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The Cunning Man #2
The Jupiter Knife
EVEN GHOSTS NEED HELP FROM A CUNNING MAN. A new novel in the Cunning Man series from Dragon Award-nominated author D.J. Butler and Aaron Michael Ritchey. Hiram and his son Michael are dowsing a well in Eastern Utah when they hear a cry of help from the ghost of a small boy, torn to pieces by wild animals. Before they can even begin to look into that tragedy, however, a prosperous local rancher is murdered right before their eyes. In an attempt to both help the ghost and find the killer, Hiram and Michael must navigate an eccentric cast of characters that includes failed bank robbers, a seductive fortune-teller, an inept sheriff, a crazy prospector, and a preacher with an apocalyptic grudge against the Roosevelt administration. The mystery, however, isn’t just in the hearts of men. There’s an astrological puzzle that Michael, now his father’s apprentice, must solve. Meanwhile, the murderer is moving slowly against Hiram and Michael, forcing them into a trap from which there is no escape. At the publisher's request, this title is sold without DRM (Digital Rights Management). About The Jupiter “It’s like Jim Butcher crossed with Grapes of Wrath!”—Larry Correia “Butler and Ritchey return to Depression-era Utah for a second thrilling tale of murder and folk magic (after The Cunning Man). . . . The play between Hiram’s earnest Mormonism and the more secular Michael’s growing unease with folk magic adds depth to the father-son dynamic, and the false leads and eccentric side characters make for a delightful mystery. This well-crafted historical fantasy is sure to please.”—Publishers Weekly D.J. (“Dave”) Butler grew up in swamps, deserts, and mountains. After messing around for years with the practice of law, he finally got serious and turned to his lifelong passion of storytelling. He now writes adventure stories for readers of all ages, plays guitar, and spends as much time as he can with his family. He is the author of City of the Saints, Rock Band Fights Evil, Space Eldritch, and Crecheling from Wordfire Press, and Witchy Eye, Witchy Winter, and Witchy Kingdom from Baen Books.
- GenresFantasyUrban Fantasy
325 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 2, 2021
18 people are currently reading
98 people want to read
About the author
D.J. Butler
85 books266 followersD.J. Butler (Dave) is a novelist living in the Rocky Mountain west. His training is in law, and he worked as a securities lawyer at a major international firm and inhouse at two multinational semiconductor manufacturers before taking up writing fiction. He is a lover of language and languages, a guitarist and self-recorder, and a serious reader. He is married to a powerful and clever novelist and together they have three devious children.
Dave is published by Baen, Knopf, and WordFire Press. He writes adventure fiction for all ages. He writes for young readers under the name Dave Butler: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Read about D.J. Butler’s writing projects at http://davidjohnbutler.com.
Dave is published by Baen, Knopf, and WordFire Press. He writes adventure fiction for all ages. He writes for young readers under the name Dave Butler: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Read about D.J. Butler’s writing projects at http://davidjohnbutler.com.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
April 28, 2021
Audiobook Edition
Old West meets Urban Fantasy… irresistible! I love westerns, mysteries and urban fantasies so when I spotted this latest release in The Cunning Man series that brought all those genres together in one spot, I happily jumped on board for the mysterious adventure.
The Jupiter Knife is the second of The Cunning Man series. While there were many references back to their first adventure, I was easily able to pick this one up and dive into a clever father-son team of heroies.
In truth, I got the ‘Old West’ part technically wrong since the story’s time frame is actually set in the American West during The Great Depression Era. That said, small town Eastern Utah populated by ranchers and miners hadn’t changed all that much in some ways so I got my western fix just fine.
I was intrigued by a man, Hiram, who worked old lore magic like a hedge witch while was a deeply spiritual Mormon. At the same time, Hiram’s adopted son Michael is Navaho and still skeptical of the Cunning Man role and agnostic about Hiram’s faith. There is a little tension because of the difference in believes, but mostly, they love and respect each other. Hiram is proud of how beautiful Michael’s intellect is and dreams of him going off to university and becoming a great scientist while Michael is just as impressed with Hiram’s humble, generous spirit and skills with simple magic that helps others. Hiram and Michael are something of outcasts because of Hiram’s gifts and Michael’s race, but they shrug it off and go on with life. They work well together.
