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Smoke Tree Mystery #4
Death on a Desert Hillside
In the foothills of the desert mountains west of Smoke Tree, someone has murdered Caleb and Eunice Clovis. The victims were impoverished squatters living a subsistence life in a lean-to made of discarded lumber and cast off building materials. Who would want to kill them? And why? There seems to be no motive for the crime.
Lieutenant Carlos Caballo, known throughout the Lower Colorado River Basin simply as “Horse,” is charged with solving the crime. A crime that might not have been discovered for months except for a minor twist of fate.
As the commander of the Smoke Tree Substation of the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, Horse has other issues to deal with at the same time: a town divided by Highway 66 into haves and have-nots, where prejudice and anger simmer just beneath the surface;
an incompetent and corrupt local police department; local politics; cattle rusting in the river bottom north of Smoke Tree; and the possibility his best young deputy is going to ask for a transfer.
With the help of his friend Chemehuevi Joe, a mysterious, self-sufficient, and deadly Native American, Horse sets off on the trail of a killer who is not done killing in this fourth book of the Smoke Tree Series.
Lieutenant Carlos Caballo, known throughout the Lower Colorado River Basin simply as “Horse,” is charged with solving the crime. A crime that might not have been discovered for months except for a minor twist of fate.
As the commander of the Smoke Tree Substation of the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, Horse has other issues to deal with at the same time: a town divided by Highway 66 into haves and have-nots, where prejudice and anger simmer just beneath the surface;
an incompetent and corrupt local police department; local politics; cattle rusting in the river bottom north of Smoke Tree; and the possibility his best young deputy is going to ask for a transfer.
With the help of his friend Chemehuevi Joe, a mysterious, self-sufficient, and deadly Native American, Horse sets off on the trail of a killer who is not done killing in this fourth book of the Smoke Tree Series.
- GenresFiction
301 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 21, 2016
About the author
Gary J. George
28 books99 followersGary George spent his teenage years in Needles, California, and his Smoke Tree novels are set in the Mojave Desert of the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s. Gary was blessed with a long and happy marriage to his beloved, Ginny Boyd, author of the book "Birdy Bird." When Ginny died in January 2018, Gary could not write for a while. However, during a seventy-mile backpacking trip across the desert from the Colorado River to the middle of the Mojave National Preserve in May of that year, he began to come to terms with her death. When he returned home, he discovered that immersing himself in his writing allowed him a few hours of relief from sadness, and he began work on "The Carnival, The Cross, and the Burning Desert."
In 2024, Gary was diagnosed with four severely blocked arteries in his heart and underwent open-heart surgery at Loma Linda University Medical Center. He wrote a book about his experience and recovery, "Out of the Cabbage (CABG) Patch," while concurrently working on the twelfth novel in the Smoke Tree series, "Mojave Desert Jezebeth," which was published in July of 2025. The thirteenth book in the Smoke Tree Series, "Desert Resurrection," was published on April 2, 2026.
In 2024, Gary was diagnosed with four severely blocked arteries in his heart and underwent open-heart surgery at Loma Linda University Medical Center. He wrote a book about his experience and recovery, "Out of the Cabbage (CABG) Patch," while concurrently working on the twelfth novel in the Smoke Tree series, "Mojave Desert Jezebeth," which was published in July of 2025. The thirteenth book in the Smoke Tree Series, "Desert Resurrection," was published on April 2, 2026.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
April 25, 2024
This is one of those books that was recommended, but I wasn't so sure about. However, I am glad I went ahead and am so glad to have found this series. I read this one out of order but it's ok as the author does a great job of filling in enough that it could stand on its own. This is set in 1961, in the Mojave Desert in a small town with a Sheriff, Carlos Caballo, who is known as Horse. It is very well written, and the mystery captured my attention that I could barely put this down. I found the setting to be a character in itself and it was quite refreshing to read a mystery from this era, prior to the technology we have now that while effective, often takes away from the logical thought processes that the reader can work through along with the characters. I'm ready for another book in the series and know that I'll end up reading them all.
May 28, 2019
A story about law enforcement and law breaking in the desert region of California in the early 1960's. The desert surrounding Smoke Tree, Ca. is stark, quiet, but full of life. Gary J. George draws you quietly into this world, and before you have finished the first chapter, you want more. You not only want to know who committed the murders and why, you want to know more about the people of this desert community.
This is either the third or fourth book in a series, but is the first one I read, and it stands on its own quite well.
I received this book free from Goodreads in exchange for an honest review.
This is either the third or fourth book in a series, but is the first one I read, and it stands on its own quite well.
I received this book free from Goodreads in exchange for an honest review.
August 12, 2024
The story begins with an exciting scene of wild dogs running across the desert at night - hungry and desperate for meat. In only a few pages, you'll be hooked. In the next scene/chapter, you meat the main character Lieutenant Carlos Caballo, who is a dedicated lawman in a tri-state area of desert that he loves. It's December 1961 and you'll enter a different time and probably a different place than you know much about. There is a lot of description of the desert in this book (I like some, but could have done with less) and you can tell that both the author and his characters love this wild land and treasure it. The wild dogs are pivotal in leading to a murder in the desert which I will not tell about because I don't want to ruin your discovery. There are some great characters in this book (along with some evil ones) and a big plus is that the book is clean - yay! It's a good story that spins out at a good pace and I liked it.
January 25, 2023
Gary George is an exceptional writer. This book held my interest throughout. Gary George deftly developed the characters such that I felt that I knew them. The story line is nicely developed too. This author and this series are new to me. I'm glad I've discovered them. I can hardly wait to start the next book in this series.
March 7, 2016
A very good book, and series.
I'm not the erudite, critical type reader, this is my first review since school, but I am an avid reader. having read some of Mr. George's books some time ago, I was happy to find this book on Amazon. Like the others. I had read, I had a hard time putting it down and enjoyed it a great deal. If you like crime dramas and are attracted to the outdoors, you can't go wrong reading any of this series.
I'm not the erudite, critical type reader, this is my first review since school, but I am an avid reader. having read some of Mr. George's books some time ago, I was happy to find this book on Amazon. Like the others. I had read, I had a hard time putting it down and enjoyed it a great deal. If you like crime dramas and are attracted to the outdoors, you can't go wrong reading any of this series.
March 25, 2016
What a great series
Readers can fall in love with the main characters of these books. One hopes that he or she will get to know someone like the sheriff or the deputy or the solid true blue teen who might just restore your faith in humans. Plus everything you need to know about the California desert.
Readers can fall in love with the main characters of these books. One hopes that he or she will get to know someone like the sheriff or the deputy or the solid true blue teen who might just restore your faith in humans. Plus everything you need to know about the California desert.
July 7, 2016
Excellent
One of. Those " couldn't put it down reads. "
It is a simple story but the people who lived it were brought to life so well that it just grabs you.
I will read the rest of them.
One of. Those " couldn't put it down reads. "
It is a simple story but the people who lived it were brought to life so well that it just grabs you.
I will read the rest of them.
December 13, 2018
Heavens, I like this author.
First, thank you to the author as I received this ebook through the Goodreads giveaway program. It is the second book that I have had the privilege of reading in this series.
The story is strong and relevant to today's issues. Scenes are so beautifully written that you can imagine standing there, in the desert, and seeing the scenery for yourself. As written, the desert is majestic in its beauty and it makes me want to visit.
The characters are richly developed and you could readily visualize these small town characters in your everyday life.
Good overcomes evil, in every twist of this story, as it should. And Horse is the hero, as it should be. I keep visualizing these books as great western movies for today. Come on Hollywood, stop the remakes and look right here for a great movie.
First, thank you to the author as I received this ebook through the Goodreads giveaway program. It is the second book that I have had the privilege of reading in this series.
The story is strong and relevant to today's issues. Scenes are so beautifully written that you can imagine standing there, in the desert, and seeing the scenery for yourself. As written, the desert is majestic in its beauty and it makes me want to visit.
The characters are richly developed and you could readily visualize these small town characters in your everyday life.
Good overcomes evil, in every twist of this story, as it should. And Horse is the hero, as it should be. I keep visualizing these books as great western movies for today. Come on Hollywood, stop the remakes and look right here for a great movie.
December 16, 2018
Received this from the Goodreads Giveaways.
The story is set in the early 60's in a small town in the Mojave desert. The descriptions of the surrounding areas are amazing. Really brings to life the desert both the good and bad. Felt like I was there. Was interesting to see how crimes were solved in an age that doesn't have all the technical capabilities that we have now.
The characters were well developed and you really get attached to the "good guys" and rooting for them to catch the "bad guys". The sheriff is a decent man and is very concerned about those around him. He treats people with respect and does everything he can to help others. The story also describes some situations that are still current now such as prejudice and greed.
Haven't read the two prior books in this series but will now.
The story is set in the early 60's in a small town in the Mojave desert. The descriptions of the surrounding areas are amazing. Really brings to life the desert both the good and bad. Felt like I was there. Was interesting to see how crimes were solved in an age that doesn't have all the technical capabilities that we have now.
The characters were well developed and you really get attached to the "good guys" and rooting for them to catch the "bad guys". The sheriff is a decent man and is very concerned about those around him. He treats people with respect and does everything he can to help others. The story also describes some situations that are still current now such as prejudice and greed.
Haven't read the two prior books in this series but will now.
January 8, 2017
Read the whole series! Great stories!
I can't express how much I enjoyed reading this series. This gifted author takes the reader away from their busy world and transports them to another time. I can see the sun going down on the mountains, feel the desert heat on my skin, taste the dust in my mouth. I cared about the characters, I thought about them well after the book ended. I hope there are more books in this series. Well done Mr. George.
I can't express how much I enjoyed reading this series. This gifted author takes the reader away from their busy world and transports them to another time. I can see the sun going down on the mountains, feel the desert heat on my skin, taste the dust in my mouth. I cared about the characters, I thought about them well after the book ended. I hope there are more books in this series. Well done Mr. George.
December 15, 2017
George just keeps getting better
George's "Horse" series is better with each book. This is not just a Southwest law man series, but an uncommon set of characters and the age old battle of the good in mankind vs. true evil. Horse has a unique view of his world. You can't help but admire -- if not just love -- Willie, with his damaged brain and body, wait patiently for the cruel to meet their match, and see the raw beauty that is the desert
George's "Horse" series is better with each book. This is not just a Southwest law man series, but an uncommon set of characters and the age old battle of the good in mankind vs. true evil. Horse has a unique view of his world. You can't help but admire -- if not just love -- Willie, with his damaged brain and body, wait patiently for the cruel to meet their match, and see the raw beauty that is the desert
February 1, 2018
Another Gem; so much more then a murder mystery
Gary George writing style is fabulously descriptive, his attention to environmental background transports one to the Mojave where one can visualise the surrounding mountains ranges and hear the bird calls and hum of cicadas, the blowing wind. Add the social commentary that is compassionate but never preachy and one is left with novels that are in the league with Michener, and Fitzgerald.
Gary George writing style is fabulously descriptive, his attention to environmental background transports one to the Mojave where one can visualise the surrounding mountains ranges and hear the bird calls and hum of cicadas, the blowing wind. Add the social commentary that is compassionate but never preachy and one is left with novels that are in the league with Michener, and Fitzgerald.
December 31, 2018
SATISFYING, SIMPLE and a CAN'T-PUT-DOWN READ
Simple life mystery in a rural town, written without a need to over-indulge in dramatic twists and turns but achieving it anyway. Easily identifiable themes of love and loyalty, while tackling race and bigotry issues presented by the stereotyping ignorant minds fearing a change from what they know. Will be checking out all of Gary's books hoping to find the same interest this book held for me.
Simple life mystery in a rural town, written without a need to over-indulge in dramatic twists and turns but achieving it anyway. Easily identifiable themes of love and loyalty, while tackling race and bigotry issues presented by the stereotyping ignorant minds fearing a change from what they know. Will be checking out all of Gary's books hoping to find the same interest this book held for me.
February 2, 2019
I received this book in a Goodreads giveaway. The story was compelling and there was a wonderful narrative throughout, adding depth to the characters, and beautiful descriptions of the town and the surrounding area. The characters were not one-dimensional, but were well developed and there were other story lines that helped illustrate the whole area where the events take place. I highly recommend this book.
July 27, 2021
Good mystery..
Mr.George has written 4 books in this series. He depicts both good and evil characters. Fortunately the good outnumber the bad. He writes eloquently about the Mojave Dessert and surrounding territory. His descriptions of both the landscape and characters are delightful to read. I'd like to meet a few of them. I know there is a fifth book and I'm looking forward to reading it. I hope he continues to write other books in the series.
Mr.George has written 4 books in this series. He depicts both good and evil characters. Fortunately the good outnumber the bad. He writes eloquently about the Mojave Dessert and surrounding territory. His descriptions of both the landscape and characters are delightful to read. I'd like to meet a few of them. I know there is a fifth book and I'm looking forward to reading it. I hope he continues to write other books in the series.
November 30, 2024
what a wonderful series of books - if you’ve been in the desert, read them
For many years I have wandered in and around the desert where this series takes place and the author brings it alive with his descriptions of the beautiful, harsh, rugged landscape populated with real people (most really likable), good guys and bad guys. I know I’m going to be sad when I finish all of the books but well worth the time I spent. You won’t be disappointed.
For many years I have wandered in and around the desert where this series takes place and the author brings it alive with his descriptions of the beautiful, harsh, rugged landscape populated with real people (most really likable), good guys and bad guys. I know I’m going to be sad when I finish all of the books but well worth the time I spent. You won’t be disappointed.
May 18, 2018
Snake shot of small town life in the ‘60’s.
Small town life with all it’s warts and prejudices displayed in a intricately woven murder mystery set in rural California. Strong character development and likeable protagonist. You care what happens, this story pulls you into the lives of the characters. I am reading the entire series- thank you to the author.
Small town life with all it’s warts and prejudices displayed in a intricately woven murder mystery set in rural California. Strong character development and likeable protagonist. You care what happens, this story pulls you into the lives of the characters. I am reading the entire series- thank you to the author.
May 20, 2018
Violence in a beautiful place
This whole story lives in a brilliantly described environment, seen through the eyes of good people who love the extremes of the desert. The storylines run parallel through this desert with awful violence, gender love and friendships, loyalty and honor. Really good read.
This whole story lives in a brilliantly described environment, seen through the eyes of good people who love the extremes of the desert. The storylines run parallel through this desert with awful violence, gender love and friendships, loyalty and honor. Really good read.
November 26, 2018
Goodreads Kindle Copy Win
A desert hillside turns deadly as two bodies are found. Who could want them dead as they were just squatters living in a lean to?
The local sheriff and deputy job is to find the truth as there seems to be no motive. With the aid of a mysterious Native America they will seek out justice.
A quick paced book in this continuing series.
A desert hillside turns deadly as two bodies are found. Who could want them dead as they were just squatters living in a lean to?
The local sheriff and deputy job is to find the truth as there seems to be no motive. With the aid of a mysterious Native America they will seek out justice.
A quick paced book in this continuing series.
September 5, 2020
Outstanding
I greatly enjoyed this fourth book in the Smoke Tree Mystery series.
This fantastic author wove a great tale about Lieutenant Horse while captivating my interest through out the entire story. Enjoy these tales based mainly in the Mojave desert, and this authors in sight of this vast land.
I greatly enjoyed this fourth book in the Smoke Tree Mystery series.
This fantastic author wove a great tale about Lieutenant Horse while captivating my interest through out the entire story. Enjoy these tales based mainly in the Mojave desert, and this authors in sight of this vast land.
March 24, 2022
What a story!
When you know the area that the book is talking about it makes the book special. I can't say I know Smoke Tree, but I know so many of the other places it gives me chills, now add in a incredibly good storyline and you have this series! This one had me in tears at the end!
When you know the area that the book is talking about it makes the book special. I can't say I know Smoke Tree, but I know so many of the other places it gives me chills, now add in a incredibly good storyline and you have this series! This one had me in tears at the end!
June 29, 2022
This story sets up the incredible ones that follow the rest of the AMAZING Smoke Tree series.
Growing up in southern California I had no perception of what an amazing geography aged outside the borderline Of the desert. The series gives me a whole new view ove the southwest that I never would have had.
Growing up in southern California I had no perception of what an amazing geography aged outside the borderline Of the desert. The series gives me a whole new view ove the southwest that I never would have had.
May 27, 2024
I spent a lot of my time skiing on the Colorado River and off-roading in the surrounding desert. I recognize most of the terrain you describe. Rainbow Beach is where we stayed with friends in the late 60's and early 70's. I love the history you weave into your stories. I like your books as much as I like the Longmeyer series! I'm so glad I took a chance on your books!
December 21, 2025
This is my third Gary George book, and my favorite of the three. House of Three Murders was a coming of age story. The Carnival, The Cross and The Burning Desert was more interesting, but not as fulfilling. BEWARE of audio book versions - they use a pre-AI text to speech technology that is just horrible. Some people call it AI, but it sounds like 1990's technology to me.
February 10, 2020
Easy to read with good story that keeps the ending a surprise until toward the end when the author ties all the details together. A couple of sub-plots also make the book interesting and are also tied into the ending.
August 15, 2020
This author has the makings of a great writer. His flow of plot and imagery reminds me a lot of James Lee Burke, one of the true masters of the form. The only criticism I have is sometimes the plot and imagery diverge without one contributing to the other. Still, a great read!
December 12, 2020
Wonderful series
I enjoy reading about characters who are honest and real. I love descriptions that let me picture the surroundings. I love mysteries solved. I don't want these stories to end.
I enjoy reading about characters who are honest and real. I love descriptions that let me picture the surroundings. I love mysteries solved. I don't want these stories to end.
December 22, 2021
Another Gary George winner
Reading the books of this series is to live in the spare beauty of their Mojave Desert setting and to enjoy the company of their warm and deeply humane characters.
Reading the books of this series is to live in the spare beauty of their Mojave Desert setting and to enjoy the company of their warm and deeply humane characters.
July 25, 2022
Another great read
Gary, Thank you for another good story. I love the characters you have created and just want more. I enjoy that you include the past incidents which lead into the next story. I'm looking forward to finding out what happens next in Smoke Tree. I'm a fan!
Gary, Thank you for another good story. I love the characters you have created and just want more. I enjoy that you include the past incidents which lead into the next story. I'm looking forward to finding out what happens next in Smoke Tree. I'm a fan!
April 18, 2024
Horse
I'm loving this series. Carlos, aka Horse, is an admirable man that a reader cannot help but grow to love. Gary George weaves great warm stories that you just can't put down. I highly recommend this series that rivals any Hillerman book.
I'm loving this series. Carlos, aka Horse, is an admirable man that a reader cannot help but grow to love. Gary George weaves great warm stories that you just can't put down. I highly recommend this series that rivals any Hillerman book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews