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The Accidental Sheriff

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From the bestselling author of Old Dogs and Grit comes the page-turning Western novel, The Accidental Sheriff!

Hoping to escape his past and find creative inspiration, Western dime novelist Grant Coolidge heads west, landing in Lockwood, a burgeoning railroad town in Wyoming Territory. Struck by the beauty of the neighboring mountains and ranch lands and intrigued by the town's inhabitants, he quickly settles into his new life west of the Mississippi.

But when the Lockwood sheriff is hospitalized, happenstance forces Grant to take up the badge. Plunged into the middle of a murder investigation, Grant must also juggle a budding romance and the townspeople's continuing curiosity about their new sheriff . . . who also happens to be the author of some of their favorite novels.

Brimming with adventure, humor and romance, Ron Schwab's latest novel is a spellbinding Western you won't soon forget!

302 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 23, 2022

846 people are currently reading
120 people want to read

About the author

Ron Schwab

47 books193 followers
Ron 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.

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5 stars
2,860 (67%)
4 stars
1,060 (25%)
3 stars
219 (5%)
2 stars
42 (<1%)
1 star
31 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 136 reviews
Profile Image for Fred Barnes.
316 reviews42 followers
September 1, 2024
IT'S NO ACCIDENT WHO STOOD IN FOR THE SHERIFF'S JOB - HE WAS THE RIGHT MAN FOR THE JOB

This is the first of what will most likely be just one of many books that I read by Ron Schwab in the near future.

"The Accidental Sheriff" (Lockwood Book 1) by Ron Schwab is a very well written tell of an civil war vet turned author of western dime novels in 1885 and for the most part takes place in Lockwood, Wyoming. The characters are well defined, and you'll find yourself caught up in the mystery, suspense, and action in this small western town in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.

Our main character and hero of this story is Grant Coolidge, also known as P.J. Bowie & Jake West when it comes to the dime store novels he loves to write. Grant, being new to Lockwood, finds himself stepping up to fight corruption, evil men that are kidnapping Indian girls and selling them off south of the border in Mexico and some of the new U.S. southwest territories.

Grant being reluctant to step in as Sheriff is the right man for the job though it's really not what he thought it would be and was really off when it came to the books he wrote about a Sheriff's life in the west and what was actually reality. Grant is not only good as acting Sheriff, but he's able to pull in a few of the town's residents to bring justice and save the day.

This is a story of a man that steps in to do what's right while placing his own life on the line for the town of Lockwood even though he's never been a Lawman before, he's new to town, and really doesn't know the town's residents, and they don't know him. It's a story of heroism, friendship, hardships, love gained, and love lost.

I really enjoyed this book and currently working my way through book two in this series. I hope you, too, will find yourself enjoying this book and series.
Profile Image for Lynn.
920 reviews27 followers
June 13, 2024
Research Turns Reality

Grant Coolidge is a dime novel writer that doesn’t take himself too seriously, but really likes the job. He decides to move out west and actually experience the place that he’s been writing about.

Grant meets some wonderful characters almost immediately that he decides could be characters in his books, and sees things all around him that begins his research for future novels.

No sooner than he gets set up in a quaint boarding house with a lovely native woman who catches his eye, than he finds out about a local murder. The young man he met when he first arrived in town happens to be a relative to the sheriff and made the introduction. The sheriff happily made him an honorary deputy which allowed him to participate in investigations, unpaid of course. When the sheriff gets shot and Grant saves the day, the council makes Grant the sheriff. Much to his dismay he discovers there’s more going on in the town, than drunken brawls.

This was a book that did a good job at holding my interest, the characters were all fairly well developed and I could honestly see this becoming a movie. The only thing that kept me from giving it five stars was that everything seem to wrap up just a little too easily, almost like the characters in Grant’s books.
Profile Image for Paul Brown.
Author 8 books68 followers
November 10, 2022
Great character development. Loved the mix of heroes and heroines. Smooth writing keeps the story moving. Realistic dialogue. Inspiration for my Llano Kid series. Thank you, Ron. I am a new follower of yours. Will try the Old Dogs series next. PKB
Profile Image for Robert L. Kresge.
17 reviews2 followers
June 3, 2023
A Delightful. Read.