As to the situation, it begins when Hiram accepts the task of dowsing to find water for a Moab area rancher. The rancher is prosperous and generous and has many friends from town including the local Mormon bishop who isn’t concerned in the slightest about Hiram being there. From the crowd of men, they learn of a ghost who haunts the ranch land out by the rock arches, about a quirky guy prospecting for uranium, about a hell-fire crazy preacher out in the canyons, and a woman psychic medium in town. The ghost intrigues Hiram who is burdened to help it find peace after they discover it was a murdered boy. Soon, they are on the spot for a new murder and some dangerous secrets hiding in Moab.
The book takes a meandering, gentle pace as it sets up the new situation, introduces the characters, and even after the murders are introduced. It is one of those sleeper stories that jumps into action, but starts off slowly. I felt the drag of the earlier part of the book even while I devoured all the background, situation, and character introduction, but I never got bored. There was a vast deal of unique paranormal lore and even religious, spiritual, and ritual elements to add some great flavor to the story. And, through it all, I got to know and adore both Hiram and Michael.
Stephen Bel Davies is a solid match as narrator for the book. He had a casual style that took me time to adjust to, but then I liked his work. His voices were distinct for all the characters particularly Hiram and Michael. I loved his voice for the widow- I swear he was channeling Marlene Dietrich and the choleric Reverend. He adjusted to scenes and situations so the story came alive.
In summary, this was an unexpected, sparkling surprise. Hiram and Michael are new favorite characters and the world of their stories has me captivated. I will definitely be back for more and want their first story. A clever, refreshing spin on this genre mash up that I recommend.
My thanks to Tantor Audio for providing the digital audiobook to listen to in exchange for an honest review.
Old West meets Urban Fantasy… irresistible! I love westerns, mysteries and urban fantasies so when I spotted this latest release in The Cunning Man series that brought all those genres together in one spot, I happily jumped on board for the mysterious adventure.
The Jupiter Knife is the second of The Cunning Man series. While there were many references back to their first adventure, I was easily able to pick this one up and dive into a clever father-son team of heroies.
In truth, I got the ‘Old West’ part technically wrong since the story’s time frame is actually set in the American West during The Great Depression Era. That said, small town Eastern Utah populated by ranchers and miners hadn’t changed all that much in some ways so I got my western fix just fine.
I was intrigued by a man, Hiram, who worked old lore magic like a hedge witch while was a deeply spiritual Mormon. At the same time, Hiram’s adopted son Michael is Navaho and still skeptical of the Cunning Man role and agnostic about Hiram’s faith. There is a little tension because of the difference in believes, but mostly, they love and respect each other. Hiram is proud of how beautiful Michael’s intellect is and dreams of him going off to university and becoming a great scientist while Michael is just as impressed with Hiram’s humble, generous spirit and skills with simple magic that helps others. Hiram and Michael are something of outcasts because of Hiram’s gifts and Michael’s race, but they shrug it off and go on with life. They work well together.
As to the situation, it begins when Hiram accepts the task of dowsing to find water for a Moab area rancher. The rancher is prosperous and generous and has many friends from town including the local Mormon bishop who isn’t concerned in the slightest about Hiram being there. From the crowd of men, they learn of a ghost who haunts the ranch land out by the rock arches, about a quirky guy prospecting for uranium, about a hell-fire crazy preacher out in the canyons, and a woman psychic medium in town. The ghost intrigues Hiram who is burdened to help it find peace after they discover it was a murdered boy. Soon, they are on the spot for a new murder and some dangerous secrets hiding in Moab.
The book takes a meandering, gentle pace as it sets up the new situation, introduces the characters, and even after the murders are introduced. It is one of those sleeper stories that jumps into action, but starts off slowly. I felt the drag of the earlier part of the book even while I devoured all the background, situation, and character introduction, but I never got bored. There was a vast deal of unique paranormal lore and even religious, spiritual, and ritual elements to add some great flavor to the story. And, through it all, I got to know and adore both Hiram and Michael.
Stephen Bel Davies is a solid match as narrator for the book. He had a casual style that took me time to adjust to, but then I liked his work. His voices were distinct for all the characters particularly Hiram and Michael. I loved his voice for the widow- I swear he was channeling Marlene Dietrich and the choleric Reverend. He adjusted to scenes and situations so the story came alive.
In summary, this was an unexpected, sparkling surprise. Hiram and Michael are new favorite characters and the world of their stories has me captivated. I will definitely be back for more and want their first story. A clever, refreshing spin on this genre mash up that I recommend.
My thanks to Tantor Audio for providing the digital audiobook to listen to in exchange for an honest review.
January 31, 2022
This supernatural murder mystery set in Moab, Utah during the 1930's is a cracking good yarn. The second in The Cunning Man series, about a humble but magically adept Mormon beet farmer and his brasher son, whose scientific world view is being enlarged by the experiences with the supernatural. Lots of great 1930s flavor, strongly developed characters, inventive supernatural ideas, and thrilling adventure. Butler and Richiey are also excellent wordsmiths.
July 4, 2025
Hiram Woolley looks to alleviate the suffering around him from the Great Depression, but he has very atypical methods. As a Mormon he sees service as an act for God, but the line between the work of God and work of folk magic is not as clear as many would hope. Through the use of charms, prayers, and other divining methods Hiram tries to solve a series of murders that are plaguing a small town in Utah.
Some people call it magic, he prefers to call himself a “cunning man”. This sequel to the first book from Butler and Ritchie is equally bizarre, thought provoking and entertaining.
Hiram’s step son, Michael becomes even more of a main character and adds an interesting dynamic to the story as he struggles with his own agnosticism.
Hiram is the most overtly religious character Ive read about this year (with the exception of maybe Patera Silk from Book of the Long Sun by Wolfe) so the atheist or witchy type won’t like him. He frequently prays, seeks God’s will, and says his charms and power won’t work if he’s in a state of sin. And yet, his folk magic is realistic enough that many people of faith will be very uncomfortable with that too. He observes astrology, uses magic that he calls divination and frequently uses power that some would call occult. Yet it’s distinctly not power or contact with demons, and it’s not to seek personal pleasure or ambition. It sits in this weird liminal space that the witchy type might love but faith people may be uncomfortable with.
So the point is these are odd books. They’re fun, likely brilliant and I’ve enjoyed them, but I don’t know who the audience is! Mormons with a fascination with folk magic?
In all fairness, Hiram’s not always comfortable with his powers either, but he constantly tries to do the right thing. He’s one of the most conscience driven and morally upright protagonists I’ve read. This is one of the best representations of faith you’ll read in a fantasy novel. If you’re ok with frequent scripture drops (and you should be) and you want to see magic that isn’t systematized in a stupid way (as is all too common) then these books are worth the read. They’re very well paced and will give you a lot to think about.
I can promise you, this is unlike anything you’ve read in a genre that’s often known for just recycling the same thing over and over again.
Thanks to Baen for providing a review copy. I can’t wait for book three.
Some people call it magic, he prefers to call himself a “cunning man”. This sequel to the first book from Butler and Ritchie is equally bizarre, thought provoking and entertaining.
Hiram’s step son, Michael becomes even more of a main character and adds an interesting dynamic to the story as he struggles with his own agnosticism.
Hiram is the most overtly religious character Ive read about this year (with the exception of maybe Patera Silk from Book of the Long Sun by Wolfe) so the atheist or witchy type won’t like him. He frequently prays, seeks God’s will, and says his charms and power won’t work if he’s in a state of sin. And yet, his folk magic is realistic enough that many people of faith will be very uncomfortable with that too. He observes astrology, uses magic that he calls divination and frequently uses power that some would call occult. Yet it’s distinctly not power or contact with demons, and it’s not to seek personal pleasure or ambition. It sits in this weird liminal space that the witchy type might love but faith people may be uncomfortable with.
So the point is these are odd books. They’re fun, likely brilliant and I’ve enjoyed them, but I don’t know who the audience is! Mormons with a fascination with folk magic?
In all fairness, Hiram’s not always comfortable with his powers either, but he constantly tries to do the right thing. He’s one of the most conscience driven and morally upright protagonists I’ve read. This is one of the best representations of faith you’ll read in a fantasy novel. If you’re ok with frequent scripture drops (and you should be) and you want to see magic that isn’t systematized in a stupid way (as is all too common) then these books are worth the read. They’re very well paced and will give you a lot to think about.
I can promise you, this is unlike anything you’ve read in a genre that’s often known for just recycling the same thing over and over again.
Thanks to Baen for providing a review copy. I can’t wait for book three.
June 9, 2021
Hiram Woolley and his adopted son Michael are providing dowsing services in Lehi.
They find theirselves trying to help a ghost of a little boy, who died in mysterious
circumstances. The local sheriff doesn't seem to be much help, but can the pair
find out what happened?
A sequel that is even better than the previous novel! I love the Silver John (Manly Wade
Wellman) feel to the story. It was a pleasure to read and I hope there is more to the
characters and becomes a long series. Keep 'em coming, please!!
They find theirselves trying to help a ghost of a little boy, who died in mysterious
circumstances. The local sheriff doesn't seem to be much help, but can the pair
find out what happened?
A sequel that is even better than the previous novel! I love the Silver John (Manly Wade
Wellman) feel to the story. It was a pleasure to read and I hope there is more to the
characters and becomes a long series. Keep 'em coming, please!!
June 23, 2022
Overall I enjoyed the book. It’s the second in what I assume will be a series. Basically it’s about a father and son fighting evil in Utah during the Great Depression. And surprisingly there is more evil than one might imagine.
April 28, 2024
Jupiter shines bright tonight!
The second installment in The Cunning Man series, "The Jupiter Knife," continues the thrilling escapades of Hiram and Michael Woolley with a delightful mix of magic, mystery, and murder. This sequel plunges readers back into the enchanting world crafted by Butler and Ritchey.
One of the highlights of this book is the exploration of Michael's burgeoning interest in his father's cunning man profession. It adds depth to their relationship, as Hiram grapples with the dilemma of nurturing his son's passion while worrying about his possible future in the sciences. The dynamic between them is beautifully portrayed, imbuing the story with an emotional resonance that lingers long after the final page.
The introduction of a femme fatale character injects a fresh dose of excitement into the narrative, testing the resolve of both Woolleys as they navigate temptation and danger. Their interactions with her provide some interesting moments, showcasing the authors' talent for crafting compelling character dynamics.
Similar to the first book, this installment delivers plenty of unexpected twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
Overall, "The Jupiter Knife" offers a captivating blend of adventure, intrigue, and heartfelt moments that will appeal to fans of fantasy and historical fiction. I can't wait to see where the Woolleys' adventures take them next!
4.75 stars out of 5.
The second installment in The Cunning Man series, "The Jupiter Knife," continues the thrilling escapades of Hiram and Michael Woolley with a delightful mix of magic, mystery, and murder. This sequel plunges readers back into the enchanting world crafted by Butler and Ritchey.
One of the highlights of this book is the exploration of Michael's burgeoning interest in his father's cunning man profession. It adds depth to their relationship, as Hiram grapples with the dilemma of nurturing his son's passion while worrying about his possible future in the sciences. The dynamic between them is beautifully portrayed, imbuing the story with an emotional resonance that lingers long after the final page.
The introduction of a femme fatale character injects a fresh dose of excitement into the narrative, testing the resolve of both Woolleys as they navigate temptation and danger. Their interactions with her provide some interesting moments, showcasing the authors' talent for crafting compelling character dynamics.
Similar to the first book, this installment delivers plenty of unexpected twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
Overall, "The Jupiter Knife" offers a captivating blend of adventure, intrigue, and heartfelt moments that will appeal to fans of fantasy and historical fiction. I can't wait to see where the Woolleys' adventures take them next!
4.75 stars out of 5.
November 13, 2022
This fantastic follow-up to The Cunning Man has Hiram Woolley and his son Michael drawn into mysterious events in a small town in Depression-era Utah. Michael now knows about his father's "gifts" and is truly his partner now, which I think really helped the plot. Now both characters could be active participants in helping the ghost of little Jimmy Udall find peace, as well as figuring out who murdered a local rancher. Several characters introduced in this story are great as well, from local astrologer Diana Artemis to eccentric preacher Earl Bill Clay, who steals every scene he's in.
The story has a lot of the hallmarks of urban (or contemporary) fantasy, but brings a lot more to the table. There's the unique historical setting, and an interesting twist on the source (and limits) of the magic practiced by both Hiram and Michael.
The story has a lot of the hallmarks of urban (or contemporary) fantasy, but brings a lot more to the table. There's the unique historical setting, and an interesting twist on the source (and limits) of the magic practiced by both Hiram and Michael.
August 13, 2021
D. J. Butler and Aaron Michael Ritchey have a new Cunning man tale. This time Hyram and his adopted Indian son Michael come to Moab Utah, town known today for its rock formations that have been seen in many movies. Hyram has been asked to dowse for a well by the local Morman Bishop. During the height of the depression, Hyram is glad to offer his services for free. He then meets a ghost of a murdered boy seeking his murderer. What he doesn’t expect is the murder of the richest man in town by a special blade, the the man calls The Jupiter Knife (trade from Baen). There’s a dark secret in 1934 Moab, a secret that kills some men and makes others very rich. I really like this series.Review printed by Philadelphia Free Press
March 18, 2024
D.J. Butler and Aaron M. Ritchey's second Cunning Man is a great sequel to the first book. Hiram Wooley and his son return for another heart-pounding mystery. I love the blend of Mormonism and folklore practices. Most of all, I love Hiram's "salt of the earth" character. He is persistent, faithful, and good--even when his "cunning man" work jeopardizes his church standing. I hope the authors have more books in this series in the works. Highly recommend.
February 5, 2024
Depression era, Moab, Utah. The vivid scene-paintings of both the small town and the area's natural features are perfect. Hyram Wooley and Michael are complex and sympathetic. Word-smithing is excellent. The spiritual and folk magic provide a compelling backdrop for a murder mystery with unexpected twists.
March 10, 2022
Some elements seemed less than fresh when enough information was had, but the story is very new and relevant. I see this as a caricature of current realities and an escape to something fantastic at the same time. Very well written with great characterization and compelling tension.
May 25, 2021
Another excellent story from these guys. I'm a Hiram Woolley fan!
October 10, 2021
Another great urban fantasy/historical fantasy Hiram Woolley book.
November 27, 2023
Liked it better than the first, wonder if there will be a third...
April 12, 2025
Great premise, great second book. Looking forward to reading the next one!
July 1, 2021
This is a supernatural murder mystery set in Moab, Utah during the 1930's. It is a thrilling page turner and I look forward to the continuing adventures of Hyrum and his adopted Navajo son Michael.
February 22, 2021
With his son, Michael, newly initiated into the lore of cunning men (and women), Hiram travels to Moab to dowse a well. Just the town name should have been a warning!
Anyway, the well leads to a ghost that leads to a murder that leads to a hunt and an ancient ritual brought from the old world to the new. Poor Hiram is presented with all sorts of challenges and his life and that of Michael are both in peril. All of this set in the unnatural landscape of the rugged lands near Arches National Park.
Anyway, the well leads to a ghost that leads to a murder that leads to a hunt and an ancient ritual brought from the old world to the new. Poor Hiram is presented with all sorts of challenges and his life and that of Michael are both in peril. All of this set in the unnatural landscape of the rugged lands near Arches National Park.
July 10, 2025
Hiram Wooley is at it again and the mystery is even juicier this time. The Jupiter Knife is a strong sequel to The Cunning Man matching the same taste profile as the first while still hitting new and interesting flavors. One aspect that helped Jupiter Knife succeed is the strong character foundation in the first book of the series, so Butler and Ritchey don't need to spend as much time introducing us to dear Hiram and Michael but can instead immediately introduce new character focused twists and plot points.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews