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Hunter Buchanon #1
The Black Hills
Johnstone Country. Frontier Spirit Lives Here.
Meet Hunter Buchanon, a towering mountain of a man who learned how to track prey in Georgia, kill in the Civil War, and prospect in the Black Hills of Dakota. Now he’s trying to live a peaceful gun-free life—but fate has other plans for him . . .
A MAN AND HIS COYOTE
When Hunter Buchanon rescued a wounded coyote pup—and named him Bobby Lee—he had no idea the cute little varmint would grow up to be such a loyal companion. Coyotes aren’t known to be man’s best friend. Most of them are as fierce and wild as the Black Hills they roam. But Bobby Lee is different. When Hunter is ambushed on the road, Bobby Lee leaps to his defense. And when the attacker tries to shoot Bobby Lee, Hunter returns the favor by hitting the man with a rock. By the time the smoke clears, the coyote-loving ex-Confederate is covered in blood—and the other guy’s got a knife in his chest. Now Hunter has to explain it all to the local sheriff. Which is going to be tough. Because the man he just killed is the sheriff’s deputy . . .
Meet Hunter Buchanon, a towering mountain of a man who learned how to track prey in Georgia, kill in the Civil War, and prospect in the Black Hills of Dakota. Now he’s trying to live a peaceful gun-free life—but fate has other plans for him . . .
A MAN AND HIS COYOTE
When Hunter Buchanon rescued a wounded coyote pup—and named him Bobby Lee—he had no idea the cute little varmint would grow up to be such a loyal companion. Coyotes aren’t known to be man’s best friend. Most of them are as fierce and wild as the Black Hills they roam. But Bobby Lee is different. When Hunter is ambushed on the road, Bobby Lee leaps to his defense. And when the attacker tries to shoot Bobby Lee, Hunter returns the favor by hitting the man with a rock. By the time the smoke clears, the coyote-loving ex-Confederate is covered in blood—and the other guy’s got a knife in his chest. Now Hunter has to explain it all to the local sheriff. Which is going to be tough. Because the man he just killed is the sheriff’s deputy . . .
433 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 18, 2018
775 people are currently reading
955 people want to read
About the author
William W. Johnstone
1,041 books1,393 followersWilliam W. Johnstone is the #1 bestselling Western writer in America and the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of hundreds of books, with over 50 million copies sold. Born in southern Missouri, he was raised with strong moral and family values by his minister father, and tutored by his schoolteacher mother. He left school at fifteen to work in a carnival and then as a deputy sheriff before serving in the army. He went on to become known as "the Greatest Western writer of the 21st Century." Visit him online at WilliamJohnstone.net.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
November 9, 2018
In J.A. Johnstone's The Black Hills (Penguin Random House 2018), all Hunter and Annabel want to do is get married but that would be too simple. Annabel’s father wants her to marry a man who will benefit his business and Hunter is a proud Rebel from the defeated South in a Yankee-ruled town. Hunter had enough of killing in the war--it was something he did quite well and often for the Confederates. When he came home after the war, he put his guns aside, swearing to solve problems peaceably. But when Annabel must flee her wealthy home steps ahead of a vindictive brother and a crazed father, everything explodes. Her father will stop at nothing to get his daughter back and into his pre-arranged marriage. When he targets Hunter's family, Hunter gives up on peace and we find out just how skilled he is at fighting the good fight, no matter the odds against him.
The characters in this story, Book 1 of J.A. Johnstone's new Hunter Buchanan series, are strong and likable with the morals and fortitude you expect from the good guys of the old West. The story is well developed with enough backstory to understand the characters' choices and problems. One of my favorites is Bobby Lee, a rescued coyote who loves nothing more than his human master, Hunter. The star-crossed love story between Annabelle and Hunter becomes the western version of the Capulets and the Montagues. The two families were on opposite sides of the civil war and now, their children are in love. This is a painful story of passion and loss that plays out as they pursue their future.
Great lines that place you right in the old West:
"Hunter felt more and more like he’d been run over by a runaway freight train deadheading on a long downhill stretch of open rail with a firebox filled to its brim."
"Gray tailings stretched down the mountain below the mine, around which was a beehive of activity including men at work with picks and shovels, handcars rolling in and out of the mine portals, thundering ore drays traversing trails switchbacking up and down the mountain’s face, as well as the constant, reverberating hammering of the stamping mill in its giant timber frame at the base of the ridge, behind the barrack-like, wood-frame mine office."
"As if he and every other Southerner in the county didn’t know that Frank Stillwell and his deputies used the Stars and Bars, Old Dixie, the Rebel Flag—the guidon for which so many Brothers of the Southern Confederacy had made the ultimate sacrifice—to scrub the mud and horse dung from their boots."
Overall, another excellent Western in a new series by an author who never fails to entertain.
The characters in this story, Book 1 of J.A. Johnstone's new Hunter Buchanan series, are strong and likable with the morals and fortitude you expect from the good guys of the old West. The story is well developed with enough backstory to understand the characters' choices and problems. One of my favorites is Bobby Lee, a rescued coyote who loves nothing more than his human master, Hunter. The star-crossed love story between Annabelle and Hunter becomes the western version of the Capulets and the Montagues. The two families were on opposite sides of the civil war and now, their children are in love. This is a painful story of passion and loss that plays out as they pursue their future.
Great lines that place you right in the old West:
"Hunter felt more and more like he’d been run over by a runaway freight train deadheading on a long downhill stretch of open rail with a firebox filled to its brim."
"Gray tailings stretched down the mountain below the mine, around which was a beehive of activity including men at work with picks and shovels, handcars rolling in and out of the mine portals, thundering ore drays traversing trails switchbacking up and down the mountain’s face, as well as the constant, reverberating hammering of the stamping mill in its giant timber frame at the base of the ridge, behind the barrack-like, wood-frame mine office."
"As if he and every other Southerner in the county didn’t know that Frank Stillwell and his deputies used the Stars and Bars, Old Dixie, the Rebel Flag—the guidon for which so many Brothers of the Southern Confederacy had made the ultimate sacrifice—to scrub the mud and horse dung from their boots."
Overall, another excellent Western in a new series by an author who never fails to entertain.
July 22, 2019
This was a decent Western novel, fast-paced, action packed.
Set in the Black Hills of the Dakota Territory, hence the title, Hunter Buchanon, former Confederate solider, had sworn to his dying mother, that he would not kill again---at least humans. Well, trouble sets in from the get-go as he is ambushed on trail. After the smoke clears, a knife is welded into a deputy's chest. We soon find out, that basically, Hunter, his dad, and two brothers, are the only former Confederates abiding in the little mining town of Tigerville, which is run but Graham Ludlow, and Max Chaney. There really is not a true law presence here, as the Sheriff, is really a gun-for-hire, and the rest of the gun-toting bandits all dislike the Grays.
The sheriff, Stillwell, and the deputies, think Hunter is guilty, and plan on waylaying him, but thanks to this family, is able to escape the situation. But the stage is set, and trouble follows Hunter, his family, and his lady friend, Annabelle, who happens to be the daughter of Ludlow, the rancher, who has wealth.
Jealousy, anger, etc never cease. Typical western with gunfights, and some hand-to-hand combat. Johnstone does a good job describing the scenery, and the fights. There is also plenty of humor in this western, with almost Blazing Saddles or cartoonish type language from the characters. This, along with some minor issues, like hunting Grizzlies in Georgia, and the fact that the Hunter has shoulder length blond hair, and the book cover is a guy with shorter darker hair, takes this down to 4 stars, more like 3.5.
Set in the Black Hills of the Dakota Territory, hence the title, Hunter Buchanon, former Confederate solider, had sworn to his dying mother, that he would not kill again---at least humans. Well, trouble sets in from the get-go as he is ambushed on trail. After the smoke clears, a knife is welded into a deputy's chest. We soon find out, that basically, Hunter, his dad, and two brothers, are the only former Confederates abiding in the little mining town of Tigerville, which is run but Graham Ludlow, and Max Chaney. There really is not a true law presence here, as the Sheriff, is really a gun-for-hire, and the rest of the gun-toting bandits all dislike the Grays.
The sheriff, Stillwell, and the deputies, think Hunter is guilty, and plan on waylaying him, but thanks to this family, is able to escape the situation. But the stage is set, and trouble follows Hunter, his family, and his lady friend, Annabelle, who happens to be the daughter of Ludlow, the rancher, who has wealth.
Jealousy, anger, etc never cease. Typical western with gunfights, and some hand-to-hand combat. Johnstone does a good job describing the scenery, and the fights. There is also plenty of humor in this western, with almost Blazing Saddles or cartoonish type language from the characters. This, along with some minor issues, like hunting Grizzlies in Georgia, and the fact that the Hunter has shoulder length blond hair, and the book cover is a guy with shorter darker hair, takes this down to 4 stars, more like 3.5.
November 28, 2018
Great western by one of the best western authors. This is the first book of hopefully another long series. You can't go wrong with this book if you enjoy reading a western every now and then. Highly recommended.
December 21, 2018
Once again a Johnstone book teaches as well as providing a great story. The book may be fiction, but it’s pushing its way toward the historical fiction genre. The back stories of the characters help so much the set the stage as well as shape the characters. The only thing I knew about The Black Hills was that it was the home of Mount Rushmore. But now I will be rushing to read more books in what I hope will be a long series of tremendous action-filled adventures. I read an advanced digital copy from #NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 2, 2019
I must admit I was reserving judgment on this one, but it is a good story... a little longer than most paperbacks, but looks like a good series coming up. This time the war is between a guy who fought for the south (Hunter) against the rest of the town who fought for the north, and it doesn't help that he wants to marry the daughter of a yankee. The last few paragraphs leave us with a bit of a mystery as to the masked rider watching them from a hill ... I have an idea who it is because of the mask, but we'll see. I am also left with the question "who stole Hunter's gold?"
June 26, 2021
A fast paced western with a decent plot of star crossed lovers. I liked the writing style and the setting with lots of gun totting mercenaries and bloodbaths. It ended on a sort of cliffhanger so I'm looking forward to the next book.
June 27, 2023
This was a Goodreads win. I entered because this is a best selling author I have never read. It was packed full of action. Every chapter was full of activity. It is not a genre I thought I would necessarily read but it was an old western story taking place in the black hills and how the law was really almost a myth and how things were done back in the 1800s. It was the first in what seems to be a series but can be a stand alone. Good western action filled book.
November 20, 2018
The Black Hills is the first book in a new series and I loved it. I have read and enjoyed so many books by William Johnstone and this new one is another really good Western book. I will be looking forward to others in this series. I received this book through goodreads first reads and am so glad that I won an arc of The Black Hills.
January 10, 2019
This was an excellent book. It appears to be true first in a series.. I am wondering if the rider wearing a good is Case Ludlow threatening our hero and heroine at the very end of the story. I also would be interested t!I see if. Robbie Lee, the coyote find a a mate. Will there be a sequel to this story? I sure hope so.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 25, 2019
It starts slow then gets better. Must have changed house writers mid book and it's a good thing.
Typical Johnstone book - predictable and the villains are interchangeable from Johnstone book to Johnstone book.
The main character is almost a variation of any of the Jensen family and could easily turn out to be a long lost cousin if they wanted to do that.
Entertaining, not great.
Typical Johnstone book - predictable and the villains are interchangeable from Johnstone book to Johnstone book.
The main character is almost a variation of any of the Jensen family and could easily turn out to be a long lost cousin if they wanted to do that.
Entertaining, not great.
August 25, 2019
A story written with his nephew J. A. Johnstone. This is a Western set in the era just after the Civil War, the first in a series - a Hunter Buchanon Novel. Good Character development and an interesting story line with a few twists. A strong female Heroine with a solid believable story. I'll read more Johnstone stories.
October 25, 2019
Not Bill Johnstone quality
A decent story with good characters. But poorly developed throughout. And an ending that isn't an ending.
I've read MANY of Mr Johnstones books over the years, often several times. He had a knack for getting the most of of any story. That knack has not carried forward to his kin.
A decent story with good characters. But poorly developed throughout. And an ending that isn't an ending.
I've read MANY of Mr Johnstones books over the years, often several times. He had a knack for getting the most of of any story. That knack has not carried forward to his kin.
July 18, 2020
Never really been into westerns before however really enjoyed this one. I read the graphic audio version of this book and they really brought it to life. There books are like a combination of a book and a movie. Web address at the end of this review. This book was action packed and this is a series i plan to read more of. Address for graphic audio is as follows
www.graphicaudeointernational.net
www.graphicaudeointernational.net
December 17, 2020
This is a new series from William W. Johnstone and it's rather good. It's a dark story set in the Black hills of Montana during the gold boom. The tension is great between those who fought for the south and those who fought for the north. I always enjoy a good western so I will read book two after this.
February 28, 2021
Classic old west with wide ranging page-turning action
Crooked sheriff, greedy rancher, harsh mine owner, and a community that was afraid to fight back. When they decided to destroy the family, the young former confederate soldier decided he had enough and it was his turn to push for justice and seek peace. A fascinating read and well worth the time.
Crooked sheriff, greedy rancher, harsh mine owner, and a community that was afraid to fight back. When they decided to destroy the family, the young former confederate soldier decided he had enough and it was his turn to push for justice and seek peace. A fascinating read and well worth the time.
November 7, 2024
Book 1 Black Hills
I really enjoyed this book. So full of action around every turn. It seems killing was the main reason in a fight between the different inhabitants of the town. Different being the those who wore gray uniforms and those that wore blue.
I'm looking forward to Book 2.
I really enjoyed this book. So full of action around every turn. It seems killing was the main reason in a fight between the different inhabitants of the town. Different being the those who wore gray uniforms and those that wore blue.
I'm looking forward to Book 2.
June 27, 2019
Hunter Buchanan resumes a coyote who becomes a loyal companion. Having fought in the civil war Hunter comes home to his family and falls in love with a young woman who gives up her family, her arranged marriage and fights a war that nearly costs both hers and Hunters life.
January 27, 2020
The author seems to have tried to use as many old time western slang terms as he could fit into this book. The book could have used another read through to catch the typos.
Lots of violence, blood, killing, and savagery. Strange ending.
Lots of violence, blood, killing, and savagery. Strange ending.
June 15, 2021
Good action western
As always these two authors have written a great western story. Full of action, with hero and his lady fighting off the bad guys. Along with his cantankerous father, who saves the day. It's everything I enjoy in a western, and I hope to see more of them.
As always these two authors have written a great western story. Full of action, with hero and his lady fighting off the bad guys. Along with his cantankerous father, who saves the day. It's everything I enjoy in a western, and I hope to see more of them.
November 23, 2021
Another incredibly amazing western!
I really enjoyed this book! So thankful that at least part of them are on kindle unlimited! Was heart sick over Hunter's brother's, can't wait to read the rest of this series!
I really enjoyed this book! So thankful that at least part of them are on kindle unlimited! Was heart sick over Hunter's brother's, can't wait to read the rest of this series!
December 10, 2021
I grew up reading "America's Storyteller" AKA Louis L'Amour. Westerns are my favorite genre. This is my first Johnstone novel I do believe. He is every bit as good as L'Amour. If you enjoy tales of the west, you should read this book.
October 18, 2024
If you enjoy Good Western Books You’ll like this one!!!
I’ve read quite a few of Johnston’s books. But this is the one I’ve liked the most. Couldn’t put it down. Very Fast Paced. With A lot of Action never a dull moment
I’ve read quite a few of Johnston’s books. But this is the one I’ve liked the most. Couldn’t put it down. Very Fast Paced. With A lot of Action never a dull moment
December 11, 2024
I never thought I would enjoy reading westerns but after reading my first book by William W. Johnston , I was hooked!
Just finished the first book in this series { Hunter Buchanan The Black Hills } and I was not disappointed. Great story ! I can’t wait to start book # 2.
Just finished the first book in this series { Hunter Buchanan The Black Hills } and I was not disappointed. Great story ! I can’t wait to start book # 2.
January 17, 2025
This was probably a 2.5 star book given how many times I became disinterested with the plot. It seemed as though the story was completely circular with the plot regurgitating over and over again, with nothing new happening.
April 19, 2025
Predictable. Big strong men. Beautiful women. Bad bad guys. A few horsey descriptions. Lots of shoot em up. Good wins over evil. With a tail leading to the next volume.
Read it for a book club. Definitely not my cup of tea.
Read it for a book club. Definitely not my cup of tea.
October 31, 2018
Black Hills is a part of A Hunter Buchanon series. I thought it was a great read. I am giving it four and a half stars. Recommended.
November 27, 2018
Holy smokes this is such a true western read with a rip-roaring stampede of deaths.
December 23, 2018
I absolutely loved it!!! I have always liked westerns and this is the best I've read it awhile. Hope there will be more coming from William Johnstone.
January 11, 2019
Great Book!
I really enjoyed this Western story! It i well written and edited as well as being interesting and exciting I will look for more from this Author!
I really enjoyed this Western story! It i well written and edited as well as being interesting and exciting I will look for more from this Author!
January 18, 2019
I loved this first book of a new series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews