe.
If you love westerns, horror, or dark supernatural stories with cinematic energy and morally grey characters, The Stranger absolutely delivers. It’s violent, atmospheric, addictive, and honestly just a ridiculously fun ride from beginning to end.
And that ending? Perfect western horror energy.
From the opening tragedy of Josh Lemmings witnessing his parents’ murder as a child, the story hooks you fast. His grief and rage simmer underneath every page, turning his journey into more than just revenge. You feel the years he’s spent carrying that anger, sharpening himself into someone capable of facing the monsters who destroyed his life.
And the best part? The human monsters aren’t even the only threat.
The atmosphere in this book is incredible. Spectre, Wyoming feels like a cursed town waiting to erupt. Dust, blood, gunpowder, fear, it all has this gritty cinematic quality that makes the entire story play out like the darkest western movie you’ve never seen. You can practically hear the boots hitting the saloon floor and feel the tension building every time a stranger rides into town.
Speaking of which… The Stranger himself is easily one of the most compelling parts of the story. Mysterious, terrifying, and somehow tragic underneath it all, every scene involving him crackles with tension. The slow reveal of who and what he truly is keeps the suspense razor sharp the entire way through.
Lorelei was another standout for me. A vampire huntress tracking something even worse than the undead? Instantly interesting. She adds another layer to the story that keeps the collision course between all three main characters feeling inevitable and explosive.
What surprised me most was how emotional the story gets beneath all the horror. For a book filled with vampires, demons, death, and brutality, there’s still a strong emotional core about grief, humanity, and what revenge ultimately turns people into. Even the monsters feel layered in a way that makes you question where the line between human and monster actually is.
The pacing is fantastic too. Quick chapters, constant tension, and enough twists to keep things unpredictable without losing momentum. Once the story gets moving, it doesn’t really let you breathe.
If you love westerns, horror, or dark supernatural stories with cinematic energy and morally grey characters, The Stranger absolutely delivers. It’s violent, atmospheric, addictive, and honestly just a ridiculously fun ride from beginning to end.
And that ending? Perfect western horror energy.
May 27, 2026
The Stranger is a damn good mix of western and horror. It’s gritty, violent, atmospheric, and reads like an old-school revenge tale crashed headfirst into a vampire nightmare.
The story starts with Josh Lemmings witnessing his parents get murdered when he’s just a kid. Years later, he comes back hardened, angry, and ready to settle scores. That alone would’ve made for a solid western, but then the supernatural side kicks in and takes the whole thing somewhere darker.
The town of Spectre feels alive in that dusty, doomed kind of way great westerns have. You can almost hear the saloon doors swinging and feel the tension in the air every time somebody reaches for a gun. Then you throw in vampires, demons, and a mysterious stranger riding into town who clearly isn’t human, and suddenly the whole place feels cursed from the ground up.
What I liked most was that the book never loses sight of the characters. Josh’s anger feels earned. Lorelei, the vampire hunter, is tough without feeling forced, and The Stranger himself is exactly what you want from a character with a title like that: intimidating, mysterious, and dangerous every second he’s on the page.
The pacing is fast too. Short chapters, no dragging, and every storyline keeps moving toward this inevitable collision. Once things start coming together, the book turns into an all-out bloodbath in the best possible way.
The horror elements work because they’re treated seriously. These aren’t romanticized vampires. They’re brutal. Same goes for the demons. There’s a real sense of danger throughout the book, and some scenes genuinely feel mean and unforgiving, which fits the tone perfectly.
At the same time, it still feels like a western at heart. Revenge, loss, morality, survival, all the classic themes are there underneath the supernatural stuff. It honestly reminded me of the kind of movie you’d get if Tombstone and a horror film had a really violent kid together.
If you’re into westerns, vampires, revenge stories, or just horror with strong atmosphere and memorable characters, this is absolutely worth reading. Fast, brutal, entertaining, and cinematic as hell.
The story starts with Josh Lemmings witnessing his parents get murdered when he’s just a kid. Years later, he comes back hardened, angry, and ready to settle scores. That alone would’ve made for a solid western, but then the supernatural side kicks in and takes the whole thing somewhere darker.
The town of Spectre feels alive in that dusty, doomed kind of way great westerns have. You can almost hear the saloon doors swinging and feel the tension in the air every time somebody reaches for a gun. Then you throw in vampires, demons, and a mysterious stranger riding into town who clearly isn’t human, and suddenly the whole place feels cursed from the ground up.
What I liked most was that the book never loses sight of the characters. Josh’s anger feels earned. Lorelei, the vampire hunter, is tough without feeling forced, and The Stranger himself is exactly what you want from a character with a title like that: intimidating, mysterious, and dangerous every second he’s on the page.
The pacing is fast too. Short chapters, no dragging, and every storyline keeps moving toward this inevitable collision. Once things start coming together, the book turns into an all-out bloodbath in the best possible way.
The horror elements work because they’re treated seriously. These aren’t romanticized vampires. They’re brutal. Same goes for the demons. There’s a real sense of danger throughout the book, and some scenes genuinely feel mean and unforgiving, which fits the tone perfectly.
At the same time, it still feels like a western at heart. Revenge, loss, morality, survival, all the classic themes are there underneath the supernatural stuff. It honestly reminded me of the kind of movie you’d get if Tombstone and a horror film had a really violent kid together.
If you’re into westerns, vampires, revenge stories, or just horror with strong atmosphere and memorable characters, this is absolutely worth reading. Fast, brutal, entertaining, and cinematic as hell.
October 1, 2026
2.5 stars for me.
Positives first the book does get you hooked in quickly. There is a good mix of chapter lengths which really helps with the pacing of the story. I think towards the end this really ramps up into much shorter chapters but the frantic pacing does help the story and the chaos it depicts.
I think the premise of the book is also really interesting. I can’t say I’ve read too many vampire westerns before. There are a few twists in there which I think work well too.
That said I have a few gripes that stopped this from being higher rated.
There are a few formatting and grammar mistakes throughout which should have been caught in the proofread. One of the main antagonists is introduced as Cash Badger, for instance.
Some of the character development is rushed. Two of the POV characters, one male one female, have a massively accelerated relationship with one seeming to be uncharacteristically emotional over the death of the other. I understand what that author was going here with the three POV stories only meeting for the final confrontation. But this was detrimental to some of the ideas which were then introduced.
I think instead, if the characters had met in the exact scenario that our character meets Frank and Jesse James, entirely by coincidence, this would have allowed them to get to know each other and the ‘I feel I could have loved you’ inclusion would have been earned.
Finally, the previously mentioned Mr Badger, who instigates the plot of this book, gets away with it? I would understand if this was played as being a bleak ending but I don’t think that was the intention. In reality, our main character who is driven by revenge kills two men who, although present, didn’t kill nor wanted to kill his father, he then shoots an immortal vampire which has no effect on said vampire, and dies to an axe wound in his shoulder from a mind controlled ghoul? Meanwhile the man who kills his father left town months ago and is never mentioned again. Not very satisfying.
Positives first the book does get you hooked in quickly. There is a good mix of chapter lengths which really helps with the pacing of the story. I think towards the end this really ramps up into much shorter chapters but the frantic pacing does help the story and the chaos it depicts.
I think the premise of the book is also really interesting. I can’t say I’ve read too many vampire westerns before. There are a few twists in there which I think work well too.
That said I have a few gripes that stopped this from being higher rated.
There are a few formatting and grammar mistakes throughout which should have been caught in the proofread. One of the main antagonists is introduced as Cash Badger, for instance.
Some of the character development is rushed. Two of the POV characters, one male one female, have a massively accelerated relationship with one seeming to be uncharacteristically emotional over the death of the other. I understand what that author was going here with the three POV stories only meeting for the final confrontation. But this was detrimental to some of the ideas which were then introduced.
I think instead, if the characters had met in the exact scenario that our character meets Frank and Jesse James, entirely by coincidence, this would have allowed them to get to know each other and the ‘I feel I could have loved you’ inclusion would have been earned.
Finally, the previously mentioned Mr Badger, who instigates the plot of this book, gets away with it? I would understand if this was played as being a bleak ending but I don’t think that was the intention. In reality, our main character who is driven by revenge kills two men who, although present, didn’t kill nor wanted to kill his father, he then shoots an immortal vampire which has no effect on said vampire, and dies to an axe wound in his shoulder from a mind controlled ghoul? Meanwhile the man who kills his father left town months ago and is never mentioned again. Not very satisfying.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 1, 2026
This one had all the ingredients for something unforgettable—revenge, supernatural chaos, and a morally gray antihero—but it never fully locked in the way I wanted it to.
Josh Lemmings’ backstory hits hard right out of the gate. A child shaped by violence, raised in the shadow of loss, and fueled by revenge? That’s a strong foundation. And the setup—a mysterious, not-quite-human stranger rolling into Spectre, Wyoming—definitely delivers on atmosphere. There’s a gritty, almost Western-horror vibe here that should feel electric.
But somewhere along the way, the execution felt uneven. The pacing jumps around, and some of the reveals—especially surrounding The Stranger—don’t land with the impact they’re clearly meant to have. The story introduces a lot of compelling elements (vampires, demons, hunters), but they don’t always feel fully developed, like the book is juggling more than it can comfortably carry.
The huntress character had real potential and added an interesting layer, but I wanted more depth there—more tension, more connection, more stakes.
That said, it’s not a bad read. There are moments where the darkness hits, and the concept itself is strong enough to keep you turning pages. It just feels like it needed a bit more focus and polish to really deliver on everything it promises.
If you’re into revenge-driven supernatural thrillers with a Western edge, this is worth checking out—just don’t expect it to fully sink its teeth in.
Josh Lemmings’ backstory hits hard right out of the gate. A child shaped by violence, raised in the shadow of loss, and fueled by revenge? That’s a strong foundation. And the setup—a mysterious, not-quite-human stranger rolling into Spectre, Wyoming—definitely delivers on atmosphere. There’s a gritty, almost Western-horror vibe here that should feel electric.
But somewhere along the way, the execution felt uneven. The pacing jumps around, and some of the reveals—especially surrounding The Stranger—don’t land with the impact they’re clearly meant to have. The story introduces a lot of compelling elements (vampires, demons, hunters), but they don’t always feel fully developed, like the book is juggling more than it can comfortably carry.
The huntress character had real potential and added an interesting layer, but I wanted more depth there—more tension, more connection, more stakes.
That said, it’s not a bad read. There are moments where the darkness hits, and the concept itself is strong enough to keep you turning pages. It just feels like it needed a bit more focus and polish to really deliver on everything it promises.
If you’re into revenge-driven supernatural thrillers with a Western edge, this is worth checking out—just don’t expect it to fully sink its teeth in.
June 2, 2026
Some books entertain you. Others drag you straight into the dirt, blood, and shadows and refuse to let go. The Stranger: A Horror Western by Jim Donohue does exactly that.
Imagine the unforgiving atmosphere of an old western colliding headfirst with nightmare fuel vampires, demons, revenge, and a mysterious gunslinger who may be far worse than the monsters he hunts. From the very first pages, the story feels cinematic: dusty Wyoming streets, creaking saloons, whispers of death, and a dark rider approaching town with vengeance burning behind his eyes.
Josh Lemmings isn’t just hunting the men who destroyed his life… he’s walking straight into hell to do it.
What made this book stand out to me was how perfectly it balanced gritty western storytelling with brutal horror elements. The tension keeps tightening until the final showdown feels explosive and inevitable. Every character feels dangerous, broken, or haunted sometimes all three at once.
And honestly? The atmosphere was EVERYTHING. Reading this felt like:
🌑 moonlit deserts
🩸 blood soaked revenge
🔥 cursed towns
🐎 lonely horseback rides through darkness
⚰️ supernatural terror lurking behind every door
If you love:
* Horror westerns
* Dark revenge stories
* Vampire lore
* Morally gray antiheroes
* Supernatural thrillers with cinematic vibes
…then this book deserves a spot on your shelf immediately.
Imagine the unforgiving atmosphere of an old western colliding headfirst with nightmare fuel vampires, demons, revenge, and a mysterious gunslinger who may be far worse than the monsters he hunts. From the very first pages, the story feels cinematic: dusty Wyoming streets, creaking saloons, whispers of death, and a dark rider approaching town with vengeance burning behind his eyes.
Josh Lemmings isn’t just hunting the men who destroyed his life… he’s walking straight into hell to do it.
What made this book stand out to me was how perfectly it balanced gritty western storytelling with brutal horror elements. The tension keeps tightening until the final showdown feels explosive and inevitable. Every character feels dangerous, broken, or haunted sometimes all three at once.
And honestly? The atmosphere was EVERYTHING. Reading this felt like:
🌑 moonlit deserts
🩸 blood soaked revenge
🔥 cursed towns
🐎 lonely horseback rides through darkness
⚰️ supernatural terror lurking behind every door
If you love:
* Horror westerns
* Dark revenge stories
* Vampire lore
* Morally gray antiheroes
* Supernatural thrillers with cinematic vibes
…then this book deserves a spot on your shelf immediately.
June 9, 2026
The Stranger: A Horror Western was a unique and entertaining read that blends two genres you don’t usually see together, but somehow makes it work. The mix of a classic western setting with dark horror elements created an atmosphere that felt mysterious and dangerous from the start. I liked the feeling of an old frontier tale with something much darker hiding beneath the surface.
Josh’s story was one of the parts that pulled me in the most. His past, the loss of his family, and the anger he carries after all those years give the character a strong emotional reason behind his actions. It’s not just a simple revenge story there’s a lot of pain and struggle driving him forward.
The Stranger himself brings a great sense of mystery to the book. The slow build around who he is and what he really wants kept me curious. The addition of vampires, demons, and a hunter tracking the undead made the story even more unpredictable and added a nice horror twist to the western world.
I enjoyed the dark tone, the action, and the way the author combined suspense with supernatural elements. It’s a fun choice for readers who like westerns but also enjoy horror and fantasy mixed in. Definitely a different kind of story, and one I’d recommend to anyone looking for something outside the usual genres.
Josh’s story was one of the parts that pulled me in the most. His past, the loss of his family, and the anger he carries after all those years give the character a strong emotional reason behind his actions. It’s not just a simple revenge story there’s a lot of pain and struggle driving him forward.
The Stranger himself brings a great sense of mystery to the book. The slow build around who he is and what he really wants kept me curious. The addition of vampires, demons, and a hunter tracking the undead made the story even more unpredictable and added a nice horror twist to the western world.
I enjoyed the dark tone, the action, and the way the author combined suspense with supernatural elements. It’s a fun choice for readers who like westerns but also enjoy horror and fantasy mixed in. Definitely a different kind of story, and one I’d recommend to anyone looking for something outside the usual genres.
March 27, 2026
I went into The Stranger: A Horror Western expecting a fun genre mashup but what I got was something far more gripping and atmospheric than I anticipated. Jim Donohue doesn’t just blend horror and western elements; he fuses them into something that feels raw, haunting, and deeply personal.
From the very first chapter, I was pulled into Josh Lemmings’ tragic past. His transformation from a broken child into a hardened man driven by vengeance is written with emotional weight that lingers long after you put the book down. There’s a real sense of pain behind his journey, it’s not just revenge for revenge’s sake; it’s survival, grief, and identity all tangled together.
The real standout, though, is the eerie presence of “the stranger.” There’s something deeply unsettling about him not just because of what he is, but because of what he represents. The slow reveal of his nature builds tension in a way that feels almost cinematic. Pair that with the dusty, isolated town of Spectre, and you get a setting that feels alive… and doomed.
If you love stories that combine supernatural horror with gritty western storytelling, this is absolutely worth your time. It’s violent, emotional, and filled with dread in the best possible way.
From the very first chapter, I was pulled into Josh Lemmings’ tragic past. His transformation from a broken child into a hardened man driven by vengeance is written with emotional weight that lingers long after you put the book down. There’s a real sense of pain behind his journey, it’s not just revenge for revenge’s sake; it’s survival, grief, and identity all tangled together.
The real standout, though, is the eerie presence of “the stranger.” There’s something deeply unsettling about him not just because of what he is, but because of what he represents. The slow reveal of his nature builds tension in a way that feels almost cinematic. Pair that with the dusty, isolated town of Spectre, and you get a setting that feels alive… and doomed.
If you love stories that combine supernatural horror with gritty western storytelling, this is absolutely worth your time. It’s violent, emotional, and filled with dread in the best possible way.
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