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The Lockes #3
Hell's Fire
A fast-paced Western novel from the the author of Grit and The Law Wranglers series. Thad Locke was not surprised to discover a dead body in the aftermath of a fire on a small homestead in the Kansas Flint Hills. That the cause of death appeared to be a bullet hole through the skull, however, was a surprise. When a member of the Locke family goes missing shortly thereafter, and the sheriff and his deputies are slow to act, the Locke family takes matters into their own hands. As the Lockes begin to piece together clues linking the two, a fiery and deadly climax becomes inevitable. Unfolding in mere days, Hell's Fire is an enthralling story about who is going to stand with you when the chips are down.
- GenresWesterns
230 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 12, 2019
630 people are currently reading
42 people want to read
About the author
Ron Schwab
47 books193 followersRon Schwab is the author of the popular Western series, The Law Wranglers, The Coyote Saga, and The Lockes, as well as several standalone novels, including Grit, a winner of the Western Fictioneers Peacemaker Award for Best Western Novel, and Cut Nose, a finalist for the Western Writers of America Best Western Historical Novel. He is a member of the Western Writers of America, Western Fictioneers, and Mystery Writers of America.
Ron’s earlier published works included the suspense novels, Crocodile Fears and The Buddy System, both printed under a pseudonym, Michael J. Stewart. He is a member of the Western Writers of America, Western Fictioneers, and Mystery Writers of America.
Ron and his wife, Bev, divide their time between their home in Fairbury, Nebraska and their cabin in the Kansas Flint Hills.
Ron’s earlier published works included the suspense novels, Crocodile Fears and The Buddy System, both printed under a pseudonym, Michael J. Stewart. He is a member of the Western Writers of America, Western Fictioneers, and Mystery Writers of America.
Ron and his wife, Bev, divide their time between their home in Fairbury, Nebraska and their cabin in the Kansas Flint Hills.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
February 16, 2019
Bell's Fire for sure
What an exciting book this was. Great characters and lots of action surrounding the small town. Would highly recommend this book and all others written by this author to everyone that enjoys a great story.
What an exciting book this was. Great characters and lots of action surrounding the small town. Would highly recommend this book and all others written by this author to everyone that enjoys a great story.
September 29, 2019
A very surprising story that successfully portrays compassionate camaraderie throughout this compelling western folklore masterpiece. There are suspenseful episodes that consistently reaches out and grabs the reader's undivided attention, and the heartwarming experiences throughout this exceptionally compassionate story is overwhelmingly impressive!
Most definitely a five star representation of an extraordinarily camaraderie between a family and their many outstanding friends a nd neighbors. Thad, Kirsten, Myles, Ned and their family certainly know how to overcome their many demanding escapades, and all is well after man scary escapades of near death experiences! Outstanding storylines that successfully portrays compassionate and heartwarming experiences throughout this exceptionally compelling western masterpiece.
The Author went above and beyond in his selection of characters, as they continuously fulfilled their assignments with exceptionally descriptive renditions of realistic old western gunfights and other outstanding detailed assignments! There several suspenseful episodes, as well as time for romancing and family-friendly activities!
Definitely recommend this outstanding masterpiece to all of you western addicted readers, and even you non-western fanatics will find yourselves completely satisfied with this compassionate storytelling adventure of our old American folklore. I have read of the Thad Locke books, finding entertaining and very descriptive of the real old West. Give them a shot, as you will find yourselves completely satisfied!
Most definitely a five star representation of an extraordinarily camaraderie between a family and their many outstanding friends a nd neighbors. Thad, Kirsten, Myles, Ned and their family certainly know how to overcome their many demanding escapades, and all is well after man scary escapades of near death experiences! Outstanding storylines that successfully portrays compassionate and heartwarming experiences throughout this exceptionally compelling western masterpiece.
The Author went above and beyond in his selection of characters, as they continuously fulfilled their assignments with exceptionally descriptive renditions of realistic old western gunfights and other outstanding detailed assignments! There several suspenseful episodes, as well as time for romancing and family-friendly activities!
Definitely recommend this outstanding masterpiece to all of you western addicted readers, and even you non-western fanatics will find yourselves completely satisfied with this compassionate storytelling adventure of our old American folklore. I have read of the Thad Locke books, finding entertaining and very descriptive of the real old West. Give them a shot, as you will find yourselves completely satisfied!
June 10, 2021
The commune people kidnap miles lock
Miles has kept underneath the barn of the commune in an uncomfortable cell for days on end. No one knows where he is right now but he has no doubt that his son's will come through and trace him down. He hangs stuff and he doesn't know anything about Granny's gold so the commune doesn't really have a use for him. They finally throw down a little girl who's been talking to Miles whose name is Gina. Gina is being punished for talking to him has no one is allowed to talk to prisoners. Miles and Gina form a good Bond and comfort each other and keep each other happy. In the meantime miles sons and friends find the location of the commune and know that he's there and ask to search the commune. But of course the boss of the commune says absolutely not and chases them off. But they don't give up easily and they're going to come back with more people. In the meantime Marty escapes from the compound of the commune and informs Kristen that they're going to light the commune on fire that night. So Kristen and Wrangler decide to notify everyone in medicine wheel of the upcoming fire so they can have the fire brigade there in preparation.
Miles has kept underneath the barn of the commune in an uncomfortable cell for days on end. No one knows where he is right now but he has no doubt that his son's will come through and trace him down. He hangs stuff and he doesn't know anything about Granny's gold so the commune doesn't really have a use for him. They finally throw down a little girl who's been talking to Miles whose name is Gina. Gina is being punished for talking to him has no one is allowed to talk to prisoners. Miles and Gina form a good Bond and comfort each other and keep each other happy. In the meantime miles sons and friends find the location of the commune and know that he's there and ask to search the commune. But of course the boss of the commune says absolutely not and chases them off. But they don't give up easily and they're going to come back with more people. In the meantime Marty escapes from the compound of the commune and informs Kristen that they're going to light the commune on fire that night. So Kristen and Wrangler decide to notify everyone in medicine wheel of the upcoming fire so they can have the fire brigade there in preparation.
April 10, 2019
THE CREEPERS OF FLINT HILLS
This was a heartfelt story of people lives during the latter eighteenth century. The plot and characters make you feel your involved in these live situations as you might read about or viewed on the local television stations.There are cults, kidnapping, interracial marriages and there's murder..let's look at the free state of Kansas which recognized "The Emancipation Proclamation" which recognized the freed slaves, but Kansas was still tricky regarding the recognition of mixed marriages. There's also domestic violence and the cult/commune inhabitants who stole from their surrounding neighbors...There's something hinkey going on with the leaders of this commune.
A great story with constant action, there's
a who done it mystique surrounding the town's inhabitants and their ancestors..The Kaw Indians also known as the Kansa Tribe. Lots of interesting history in this story that I think, the reader will enjoy...PEACE
This was a heartfelt story of people lives during the latter eighteenth century. The plot and characters make you feel your involved in these live situations as you might read about or viewed on the local television stations.There are cults, kidnapping, interracial marriages and there's murder..let's look at the free state of Kansas which recognized "The Emancipation Proclamation" which recognized the freed slaves, but Kansas was still tricky regarding the recognition of mixed marriages. There's also domestic violence and the cult/commune inhabitants who stole from their surrounding neighbors...There's something hinkey going on with the leaders of this commune.
A great story with constant action, there's
a who done it mystique surrounding the town's inhabitants and their ancestors..The Kaw Indians also known as the Kansa Tribe. Lots of interesting history in this story that I think, the reader will enjoy...PEACE
September 26, 2023
I'm seriously hooked on Ron Schwab's exciting, authentic portrayals of western life in the 1880s. The third book in The Lockes series focuses once again on Dr. Thaddeus Locke and the two women in his life, but Attorney Myles Locke (Thad's father) also plays an important role in this compelling tale of a desperate fight against unmitigated evil and deadly fire. The intense danger in the final confrontation was almost hot enough to melt my Kindle!
You'll find no courtroom drama in this classic western novel, but the tense, engrossing plot stands strong on its own. Kudos to the author for his informative descriptions of fire-fighting methods and equipment in the 1880s. Kudos also for immersive settings, a sprinkling of humor, and likable characters (except for the evil villains, of course). Book Three of The Lockes easily earns five flaming stars from me!
You'll find no courtroom drama in this classic western novel, but the tense, engrossing plot stands strong on its own. Kudos to the author for his informative descriptions of fire-fighting methods and equipment in the 1880s. Kudos also for immersive settings, a sprinkling of humor, and likable characters (except for the evil villains, of course). Book Three of The Lockes easily earns five flaming stars from me!
July 21, 2022
Great Trilogy
I really liked these three books.
Each of the stories moved along and the ending of one fit naturally into the next. Topping that was that the third story looked faithfully connected to the first.
The only thing that hit a sour note with me was the "surgical recovery" was consistent with todays "get them up and moving as soon as you can" recovery. As near back as the 1970's, chest surgery patients spent 2-3 days deeply anesthetized in Intensive Care, then a week or 10 days in the surgical ward - only standing by the bed the second day. And why am I so sure this was the way it was?
I lived it.
Most readers won't even notice.
I recommend this story and the entire trilogy.
I really liked these three books.
Each of the stories moved along and the ending of one fit naturally into the next. Topping that was that the third story looked faithfully connected to the first.
The only thing that hit a sour note with me was the "surgical recovery" was consistent with todays "get them up and moving as soon as you can" recovery. As near back as the 1970's, chest surgery patients spent 2-3 days deeply anesthetized in Intensive Care, then a week or 10 days in the surgical ward - only standing by the bed the second day. And why am I so sure this was the way it was?
I lived it.
Most readers won't even notice.
I recommend this story and the entire trilogy.
March 2, 2019
Nice Addition to the Locke Story
This is a quick read story. Great characters, familiar to some who have read earlier Locke family stories, but a stand alone story.
It’s important for those who read this to understand that while the characters are familiar, it doesn’t necessarily mesh to the timelines found in the earlier books.
A nice “escape read” for 4 or 5 hours into the Flint Hills if Kansas! Veterinarian Thad Locke, his family of “Law Wranglers” and assorted others make for a fast paced story that involves, murder-mystery, communes, small business and volunteer firefighters—and they’re all weaves together naturally!
This is a quick read story. Great characters, familiar to some who have read earlier Locke family stories, but a stand alone story.
It’s important for those who read this to understand that while the characters are familiar, it doesn’t necessarily mesh to the timelines found in the earlier books.
A nice “escape read” for 4 or 5 hours into the Flint Hills if Kansas! Veterinarian Thad Locke, his family of “Law Wranglers” and assorted others make for a fast paced story that involves, murder-mystery, communes, small business and volunteer firefighters—and they’re all weaves together naturally!
April 16, 2019
Hell's Fire (The Locker Book 3)
The entire Locke family are amazing, they are each very different, yet when one is in trouble, the rest come to to put it right again. This book had everything that a good old fashioned western should have. It was an excellent read and I commend this author for his ability to give an accurate picture of how things were in that time. BRAVO 👏👏BRAVO 👏BRAVO 👏👏
The entire Locke family are amazing, they are each very different, yet when one is in trouble, the rest come to to put it right again. This book had everything that a good old fashioned western should have. It was an excellent read and I commend this author for his ability to give an accurate picture of how things were in that time. BRAVO 👏👏BRAVO 👏BRAVO 👏👏
February 21, 2019
Really liked this book, especially the 'rough around the edges' Kirsten. There is plenty of action - murder, abduction, evil, suspense, a dog, a child's show of faith - and lots more! Although this is the 3rd Locke book, it is not necessary to have read the first two to enjoy this one, as the author does an excellent job of giving the reader the backstories of the characters.
April 3, 2019
A story of a veterinarian and his trials and tribulations
Mystery and passion are two necessary ingredients of a great book and combined with love and faith create a truly exciting story. Lawyers, veterinarian, and a lazy sheriff are only a few characters in this book. A great book!
Mystery and passion are two necessary ingredients of a great book and combined with love and faith create a truly exciting story. Lawyers, veterinarian, and a lazy sheriff are only a few characters in this book. A great book!
March 3, 2019
Hells Fire ( The Lockes)
This is a good read, the people who are portrayed in this story are a sample of what to expect in any society. The author put them out west and at the right time which made the story more interesting
This is a good read, the people who are portrayed in this story are a sample of what to expect in any society. The author put them out west and at the right time which made the story more interesting
March 10, 2019
An interesting and enjoyable book.
I don't read western novels very often but this one stands above the rest. There is a combination of characters that i enjoyed plus a story line that included action,love and family. Well worth the read!
I don't read western novels very often but this one stands above the rest. There is a combination of characters that i enjoyed plus a story line that included action,love and family. Well worth the read!
March 18, 2019
Excellent
My only regret about this story is not seeing that idiot sheriff get his comeuppance. Great plotting, nice suspense, great outcomes. I hope there is more with these characters.
My only regret about this story is not seeing that idiot sheriff get his comeuppance. Great plotting, nice suspense, great outcomes. I hope there is more with these characters.
February 24, 2020
Heart-Pounding Saga
Continuing the Locke family saga, Schwab leads readers through more hair-raising adventures of the various family members. A sprinkling of romance softens the harsh realities of life in the Old West.
Continuing the Locke family saga, Schwab leads readers through more hair-raising adventures of the various family members. A sprinkling of romance softens the harsh realities of life in the Old West.
July 5, 2020
Good plots.
I liked they way t he author followed through from book to book. At first it was hard to keep track of all the Lockes. The best thing about this book, was the mixture of races, without strife. It was a good example of acceptance among the races, as it should be.
I liked they way t he author followed through from book to book. At first it was hard to keep track of all the Lockes. The best thing about this book, was the mixture of races, without strife. It was a good example of acceptance among the races, as it should be.
November 30, 2020
Just a goodbook.
This is a very easy read book, one that Iwouldhighly recommend. The author is a person of quality writing skills, presenting a story in such a way as to keep the readers interest. This book is in my estimation a 5 star .
This is a very easy read book, one that Iwouldhighly recommend. The author is a person of quality writing skills, presenting a story in such a way as to keep the readers interest. This book is in my estimation a 5 star .
June 6, 2021
Barn burner
Another good story by Ron Schwab! Life in the flint hills in late 1800s. Some humor, some mystery. If you have something important to do, you need to wait to start reading this story
Another good story by Ron Schwab! Life in the flint hills in late 1800s. Some humor, some mystery. If you have something important to do, you need to wait to start reading this story
September 26, 2021
Good read
Thad marries, saves his father, a commune, his dog, and continues to expand his veterinary services, and getting to know his son. Lots of action. Hope to read more Locke family stories.
Thad marries, saves his father, a commune, his dog, and continues to expand his veterinary services, and getting to know his son. Lots of action. Hope to read more Locke family stories.
November 2, 2022
Adventure
I have enjoyed this series of books about the Locke family. It was a background on them and how they grew and matured as individuals. Not just that but the adventures they got themselves into. A enjoyable read.
I have enjoyed this series of books about the Locke family. It was a background on them and how they grew and matured as individuals. Not just that but the adventures they got themselves into. A enjoyable read.
June 14, 2023
great series
I would highly recommend this series. Ron does a great job with the storyline and characters in the books.
Love the story and the outcome. The writing keeps you turning the pages to see what happens next. Hope for more in this series
I would highly recommend this series. Ron does a great job with the storyline and characters in the books.
Love the story and the outcome. The writing keeps you turning the pages to see what happens next. Hope for more in this series
December 26, 2023
A wonderful series
I've enjoyed each book and can only hope there may be more stories to follow. The storylines have melded together so well yet each left an opportunity to be expanded. The author is a true craftsman.
I've enjoyed each book and can only hope there may be more stories to follow. The storylines have melded together so well yet each left an opportunity to be expanded. The author is a true craftsman.
August 12, 2024
Hell’s Fire (The Lockes)
A marvalous story filled with unending action and intrigue. It is a family oriented saga of mixed birth lines, love, compassion and adventure. In the end, surprise…read it for yourself.
A marvalous story filled with unending action and intrigue. It is a family oriented saga of mixed birth lines, love, compassion and adventure. In the end, surprise…read it for yourself.
February 28, 2019
Good read
Schwab is a consistent performer, always good. Surprising, imaginative stories. Always fun to read, keep you reading, anxious to see what's next.
Schwab is a consistent performer, always good. Surprising, imaginative stories. Always fun to read, keep you reading, anxious to see what's next.
March 31, 2019
Hell Fire
Another great book about the Locke’s. Starts out slow,but builds up your interest more as you read. Thad finds his true love along with a couple kids.
Another great book about the Locke’s. Starts out slow,but builds up your interest more as you read. Thad finds his true love along with a couple kids.
May 12, 2019
Very nice
Very nice read, suspensful, look forward to the next read by author, don't know what else to write, enjoy !!
Very nice read, suspensful, look forward to the next read by author, don't know what else to write, enjoy !!
May 28, 2019
Hell’s Fire
I loved the characters in this story. It kept my interest and was a real page turner. I will be reading more of his books.
I loved the characters in this story. It kept my interest and was a real page turner. I will be reading more of his books.
June 14, 2021
Crazy people
The cover prepares you for at least one fire but this ones a dozey
Who will survive. All, none, some.
The cover prepares you for at least one fire but this ones a dozey
Who will survive. All, none, some.
August 3, 2021
Another Ron book
I like his style books 25 more words, words words words words words words words words words words words words
I like his style books 25 more words, words words words words words words words words words words words words
August 9, 2021
Interesting
No real shoot outs except two and lots of suspense to keep your interest. I shall try to read more by this author.
No real shoot outs except two and lots of suspense to keep your interest. I shall try to read more by this author.
December 30, 2021
The book is well written
I enjoyed this book because, it's a bit of change for me to not want more western gun ,Indiana drama
I enjoyed this book because, it's a bit of change for me to not want more western gun ,Indiana drama
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews