What do you think?
Rate this book
The Coilhunter Chronicles #2
Rustkiller
Welcome to Rust Valley.
The Wild North is full of nasty places, but there are some places you just don’t go. One of them is that scrapyard desert known as Rust Valley. It’s where vehicles go to die. That’s why you don’t go in after them.
The bounty hunter Nox made a promise to himself that he’d never be caught dead there. Yet, when a couple of kids end up wandering inside that metal maze, he finds himself with no other choice.
He decks himself out in his finest armour. He’ll need it. That land is where the rust-covered Clockwork Commune live, and if they don’t scavenge the metal off you, they’ll scavenge the flesh instead.
Nox is used to being called the Coilhunter, but this time he’s saddling up with a new, more fitting title: the Rustkiller.
The Wild North is full of nasty places, but there are some places you just don’t go. One of them is that scrapyard desert known as Rust Valley. It’s where vehicles go to die. That’s why you don’t go in after them.
The bounty hunter Nox made a promise to himself that he’d never be caught dead there. Yet, when a couple of kids end up wandering inside that metal maze, he finds himself with no other choice.
He decks himself out in his finest armour. He’ll need it. That land is where the rust-covered Clockwork Commune live, and if they don’t scavenge the metal off you, they’ll scavenge the flesh instead.
Nox is used to being called the Coilhunter, but this time he’s saddling up with a new, more fitting title: the Rustkiller.
238 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 10, 2017
108 people are currently reading
531 people want to read
About the author
Dean F. Wilson
31 books2,098 followersUSA Today & Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author
Dean F. Wilson was born in Dublin, Ireland in 1987. He started writing at age 11.
He is the author of the Children of Telm epic fantasy trilogy, the Great Iron War steampunk series, the Coilhunter Chronicles science-fiction western series, the Hibernian Hollows urban fantasy series, and the Infinite Stars space opera series.
Dean previously worked as a journalist, primarily in the field of technology. He has written for TechEye, Thinq, V3, VR-Zone, ITProPortal, TechRadar Pro, and The Inquirer.
Dean F. Wilson was born in Dublin, Ireland in 1987. He started writing at age 11.
He is the author of the Children of Telm epic fantasy trilogy, the Great Iron War steampunk series, the Coilhunter Chronicles science-fiction western series, the Hibernian Hollows urban fantasy series, and the Infinite Stars space opera series.
Dean previously worked as a journalist, primarily in the field of technology. He has written for TechEye, Thinq, V3, VR-Zone, ITProPortal, TechRadar Pro, and The Inquirer.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
March 13, 2019
Nox is back, fighting off killer robots, saving small children, and having angsty conversations with beautiful women...woman.
The series continues its strong entertainment factor in the second installment. What the storyline lacks in complexity, it makes up for in the shoot-'em-up spaghetti Western style grit. Definitely pleased I got these books on Audible.
I'd rate a PG for some violence and perilous situations.
The series continues its strong entertainment factor in the second installment. What the storyline lacks in complexity, it makes up for in the shoot-'em-up spaghetti Western style grit. Definitely pleased I got these books on Audible.
I'd rate a PG for some violence and perilous situations.
November 2, 2017
Another book in the Coilhunter Chronicles, another ride on the edge of my seat from the first to the last page.
Author Dean F. Wilson has a certain knack in his presentation, a quasi- fantasy/sci-fi/adventure wrapped in the guise of a modern-day book that reads like something from an old pulp magazine. One cannot help but ride along with Nox (the Coilhunter) on his adventures into a world that’s as broken as some of its inhabitants. The combination of Old West characters living in a place referred to as the Wild North gives you a small taste of Mr. Wilson’s imagination. The Coilhunter makes his living as a bounty hunter, and Nox is one of the best.
Be aware that reading this book (or series) involves wanting to have fun with what you are reading. Just the character names alone should bring a smile to your face, each assigned an appropriate adjective. Action, however, is the word of the day, and the author provides plenty of that. Nox travels into the Rust Valley, home of the Clockwork Combine. Folks who enter usually don’t live long enough to leave, but Nox feels dutybound to save the two children who blundered into that dangerous place.
No hidden messages, no unnecessary vulgarity, no passages that would make your grandmother blush if she snuck up behind you and read a sentence or two. Your bigger danger might be that she would want to read the book herself. After all, a fun read is a fun read. Four stars.
Author Dean F. Wilson has a certain knack in his presentation, a quasi- fantasy/sci-fi/adventure wrapped in the guise of a modern-day book that reads like something from an old pulp magazine. One cannot help but ride along with Nox (the Coilhunter) on his adventures into a world that’s as broken as some of its inhabitants. The combination of Old West characters living in a place referred to as the Wild North gives you a small taste of Mr. Wilson’s imagination. The Coilhunter makes his living as a bounty hunter, and Nox is one of the best.
Be aware that reading this book (or series) involves wanting to have fun with what you are reading. Just the character names alone should bring a smile to your face, each assigned an appropriate adjective. Action, however, is the word of the day, and the author provides plenty of that. Nox travels into the Rust Valley, home of the Clockwork Combine. Folks who enter usually don’t live long enough to leave, but Nox feels dutybound to save the two children who blundered into that dangerous place.
No hidden messages, no unnecessary vulgarity, no passages that would make your grandmother blush if she snuck up behind you and read a sentence or two. Your bigger danger might be that she would want to read the book herself. After all, a fun read is a fun read. Four stars.
December 30, 2017
Packed full of action from beginning to end, Wilson brings to life not only the wastelands, but also the Construct Community. If Nox the Coilhunter, our main character, was anything else than what the book (series) portrays, it would simply be a guns-a-blazing adventure but with all that soul and past and backstory- an absolute joy to read.
I look forward to continuing the series- Dean F. Wilson sure knows how to create suspense, interesting characters, plots and settings.
I look forward to continuing the series- Dean F. Wilson sure knows how to create suspense, interesting characters, plots and settings.
March 17, 2018
Amazing! Simply amazing!
As always, Wilson has created a novel that I simply couldn’t put down. The story was unforgettable. The plot was solidly crafted yet completely unpredictable. This novel was teeming with imagery that allows readers to wander through this intricately crafted world, and to live the captivating tale alongside the characters. The characters are both vividly real and larger than life. I formed an emotional connection with some of them from the get-go and was sad to see the novel end.
This novel was exciting and fast paced throughout while also keeping you emotionally engaged. It’s definitely one I’ll be reading time and time again.
As always, Wilson has created a novel that I simply couldn’t put down. The story was unforgettable. The plot was solidly crafted yet completely unpredictable. This novel was teeming with imagery that allows readers to wander through this intricately crafted world, and to live the captivating tale alongside the characters. The characters are both vividly real and larger than life. I formed an emotional connection with some of them from the get-go and was sad to see the novel end.
This novel was exciting and fast paced throughout while also keeping you emotionally engaged. It’s definitely one I’ll be reading time and time again.
June 12, 2018
I'm loving Nox. A badass with a heart that is both hard and warm!
After Coilhunter, I was expecting a lesser sequel - It didn't happen.
This story expands on the backstory of Nox, developing his character even more to display his more human side. After encountering a lost girl he becomes entangled in a world of battles that leave him fighting for his life. Porridge adds some much needed light hearted elements to the story and there are lots of surprising twists that keep the pages flying by. Dean F Wilson balances the tone just right between old time wild West and superb Sci Fi action.
I am looking forward to Dustrunner to see what Nox does next!
After Coilhunter, I was expecting a lesser sequel - It didn't happen.
This story expands on the backstory of Nox, developing his character even more to display his more human side. After encountering a lost girl he becomes entangled in a world of battles that leave him fighting for his life. Porridge adds some much needed light hearted elements to the story and there are lots of surprising twists that keep the pages flying by. Dean F Wilson balances the tone just right between old time wild West and superb Sci Fi action.
I am looking forward to Dustrunner to see what Nox does next!
December 31, 2019
Second book even better than the first!
This book is wall-to-wall action, and yet, it manages to be an emotional story as well. I'd hoped in this second book, we'd zoom in on some part of the Wild North only hinted at in the first book, and that's exactly what happens. If you were curious about the Clockwork Commune, look no further. I'll only say this: It wasn't at all what I'd expected, and that is perfectly okay with me.
If you enjoy the Star Wars series "The Mandalorian," I highly recommend not only this book, but the series as a whole. I had the musical score from the series playing in the background as I read, and it suited the mood perfectly. I can't wait to read the third book!
This book is wall-to-wall action, and yet, it manages to be an emotional story as well. I'd hoped in this second book, we'd zoom in on some part of the Wild North only hinted at in the first book, and that's exactly what happens. If you were curious about the Clockwork Commune, look no further. I'll only say this: It wasn't at all what I'd expected, and that is perfectly okay with me.
If you enjoy the Star Wars series "The Mandalorian," I highly recommend not only this book, but the series as a whole. I had the musical score from the series playing in the background as I read, and it suited the mood perfectly. I can't wait to read the third book!
January 31, 2019
Damn! This is really good.
February 20, 2019
I enjoyed this book. Rust Valley was a very cool and unique place, as were the contraptions that were there. I really loved Oddcopper a ton. The story was entertaining and quite enjoyable. Fun book!
December 8, 2021
Not as fantastic as the first book and slightly long-winded and repetitive.
Still a quick read though, with decent world and character building and adding an element of horror.
Hope the next books return to form.
Still a quick read though, with decent world and character building and adding an element of horror.
Hope the next books return to form.
August 22, 2019
Good stuff...for dystopian & sci-fi western fans
Decent stories with fine plot lines and lots of action. It’s simple reading...nothing too cerebral here. I wish it would be a bit more detailed in the sciences, though. And I’m looking for more maturity in the stories. If it had these extra bits I’d give the book and series another star. But for a casual read with imaginative characters and events this book (and series) provides well enough.
Decent stories with fine plot lines and lots of action. It’s simple reading...nothing too cerebral here. I wish it would be a bit more detailed in the sciences, though. And I’m looking for more maturity in the stories. If it had these extra bits I’d give the book and series another star. But for a casual read with imaginative characters and events this book (and series) provides well enough.
February 14, 2018
kindle unlimited but actually got 1 on a freebie day linked to amazon so wanted to see what this one and other 2 were about. Defininitely something different about these, little bit of 'clockwork' too. DISREGARD the 3 star reveiws on amazon, as they obvioulsy have no idea how to mouse over the stars to see the meaning, and said they would highly recommend the book...THEN rated it 'okay'/3 on amazon, presubably because it didn't give enough background as to who/what/how/when etc of origins, even though said was standalone, and other complained about clockwork type items with 'huh' type thing when it mentions, more than once, he used to be TOY/CLOCKMAKER so duh. I have average, or better, English and writing comprehension, so...maybe it was just me, but it ALL made sense in framework of science fiction/western somewhat steampunk world i.e. sci-fi+western+steampunk/clockwork, how obvious does writer have to be, duh, not as if wasn't in both books, several times several ways. Oh, well, at last know now which reviews to automatically IGNORE.
Welcome to the Rust Valley.
The Wild North is full of nasty places, but there are some places you just don’t go. One of them is that scrapyard desert known as the Rust Valley. It’s where vehicles go to die. That’s why you don’t go in after them.
The bounty hunter Nox made a promise to himself that he’d never be caught dead there. Yet, when a couple of kids end up wandering inside that metal maze, he finds himself with no other choice.
He decks himself out in his finest armour. He’ll need it. That land is where the rust-covered Clockwork Commune live, and if they don’t scavenge the metal off you, they’ll scavenge the flesh instead.
Nox is used to being called the Coilhunter, but this time he’s saddling up with a new, more fitting title: the Rustkiller.
This is a standalone book in the Coilhunter Chronicles series, which can be read in any order.
A Science Fiction Western Adventure
Coilhunter (The Coilhunter Chronicles, #1)
Rustkiller (The Coilhunter Chronicles Book 2)
Dustrunner (The Coilhunter Chronicles Book 3)
Welcome to the Rust Valley.
The Wild North is full of nasty places, but there are some places you just don’t go. One of them is that scrapyard desert known as the Rust Valley. It’s where vehicles go to die. That’s why you don’t go in after them.
The bounty hunter Nox made a promise to himself that he’d never be caught dead there. Yet, when a couple of kids end up wandering inside that metal maze, he finds himself with no other choice.
He decks himself out in his finest armour. He’ll need it. That land is where the rust-covered Clockwork Commune live, and if they don’t scavenge the metal off you, they’ll scavenge the flesh instead.
Nox is used to being called the Coilhunter, but this time he’s saddling up with a new, more fitting title: the Rustkiller.
This is a standalone book in the Coilhunter Chronicles series, which can be read in any order.
A Science Fiction Western Adventure
Coilhunter (The Coilhunter Chronicles, #1)
Rustkiller (The Coilhunter Chronicles Book 2)
Dustrunner (The Coilhunter Chronicles Book 3)
April 28, 2018
Solid 4.5 Stars!
The Coilhunter, Nox, is a tough, mean, gritty, dangerous, fear inspiring man and he's the good guy. There's only one place in the Wild North that even Nox is afraid to go and that's Rust Valley. So sure enough after a job where he loses a man to said valley a girl runs into the bar he's having a drink at bursts in begging for help to find her brother. Now remember, Nox is mean and nasty but as I said, he is the good guy. Finding her brother isn't the bad part, it's finding their parents after.....the parents who disappeared in the Rust Valley. Did I mention that Rust Valley is full of dangerous mechanical constructs that kill people while trying to find any metal in their bodies? It's a great adventure that follows and a couple of nice surprises that really add to the story. I think Nox is a great character. He always reminds me of classic Clint Eastwood from all those old Westerns. It doesn't really get much better than that in my view. The book reads like a western as well which really helps immerse you even further into the story.
It's a great addition to the series. You wont be disappointed.
The Coilhunter, Nox, is a tough, mean, gritty, dangerous, fear inspiring man and he's the good guy. There's only one place in the Wild North that even Nox is afraid to go and that's Rust Valley. So sure enough after a job where he loses a man to said valley a girl runs into the bar he's having a drink at bursts in begging for help to find her brother. Now remember, Nox is mean and nasty but as I said, he is the good guy. Finding her brother isn't the bad part, it's finding their parents after.....the parents who disappeared in the Rust Valley. Did I mention that Rust Valley is full of dangerous mechanical constructs that kill people while trying to find any metal in their bodies? It's a great adventure that follows and a couple of nice surprises that really add to the story. I think Nox is a great character. He always reminds me of classic Clint Eastwood from all those old Westerns. It doesn't really get much better than that in my view. The book reads like a western as well which really helps immerse you even further into the story.
It's a great addition to the series. You wont be disappointed.
December 19, 2017
An Apocalyptic Western in the vein of Louis L'Amore
Mr. Wilson has a way with words that is enjoyable to read and gets you involved in the Coilhunter's life.
A traditional story of one good man standing against the evil of his time but with a Clint Eastwood twist. Think spaghetti western set in a far away future. This is the world of The Coilhunter.
A very worthwhile read. And entertaining too.
Mr. Wilson has a way with words that is enjoyable to read and gets you involved in the Coilhunter's life.
A traditional story of one good man standing against the evil of his time but with a Clint Eastwood twist. Think spaghetti western set in a far away future. This is the world of The Coilhunter.
A very worthwhile read. And entertaining too.
March 10, 2018
Rustkiller is the second book in the Coilhunter Chronicles series. This can be read as a standalone, though the book is open-ended for future books. There is violence. The book blurb adequately describes the story so I'm not going to repeat that here. While I like the authors other series, I'm not always a fan of Steampunk but this book and series have surprised me with how well written they are. I look forward to reading more of this series.
March 8, 2018
Nox is back, still hunting down the bad guys. But in this story we get to see a little more of his humanity as he battles clockwork constructs in Rust Valley. We also start to find out a bit more of why he’s like he is.
Another great read!
Another great read!
March 19, 2018
Well, this is different. The Coilhunter, also known as Nox, is a bounty hunter, who lives and hunts in the Wild North. There is the wastelands, an empty stretch of land, or Rust Valley, where the sun is blotted out by towering scrapyard walls built of wrecked vehicles. Inside these walls live the clockwork constructs made of many pieces of metal for their numberous arms, legs, and bodies. Some have a piece for their head, but many do not bother, and some have weapons instead of hands. They live amongst huge piles of scrap metal, utilizing little trails that run through the maze of piles. So, anyone who is foolhardy enough to enter has no idea what may be waiting around the next bend. This is one place Nox has added to his list of Places Never to Visit.
Nox himself feels somewhat made of metal. Having been badly scarred in a fire, he wears a metal mask over the bottom half of his face, and has a breathing apparatus that he carries, strapped to his back for his ruined lungs. Each breath emits a small puff of smoke. That’s not all; he carts around various equipment that help keep him alive in one way or another. He is full of tricks and surprises, such as a wrist cuff with buttons that allow him to fly, move, and for location. He also has a monowheel, which he drives and can direct it to come to him if he needs a quick getaway. His quasi-duck and quasi-owl are very handy items. Well-armed with his many gadgets, he tears wanted posters off walls wherever he finds them, and runs down those unlucky bad guys.
While passing time in a bar, Nox watches everyone as a young girl runs in screaming for help. Her brother has been kidnapped. Every man simply stares at her; not one stirs to offer assistance. Nox, being a good guy, steps up to the task. He puts her in the box on the back of his monowheel, and they head out to find the trail of the kidnappers. In no time, they find the tire tracks and are led to a settlement called the Night Ranch. It is fenced in with guards who like to talk a lot. Listening, Nox discovers that they are slavers and the ranch has prisoners locked up in cells. The fight is on. Just as he is about to release them, though, he is caught and captured. Like I said, Nox is full of surprises and soon frees himself and the others, including a young boy.
This is how Nox meets Laurie and Luke, who are searching for their parents. Their mother believes the constructs are alive, so she and their father left their children for Rust Valley to prove her belief. Nox knows he must go with the two, if they are to survive. They are about to meet more constructs than they could have ever imagined.
This is a good story with lots of action, shoot-outs, fights, and crazy names, like Swill Roberts the barman, Tinhead Tom with the metal plate attached to his head, Plump Podge, and Oddman Rensley to name a few. This is just the beginning. What can you expect? The hero is the Coilhunter.
The rating:
Genre and general reading age – Science Fiction Western for teens and adults.
Level of sexuality – Low.
Is there graphic language? Enough to notice, but nothing excessive.
Did I cry? No.
Did I laugh? No.
Is this part of a series? Yes, this is book two of the Coilhunter Chronicles series.
Level of character development – Nox is fully fleshed out. However, many of the others don’t last very long after an encounter with him, so it doesn’t really matter.
Caution: there is a lot of violence, so be ready when you jump in. I give this book ⭐⭐⭐⭐ stars.
Nox himself feels somewhat made of metal. Having been badly scarred in a fire, he wears a metal mask over the bottom half of his face, and has a breathing apparatus that he carries, strapped to his back for his ruined lungs. Each breath emits a small puff of smoke. That’s not all; he carts around various equipment that help keep him alive in one way or another. He is full of tricks and surprises, such as a wrist cuff with buttons that allow him to fly, move, and for location. He also has a monowheel, which he drives and can direct it to come to him if he needs a quick getaway. His quasi-duck and quasi-owl are very handy items. Well-armed with his many gadgets, he tears wanted posters off walls wherever he finds them, and runs down those unlucky bad guys.
While passing time in a bar, Nox watches everyone as a young girl runs in screaming for help. Her brother has been kidnapped. Every man simply stares at her; not one stirs to offer assistance. Nox, being a good guy, steps up to the task. He puts her in the box on the back of his monowheel, and they head out to find the trail of the kidnappers. In no time, they find the tire tracks and are led to a settlement called the Night Ranch. It is fenced in with guards who like to talk a lot. Listening, Nox discovers that they are slavers and the ranch has prisoners locked up in cells. The fight is on. Just as he is about to release them, though, he is caught and captured. Like I said, Nox is full of surprises and soon frees himself and the others, including a young boy.
This is how Nox meets Laurie and Luke, who are searching for their parents. Their mother believes the constructs are alive, so she and their father left their children for Rust Valley to prove her belief. Nox knows he must go with the two, if they are to survive. They are about to meet more constructs than they could have ever imagined.
This is a good story with lots of action, shoot-outs, fights, and crazy names, like Swill Roberts the barman, Tinhead Tom with the metal plate attached to his head, Plump Podge, and Oddman Rensley to name a few. This is just the beginning. What can you expect? The hero is the Coilhunter.
The rating:
Genre and general reading age – Science Fiction Western for teens and adults.
Level of sexuality – Low.
Is there graphic language? Enough to notice, but nothing excessive.
Did I cry? No.
Did I laugh? No.
Is this part of a series? Yes, this is book two of the Coilhunter Chronicles series.
Level of character development – Nox is fully fleshed out. However, many of the others don’t last very long after an encounter with him, so it doesn’t really matter.
Caution: there is a lot of violence, so be ready when you jump in. I give this book ⭐⭐⭐⭐ stars.
January 11, 2019
The Coilhunter Chronicles (Books 1-3) by Dean. F. Wilson is an exceptional dark ride through a world of western steampunk! Strongly recommend if you enjoy these types of books.
This series consists of three books, Coilhunter, Rustkiller and Dustrunner. All take place in the Wild North- a place with no laws or rules. Coilhunter is mainly focused on Nox finding his family's killer/s. Rustkiller involves Nox helping kids track down their parents in a place no one ventures and many steampunk elements. Dustrunner involves Nox being framed for murder and trying to clear his name while finding the killer/s. Dustrunner contains a little less steampunk elements than the previous books.
Each book is unique yet ties together nicely, whether it be the theme or characters. It's hard to pick a favorite. I enjoyed the duck, Oddcopper (wish it would have had a larger part), and the Iron gunslinger the most.
The narrator, R. C. Bray, is marvelous. He hits the characters dead on and is a perfect fit for this series.
These are the steampunk books I've been waiting for. I haven’t been fully satisfied with a steampunk book for a while and this has changed that. I can’t recommend it enough. Ended up buying the ebook series as well as it will be a repeat listen/read.
Older reviews mention inaccuracy with shot gun shells and grammar, those have been corrected.
Should you listen or read this? Absolutely, especially if you're looking for an odd, darker, steampunk western fantasy. Be warned, if you're looking for a happy ending, you may not find it here, but yes, the ending fits well with tone of the books.
Parental advisory/trigger warnings: hell, damn are occasionally used (no s or f words), death, weapons-mainly guns, fighting, deaths by fire, loss of family (spouse and children), prostitution, drinking, burn victim, people being sold and forced to work as slaves in mines, parents abandoning their children (I’ll leave it at that due to spoilers). There are no laws in the Wild North, which result in violence and death on many levels.
If I had any critique for the author/book, it would be to infuse more of Nox’s toys into the last book.
*I was given a free review copy of the audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review. Thank you for allowing me to listen and review the book!
#steampunk #western #fantasy #coilhunter #rustkiller #dustrunner #scifi #dark
This series consists of three books, Coilhunter, Rustkiller and Dustrunner. All take place in the Wild North- a place with no laws or rules. Coilhunter is mainly focused on Nox finding his family's killer/s. Rustkiller involves Nox helping kids track down their parents in a place no one ventures and many steampunk elements. Dustrunner involves Nox being framed for murder and trying to clear his name while finding the killer/s. Dustrunner contains a little less steampunk elements than the previous books.
Each book is unique yet ties together nicely, whether it be the theme or characters. It's hard to pick a favorite. I enjoyed the duck, Oddcopper (wish it would have had a larger part), and the Iron gunslinger the most.
The narrator, R. C. Bray, is marvelous. He hits the characters dead on and is a perfect fit for this series.
These are the steampunk books I've been waiting for. I haven’t been fully satisfied with a steampunk book for a while and this has changed that. I can’t recommend it enough. Ended up buying the ebook series as well as it will be a repeat listen/read.
Older reviews mention inaccuracy with shot gun shells and grammar, those have been corrected.
Should you listen or read this? Absolutely, especially if you're looking for an odd, darker, steampunk western fantasy. Be warned, if you're looking for a happy ending, you may not find it here, but yes, the ending fits well with tone of the books.
Parental advisory/trigger warnings: hell, damn are occasionally used (no s or f words), death, weapons-mainly guns, fighting, deaths by fire, loss of family (spouse and children), prostitution, drinking, burn victim, people being sold and forced to work as slaves in mines, parents abandoning their children (I’ll leave it at that due to spoilers). There are no laws in the Wild North, which result in violence and death on many levels.
If I had any critique for the author/book, it would be to infuse more of Nox’s toys into the last book.
*I was given a free review copy of the audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review. Thank you for allowing me to listen and review the book!
#steampunk #western #fantasy #coilhunter #rustkiller #dustrunner #scifi #dark
September 3, 2025
As soon as I finished reading Coilhunter, I moved on to reading Rustkiller, the second book in The Coilhunter Chronicles. I wanted to see what Nox, the main character who goes by Coilhunter and several other names, would do next. Each book in The Coilhunter Chronicles can be read as a standalone book and that’s definitely true of these first two books. Both are tightly written stories, complete in their own right.
In Rustkiller, Nox ends up going to Rust Valley, a scrapyard in the brutal desert. While he’s in a bar outside Rust Valley to drown his sorrows, a girl about fifteen or sixteen years old bursts into the establishment screaming, “Help me!...Please! They took my brother. I need help!” Mostly everyone ignores her or offers only a bit of sympathy. The narrator explains, “You see, sympathy was free. Sympathy didn’t get you killed. Acting on it did.” Being a tough guy with a heart of gold, however, Nox is compelled to take action. The narrator comments, “He was a man of action, and right now, he felt he had to act. It was like his conscience calling. You kill one, then you gotta save another.” And as a bounty hunter in the apocalyptic Wild North, Nox had killed a lot of people.
The story that unfolds is fascinating, filled with danger and action. It turns out the girl, Laura, saw her brother being kidnapped by a gang of slavers. After Nox frees her brother Luke, things become more complicated. Luke was out in the desert trying to find their parents. Both scientists, they had left their children to go into the Rust Valley, which is filled with metal scrap and clockwork constructs, in order to study those constructs. The narrator says, “There was only one person who was said to have come out of the Valley alive, and not all of him came out.” Even the Coilhunter preferred to avoid the place. He goes in, however, to help find the children’s parents.
The author does a wonderful job of developing an apocalyptic world filled with strong, determined constructs built from the Rust Valley’s scrap. The Clockwork Commune, as it’s called, is a terrifying place. I don’t want to give away any spoilers about this part of the story, as it’s what Rustkiller is all about. I’ll just say it’s a fascinating, tightly woven story about how Coilhunter gains another nickname: Rustkiller. The author’s descriptions of the many different constructs and how they operate are fascinating. This book is a great read.
In Rustkiller, Nox ends up going to Rust Valley, a scrapyard in the brutal desert. While he’s in a bar outside Rust Valley to drown his sorrows, a girl about fifteen or sixteen years old bursts into the establishment screaming, “Help me!...Please! They took my brother. I need help!” Mostly everyone ignores her or offers only a bit of sympathy. The narrator explains, “You see, sympathy was free. Sympathy didn’t get you killed. Acting on it did.” Being a tough guy with a heart of gold, however, Nox is compelled to take action. The narrator comments, “He was a man of action, and right now, he felt he had to act. It was like his conscience calling. You kill one, then you gotta save another.” And as a bounty hunter in the apocalyptic Wild North, Nox had killed a lot of people.
The story that unfolds is fascinating, filled with danger and action. It turns out the girl, Laura, saw her brother being kidnapped by a gang of slavers. After Nox frees her brother Luke, things become more complicated. Luke was out in the desert trying to find their parents. Both scientists, they had left their children to go into the Rust Valley, which is filled with metal scrap and clockwork constructs, in order to study those constructs. The narrator says, “There was only one person who was said to have come out of the Valley alive, and not all of him came out.” Even the Coilhunter preferred to avoid the place. He goes in, however, to help find the children’s parents.
The author does a wonderful job of developing an apocalyptic world filled with strong, determined constructs built from the Rust Valley’s scrap. The Clockwork Commune, as it’s called, is a terrifying place. I don’t want to give away any spoilers about this part of the story, as it’s what Rustkiller is all about. I’ll just say it’s a fascinating, tightly woven story about how Coilhunter gains another nickname: Rustkiller. The author’s descriptions of the many different constructs and how they operate are fascinating. This book is a great read.
September 21, 2018
Rustkiller - a review by Rosemary Kenny
Our mechanical-toymaker-cum-bounty-hunter Nox, aka Coilhunter gets a new title in this standalone sci-fi Western adventure, no 2 in The Coilhunter Chronicles, by the ingenious, inventive Dean F Wilson.
His travels in the Wild North territory have led him to the edge of Rust Valley, inhabited by dreadful creatures who strip the metal - or the flesh from those who have none of the former to offer - from unwary trespassers and vehicles or machinery dumped in their habitat.
Relaxing in a 'watering-hole' Nox is as startled as everyone else when a young girl runs screaming into the bar...her brother's followed their parents into the Valley and she needs help to save them!
Who volunteers to help young Laurie? How does Nox get his Rustkiller nomenclature?
What happens in Rust Valley? Can Nox save Laurie's family or has he put himself in deadly peril?
A mix of the Man With No Name and Yul Brynner's cowboy from the original Westworld, Nox the Rustkiller takes no prisoners - and tells no tales! Don't wait - get your copy today...yee hah!!
Our mechanical-toymaker-cum-bounty-hunter Nox, aka Coilhunter gets a new title in this standalone sci-fi Western adventure, no 2 in The Coilhunter Chronicles, by the ingenious, inventive Dean F Wilson.
His travels in the Wild North territory have led him to the edge of Rust Valley, inhabited by dreadful creatures who strip the metal - or the flesh from those who have none of the former to offer - from unwary trespassers and vehicles or machinery dumped in their habitat.
Relaxing in a 'watering-hole' Nox is as startled as everyone else when a young girl runs screaming into the bar...her brother's followed their parents into the Valley and she needs help to save them!
Who volunteers to help young Laurie? How does Nox get his Rustkiller nomenclature?
What happens in Rust Valley? Can Nox save Laurie's family or has he put himself in deadly peril?
A mix of the Man With No Name and Yul Brynner's cowboy from the original Westworld, Nox the Rustkiller takes no prisoners - and tells no tales! Don't wait - get your copy today...yee hah!!
February 4, 2018
The western lives
The Coilhunter series brings back the bounty hunter of legend with steampunk/Science Fantasy sensibility. Solid, fast paced writing hauls you along through one challenge after another in a dystopian land that could make Mad Max give up. I am looking forward to the next novel in the series. Beware the duck!
The Coilhunter series brings back the bounty hunter of legend with steampunk/Science Fantasy sensibility. Solid, fast paced writing hauls you along through one challenge after another in a dystopian land that could make Mad Max give up. I am looking forward to the next novel in the series. Beware the duck!
February 21, 2018
Definitely a western
He nails the western storytelling as I remember it from old TV mostly. Unfortunately, I realize that it was too much a western for my current taste. The writing seems fine and the characters may be as well but I can't be sure.
I bailed at about 11% read, because I lost interest.
He nails the western storytelling as I remember it from old TV mostly. Unfortunately, I realize that it was too much a western for my current taste. The writing seems fine and the characters may be as well but I can't be sure.
I bailed at about 11% read, because I lost interest.
May 23, 2018
This has been a really interesting book to read.
It's not long but when you get to the end it IS an end. The book tells a story of a man with a problem that won't end. It's not my part to say what's in the story, only that most will appreciate it. This is no teenage only type book, all will find it easy going.
It's not long but when you get to the end it IS an end. The book tells a story of a man with a problem that won't end. It's not my part to say what's in the story, only that most will appreciate it. This is no teenage only type book, all will find it easy going.
November 4, 2017
A very good book. I finished it in a day and a half.
Harkens back to Louis L'Amour and Zane Grey. This is a book either of them could have written if they had done science fiction.
Harkens back to Louis L'Amour and Zane Grey. This is a book either of them could have written if they had done science fiction.
November 8, 2017
A great book!
I really enjoyed this one. There was a great mixture of affection, action, and adventure that led the Coilhunter through this last set of circumstances. The book easily draws you in and keeps you turning the pages. Looking forward too the next boom.
I really enjoyed this one. There was a great mixture of affection, action, and adventure that led the Coilhunter through this last set of circumstances. The book easily draws you in and keeps you turning the pages. Looking forward too the next boom.
December 5, 2017
Another all action Coilhunter novel.
It's filled with antiheros and downright villains, some human and some mechanical. Noir, steampunk, dystopian future, western and a dash of superhero. If you're looking for something long on internal dialogue, you need to look elsewhere.
It's filled with antiheros and downright villains, some human and some mechanical. Noir, steampunk, dystopian future, western and a dash of superhero. If you're looking for something long on internal dialogue, you need to look elsewhere.
December 13, 2017
Coilhunter
I have the first two books and ordered number three. I found the storyline in both books are great. Looking forward to the next one. Author did a great job in keeping you wandering what will take place next
I have the first two books and ordered number three. I found the storyline in both books are great. Looking forward to the next one. Author did a great job in keeping you wandering what will take place next
June 12, 2018
Dean F. Wilson has created some very intriguing worlds in his series and describes them extremely well.
Read full review in the 2018 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2018 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.
June 30, 2018
Gripping!
I could not put this one down! I found myself reading so fast that I had to tell myself to slow down because I want to cherish every moment. It's that good, I'm not even exaggerating. If you enjoyed the first book at all then you will love this one.
I could not put this one down! I found myself reading so fast that I had to tell myself to slow down because I want to cherish every moment. It's that good, I'm not even exaggerating. If you enjoyed the first book at all then you will love this one.
November 14, 2018
Another winner
Nox has a need to right the wrongs in the Wild North. He takes care of those that don't follow the rules. And he collects the bounty on them. But when 2 kids get in over their heads, the reward may be the lives of the innocent.
Nox has a need to right the wrongs in the Wild North. He takes care of those that don't follow the rules. And he collects the bounty on them. But when 2 kids get in over their heads, the reward may be the lives of the innocent.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews