BOOK REVIEW: Legends of the West: The History of the James-Younger Gang

BOOK REVIEW: Legends of the West: The History of the James-Younger Gang

4.5 (out of 5) stars for this nonfiction American history title by Sean McLachlan. I listened to the audio (Audible) version and read the kindle version–both of which are well done and present the legends and factual history surrounding Jesse and Frank James and their association with the Youngers, the James-Younger Gang.

In my opinion, the history was presented fairly, properly documented and researched, and provides amateur historians like me with the foundation necessary to create a frame of reference for the fiction I so enjoy reading. As an author, the short format (just over 2 hours listening time, or 62 print pages with historic photographs) provides the most comprehension for the smallest investment; a win-win offering.

Book Review: Legends of the Wild West: Tombstone, Arizona (by Charles River Editors)

Book Review: Legends of the Wild West: Tombstone, Arizona (by Charles River Editors)

FIVE STARS for Charles River Editors’ Legends of the Wild West: Tombstone, Arizona. This nonfiction account covers the breadth of Tombstone from the first miners and where the settlement took its name to the forever famous gunfight at the O.K. Corral. Amateur historians and readers of fiction set in the American West will benefit from reading or listening to this informative and entertaining book.

Nineteenth Century Mail-Order Bride SCAMS, Part 2

Nineteenth Century Mail-Order Bride SCAMS, Part 2

I believe FACT is stranger than FICTION.
And often the BEST fiction is solidly founded in FACT. Hence my keen interest in the truth of Matrimonial Agencies, Matrimonial Personal Advertisements, and real-life stories of couples connected through the mail in the nineteenth Century.