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Shadow of the Vulture
As Americans move west towards their manifest destiny, they disrupt lives, steal, and murder. What happens when that brutality clashes with witchcraft and the supernatural in the small town of Soledad?
A powerful witch goes to the extreme to protect the land. A young woman weaves protective spells into clothing, but what she wants to do more than anything, is soar with the vultures. An ex-soldier accompanied by her dead friend looks for another battle to fight and will do anything to make the American invaders pay in the bloodiest ways possible. When they come together, Texas will never be the same. Power clashes between witches, warriors, brutes and innocents, and over it all hovers the shadow of the vulture.
A powerful witch goes to the extreme to protect the land. A young woman weaves protective spells into clothing, but what she wants to do more than anything, is soar with the vultures. An ex-soldier accompanied by her dead friend looks for another battle to fight and will do anything to make the American invaders pay in the bloodiest ways possible. When they come together, Texas will never be the same. Power clashes between witches, warriors, brutes and innocents, and over it all hovers the shadow of the vulture.
110 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2021
10 people are currently reading
355 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
March 27, 2021
This is my third Splatter Western and the 9th published in the line (they are all stand-alone works, so they can be read in any order). I had extremely high hopes for this one. I loved that this one was going to be a different take; where the other books embraced the western themes, this one was going to be more of a deconstruction. Here we were getting a different side of the story with Hispanic leads and a horror involving witchcraft and "manifest destiny". This had potential to be my favorite in the line.
I am disheartened to say it didn't work out well for me. The book is easily the shortest of the Splatter Westerns thus far, and while that makes for a fast paced story, it also really hurts it. The story feels disjointed. There are a lot of named characters, and had it been a longer book where we had more time to get to know them, that wouldn't be a problem. Instead characters are introduced and frequently killed a page or two later. There is no time to get to know them except for a few characters.
It's way too fast paced. I really wish this had been longer as not only would it give us more time to care about the characters, but also because it really felt like most of the book was setting up the plot. Really the entire thing is build up to the last ten pages, but that does not make for a very satisfying read.
The book is not all bad. As mentioned above, I like that we get a different side than the traditional western gunslingers. I like the almost anti-western feel of the book and I also found it's use of violence impressive. This is, of the three I've read, the least violent of the books in terms of how the killings are performed. That said, it's the most uncomfortable. The others operated under a sense that horror violence is "fun". If you're reading a series called "Splatter Westerns" you're probably here for a bit of blood and guts. This one delivers it… but it's not as fun. The violence here is not entertaining, it's not cathartic and it's not "cool" action. The violence is instead quick, but brutal. It's more realistic (with a few stylize gory moments because… well… Splatter Western). It's more uncomfortable because it's not as over the top. It's more cruel and calculated. Frankly it's closer to Cormac McCarthy than a slasher. I know this may actually not be a plus for some readers, but honestly I found this refreshing. It makes me wish I liked the rest of the book more… and indeed I think I would have had there been more time to take it a bit slower.
I often complain about books that could be edited down 50 pages and would be a better book. Here I think had it had 50 more, I would have likely liked it… hell, I may have loved it. In its current form though? There are some good, even great aspects, but overall it just doesn't tell enough of a story. A disappointed 2/5 stars.
I am disheartened to say it didn't work out well for me. The book is easily the shortest of the Splatter Westerns thus far, and while that makes for a fast paced story, it also really hurts it. The story feels disjointed. There are a lot of named characters, and had it been a longer book where we had more time to get to know them, that wouldn't be a problem. Instead characters are introduced and frequently killed a page or two later. There is no time to get to know them except for a few characters.
It's way too fast paced. I really wish this had been longer as not only would it give us more time to care about the characters, but also because it really felt like most of the book was setting up the plot. Really the entire thing is build up to the last ten pages, but that does not make for a very satisfying read.
The book is not all bad. As mentioned above, I like that we get a different side than the traditional western gunslingers. I like the almost anti-western feel of the book and I also found it's use of violence impressive. This is, of the three I've read, the least violent of the books in terms of how the killings are performed. That said, it's the most uncomfortable. The others operated under a sense that horror violence is "fun". If you're reading a series called "Splatter Westerns" you're probably here for a bit of blood and guts. This one delivers it… but it's not as fun. The violence here is not entertaining, it's not cathartic and it's not "cool" action. The violence is instead quick, but brutal. It's more realistic (with a few stylize gory moments because… well… Splatter Western). It's more uncomfortable because it's not as over the top. It's more cruel and calculated. Frankly it's closer to Cormac McCarthy than a slasher. I know this may actually not be a plus for some readers, but honestly I found this refreshing. It makes me wish I liked the rest of the book more… and indeed I think I would have had there been more time to take it a bit slower.
I often complain about books that could be edited down 50 pages and would be a better book. Here I think had it had 50 more, I would have likely liked it… hell, I may have loved it. In its current form though? There are some good, even great aspects, but overall it just doesn't tell enough of a story. A disappointed 2/5 stars.
March 22, 2021
Having read almost all of the Splatter Western series to date, I went into ‘Shadow of the Vulture’ thinking I knew what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised to find that Regina Garza-Michelle has thoroughly subverted those expectations and managed to deliver something truly new in this long-running series.
Hell is coming to the small town of Soledad. A battle-hardened fighter and her (un)dead friend are en route, looking for a purpose, finding it in a small community with big problems. A local gang is stirring up trouble, leaving bodies in their wake, and only an ageing witch is willing to stand in their way.
A dark tale of witchcraft, war, death and magic. Shadow of the Vulture weaves multiple tales of women willing to go to any extreme to protect what is important to them.
To date, this is the seventh book in the Splatter Western series and what most of them have had in common is that, despite the mayhem and the violence, they are quite a light, fun series. We’ve had cowboy werewolves, man-eating wendigos and demon gods from another dimension. When you pick up a Splatter Western, the expectation is generally an over the top, faced paced gorefest. Shadow of the Vulture takes a decidedly different tack in this regard. The splatter is still present, but it, and the story itself, is far more grounded than readers have come to expect.
This different take worked really well for me. The story was incredibly well researched and felt a lot more immersive for all the work that clearly went into making the period and the location feels very authentic and rich. Garza-Michelle plays things very straight, focusing squarely on her characters and letting the cast move the plot along organically rather than rely on a big concept to drive the story. I feel like I connected with the characters in Shadow of the Vulture (Juana and Mariluz in particular) more strongly than I have in any other Splatter Western to date and, when the violence does come in this book, it is less gleeful and more unpleasant for the fact that it is so grounded and the stakes are so personal.
If I left with one disappointment, it would be that there wasn’t… more. At 108 pages, it is the shortest Splatter Western to date and while it makes for a lean, pacy read, there are some characters who I felt deserved more page time. Juana and Analisa are the obvious picks, both of whom are more than worthy of a full length work all their own, but others (Eva and Sarah being good examples) would have been well served with a little more backstory.
A bold new direction for the ever-dependable line of Splatter Westerns. While every entry to date has delivered big on the spectacle and entertainment factor, ‘Shadow of the Vulture’ proves that the series can accommodate a more serious and downbeat tone while sacrificing nothing in terms of quality and entertainment. Bring on book ten!
You can read more reviews of new and upcoming horror releases at https://www.myindiemuse.com/category/...
I also promote indie horror via Twitter - @RickReadsHorror
Hell is coming to the small town of Soledad. A battle-hardened fighter and her (un)dead friend are en route, looking for a purpose, finding it in a small community with big problems. A local gang is stirring up trouble, leaving bodies in their wake, and only an ageing witch is willing to stand in their way.
A dark tale of witchcraft, war, death and magic. Shadow of the Vulture weaves multiple tales of women willing to go to any extreme to protect what is important to them.
To date, this is the seventh book in the Splatter Western series and what most of them have had in common is that, despite the mayhem and the violence, they are quite a light, fun series. We’ve had cowboy werewolves, man-eating wendigos and demon gods from another dimension. When you pick up a Splatter Western, the expectation is generally an over the top, faced paced gorefest. Shadow of the Vulture takes a decidedly different tack in this regard. The splatter is still present, but it, and the story itself, is far more grounded than readers have come to expect.
This different take worked really well for me. The story was incredibly well researched and felt a lot more immersive for all the work that clearly went into making the period and the location feels very authentic and rich. Garza-Michelle plays things very straight, focusing squarely on her characters and letting the cast move the plot along organically rather than rely on a big concept to drive the story. I feel like I connected with the characters in Shadow of the Vulture (Juana and Mariluz in particular) more strongly than I have in any other Splatter Western to date and, when the violence does come in this book, it is less gleeful and more unpleasant for the fact that it is so grounded and the stakes are so personal.
If I left with one disappointment, it would be that there wasn’t… more. At 108 pages, it is the shortest Splatter Western to date and while it makes for a lean, pacy read, there are some characters who I felt deserved more page time. Juana and Analisa are the obvious picks, both of whom are more than worthy of a full length work all their own, but others (Eva and Sarah being good examples) would have been well served with a little more backstory.
A bold new direction for the ever-dependable line of Splatter Westerns. While every entry to date has delivered big on the spectacle and entertainment factor, ‘Shadow of the Vulture’ proves that the series can accommodate a more serious and downbeat tone while sacrificing nothing in terms of quality and entertainment. Bring on book ten!
You can read more reviews of new and upcoming horror releases at https://www.myindiemuse.com/category/...
I also promote indie horror via Twitter - @RickReadsHorror
June 3, 2021
*I am the publicist for the publisher of this book, Death's Head Press. I'm also a big Splatter Western fan, so take it or leave it reader-friends; I'm sharing my reading experience regardless.
Regina Garza Mitchell breaths new life with a different POV into the Splatter Western Series from Death's Head Press. Hollywood Westerns and American history books have whitewashed stories from "The Old West". Garza's book reminds us that frontier towns, saloons, and desert trails were not just occupied by 'good ol boy', handsome cowboys.
The MC of Garza's story, Juana has returned home after the Mexican-American war. She's haunted by ghosts, full of rage and injustice, and looking to protect her people, especially the vulnerable from those looking to persecute them.
There's a lot going on in these 80 pages. Witchcraft, Magic, Revenge, Murder...and it all seems to happen at a breakneck speed. The ending is abrupt leaving a little more to be desired but I believe that Garza told the story she wanted to tell in order to disrupt the Western narrative and I respect that. This is one of my favorites in the series-not to be missed.
Regina Garza Mitchell breaths new life with a different POV into the Splatter Western Series from Death's Head Press. Hollywood Westerns and American history books have whitewashed stories from "The Old West". Garza's book reminds us that frontier towns, saloons, and desert trails were not just occupied by 'good ol boy', handsome cowboys.
The MC of Garza's story, Juana has returned home after the Mexican-American war. She's haunted by ghosts, full of rage and injustice, and looking to protect her people, especially the vulnerable from those looking to persecute them.
There's a lot going on in these 80 pages. Witchcraft, Magic, Revenge, Murder...and it all seems to happen at a breakneck speed. The ending is abrupt leaving a little more to be desired but I believe that Garza told the story she wanted to tell in order to disrupt the Western narrative and I respect that. This is one of my favorites in the series-not to be missed.
May 31, 2021
Review to come
May 9, 2021
This is book number 9 of the Splatter Western series put out by @deathsheadpress . I was really excited for this one because of the diversity promised by the synopsis and different POV for the characters. While it’s only 80pgs long, it does deliver on the diversity and is different from the rest it lacked in the ending for me.
We have a powerful witch, an ex woman soldier traveling with her dead friend, and a young woman seeking revenge. All from different points of view, we are able to see their pain and the events that eventually bring them together on the same path of destruction.
As I stated before I loved the idea of this book and the characters. It was fast and imaginative. One part of this book really played on my fears and another played on my emotions. This book almost had everything for me but the ending felt so rushed. I was really sad that it didn’t come to a full 100% for me but it was pretty close. I gave this one 4 ⭐️.
We have a powerful witch, an ex woman soldier traveling with her dead friend, and a young woman seeking revenge. All from different points of view, we are able to see their pain and the events that eventually bring them together on the same path of destruction.
As I stated before I loved the idea of this book and the characters. It was fast and imaginative. One part of this book really played on my fears and another played on my emotions. This book almost had everything for me but the ending felt so rushed. I was really sad that it didn’t come to a full 100% for me but it was pretty close. I gave this one 4 ⭐️.
April 12, 2021
This book totally broke my heart in so many ways but was also kind of hopeful and empowering maybe??? I hope that makes sense? LOL
It was so good. I purposely made sure I could read it when it was delivered. I was looking forward to that much and yes the delivery of the book DELIVERED LOL. Plus I found myself repeatedly closing it so I could look at that cover art- it's freaking freaking out of this world horrifyingly beautiful.
Juana is now one of my top favorite characters EVER.
I am so happy that Mitchell wrote this for the Death's Head Press Splatter Western series. If you've been curious about the genre, this book is a more than fine place to start.
It's short (96 pages) and while it doesn't read that way and I wished for a pinch more. It's also one of those rare books, that I want to read again soon. See what I missed- look at it with a different set of eyes - there can be magic in doing that and I expect to find that here.
May 23, 2021
Recipe for a badass book:
1/2 cup Splatter Western
1 cup Mexican POV
A heaping spoonful of murder
Sprinkle in some magic
A dash of witchiness
Toss in as many kick ass women as you can handle
Tada! You've created Shadow of the Vulture.
Thank you Deaths Head Press for sending me a copy.
1/2 cup Splatter Western
1 cup Mexican POV
A heaping spoonful of murder
Sprinkle in some magic
A dash of witchiness
Toss in as many kick ass women as you can handle
Tada! You've created Shadow of the Vulture.
Thank you Deaths Head Press for sending me a copy.
April 10, 2021
Loved this one! Great to see the mexican side of things for the Splatter Western series.
DHP and Mitchell rule!
DHP and Mitchell rule!
September 10, 2021
“So much anger. So much death. She was tired of both.”
Nothing beats reading about badass women and Regina Garza-Mitchelle’s storytelling about badass women has won me over! This is the 9th book in the Splatter western series published by @deathsheadpress and the #4 book for me. I devoured this story in one sitting.
We meet Juana, returning with her dead (undead) friend from fighting the Mexican-American war. She hunts and kills the real criminals who kill people based on the color of their skin or nationality while sticking to her conviction that land belongs to itself and that borders were only created by the Anglos. In her wake, she leaves many bodies on her way to the unknown and imposes her form of justice to save her ancestral home and her heritage.
We also meet Jovita, the old woman, known to possess some supernatural abilities, rumored to have done some horrendous and questionable things. In other words, a bruja (witch).
There are more amazing characters such as Eva, Sarah, and Mariluz, all of whom show the extent of survival, traditions, and avenging those who have done them wrong. I loved this different take on splatter western, showing not just supernatural horror but the real ones created by man. It demonstrated diversity, history, and allegory about vultures. I wish we would’ve gotten to know the characters more, bringing the story to greater heights because there was so much richness and storytelling! Regardless, it was great! If you’re in need of a quick read, with badass women, pick this one up ahora!!
Nothing beats reading about badass women and Regina Garza-Mitchelle’s storytelling about badass women has won me over! This is the 9th book in the Splatter western series published by @deathsheadpress and the #4 book for me. I devoured this story in one sitting.
We meet Juana, returning with her dead (undead) friend from fighting the Mexican-American war. She hunts and kills the real criminals who kill people based on the color of their skin or nationality while sticking to her conviction that land belongs to itself and that borders were only created by the Anglos. In her wake, she leaves many bodies on her way to the unknown and imposes her form of justice to save her ancestral home and her heritage.
We also meet Jovita, the old woman, known to possess some supernatural abilities, rumored to have done some horrendous and questionable things. In other words, a bruja (witch).
There are more amazing characters such as Eva, Sarah, and Mariluz, all of whom show the extent of survival, traditions, and avenging those who have done them wrong. I loved this different take on splatter western, showing not just supernatural horror but the real ones created by man. It demonstrated diversity, history, and allegory about vultures. I wish we would’ve gotten to know the characters more, bringing the story to greater heights because there was so much richness and storytelling! Regardless, it was great! If you’re in need of a quick read, with badass women, pick this one up ahora!!
April 17, 2021
This is the most recent installment in the splatter western series - (book 9) and my third splatter Western I have read now, in no particular order. I love that they can all be read as standalones.
Shadow of the Vulture has all the typical elements of a splatter Western that we know and love but also stands in its own individual right. It’s a tale told from an own voices perspective which I always appreciate. I also loved the weaving in of witchcraft and magic throughout this one.
Considering the short length I also found character development to be quite strong. I enjoyed Juana and Analisa the most.
I have one minor criticism of this book and that is I wish it would have been longer because I was left wanting more. More from the characters and the story.
Shadow of the Vulture has all the typical elements of a splatter Western that we know and love but also stands in its own individual right. It’s a tale told from an own voices perspective which I always appreciate. I also loved the weaving in of witchcraft and magic throughout this one.
Considering the short length I also found character development to be quite strong. I enjoyed Juana and Analisa the most.
I have one minor criticism of this book and that is I wish it would have been longer because I was left wanting more. More from the characters and the story.
June 1, 2021
I loved this latest installment of the Splatter Western series. It was a quick, one-sitter that had me hooked from the first word. Not only was this novella gruesome it was also full of emotional moments. I just wished it would have been a bit longer and that some areas would have been explored deeper, especially when it came to the characters and also the supernatural aspect of it.
If you’re looking for a quick read or a slump buster than look no further, this is the book for you! Thanks to Death’s Head Press and also to Night Worms for my review copy.
If you’re looking for a quick read or a slump buster than look no further, this is the book for you! Thanks to Death’s Head Press and also to Night Worms for my review copy.
June 1, 2021
A little mighty Thank You to Death’s Head Press & Night Worms for this, and all previous, Splatter Westerns review opportunities!
Shadow of the Vulture by Regina Garza Mitchell, book nine in the series, is a fresh spin on what has been served up in previous entries by shifting the focus away from the predominantly Caucasian lead character(s) and spinning a yarn from another point of view.
Kicking off with a rather gnarly and moving opening scene, Shadow of the Vulture leads us (the reader) through a mystical tapestry of people protecting what has always been their’s against the onslaught of an invading presence that has no limits to achieve what it wants, the stealing of a nation.
I dug this read a lot, the characters have a nice weight to them and the narrative is denser than the page count suggests. A solid entry to the Splatter Western series, I hope that more of these viewpoints are explored in future installments. Thanks again to DHP x NW. 4/5 ⭐️
Shadow of the Vulture by Regina Garza Mitchell, book nine in the series, is a fresh spin on what has been served up in previous entries by shifting the focus away from the predominantly Caucasian lead character(s) and spinning a yarn from another point of view.
Kicking off with a rather gnarly and moving opening scene, Shadow of the Vulture leads us (the reader) through a mystical tapestry of people protecting what has always been their’s against the onslaught of an invading presence that has no limits to achieve what it wants, the stealing of a nation.
I dug this read a lot, the characters have a nice weight to them and the narrative is denser than the page count suggests. A solid entry to the Splatter Western series, I hope that more of these viewpoints are explored in future installments. Thanks again to DHP x NW. 4/5 ⭐️
April 2, 2021
There is no mercy in the old west. There is no differentiation. Men, women, children, armed, or weaponless -if you are in the way, you are as good as vulture food.
In the small town of Soledad, American greed is spreading and is removing and current inhabitants on the land. But there are forces stronger than greed. Spirits of the dead are here to guide the living and a powerful witch is here to protect the land.
Is it enough? Is the brutality too much? Is it too late to save the town?
This story weaves its characters together giving you glimpses of the difficult and dangerous life. The novella was slashed to the minimum containing no fluff, leaving just the grit and the grue to stick to your soul.
In the small town of Soledad, American greed is spreading and is removing and current inhabitants on the land. But there are forces stronger than greed. Spirits of the dead are here to guide the living and a powerful witch is here to protect the land.
Is it enough? Is the brutality too much? Is it too late to save the town?
This story weaves its characters together giving you glimpses of the difficult and dangerous life. The novella was slashed to the minimum containing no fluff, leaving just the grit and the grue to stick to your soul.
June 1, 2021
There was a lot to like here, all crammed in under 100 pages. Witchcraft, vengeance, vultures, diverse characters, and a cultural perspective actually written by an author of color. It’s fast-paced and occasionally very brutal, but it’s also sprinkled with character development and poignant moments.
For me there just wasn’t enough to fully stick the landing. The synopsis seems to promise an epic story, and I feel like we just got the highlights. In fact, when it really started getting interesting is also right when it decided to end. I certainly liked what I read, but I definitely wanted more!
Sidebar: still loving these covers by @justintcoons
For me there just wasn’t enough to fully stick the landing. The synopsis seems to promise an epic story, and I feel like we just got the highlights. In fact, when it really started getting interesting is also right when it decided to end. I certainly liked what I read, but I definitely wanted more!
Sidebar: still loving these covers by @justintcoons
November 10, 2023
5 stars. I loved this novella. This is my first foray into the Splatter Western genre and I loved it. The commentary on the colonization of Mexico/Texas and its effect on the Mexican population. The horror of colonization was so palpable and the imagery of the vultures was mystifying and poignant. I loved where the story went and how each chapter offered new layers. It's not perfect though because I want more. I want a sequel or a larger story following the aftermath. I need more. It was just so wonderful and gripping and emotionally moving. A wonderful horror novella with so much to say in so little pages. I can't recommend this one enough.
May 30, 2021
"I am clothed in the body of my enemies."
My absolute new favorite in this series. Did I want more? Absolutely! Did I get a lot in just under 100 pages? Damn skippy I did. As much as the books in this series have been a lot of fun and full of blood and gore, what we get with SHADOW OF THE VULTURE is some of that but with a lot less.... fun. For me, it completely worked. I read this over breakfast this morning (you too can read splatter horror while eating, I promise! 😏) and completely fell in love with Juana, Analisa, the old woman, the many characters that weren't assholes, some that were and of course, the fucking vultures.
"Could you blame a demon for being born any more than you could blame a vulture for eating the dead?"
The violence in this book is hard to read because it's not just fun splatter, it is more emotional and with depth and I'm not gonna lie - I certainly found myself smiling more than a few times while Juana was doing her thing. And my heart went out to the women who had been raped and raising their children who remind them of one of their most horrific times. How do you reconcile the innocence of the kids who didn't ask to be born to the women who can't find love in their heart for them due to the circumstance in which they were brought to the world? My heart.
I love the strong women and the different perspective we get as we see through their eyes. I feel this is a necessary component to have in this series and am THRILLED to see it. I would love to see the story continued but that's just a nod to the the great story telling. While I have a love/hate relationship with short stories/novellas, this is all LOVE LOVE LOVE... with a side of satiating bloody goodness.
My absolute new favorite in this series. Did I want more? Absolutely! Did I get a lot in just under 100 pages? Damn skippy I did. As much as the books in this series have been a lot of fun and full of blood and gore, what we get with SHADOW OF THE VULTURE is some of that but with a lot less.... fun. For me, it completely worked. I read this over breakfast this morning (you too can read splatter horror while eating, I promise! 😏) and completely fell in love with Juana, Analisa, the old woman, the many characters that weren't assholes, some that were and of course, the fucking vultures.
"Could you blame a demon for being born any more than you could blame a vulture for eating the dead?"
The violence in this book is hard to read because it's not just fun splatter, it is more emotional and with depth and I'm not gonna lie - I certainly found myself smiling more than a few times while Juana was doing her thing. And my heart went out to the women who had been raped and raising their children who remind them of one of their most horrific times. How do you reconcile the innocence of the kids who didn't ask to be born to the women who can't find love in their heart for them due to the circumstance in which they were brought to the world? My heart.
I love the strong women and the different perspective we get as we see through their eyes. I feel this is a necessary component to have in this series and am THRILLED to see it. I would love to see the story continued but that's just a nod to the the great story telling. While I have a love/hate relationship with short stories/novellas, this is all LOVE LOVE LOVE... with a side of satiating bloody goodness.
June 1, 2021
Easily unputdownable with a digestible 95 pages, all I can say about Death’s Head Press’s latest Splatter Western by Regina Garza Mitchell is, “I want more! I want more! I want more!”
An old and powerful witch, an ex-soldier accompanied by her dead friend on a quest to avenge the fallen, a young woman who wishes to soar with the vultures. All badass Latina women seeking to protect the land of their ancestors from American invaders—more specifically a ruthless gang looking for nothing but trouble and bloodshed.
Just from the cover I’d predicted that this was going to be a fantastic read and my only disappointment was in my longing for this epic story to be 100 pages longer! I felt like this would’ve made an excellent series on its own, highlighting characters I wanted more backstory from, amplifying the violence and the lore and the battles. I felt it was a book that deserved more time developing. Nevertheless, it’s gritty, heartbreaking, empowering, and definitely a recommended read for those who love a good “one-sitting” supernatural, Own Voices, splatter western novella.
(Thank you to Death’s Head Press, Night Worms and author Regina Garza Mitchell for this #NightWormsBookParty review copy!)
An old and powerful witch, an ex-soldier accompanied by her dead friend on a quest to avenge the fallen, a young woman who wishes to soar with the vultures. All badass Latina women seeking to protect the land of their ancestors from American invaders—more specifically a ruthless gang looking for nothing but trouble and bloodshed.
Just from the cover I’d predicted that this was going to be a fantastic read and my only disappointment was in my longing for this epic story to be 100 pages longer! I felt like this would’ve made an excellent series on its own, highlighting characters I wanted more backstory from, amplifying the violence and the lore and the battles. I felt it was a book that deserved more time developing. Nevertheless, it’s gritty, heartbreaking, empowering, and definitely a recommended read for those who love a good “one-sitting” supernatural, Own Voices, splatter western novella.
(Thank you to Death’s Head Press, Night Worms and author Regina Garza Mitchell for this #NightWormsBookParty review copy!)
June 6, 2021
Having read several books in the Splatter Western series published by Death’s Head Press, I knew I was in for a violent and intense story but Regina Garza Mitchell really surprised me with this story of vengeance and transcendence. Each of the characters in this story have experienced pain and dealt with the harshness of the 19th century Texan landscape but as the narrative briskly moves towards its eventual conclusion the true nature of revenge and rebirth comes to bare. I really loved one particular protagonist who comes to town with her sister’s voice in tow, by the end of this short novel I really wanted to experience further adventures with this character. Overall a really fun read, definitely worthy of the Splatter Western name!
March 22, 2021
Short, but sweet
Being the slimmest of DHP splatter westerns I was a little worried that they would be able to fit a compelling story in under 80 pages.
Boy was I wrong.
This story has it all gun fights, knife fights, fist fights, love and loss, heartbreak and redemption. Plus revenge, can't forget the revenge.
Highly recommend.
Being the slimmest of DHP splatter westerns I was a little worried that they would be able to fit a compelling story in under 80 pages.
Boy was I wrong.
This story has it all gun fights, knife fights, fist fights, love and loss, heartbreak and redemption. Plus revenge, can't forget the revenge.
Highly recommend.
January 22, 2025
Rangers are running rampant killing and taking what doesn’t belong to them. Juana is a bounty hunter constantly on the move and just wandering through life. She’s accompanied by her best friend’s spirit who travels alongside her. She crosses paths with a dysfunctional family who’s struck by tragedy. They soon realize they have a common enemy and look for vengeance.
I loved this western take showcasing Mexicans and their struggles! This book caters to Mexican characters, their war against the white man and their fight for the possession and ownership of the lands they’ve had for generations. Lots of Mexican language and references not seen in other westerns so far. It fit into the story and writing perfectly, even if I did get a little lost at times or didn’t know the words true meanings.
The vulture is a present theme throughout the book. Whether it be literal or spiritual or supernatural, I thought that was a really cool theme for a western.
This honestly had the bones to be a really good western….but overall it was a bit of a let down. I can’t pinpoint one thing exactly but I can confirm that this just didn’t hit the mark for me. I don’t know if it’s too short. I don’t know if it’s too disjointed. I don’t know if there are just too many stories with not enough depth. It just seemed a bit chaotic and sporadic. It moved really fast which made it hard to invest in not only the many characters named, but also hard to get engulfed in the scenes as they unfolded. The ending also seemed too quick and unsatisfying. I had high hopes but unfortunately just not my favorite.
I loved this western take showcasing Mexicans and their struggles! This book caters to Mexican characters, their war against the white man and their fight for the possession and ownership of the lands they’ve had for generations. Lots of Mexican language and references not seen in other westerns so far. It fit into the story and writing perfectly, even if I did get a little lost at times or didn’t know the words true meanings.
The vulture is a present theme throughout the book. Whether it be literal or spiritual or supernatural, I thought that was a really cool theme for a western.
This honestly had the bones to be a really good western….but overall it was a bit of a let down. I can’t pinpoint one thing exactly but I can confirm that this just didn’t hit the mark for me. I don’t know if it’s too short. I don’t know if it’s too disjointed. I don’t know if there are just too many stories with not enough depth. It just seemed a bit chaotic and sporadic. It moved really fast which made it hard to invest in not only the many characters named, but also hard to get engulfed in the scenes as they unfolded. The ending also seemed too quick and unsatisfying. I had high hopes but unfortunately just not my favorite.
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February 2, 2022This is my second read in the Splatter Western series run by DHP. It definitely delivers on the splatter and the western. Such gruesome imagery paints these pages red and the racism makes your skin crawl as Juana and the supporting cast seek to rectify the wrongs done to them. They do this by witchcraft and pure physicality.
My favorite character, by far, is Jovita and what she does within these pages is magic. Literally and figuratively.
While the story is fast paced and covered in blood, I found myself wanting more and a little lost in the sauce as we jockeyed from the stories of one character to the next. I could have easily read 50 more pages in this world but it was not to be.
My favorite character, by far, is Jovita and what she does within these pages is magic. Literally and figuratively.
While the story is fast paced and covered in blood, I found myself wanting more and a little lost in the sauce as we jockeyed from the stories of one character to the next. I could have easily read 50 more pages in this world but it was not to be.
May 19, 2021
SHADOW OF THE VULTURE by Regina L. Garza Mitchell is the 9th installment in the Splatter Western series from Death's Head Press. Bringing in elements of witchcraft, we get to see an Own Voices approach and POV to this series filled with badass female characters. And while the over-the-top gore one may associate with a splatter western does not excessively drip off the pages, there is still an abundance of action, violence, and death to satiate any fan of this gritty world. I will echo one thing that I have seen mentioned in some other reviews: I wish this had been longer. I think a longer story with some more page time for a few characters would have totally changed the game. While you can still see motivation and growth in the characters, I think even more time with their actions, thoughts, and conversations would have propelled them even further, making them even more of the badass force they already are. The story is fast-paced and the pages will turn quicker and easier as you go for a ride! Enjoy your time with the vultures!
February 17, 2022
I have to say I did really enjoy this book despite it being more a deconstruction of the Western theme, to an extent. There was a lot going for it that was great, and my only criticism really is that it felt (in this reader’s eyes) to be just a touch too short leading to an ending that will still wholly satisfying but also feeling like it could have been built upon more, if that makes sense, and this was the reason for making the difficult decision to knock a star off my final rating for it.
May 10, 2021
This is book number 9 of the Splatter Western series from Death's Head Press and I've read them all in order and have enjoyed every single one of them; some more so than others.
Until now.
Shadow of the Vulture feels disjointed with a narrative that seems to be all over the place. The Splatter Western books can be read in any order, which is a good thing. However, if one were to start with Shadow of the Vulture it might very well stop them from reading further.
1.5 stars rounded to 2.
Until now.
Shadow of the Vulture feels disjointed with a narrative that seems to be all over the place. The Splatter Western books can be read in any order, which is a good thing. However, if one were to start with Shadow of the Vulture it might very well stop them from reading further.
1.5 stars rounded to 2.
July 7, 2021
It was a short but fun read, met expectations as a splatter western while taking a couple of unexpected turns.
April 5, 2021
The 9th entry in @deaths_head_press's Spatter Western series, but is personally my first exposure to their weird and bloody wild west.
This novella follows a witch, a solider, and young woman with a secret magic. Americans push through Texas, leaving behind broken towns and dead bodies. However, when they make their way to the small town of Soledad, these three women will return their brutality in a clash that'll only end in blood.
This book is short and salty, never wasting a minute on the flowery details unless it's describing the stomach-curling violence peppered throughout. The story begins with a brutal bang preparing you for just how weird and grotesque this tale will be. I also love how Garza Mitchell writes brujaría with an air of mystery and metaphor.
I wish this one was a novel, because I just want more time with these characters. All three women are badass in their own way, but don't get enough attention as they each battle for the spotlight. It's a good problem for a story to have, but I just wish I could have more time to really see their character arc take shape.
Despite wanting more, I really enjoyed this strangely beautiful story that Garza Mitchell has crafted. It depicts a very real brutality that is etched into Texas' history, while presenting a story of survival and redemption.
I definitely wouldn't recommend this for the lighthearted, but it's a grisly good tale for those who can stomach it! Looking forward to reading more in the Spatter Western series!
This novella follows a witch, a solider, and young woman with a secret magic. Americans push through Texas, leaving behind broken towns and dead bodies. However, when they make their way to the small town of Soledad, these three women will return their brutality in a clash that'll only end in blood.
This book is short and salty, never wasting a minute on the flowery details unless it's describing the stomach-curling violence peppered throughout. The story begins with a brutal bang preparing you for just how weird and grotesque this tale will be. I also love how Garza Mitchell writes brujaría with an air of mystery and metaphor.
I wish this one was a novel, because I just want more time with these characters. All three women are badass in their own way, but don't get enough attention as they each battle for the spotlight. It's a good problem for a story to have, but I just wish I could have more time to really see their character arc take shape.
Despite wanting more, I really enjoyed this strangely beautiful story that Garza Mitchell has crafted. It depicts a very real brutality that is etched into Texas' history, while presenting a story of survival and redemption.
I definitely wouldn't recommend this for the lighthearted, but it's a grisly good tale for those who can stomach it! Looking forward to reading more in the Spatter Western series!
May 22, 2025
Supernatural western filtered through history is grim and violent. Its noir trappings keep it modest and accessible. Very violent but not overboard. The magical realism does border on horror. This part of history certainly wasn’t all hugs and kisses. As with all the Splatter Western titles the cover artwork is gorgeous. And as with other reviews, this book might be even better if stretched out a bit longer. It’s rare to see a western with all female antagonists.
April 1, 2021
Love it! Lots of blood, gore, mayhem, and finally revenge! Book was a little confusing especially Juana's character sorry I don't want to spoil the story. But once you'll read you will understand.
April 13, 2021
This is another fine entry in the Death's Head Press splatterpunk western series. This time, the POV is from Mexicans who are fighting against the encroachment of whites into their territory. The brutality of white men against them is horrible and worse is knowing that these things happened in reality. The vultures add to the unease of this story.
May 22, 2021
The latest entry in Deaths Head Press comes by way of Regina Garza-Mitchell and injects some new life into the series.
I enjoyed the time spent with the characters here, and the author does a nice job of swapping between them for different view points. The prose flows well enough to get you from point A-B and gives you some nice gore, as well.
I appreciate short books. They tend to lead to a tightly crafted story and work well for the genre. It gives a chance for the author to tell the story and avoid filler just for the sake of pages. This story, however, I felt the characters needed just a little bit more space to flesh out. It’s not bad, but for me it’s the difference in a half a star or so.
Author Garza Mitchell crafts a tight, bloody tale of invaders, witch craft, and blood. Her voice shines through and makes for a book that reads much differently than the rest of the pack. Pick this one up, you won’t be disappointed!
I enjoyed the time spent with the characters here, and the author does a nice job of swapping between them for different view points. The prose flows well enough to get you from point A-B and gives you some nice gore, as well.
I appreciate short books. They tend to lead to a tightly crafted story and work well for the genre. It gives a chance for the author to tell the story and avoid filler just for the sake of pages. This story, however, I felt the characters needed just a little bit more space to flesh out. It’s not bad, but for me it’s the difference in a half a star or so.
Author Garza Mitchell crafts a tight, bloody tale of invaders, witch craft, and blood. Her voice shines through and makes for a book that reads much differently than the rest of the pack. Pick this one up, you won’t be disappointed!
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