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Caleb York #3
The Bloody Spur
Caleb may be outnumbered . . . but not outgunned.
The Santa Fe Railroad wants to build a spur through Trinidad, New Mexico, linking the town to the cattle trade. Only one man stands against it—rancher George Cullen. At the request of the town council, Sheriff Caleb York rides out to the Bar-O to reason with his old friend. Even Cullen’s daughter Willa, Caleb’s former flame, is for the railroad. But the stubborn blind rancher won’t budge.
Cullen’s former partner, Burt O’Malley, has recently returned from a twenty-year stint in the pen for manslaughter. And hired gun Alver Hollis, the much-feared Preacherman, has also shown up with two cronies, claiming they’re in town for the biggest poker game in the territory.
With murder in the wind, the whole town’s in danger. Who will be the next target? To bring a killer to justice, and protect the woman he loves, Caleb York must strap down his Colt .44, enter the big game, and bet his life on the turn of a card... and the speed of his draw.
The Santa Fe Railroad wants to build a spur through Trinidad, New Mexico, linking the town to the cattle trade. Only one man stands against it—rancher George Cullen. At the request of the town council, Sheriff Caleb York rides out to the Bar-O to reason with his old friend. Even Cullen’s daughter Willa, Caleb’s former flame, is for the railroad. But the stubborn blind rancher won’t budge.
Cullen’s former partner, Burt O’Malley, has recently returned from a twenty-year stint in the pen for manslaughter. And hired gun Alver Hollis, the much-feared Preacherman, has also shown up with two cronies, claiming they’re in town for the biggest poker game in the territory.
With murder in the wind, the whole town’s in danger. Who will be the next target? To bring a killer to justice, and protect the woman he loves, Caleb York must strap down his Colt .44, enter the big game, and bet his life on the turn of a card... and the speed of his draw.
320 pages, Hardcover
Published January 30, 2018
69 people are currently reading
70 people want to read
About the author
Mickey Spillane
316 books447 followersMickey Spillane was one of the world's most popular mystery writers. His specialty was tight-fisted, sadistic revenge stories, often featuring his alcoholic gumshoe Mike Hammer and a cast of evildoers who launder money or spout the Communist Party line.
His writing style was characterized by short words, lightning transitions, gruff sex and violent endings. It was once tallied that he offed 58 people in six novels.
Starting with "I, the Jury," in 1947, Mr. Spillane sold hundreds of millions of books during his lifetime and garnered consistently scathing reviews. Even his father, a Brooklyn bartender, called them "crud."
Mr. Spillane was a struggling comic book publisher when he wrote "I, the Jury." He initially envisioned it as a comic book called "Mike Danger," and when that did not go over, he took a week to reconfigure it as a novel.
Even the editor in chief of E.P. Dutton and Co., Mr. Spillane's publisher, was skeptical of the book's literary merit but conceded it would probably be a smash with postwar readers looking for ready action. He was right. The book, in which Hammer pursues a murderous narcotics ring led by a curvaceous female psychiatrist, went on to sell more than 1 million copies.
Mr. Spillane spun out six novels in the next five years, among them "My Gun Is Quick," "The Big Kill," "One Lonely Night" and "Kiss Me, Deadly." Most concerned Hammer, his faithful sidekick, Velda, and the police homicide captain Pat Chambers, who acknowledges that Hammer's style of vigilante justice is often better suited than the law to dispatching criminals.
Mr. Spillane's success rankled other critics, who sometimes became very personal in their reviews. Malcolm Cowley called Mr. Spillane "a homicidal paranoiac," going on to note what he called his misogyny and vigilante tendencies.
His books were translated into many languages, and he proved so popular as a writer that he was able to transfer his thick-necked, barrel-chested personality across many media. With the charisma of a redwood, he played Hammer in "The Girl Hunters," a 1963 film adaptation of his novel.
Spillane also scripted several television shows and films and played a detective in the 1954 suspense film "Ring of Fear," set at a Clyde Beatty circus. He rewrote much of the film, too, refusing payment. In gratitude, the producer, John Wayne, surprised him one morning with a white Jaguar sportster wrapped in a red ribbon. The card read, "Thanks, Duke."
Done initially on a dare from his publisher, Mr. Spillane wrote a children's book, "The Day the Sea Rolled Back" (1979), about two boys who find a shipwreck loaded with treasure. This won a Junior Literary Guild award.
He also wrote another children's novel, "The Ship That Never Was," and then wrote his first Mike Hammer mystery in 20 years with "The Killing Man" (1989). "Black Alley" followed in 1996. In the last, a rapidly aging Hammer comes out of a gunshot-induced coma, then tracks down a friend's murderer and billions in mob loot. For the first time, he also confesses his love for Velda but, because of doctor's orders, cannot consummate the relationship.
Late in life, he received a career achievement award from the Private Eye Writers of America and was named a grand master by the Mystery Writers of America.
In his private life, he neither smoked nor drank and was a house-to-house missionary for the Jehovah's Witnesses. He expressed at times great disdain for what he saw as corrosive forces in American life, from antiwar protesters to the United Nations.
His marriages to Mary Ann Pearce and Sherri Malinou ended in divorce. His second wife, a model, posed nude for the dust jacket of his 1972 novel "The Erection Set."
Survivors include his third wife, Jane Rodgers Johnson, a former beauty queen 30 years his junior; and four children from the first marriage.
He also carried on a long epistolary flirtation with Ayn Rand, an admirer of his writing.
His writing style was characterized by short words, lightning transitions, gruff sex and violent endings. It was once tallied that he offed 58 people in six novels.
Starting with "I, the Jury," in 1947, Mr. Spillane sold hundreds of millions of books during his lifetime and garnered consistently scathing reviews. Even his father, a Brooklyn bartender, called them "crud."
Mr. Spillane was a struggling comic book publisher when he wrote "I, the Jury." He initially envisioned it as a comic book called "Mike Danger," and when that did not go over, he took a week to reconfigure it as a novel.
Even the editor in chief of E.P. Dutton and Co., Mr. Spillane's publisher, was skeptical of the book's literary merit but conceded it would probably be a smash with postwar readers looking for ready action. He was right. The book, in which Hammer pursues a murderous narcotics ring led by a curvaceous female psychiatrist, went on to sell more than 1 million copies.
Mr. Spillane spun out six novels in the next five years, among them "My Gun Is Quick," "The Big Kill," "One Lonely Night" and "Kiss Me, Deadly." Most concerned Hammer, his faithful sidekick, Velda, and the police homicide captain Pat Chambers, who acknowledges that Hammer's style of vigilante justice is often better suited than the law to dispatching criminals.
Mr. Spillane's success rankled other critics, who sometimes became very personal in their reviews. Malcolm Cowley called Mr. Spillane "a homicidal paranoiac," going on to note what he called his misogyny and vigilante tendencies.
His books were translated into many languages, and he proved so popular as a writer that he was able to transfer his thick-necked, barrel-chested personality across many media. With the charisma of a redwood, he played Hammer in "The Girl Hunters," a 1963 film adaptation of his novel.
Spillane also scripted several television shows and films and played a detective in the 1954 suspense film "Ring of Fear," set at a Clyde Beatty circus. He rewrote much of the film, too, refusing payment. In gratitude, the producer, John Wayne, surprised him one morning with a white Jaguar sportster wrapped in a red ribbon. The card read, "Thanks, Duke."
Done initially on a dare from his publisher, Mr. Spillane wrote a children's book, "The Day the Sea Rolled Back" (1979), about two boys who find a shipwreck loaded with treasure. This won a Junior Literary Guild award.
He also wrote another children's novel, "The Ship That Never Was," and then wrote his first Mike Hammer mystery in 20 years with "The Killing Man" (1989). "Black Alley" followed in 1996. In the last, a rapidly aging Hammer comes out of a gunshot-induced coma, then tracks down a friend's murderer and billions in mob loot. For the first time, he also confesses his love for Velda but, because of doctor's orders, cannot consummate the relationship.
Late in life, he received a career achievement award from the Private Eye Writers of America and was named a grand master by the Mystery Writers of America.
In his private life, he neither smoked nor drank and was a house-to-house missionary for the Jehovah's Witnesses. He expressed at times great disdain for what he saw as corrosive forces in American life, from antiwar protesters to the United Nations.
His marriages to Mary Ann Pearce and Sherri Malinou ended in divorce. His second wife, a model, posed nude for the dust jacket of his 1972 novel "The Erection Set."
Survivors include his third wife, Jane Rodgers Johnson, a former beauty queen 30 years his junior; and four children from the first marriage.
He also carried on a long epistolary flirtation with Ayn Rand, an admirer of his writing.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
December 17, 2017
The Caleb York character was originally conceived by Mickey Spillane as a vehicle for a John Wayne movie. After Spillane's death, Writer Max Allan Collins took up Spillane's notes and outlines and fashioned three top-notch Western novels. As Collins tells us, you could read this picturing John Wane as Sheriff York. This is the third novel in the series and it stands tall on its own with reading the first two not being a prerequisite. It's a Western that takes place in a small New Mexico town, but holds quite a lot of appeal for those of us who never really delved into reading Westerns.
It's got all the normal fixings of a book of this genre from the sharp shooting no-nonsense sheriff, the rough gunslingers from out of town, the gorgeous tough as nails frontier woman, The cantankerous old rancher, the town Madam, the council of shopkeepers, he poker tournament, and the goofy deputy. It's filled with duels, bar fights, ranchers, corruption, and powerful railroads. At its heart is a whoDone-it mystery.
It is a solid, un-put-down able story that is just lots of fun to read.
Many thanks to the publisher for providing a copy for review.
It's got all the normal fixings of a book of this genre from the sharp shooting no-nonsense sheriff, the rough gunslingers from out of town, the gorgeous tough as nails frontier woman, The cantankerous old rancher, the town Madam, the council of shopkeepers, he poker tournament, and the goofy deputy. It's filled with duels, bar fights, ranchers, corruption, and powerful railroads. At its heart is a whoDone-it mystery.
It is a solid, un-put-down able story that is just lots of fun to read.
Many thanks to the publisher for providing a copy for review.
February 14, 2018
This third great entry in the Caleb York series never lets up.
The railroad is coming through. George Cullen, the biggest ranch owner is against it. Meanwhile, a hired gunman comes to town.
Murders begin to happen, and Caleb York has to find out the whys and wherefores, plus get into a few shootouts.
Great stuff. I'm really enjoying this series.
The railroad is coming through. George Cullen, the biggest ranch owner is against it. Meanwhile, a hired gunman comes to town.
Murders begin to happen, and Caleb York has to find out the whys and wherefores, plus get into a few shootouts.
Great stuff. I'm really enjoying this series.
January 4, 2022
The Santa Fe railroad wants to build a spur from Las Vegas, New Mexico to the small town of Trinidad but needs to come to an agreement for a right-of-way across George Cullen’s Bar-O ranch. Old George doesn’t want that to happen thinking it will only benefit his competition while most of the town, as well as his daughter, believe it will do nothing but help the township and prevent its turning into just another western ghost town. Sheriff Caleb York leans toward supporting the building of the spur but tries to remain neutral. Of course, conflict ensues and a fairly major character from the first two books is murdered. To make matters more complicated, a notorious gunman and his two hardcase sidekicks have just come to town, likely with a contract to kill…somebody.
This third novel in the Mickey Spillane/Max Allan Collins western series is just as good as the rest. These books were conceived by Spillane as a vehicle for John Wayne but knowing he was near the end of his life, asked Max Allan Collins to write them from the outlines. While they can be read and enjoyed as stand-alone novels, I recommend reading them in order to fully appreciate the multi-volume story arcs that occur. This one morphs from a traditional western plot into a murder mystery with Caleb York pulling out all the stops in trying to solve the murder. There are plenty of suspects but his background as a Pinkerton detective comes in might handy.
I’m finding myself really enthralled with the series. They are definite page turners, the kind where you need to keep going to find out what happens next. I love the characters, not only Caleb York but all the supporting cast as well. Mickey Spillane is at the heart of these tales so expect that one or two favorites might well be killed off or chased out of town, even if they’ve been around since the beginning.
Bring on number four!
This third novel in the Mickey Spillane/Max Allan Collins western series is just as good as the rest. These books were conceived by Spillane as a vehicle for John Wayne but knowing he was near the end of his life, asked Max Allan Collins to write them from the outlines. While they can be read and enjoyed as stand-alone novels, I recommend reading them in order to fully appreciate the multi-volume story arcs that occur. This one morphs from a traditional western plot into a murder mystery with Caleb York pulling out all the stops in trying to solve the murder. There are plenty of suspects but his background as a Pinkerton detective comes in might handy.
I’m finding myself really enthralled with the series. They are definite page turners, the kind where you need to keep going to find out what happens next. I love the characters, not only Caleb York but all the supporting cast as well. Mickey Spillane is at the heart of these tales so expect that one or two favorites might well be killed off or chased out of town, even if they’ve been around since the beginning.
Bring on number four!
May 18, 2018
I received a copy of this book to read and review from the publisher through NetGalley.
THE BLOODY SPUR is the third book in the “Caleb York” series, and finds legendary gunman Caleb York settling into his position of lawmaker having replaced the former corrupt sheriff and his “deputies” or gang that had attempted to add the ranch belonging to George Cullen and daughter Willa to his amassed land taken by force. Willa, whom Caleb previously had a relationship with in the wake of his saving the ranch, but now finds himself on her bad side after killing her latest love interest.
George Cullen is once again in danger as a result of his opposing the proposal to provide land and his blessing to creating a station for the railroad that would add much needed income for the community (and Caleb), but possibly causing changes to the town and his ranch that he does not welcome.
Burt O’Malley is a co-founder of the ranch with George who recently has returned after reportedly having been released from prison after leaving years before, and ends up at the ranch again.
Willa is torn between supporting or opposing the station, wanting to be supportive of her father, but seeing the possibilities it could provide for everyone makes this a difficult decision.
Caleb is on high alert when a known gambler/assassin shows up making it clear someone in town is a target, but who is the question that he must learn to protect from a murder disguised as self defense.
Enjoyable book that was originally started by the late Mickey Spillane and seen to completion by Max Allan Collins, and while I didn’t enjoy this one as much as the first book in the series, this could be largely due to the fact I haven’t as yet read the second book in the series, something that I’ll do in the future.
4 stars.
THE BLOODY SPUR is the third book in the “Caleb York” series, and finds legendary gunman Caleb York settling into his position of lawmaker having replaced the former corrupt sheriff and his “deputies” or gang that had attempted to add the ranch belonging to George Cullen and daughter Willa to his amassed land taken by force. Willa, whom Caleb previously had a relationship with in the wake of his saving the ranch, but now finds himself on her bad side after killing her latest love interest.
George Cullen is once again in danger as a result of his opposing the proposal to provide land and his blessing to creating a station for the railroad that would add much needed income for the community (and Caleb), but possibly causing changes to the town and his ranch that he does not welcome.
Burt O’Malley is a co-founder of the ranch with George who recently has returned after reportedly having been released from prison after leaving years before, and ends up at the ranch again.
Willa is torn between supporting or opposing the station, wanting to be supportive of her father, but seeing the possibilities it could provide for everyone makes this a difficult decision.
Caleb is on high alert when a known gambler/assassin shows up making it clear someone in town is a target, but who is the question that he must learn to protect from a murder disguised as self defense.
Enjoyable book that was originally started by the late Mickey Spillane and seen to completion by Max Allan Collins, and while I didn’t enjoy this one as much as the first book in the series, this could be largely due to the fact I haven’t as yet read the second book in the series, something that I’ll do in the future.
4 stars.
March 2, 2018
THE BLOODY SPUR is Mickey Spillane’s and Max Allan Collins’ third Western novel featuring former Wells Fargo detective and current Trinidad, New Mexico Sheriff Caleb York. Max Allan Collins wrote this smooth tale based on characters created by Spillane, for John Wayne’s Batjac Productions, in an unproduced screenplay.
The Santa Fe Railroad wants a spur between Trinidad and the nearby Las Vegas, New Mexico, but it needs a right-of-way across George Cullen’s Bar-O ranch. The new rail line would increase commerce, population, make Trinidad’s cattle ranchers more competitive, and enrich the town’s business owners. But George Cullen is a tough and stubborn old man, now blind, with no intention of allowing the tracks on Bar-O property. His opinion is unpopular with most everyone, including the Trinidad Citizens Committee, and creates an unusual hostility in town. Alver Hollis’ arrival—a gunfighter known as Preacherman—adds more tension since York thinks the gunman has come to Trinidad to kill. But Hollis’ target, or why anyone would want a Trinidad resident murdered, is a mystery.
THE BLOODY SPUR is an enjoyable and entertaining western tale. Its traditional storyline—Sheriffs, gunfighters, ranchers, railroads—is comfortable and, in all the right places, surprising. There is a nifty mystery included, which York handles with flair and style. A romantic twist, murder, betrayal, a satisfying amount of action, and humor—provided by York’s deputy, the former town drunk—making THE BLOODY SPUR a rewarding journey into the Old West and New Mexico’s high country.
The Santa Fe Railroad wants a spur between Trinidad and the nearby Las Vegas, New Mexico, but it needs a right-of-way across George Cullen’s Bar-O ranch. The new rail line would increase commerce, population, make Trinidad’s cattle ranchers more competitive, and enrich the town’s business owners. But George Cullen is a tough and stubborn old man, now blind, with no intention of allowing the tracks on Bar-O property. His opinion is unpopular with most everyone, including the Trinidad Citizens Committee, and creates an unusual hostility in town. Alver Hollis’ arrival—a gunfighter known as Preacherman—adds more tension since York thinks the gunman has come to Trinidad to kill. But Hollis’ target, or why anyone would want a Trinidad resident murdered, is a mystery.
THE BLOODY SPUR is an enjoyable and entertaining western tale. Its traditional storyline—Sheriffs, gunfighters, ranchers, railroads—is comfortable and, in all the right places, surprising. There is a nifty mystery included, which York handles with flair and style. A romantic twist, murder, betrayal, a satisfying amount of action, and humor—provided by York’s deputy, the former town drunk—making THE BLOODY SPUR a rewarding journey into the Old West and New Mexico’s high country.
December 23, 2022
The Bloody Spur is book three in the Caleb York saga. Old man Cullen the majority landholder in Trinidad, New Mexico, refuses to allow the Santa Fe Railroad to build a branch to Las Vegas. A prominent member of the community is found dead. It appears to be a murder. York, must solve the crime and deal with the hired guns that have come to Trinidad.
January 5, 2018
The Bloody Spur is a western tale expanded from a screenplay and notes in the estate of Mickey Spillane, and completed in novel form at Spillane's request by Max Allan Collins. There is a forward about the friendship between Spillane and John Wayne that is very interesting as well as a note from Max Allan Collins that explains his process.
Bloody Spur is a tight story, classic in scope. This is stand alone but a continuation of The Legend of Caleb York and The Big Showdown, and features Caleb York as the peacekeeper and good guy.
Rumors spread far and wide for the last six months that Caleb York, Wells Fargo Detective, is dead. This is working out well for Caleb as he has gotten side-tracked cleaning up the small town of Trinidad, New Mexico, out drawing and taking over for their corrupt sheriff Harry Gauge. He is in the midst of trying to refocus his life now that he's in his mid-thirties and appreciates the chance to avoid the men - often boys - who wish to build a reputation by outdrawing Caleb York. But Trinidad is cleaned up and York is thinking of heading out. He has had a job offer from the Pinkerton's in San Diego. Before he gets his plans in place, the notorious Preacher and his sidekicks hit town waiting on the big poker game coming up, or so they say. Then the railroad decides to put up a spur that would include Trinidad and the citizenry, both pro and anti railroad, run amuck. Most of the store owners would love the convenience of rail coming all the way to Trinidad. But if the rail is to come, they will have to have an easement through the Cullen's Bar O ranch. Old blind rancher George Cullen along with other ranchers oppose the rail coming into Trinidad. Though the majority of the work involved in the running the Bar O falls to his daughter Willa, George is still a formidable figure in the town. Then people begin to die. And George is the first to go down.
Max Allan Collins has a genius for slipping into the mind frame, the language, the pace of classic writers. He is the perfect choice to complete novels or novel outlines of those distinctive authors we have lost. Nobody does it better. Thank you, sir, for these fine tributes to our lost writers, for keeping their characters alive.
I received a free electronic copy of this western historical novel from Netgalley, the heirs of Mickey Spillane, Max Allan Collins, and Kensington in exchange for an honest review. Thank you all for sharing your hard work with me.
pub date Jan 30, 2018
Kensington
Bloody Spur is a tight story, classic in scope. This is stand alone but a continuation of The Legend of Caleb York and The Big Showdown, and features Caleb York as the peacekeeper and good guy.
Rumors spread far and wide for the last six months that Caleb York, Wells Fargo Detective, is dead. This is working out well for Caleb as he has gotten side-tracked cleaning up the small town of Trinidad, New Mexico, out drawing and taking over for their corrupt sheriff Harry Gauge. He is in the midst of trying to refocus his life now that he's in his mid-thirties and appreciates the chance to avoid the men - often boys - who wish to build a reputation by outdrawing Caleb York. But Trinidad is cleaned up and York is thinking of heading out. He has had a job offer from the Pinkerton's in San Diego. Before he gets his plans in place, the notorious Preacher and his sidekicks hit town waiting on the big poker game coming up, or so they say. Then the railroad decides to put up a spur that would include Trinidad and the citizenry, both pro and anti railroad, run amuck. Most of the store owners would love the convenience of rail coming all the way to Trinidad. But if the rail is to come, they will have to have an easement through the Cullen's Bar O ranch. Old blind rancher George Cullen along with other ranchers oppose the rail coming into Trinidad. Though the majority of the work involved in the running the Bar O falls to his daughter Willa, George is still a formidable figure in the town. Then people begin to die. And George is the first to go down.
Max Allan Collins has a genius for slipping into the mind frame, the language, the pace of classic writers. He is the perfect choice to complete novels or novel outlines of those distinctive authors we have lost. Nobody does it better. Thank you, sir, for these fine tributes to our lost writers, for keeping their characters alive.
I received a free electronic copy of this western historical novel from Netgalley, the heirs of Mickey Spillane, Max Allan Collins, and Kensington in exchange for an honest review. Thank you all for sharing your hard work with me.
pub date Jan 30, 2018
Kensington
April 22, 2018
The Bloody Spur
Mickey Spillane & Max Collins
Caleb North Novel
Reading this book is like stepping into a Frederick Remington painting. The author has carefully created in lush detail, the exacting depictions of the American West and the characters who are just a little larger than life. I’ve read many westerns and the styles vary widely. I also like the sparse approach of Elmore Leonard as well as Louis L’amour’s frontier stories with focus on the family.
The book starts off with a dilemma. Embrace new technology or reject it. The Santa Fe railroad wants to come to town. Their reasons are not entirely altruistic. Expansion is very good for the railroad.
The theme of (inevitable) change is reinforced throughout the story. We find a rancher with no sons whose estate is being run by his daughter. It’s the end of the era for gunfighters too — communication and transport make running and hiding less viable options. And, it’s the end of cattle drives with the trains available to transport the cattle. As one character says, “Civilization is coming to the West, my friends. No getting around it. We must adapt or go the way of the buffalo.”
Caleb North’s character shows his humor, vulnerability and sense of honor as the town’s sheriff, and ex-finance and a key member of the community. He’s quick to point out his own self-interest to those asking his advice. This sense of chivalry reminds me of the knights from tales of Arthur.
I enjoyed the complexity of the main character. He’s a natural leader, though he doesn’t seem to want the role unlike the Barber/Mayor and the rest of the town representatives. They seem to want power without the responsibility.
In contrast to North’s good nature, the ‘bad guys’ aren’t all bad either; just people who made bad choices, mistakes and even misread events.
At the end of the day, this story is about people like us living in the last days of the American frontier west. Collins makes it come to life and I long to have lived in one of these stories.
Mickey Spillane & Max Collins
Caleb North Novel
Reading this book is like stepping into a Frederick Remington painting. The author has carefully created in lush detail, the exacting depictions of the American West and the characters who are just a little larger than life. I’ve read many westerns and the styles vary widely. I also like the sparse approach of Elmore Leonard as well as Louis L’amour’s frontier stories with focus on the family.
The book starts off with a dilemma. Embrace new technology or reject it. The Santa Fe railroad wants to come to town. Their reasons are not entirely altruistic. Expansion is very good for the railroad.
The theme of (inevitable) change is reinforced throughout the story. We find a rancher with no sons whose estate is being run by his daughter. It’s the end of the era for gunfighters too — communication and transport make running and hiding less viable options. And, it’s the end of cattle drives with the trains available to transport the cattle. As one character says, “Civilization is coming to the West, my friends. No getting around it. We must adapt or go the way of the buffalo.”
Caleb North’s character shows his humor, vulnerability and sense of honor as the town’s sheriff, and ex-finance and a key member of the community. He’s quick to point out his own self-interest to those asking his advice. This sense of chivalry reminds me of the knights from tales of Arthur.
I enjoyed the complexity of the main character. He’s a natural leader, though he doesn’t seem to want the role unlike the Barber/Mayor and the rest of the town representatives. They seem to want power without the responsibility.
In contrast to North’s good nature, the ‘bad guys’ aren’t all bad either; just people who made bad choices, mistakes and even misread events.
At the end of the day, this story is about people like us living in the last days of the American frontier west. Collins makes it come to life and I long to have lived in one of these stories.
March 14, 2018
When John Wayne wanted a script by Spillane he got what he wanted. But problems after his movie the Alamo failed to make money when first released stopped Wayne's plans for a few western themed films of his own and forced him to take more studio projects. When Spillane was ill he asked Max Collins to work on this stockpile of material and see if anything could be published to help his family.
The script for the first Caleb York tale was almost finished as a stand alone book so Collins had little to do towards finishing it. He has since published a second and now third tale of the Wells Fargo detective turned local sheriff. The outlines by Spillane and Collins' own ability to tell good stories has added to this legacy by an author best known for the hard boiled detective genre he helped to create. They are easy reads and flow smoothly with good characters and settings. Each is a simple plot with just enough twists and turns to make these western mysteries enjoyable tales. Would make nice movies.
The script for the first Caleb York tale was almost finished as a stand alone book so Collins had little to do towards finishing it. He has since published a second and now third tale of the Wells Fargo detective turned local sheriff. The outlines by Spillane and Collins' own ability to tell good stories has added to this legacy by an author best known for the hard boiled detective genre he helped to create. They are easy reads and flow smoothly with good characters and settings. Each is a simple plot with just enough twists and turns to make these western mysteries enjoyable tales. Would make nice movies.
March 2, 2023
If like myself you came to Mickey Spillane via Mike Hammer this will feel like a a serious departure. It is said the lead character a sheriff named Caleb York was originally conceived as a vehicle for John Wayne. Having read it I can picture it as a comfortable John Wayne role. It is standard western fair with the addition of a central mystery. The lead character is likeable and noble. The love interest is on the strong side for the genre and does not need to be rescued. The mystery is good and the action of which there is very little is solid. Initially I was underwhelmed but as I continued the book grew on me. Nothing stands out but Spillane was a strong writer and so is Max Allen Collins whom Spillane left to finish his uncompleted works upon his death. Together they have created a solid book that existing western fans will enjoy and non western fans likely will not. It is not conversion material but Spillane’s name may help someone discover the genre. If so they could do far worse. Just don’t expect Mike Hammer.
February 27, 2018
#3 in the Caleb York series. A very enjoyable series based on a screenplay (written for John Wayne) and notes written by Mickey Spillane and completed after his death by collaborator Max Allan Collins. The novel contains a neat plot twist for the climax. Long time Spillane fans may notice a re-working of a climactic plot device from Kiss Me Deadly (1952).
Ranch owner George Cullen is under pressure to let the Santa Fe Railway lay tracks through his land to link Trinidad with Las Vegas. Despite Caleb's advice, George stubbornly refuses to make any deal. Meanwhile, contract killer Alver Hollis (aka the Preacherman) shows up, ostensibly to play in a poker tournament - but, when George is found murdered, Caleb wonders whether it was the work of the Preacherman. And might he have another victim in mind? Caleb, level-headed, wry, and tough when he needs to be, intends to honor his promise to George's lovely daughter, Willa, to avenge his old friend.
Ranch owner George Cullen is under pressure to let the Santa Fe Railway lay tracks through his land to link Trinidad with Las Vegas. Despite Caleb's advice, George stubbornly refuses to make any deal. Meanwhile, contract killer Alver Hollis (aka the Preacherman) shows up, ostensibly to play in a poker tournament - but, when George is found murdered, Caleb wonders whether it was the work of the Preacherman. And might he have another victim in mind? Caleb, level-headed, wry, and tough when he needs to be, intends to honor his promise to George's lovely daughter, Willa, to avenge his old friend.
November 28, 2017
Caleb York is back as sheriff, for now, of Trinidad, New Mexico. He tries to keep the peace
during a dispute about putting in a Spur to the railroad to Las Vegas, Nevada. The town
Council want it, the main landowner George Cullen doesn't. When George ends up dead,
York is on the case. Either one of the townfolk has done it or one of the six out-of-towners
did. Who did it and why?
Hopefully Max Allan Collins can keep these coming, they are a welcome addition to the Spillane
legacy of books. Just the right flavor and you can visualize the movies the stories were created for.
I'd recommend this series and this book, if you are in the mood for a change of pace.
I was given this book for my honest review.
during a dispute about putting in a Spur to the railroad to Las Vegas, Nevada. The town
Council want it, the main landowner George Cullen doesn't. When George ends up dead,
York is on the case. Either one of the townfolk has done it or one of the six out-of-towners
did. Who did it and why?
Hopefully Max Allan Collins can keep these coming, they are a welcome addition to the Spillane
legacy of books. Just the right flavor and you can visualize the movies the stories were created for.
I'd recommend this series and this book, if you are in the mood for a change of pace.
I was given this book for my honest review.
January 25, 2019
The history/background given at the beginning of this book between John Wayne and the author was great. This gives away nothing in the book but it is not about cowboy spurs but a train spur, I was thinking the opposite when I picked up the book. I could see John Wayne and one of his many leading ladies playing the parts throughout this book. The characters reminded me of several westerns from the middle era of John Wayne's movie career. I'll have to see what else I can find written by Spillane. Good mystery and a good western.
February 12, 2019
I am a fan of the hard case crimes books......and Spillane and Collins are big names in that hard-boiled genre.
I also like westerns.
Ok,enough said.
This is fantastic. Not "literature' but just fun reading. I hate to say that sometimes, visualizing it, i saw Blazing Saddles rather than Man who shot liberty valence in my head, but the book leads up to an awesome climax..(the blazing saddles reference is just to point out how influential that was on my view of westerns.)
This book rocks.
I also like westerns.
Ok,enough said.
This is fantastic. Not "literature' but just fun reading. I hate to say that sometimes, visualizing it, i saw Blazing Saddles rather than Man who shot liberty valence in my head, but the book leads up to an awesome climax..(the blazing saddles reference is just to point out how influential that was on my view of westerns.)
This book rocks.
January 23, 2018
Sherrif Caleb York has his hands full. Railroad men are trying to build a railroad through Trinidad, solving a murder, a hired gunman comes to town, and a possibly rekindled love. This book was historically accurate for the time period and amazingly written. I loved the little attention to details such as brand names. There is also mention of the shootout at the OK Corral.
April 2, 2018
Rancher George Cullen built his ranch and the town over the years and now the railroad is threatening to put in a spur line across his property. He is against it ... his grown daughter who is really running the ranch, is for it. And then there is sheriff Caleb York, a good guy and very much in the mix. Very entertaining.
January 21, 2019
The railroad's plan to build a spur line into Trinidad, New Mexico, divides the town and the biggest ranch in the area. A hired killer rides into town as does an ex-convict former partner in the Bar O ranch. Then thee ranch's blind founder is murdered. Sheriff Caleb York has his hands full in this Western novel started by Mickey Spillane but finished by Max Allan Collins.
April 7, 2023
The Caleb York Saga Continues!
I'll admit it - I'm addicted to this Western series written by Mickey Spillane and Max Allan Collins. A well-told take that outlines the effect that the encroachment of the railroad has on Caleb's town, Trinidad. Hired gunmen, murder, and intrigue pile up like cow chips as Caleb works overtime to solve the puzzle. A great read and has some excellent storytelling!
I'll admit it - I'm addicted to this Western series written by Mickey Spillane and Max Allan Collins. A well-told take that outlines the effect that the encroachment of the railroad has on Caleb's town, Trinidad. Hired gunmen, murder, and intrigue pile up like cow chips as Caleb works overtime to solve the puzzle. A great read and has some excellent storytelling!
May 30, 2024
Another splendid book in this series. Each book is better than the previous ones. The reader certainly can tell the author is Mickey Spillane. Caleb York is the epitome of the anti-hero. Mr. Spillane gives a unique perspective of the west. The books are a fast read. If you enjoyed his Mike Hammer series, you will enjoy this series.
November 22, 2019
A winner , highly recommended.
This is the first one that I've read in the series and it's the best western I've read in a long time.
I'm looking forward to the rest, starting with book one.
This is the first one that I've read in the series and it's the best western I've read in a long time.
I'm looking forward to the rest, starting with book one.
August 21, 2021
Very easy to figure out who the hired gunman was going to kill and who hired him. Although I was wrong on who killed the rancher. Good enough story and I was entertained. Looking forward to reading the next story in this series.
February 21, 2018
Spillane would be proud of this continuation of his work from the extremely talented Max Allen Collins. This is story that manages to step beyond the genre into simply excellent storytelling.
May 2, 2018
Formulaic but entertaing.
July 8, 2019
Good yarn
I liked the first one best - still if you like max Allan Collins books and of course Mickey Spillane - this whets your appetite.
I liked the first one best - still if you like max Allan Collins books and of course Mickey Spillane - this whets your appetite.
May 25, 2020
I'm really enjoying these Caleb York novels. A shame there's only 5. I wish Mickey Spillane would have written more westerns.
October 27, 2021
Okay, getting kind of repetitive from earlier books. Will take a break from them for awhile.
January 25, 2024
Took this with me for some "no challenge" reading during a hospital stay. It was exactly that
March 8, 2025
Great description
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