Andrew K. (kuligowskiandrewt) - , reviewed on 3/19/2015 + 569 more book reviews

Ive been a fan of Craig Johnsons Longmire series of novels long before they were adapted for television. Craig has created a world with interesting people, intermingling in a modern-day version of what still feels like The Old West. However, my previous experience with Longmires Wyoming has been through full-length whodunit novels. I wondered how well this would adapt to the shorter novella.

I shouldnt have worried. Craig Johnson made sure that his novella, Spirit of Steamboat, differentiated itself from his other Longmire works by more than just length. The author first realizes that he must eliminate subplots except for the overriding one of how does this flashback tie into present-day events. Then, Mr. Johnson changes formulas from his usual work, moving from a procedural murder mystery to a thriller for the purposes of this book. What he does NOT change is his fine sense of characterization, pacing, and the ability to place the reader into any scene with a description that neither skimps on words nor gets overly detailed.

The book is set during the Christmas season I encourage the reader to grab a copy, and put it aside until December. Then, set aside enough time to plow through approximately 150 pages in a sitting, because you will not want to put this one down in the middle.

RATING: 5 stars.
DISCLOSURE: I received this book free of charge from the publisher without obligation, although I'm sure that a fair and unbiased review would be appreciated.

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