I like a well written book . The author developed each of the cara characters making them real for the reader. The plots were nicely interwoven and made sense.
Profile Image for WyoGal.
487 reviews
November 26, 2022
Quit at 60%; TMI, backstory, and summary

While the plot has potential, there is too much summary, back story info dumping, historical-ish trivia, telling vs showing, and narration of inner thoughts instead of action. The story lacks stakes: the protagonist wants to write stories, but he gets recruited to be sheriff to solve some murders. So what if he fails? So what if he takes too long?

The romance element is boring: woman climbs into his bed no talking, no strings attached. He’s already been married twice, no thrill there.

The protagonist wants to keep writing stories and make good money, so he just hires a cute lawyer and that’s settled.

The young man, Trouble, seems more interesting.

The book shifts POV frequently to secondary characters, but this causes the plot tension to diffuse.

I realized after reading past the halfway point that I really don’t care what happens to the protagonist. He’s smart, maybe; a good guy, hopefully, despite his war experiences; good-looking; mostly polite, but rather boring. The mystery is somewhat interesting but not compelling enough to turn the pages.

I’d rather read something with a protagonist who enjoys flirting, has a passion or deep need to overcome exciting conflicts, and who has a sense of humor. This book is more like a peek into life in the past with lots of mundane details that overwhelm the plot.
Profile Image for Bob.
555 reviews1 follower
October 6, 2022
Excellent

Ron Schwab has worked his way into my reading life as one of my favorite modern Western writers. He writes with an eye to detail and reality that few, a very few, self published writers seem to achieve. This book is no exception to his talent.

If you're looking for spoilers, you may as well stop here.

For anyone who has lived in Montana or Wyoming, Mr. Schwab captures the feeling, "This is God's country," perfectly. The description of the town could be a set for a major motion picture. It would have to star an older (not too old) male and female with a bit of grit to them. Additional characters would also need to be able to portray solid westerners (no Tom whats-his-name).

If you've ever seen one of my reviews, you know I have recommendations. I recommend you read this book. I RECOMMEND YOU READ THIS BOOK!

Thanks Mr. Schwab, I can't wait to read your next book.
Profile Image for Bonnye Reed.
4,696 reviews109 followers
March 23, 2023
KU
The first in a new Schwab series, Lockwood - and a smooth, fast-paced tale that lives up to our expectations from this fine western author. This is a one-sitting novel, so be prepared for several hours of uninterrupted reading. I thoroughly enjoyed our protagonist, civil-war veteran and dime novel author Grant Coolidge, writing under pseudonyms P J Bowie and Jake West. Grant is a man looking for new challenges, pulling up his roots in Portsmouth, Ohio to head west into the land of his stories, searching for new inspiration and authenticity. All of which he will find on his first trip west of the Mississippi in the Union Pacific Railroad stop in Lockwood, Wyoming. Even today one can't get much more western than Wyoming...

Reviewed on March 23, 2023, at Goodreads, AmazonSmile, and BookBub. B&N unavailable because of my ad-blocker, Kobo down for maintenance.
Profile Image for Michael Nix.
48 reviews
October 8, 2022
Superior writing!

Excellently creative plot structure with well developed and memorable characters. Only one unresolved plot link left to be explored by the U.S. Marshall brought into the story for that very purpose. Humility by the main character even after his leadership and heroism was a very nice inclusion by the author. As well, the role of women in society was explored as an ever increasing power individually and collectively.

This writer not only uses literary style and nuance to great effect, he also has either well edited the finished work or employed a great editor to polish the work. Well done! I look forward to reading other works by Ron Schwab.

Michael Nix
61 reviews1 follower
April 11, 2023
A Sheriff of many Talents .

This was a fast moving book that was hard to put down. What seemed like an impossible situation turned into a challenge that had to be won to preserve to town and the people. A young writer that came West to learn more about the truth of how folks lived, was unexpectedly thrown into the role of town sheriff at a time when a couple of mysterious murders had just occurred. Solving the murders turned into a bigger and more complicated situation. The journey is dangerous and life threatening, but it is too late to turn back. Also
















105 reviews
April 18, 2023
Not bad

This is the first book I've read from this author. It is not a bad read but not at all what I was looking for I was after a fast paced classic western and this was anything but. This book is basically a slow paced crime thriller that is set in a western town. I purchased it due to all the good reviews it received but unfortunately I found it slow and a bit underwhelming with very little action but that's just my opinion.
399 reviews4 followers
September 19, 2022
Hope there is a sequel!

Funny the author of this book is writing a book about a writer that will be writing his own book entitled “accidental sheriff.” Clever. Myself, I don’t think it’s a good idea to let two 16 year-old girls decorate his cabin —a man that’s 45 years old????
1,397 reviews13 followers
September 30, 2022
Grant is appointed Sheriff during a crisis, that leaves the old Sheriff incapacitated indefinitely!

Five stars doesn't really do justice to this compassionately motivated series of unending western adventures that immediately grabs your undivided attention and never wavers from beginning to end! Very heartwarming episodes that piques your undivided attention immediately and only intensifies with each new encounter! Don't start this book until your slate is clear, as you will not be able to put it aside until the final paragraph has been absorbed!
The Author's outstanding storylines successfully maintains you completely from the
very first chapter until the final shot has been fired! Grant is an Author of western short stories, and is called upon to stop an ongoing capturing of young girls who are sold in a slave trade operation! Too, the outstanding character selections could not have been any better portrayed in their respective assignments from beginning to end!
Most definitely recommend this compassionately motivated, and definitely heartwarming, story to everyone who loves one exciting episode after the other! Yes! Even you non-western enthusiasts will be completely mesmerized by this compassionately motivated story of unending exciting western folklore extravaganzas!!!😃
3 reviews1 follower
September 30, 2022
Captured My Heart...I am now in love with Ron Schwab's Writing Skills

Ron Schwab's exciting book " Had Me From Hello". I love reading stories about our young America and the brave men and women of all cultures who blazed trails of love to help grow a young America to its current greatness. Our pioneers still had to fight for survival as we the people have to overcome today; Oligarchy, corrupt governments, brainless mayors, outlaws, bank robbers, snatch and grabbers, cold killers, lying judges, hatred and diseases. Our pioneers also encountered environmental and climatmatic changes the same as peoples are living through now in the 21 century. Humans should be grateful for Earth's ever changing climate? All living things and our Earth must embrace climate change. Thank you Ron Schwab for keeping America's western past alive.💕🌷
105 reviews2 followers
April 8, 2023
Great Unique Western!

I have had this book on my wish list for a long time and finally 'bit the bullet' and read it. I'm so glad I did. I could hardly put it down.

The main character is so different from the hero in most westerns and the story line was unique and plenty exciting. The characters were well rounded and realistic. Spiced up with humor and given weight with heart-ache, the story had depth as well. I look forward to more books by this author.

The writing style and mechanics were well done and not TOO uncomfortable for this grammar teacher.

I would have to take this PG-17 due to typical western style violence, murder, rape and other sexual subjects - nothing too explicit. There is some language.

I highly recommend this book.
(Read with Kindle Unlimited subscription.)
Profile Image for Princess A.
109 reviews2 followers
September 4, 2024
The Accidental Sheriff by Ron Schwab is a compelling and humorous novel that blends elements of crime, comedy, and small-town life. The story centers on an ordinary individual who unexpectedly finds themselves in the role of sheriff, leading to a series of amusing and dramatic events. Schwab’s writing is engaging, with a sharp sense of humor and well-drawn characters that bring the small-town setting to life. The plot is filled with twists and turns, making for an entertaining read. If you enjoy a mix of comedy and crime with a unique twist, The Accidental Sheriff offers a fun and enjoyable experience.
195 reviews2 followers
October 14, 2023
An enjoyable entertaining western with well fleshed out characters complete with flaws and 'chips on their shoulders'. First that I've read by this author and it won't be the last. It gave me a real flavour of the west and the real role of women/native Americans in its development. It was nice to see them given prominence rather than simpering or devious 'walk ons'. I felt as if I were reading the actual history of a small town's development complete with interesting locals and the challenges they faced.
I recommend it as a great way to pass time.
161 reviews1 follower
May 13, 2024
Excellent!

I really loved the idea of a dime novelist as the hero. The writing, the plotting, the pace great but the characters really made the story. I really want to see what comes next. We need more “Troubles” in our world (read & find out). Action, suspense, romance, humor, horses and guns it has it all plus the reality of life back then. Love true western feel, quite the change from last two books I read (Victorian & fantasy) and will read rest of series and check out his others.
Profile Image for Julaine Thomas.
4 reviews
September 14, 2022
Fantastic read

Ron Schwab has done it again. He has created a story that is full of life in the early west. His style is such he places you in the moment, full of adventure, culture, and suspense. I found it hard to put down, with each chapter adding to the final conclusion. This is one of those excellent reads that is both entertaining and thought provoking for young adults on.
240 reviews4 followers
September 28, 2022
To quote the author. "He is the best of the betters."

The plot line is anything but traditional. No looming monolithic sheriff being an unyielding wall for the good guys. No 480 shots fired before books end. The plotting is lively with unexpected plot twists. The characters have warts and halos and all might remind you of one of your friends. Best of all, not a single female has the vapors. Use your time wisely, read this author.

489 reviews7 followers
October 16, 2022
Another Excellent Western👏

Ron is one of my favorite authors in any genre. He provides great characters with a strong story which includes excellent dialogue. His take on time and place is spot on. The quality of his writing is always excellent. He must have had a grin on his face when deciding to have the protagonist be a writer of dime western novels. I certainly hope he decides to make this into a series!
19 reviews1 follower
November 5, 2022
A New Favorite Author

I enjoyed reading every word in this book. It has it all in equally effective amounts: interesting, well developed characters, beautifully written dialogue and scene settings, light, meaningful romance, and exciting action. I have read every western novel by Louis L'Amour, CJ Petit, R.O. Lane, Donald Robertson, and Robert J. Thomas, and I am looking forward to adding Mr. Schwab to my list.
224 reviews2 followers
March 19, 2023
Great New Western Characters

Schwab introduces a mild mannered writer of Dime Novels who moves from the East to out West to immerse himself in his stories’ culture. He visits an old Army buddy along the way and ends up locating in Lockwood, home to the Army buddy’s sister. She is single, attractive and a darn good lawyer plus a deadly shot which soon saves the hero’s life. Lockwood has a young girl kidnap problem. You’ll love the and the ending it delivers to this story.
24 reviews1 follower
March 29, 2023
Damned good, Ron Schwab!

Not sure I understand why I didn't get on to your books earlier, Ron. I've read all of R O Lane's and maybe 20 percent of Zane Grey's, as divergent as 2 authors could be. I loved every one of Lane's, not so many of Grey's and his insufferably stilted language, but I survived them. I look forward to more of yours! Keep on keepin' on! Rob Ralph scotshot1@att.net
6 reviews
September 21, 2023
Surprisingly Good

I chose this book for the Kindle Summer Challenge 2023, Summer Series Mystery Reveal because it was only 300 pages long and cost a buck. It drew me in right from the start and reminded me of those old TV Westerns I used to watch when I was growing up. Before I was even halfway through, I bought the other two books in the series. Fast paced and I highly recommend, and I can't wait to read the sequels.
Profile Image for Rick  Farlee.
1,151 reviews9 followers
March 30, 2024
RECOMMENDED

As I read this western, I can see where the author, Ron Schwab, probably visualized himself as being the main character in the book. It’s about a man who is an author of western books that travels west to gain insight and understanding of the western lifestyle. Through a series of events, he accidentally stepped into the role of sheriff and solves a big mystery. It’s a different storyline and a very enjoyable book.
3 reviews1 follower
May 10, 2024
Solid western novel

Good character development, story easy to follow and enjoy. Tiered of long winded complicated plot twist with names you can't even pronounce. This was a fun read with nice flow and quick action. None of the hero's act seem to be over the top like he was a killing machine. Having traveled and lived in the soutwest for 40 plus years, nice to see good local description that actually matched story line. Looking forward to other works of Mr. Schwab.
140 reviews2 followers
September 9, 2022
Good Western

The hero of this Western is a writer who authors dime action mini novels, about Sheriffs and Marshalls. Grant becomes a Town Sheriff, when the real Sheriff gets shot up. Grant becomes the town’s hero, and has some passionate and romantic adventures along the way. Readers will really enjoy this novel. I highly recommend it.
8 reviews
September 15, 2022
Excellent book, Mr. Schwab, I'm riding toward another book of yours just a fast as I can.

This a story worth rereading down the road a bit. I collect the names of those books. They return to me in due time, and I suspect there are many more with your name on them waiting for me. Thank you.
23 reviews2 followers
October 2, 2022
Very good read

This is an excellent book with a good storyline and much more. The author has taken great care in his character development and developing interesting interactions between them.

The plot line is beautifully constructed with several unexpected turns that work perfectly together.
16 reviews
October 21, 2022
A Writer's Quest

This book was intriguing. It held action, romance, adventure and drama.
Many good qualities of the main characters. Interesting how Grant doesn't want to have the role of sheriff, but makes a good one. He has skills not only in writing but also in following through as a detective shoving his case. Very good book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 136 reviews

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