Kentuckian and Civil War veteran Jake Bailey planned to work peacefully in California, but instead he is thrown into all the turmoil and deceit found in the late-1800s mythical Arizona town of Wayward. Rich with historical authenticity, excellent setting description, and well-developed characters, Hilary Hartman's first novel -- A Wayward Tale: Part One -- is one that both Western fans and those who simply love a good story should consider purchasing.
If you have viewed a Western film or read a novel in that genre, then you somewhat know what to expect and Hartman does not fail to deliver the standard goods. A Wayward Tale includes bustling brothels, smoky saloons, gut wrenching gunfights, and even a blossoming romance. On top of all that, though, Hartman excels when it comes to bringing scenes to life with sometimes humorous dialogue and always thorough description. The characters are well thought out, too.
When it comes to novels in a series, A Wayward Tale fits the bill in that it leaves you hanging and wanting more at the end. Loose ends are definitely not in short supply. What's the story behind the locked desk and cabinet compartments in Bailey's office (he becomes the town's law enforcer)? What's the seemingly crooked town mayor up to, and why did he deceive Bailey? Is there a story waiting to be told with the individual in a wanted poster at Bailey's office? Also, what is to come of the seeds of love planted between Bailey and a woman named Virginia?
Hartman tentatively plans to release the second novel in this Western series later this year. Prior to writing novels, Hartman worked as a radio producer for several years in Florida. Hartman's career in radio included stints with WMEL 1300 AM and the nationally-syndicated show titled UFO Live. For more information about A Wayward Tale, click on the link provided in the first paragraph of this story and check out the Facebook page.
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