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WINNER OF THE 2024 SPUR AWARD

The second in the action-packed new series from Ralph Compton writer, John Shirley, takes traditional Westerns on a wild ride with the epic adventures of master gunfighter, horseman, and Civil War veteran Cleveland Trewe as he and his strong partner, Bernice fight for survival in 1880s Nevada . . .

Civil War veteran Cleveland Trewe stumbles onto a bizarre cult in the Sierra Nevada mountains—where the faithful are healed and fates are sealed . . . in blood.

They say the road to Hell is paved with good intentions. But it’s hard to know what’s going on inside the twisted mind of Magnus Lamb, the charismatic leader of an isolated logging town known for its healing hot springs. Some might say he’s created a peaceful utopia here on Gunmetal Mountain. But for Cleveland Trewe and his lovely traveling companion Berry, this little piece of heaven is more like Hell on Earth . . .

Cleve and Berry first discover the town after an encounter with a dangerous band of Indians. Cleve to vow to find "the Coyote," a young brave last seen headed for the strange settlement of Lambsville. At first, Cleve and Berry are charmed by the town’s natural beauty and simple way of life. But soon they see the community for what it really is: a brainwashed cult with some oddball beliefs, a rigid caste system, and a leader who thinks he’s the new Messiah. This not-so-innocent Lamb has heard about Cleve’s legendary gunfighting skills and wants him to lead an army to expand his power across the West. It’s bound to be a bloodsoaked mission, and Cleve wants no part of it. But if he refuses, there’ll be hell to pay . . .

About the Author

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John Shirley is an award-winning author, songwriter, television, and screen writer. Credited as one of the originators of cyberpunk, his fiction work has spanned multiple genres, including Westerns, science fiction, horror, graphic novels, historical fiction, and horror. He’s written novels for numerous franchises, including John Constantine, Predator, and Borderlands, as well as the novelization of the video game Resident Evil. He’s also had an impressive television and film writing career with credits including “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine” and “The Crow” starring Brandon Lee. As a musician, Shirley has fronted his own bands and written lyrics for Blue Öyster Cult, among others. Born in Houston, TX, he now lives with his wife in Vancouver, Washington. Visit him online at John-Shirley.com.

Praise For…

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Praise for John Shirley
 
“Gritty realism, thrilling—this is a good one.” —Lincoln Journal Star on Wyatt in Wichita
 
“One of our best and most singular writers. A powerhouse of ideas and imagery.” —William Gibson
 
Snapping, snarling, vigorously wrought drama.” —Kirkus Reviews on Stormland