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Jeremiah Halstead #1
Blood on the Trail
Award-winning, critically acclaimed author Terrence McCauley has drawn comparisons to Elmore Leonard for his skilled writing of traditional historical Westerns with a crime fiction soul. Now he brings his signature historical accuracy, three-dimensional characters, and non-stop, adrenaline-fueled action to the first in a brand new series featuring Jeremiah Halstead. He may be the newest Deputy Marshal in the Montana Territory, but it doesn't take long for him to find himself in a mess of trouble...
"Blood on the Trail is one action-packed, western . . . and Jeremiah Halstead is a lawdog to fog the outlaw trail with!" --Peter Brandvold, author of The Cost of Dying
Silver Cloud, Montana. A mining town welcome to all seeking to make their fortune. And a place where a lawman has to watch his back before some hardcase empties his pistol into it.
Deputy U.S. Marshal Jeremiah Halstead is escorting notorious outlaw John Hudson across the territory for trial when he's ambushed by a pack of Hudson's men anxious to rescue their partner from his custody. Halstead puts the blast on them, but outnumbered and outgunned, he has little choice but to hole up in an old mining town known as Silver Cloud, Montana. It's a place where he can keep a lock on his prisoner while figuring out how to get past Hudson's gang alive.
But the folks in Silver Cloud are none too happy playing host to the lawman or his kill-crazy prisoner. Unable to trust the sheriff to back his play, Halstead finds himself standing alone against Hudson's gang as they slip into town, recruiting gunmen to help free their leader.
Except for Ed Zimmerman. He's spent his whole criminal life in John Hudson's shadow. He wants Hudson dead and buried so he can become the leader of the gang. And if he must, he'll put everyone in Silver Cloud six feet under--including Deputy U.S. Marshal Halstead...
"McCauley's Westerns move at a pace that leaves readers sweating and out of breath. Blood on the Trail is one wild, entertaining ride." --Johnny D. Boggs
"Blood on the Trail is one action-packed, western . . . and Jeremiah Halstead is a lawdog to fog the outlaw trail with!" --Peter Brandvold, author of The Cost of Dying
Silver Cloud, Montana. A mining town welcome to all seeking to make their fortune. And a place where a lawman has to watch his back before some hardcase empties his pistol into it.
Deputy U.S. Marshal Jeremiah Halstead is escorting notorious outlaw John Hudson across the territory for trial when he's ambushed by a pack of Hudson's men anxious to rescue their partner from his custody. Halstead puts the blast on them, but outnumbered and outgunned, he has little choice but to hole up in an old mining town known as Silver Cloud, Montana. It's a place where he can keep a lock on his prisoner while figuring out how to get past Hudson's gang alive.
But the folks in Silver Cloud are none too happy playing host to the lawman or his kill-crazy prisoner. Unable to trust the sheriff to back his play, Halstead finds himself standing alone against Hudson's gang as they slip into town, recruiting gunmen to help free their leader.
Except for Ed Zimmerman. He's spent his whole criminal life in John Hudson's shadow. He wants Hudson dead and buried so he can become the leader of the gang. And if he must, he'll put everyone in Silver Cloud six feet under--including Deputy U.S. Marshal Halstead...
"McCauley's Westerns move at a pace that leaves readers sweating and out of breath. Blood on the Trail is one wild, entertaining ride." --Johnny D. Boggs
- GenresWesterns
320 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 29, 2022
47 people are currently reading
461 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
May 25, 2022
“Blood on the Trail” is set in the old west, the “Wild West,” where horses are fast and so are the bullets. The action unfolds in the open country with the horses, the pursuit, the bullets, the prisoner and the outlaw gang. This is Montana, not yet a state in March 1841, and William Henry Harrison is president. The country is wild and unhampered as is the action; a lot happens in just a few days.
Twenty-four year old Deputy United States Marshal Jeremiah Halstead arrives on the pages fully formed with a complex and unsavory backstory that is gradually shared with readers. He is a thinking man, a planning man, and the deadliest thing to hit town since yellow fever. He has a prisoner to deliver and a gang on his trail. Along the way he finds racial prejudice, social injustice, distrust of establishment, and the murder of a young woman that must be solved. Of course, McCauley also gives Halstead a Havana cigar just because he can.
The “Wild West” of 150 years ago shares many things with culture today. Influence, power, and economics interfere with justice, and society is reluctant to accept change. Outlaws have their own organizational structure with status is based on “achievements” no matter how unsavory the actions.
Terrence McCauley incorporates all the elements that readers look for in a compelling book. There are multifaceted characters, roller coaster thrills, complex conflicts, nail-biting tension, nonstop action and a murder to be solved. I am not a regular reader of “Westerns,” but a good book is just that – a good book, no matter the setting, and this is a good book
“Blood on the Trail” is now available in print, on Kindle, and as an audiobook from independent bookstores, online booksellers, retail stores, public libraries and anywhere books are sold.
Twenty-four year old Deputy United States Marshal Jeremiah Halstead arrives on the pages fully formed with a complex and unsavory backstory that is gradually shared with readers. He is a thinking man, a planning man, and the deadliest thing to hit town since yellow fever. He has a prisoner to deliver and a gang on his trail. Along the way he finds racial prejudice, social injustice, distrust of establishment, and the murder of a young woman that must be solved. Of course, McCauley also gives Halstead a Havana cigar just because he can.
The “Wild West” of 150 years ago shares many things with culture today. Influence, power, and economics interfere with justice, and society is reluctant to accept change. Outlaws have their own organizational structure with status is based on “achievements” no matter how unsavory the actions.
Terrence McCauley incorporates all the elements that readers look for in a compelling book. There are multifaceted characters, roller coaster thrills, complex conflicts, nail-biting tension, nonstop action and a murder to be solved. I am not a regular reader of “Westerns,” but a good book is just that – a good book, no matter the setting, and this is a good book
“Blood on the Trail” is now available in print, on Kindle, and as an audiobook from independent bookstores, online booksellers, retail stores, public libraries and anywhere books are sold.
February 28, 2022
In Terrence McCauley's Blood on the Trail (Pinnacle Books 2022), first in the Jeremiah Halstead Western series, young Jeremiah Halstead is a new Deputy United States Marshall, tasked with bringing in the ten-member+ Hudson Gang, a brutal determined band of stone-cold killers who has been terrorizing citizens across Montana and farther. As the son of famed Sin Halstead, known for his grit, determination, and sense of justice, Jeremiah's reputation precedes him everywhere he goes. In a violent shootout between the gang and Jeremiah, he kills three of them and captures the leader. He plans to take him to the US Marshal HQ in Helena, but stops in the small town of Silver Cloud where he is told by his boss, the US Marshall, to wait for instructions. Waiting turns into a vicious battle where Halstead isn't sure who is on his side or against him.
This is a well-told story with excellent characters I look forward to enjoying in future stories. Highly recommended
This is a well-told story with excellent characters I look forward to enjoying in future stories. Highly recommended
April 5, 2023
Really enjoyed this gritty western. Jeremiah Halstead is a strong, believable and likable character. Fast paced, lots of action and Rodney J. Turner does an excellent job of narrating in the audio version (although there seemed to be a couple of missed edits I.e. repeat phrases.)
However, a great start to a new character series!
However, a great start to a new character series!
January 28, 2022
Blood on the Trail by Terrence McCauley is a brand new series about the new and young deputy marshal Jeremiah Halstead. He has moved from Texas to Montana and is bringing the leader of an outlaw gang to justice when trouble starts. I was surprised by the pace in this western and pleasantly so. I also fell in love withg the characters that McCauley has invented. In Jeremiah he has built a character that is good for many books and I would love to read more of them, there is already a second book announced. We also get some of his earlier character Aaron Mackey who happens to be Jeremiahs boss. I believe that some of the stuff referenced in the book is stories we can read about in the Aaron Mackey series. This is a well written western that I am fortunate to read and will definitely follow this series. I also love the attention to detail in this work. If you like me like westerns this is one I truly recommend that you try. I thank @kensingtonbooks @netgalley and #Pinnacle for giving me this advance copy and @terrencepmccauley for writing it. #NetGalley #Kensington #BloodOnTheTrail #TerrencMcCauley
August 5, 2022
Thanks to netgalley.com and Kensington Publishing for an advance ARC copy for my honest review and I also purchased it from amazon.com.
This was my first read from Terrence McCauley, really like his writing style a lot, definitely will check out his other writing and can't wait for the next Jeremiah Halstead novel. One of my favorite niches in the Western genre are the lawman ones, this one definitely checks off all the boxes you would want with that theme and then some.
You can't help but like Deputy U.S. Marshall Jeremiah Halstead, he's tough, damaged, smart, good with his guns and when he gets on your trail, your in trouble.
Enjoyed the setting of Montana, it has several twists and turns, an intertwining storyline in the sense that Jeremiah seems to keep running into characters that knew his father and add a good element to Blood on the Trail.
Due to the reader, gets a little back ground into him, made him more likable for me and it's a element by the author that makes this such a great read.
You have Deputy Marshal Halstead bring a gang leader back to Helena to be tried and hung, gets attacked by the gang, kills two of them, ends up holing up in the mining town of Silver Cloud, can't forget Cassie a prostitute with a plan who gets killed, easily could have been a character continue in other novels in this series and to know more. You'll have to read this one.
Definitely give the author Terrence McCauley a try, he's my new favorite author and wouldn't be shock too learn that he has written some of the novels for the William W. Johnstone brand.
This was my first read from Terrence McCauley, really like his writing style a lot, definitely will check out his other writing and can't wait for the next Jeremiah Halstead novel. One of my favorite niches in the Western genre are the lawman ones, this one definitely checks off all the boxes you would want with that theme and then some.
You can't help but like Deputy U.S. Marshall Jeremiah Halstead, he's tough, damaged, smart, good with his guns and when he gets on your trail, your in trouble.
Enjoyed the setting of Montana, it has several twists and turns, an intertwining storyline in the sense that Jeremiah seems to keep running into characters that knew his father and add a good element to Blood on the Trail.
Due to the reader, gets a little back ground into him, made him more likable for me and it's a element by the author that makes this such a great read.
You have Deputy Marshal Halstead bring a gang leader back to Helena to be tried and hung, gets attacked by the gang, kills two of them, ends up holing up in the mining town of Silver Cloud, can't forget Cassie a prostitute with a plan who gets killed, easily could have been a character continue in other novels in this series and to know more. You'll have to read this one.
Definitely give the author Terrence McCauley a try, he's my new favorite author and wouldn't be shock too learn that he has written some of the novels for the William W. Johnstone brand.
October 16, 2022
The title says it all. This is a quickly paced, entertaining page turning western that is filled with gunfights from beginning to end which for this reader got a tiresome. You can easily visualize this story play out on the screen in your imagination. The characters are interesting, and the hero and those who help him are appealing. Because the story evolves around the continual action as Halstead, the U.S. Marshal, confronts all the outlaws, the story has little chance to develop the characters further, except for the relationship between Halstead and the town's sheriff. In this relationship, it is the town's sheriff who grows on the reader. The main character, somewhat of a superhero, is the same from beginning to end.
One of the characters ruminates, "Whenever trouble comes . . ., a man has a responsibility to look it in the eye and see it for what it is. He must then decide whether it's something he can fight, something he can outlast, or something he should flee." Trouble follows Halstead from beginning to end, but this reflection aptly applies to all the characters the author has helping the hero.
One of the characters ruminates, "Whenever trouble comes . . ., a man has a responsibility to look it in the eye and see it for what it is. He must then decide whether it's something he can fight, something he can outlast, or something he should flee." Trouble follows Halstead from beginning to end, but this reflection aptly applies to all the characters the author has helping the hero.
March 15, 2022
This book was a Goodreads Giveaway. It was the first western genre I have ever read. Since I retired, we watch a lot of old western TV shows and movies. This book was just like reading "Gunsmoke". It was an excellent choice for my first experience with a western story. The way Mr McCauley developed the Jeremiah Halstead's character was excellent. We found out a little more about him all along the way. If you don't like bloody scenes, I would not recommend this book as there are many and the descriptions make them very realistic. It was a very good book and a good intro into western reading. I will definitely be looking for more of MrMcCauley's books to read.
March 28, 2022
I received this book as a free ARC, autographed by the author, who encouraged me to endorse it on social media and write and post a review. Grateful, I gave it a shot. I knew after reading the first chapter that the writing would probably not meet my expectations, but I felt obliged to continue reading, just because. I managed to get to page 132 before I decided there was no way to write a review that was both honest and favorable, at which point I quit the book. To be fair, I’ve read enough new western fiction to allow that this novel is really no better or worse than a lot of the new oaters being put out by Pinnacle and other independent publishers. I just hoped it would be better. As a shitty first draft, which every novelist must be willing to write before getting down to the always necessary business of revision, this book would be passable. As an ARC that presumably is all but ready to be published with few, if any, changes, it just seems like shoddy writing. (I mean, what is a “craggily” beard anyway?)
Tropes and solecisms aside, the thinly developed characters (not even the protagonist seems all that well grounded), half-baked dialogue, and uninspired exposition would have been enough to put me off the book after the first couple of chapters, if I hadn’t felt obligated to read a little more. Mr. McCauley may be an award-winning author and Spur Award finalist, but he is not writing at the level of Elmore Leonard or Elmer Kelton. That’s okay. But neither is he writing at the level of Louis L’Amour, whose time-honored formula began to wear thin for me decades ago.
The majority of reviews I’ve read so far suggest McCauley’s latest book is sufficiently entertaining for many western fiction buffs, if not one as fussy as I am. Whether or not the next reader likes it will depend largely on what kind of reader they are.
Tropes and solecisms aside, the thinly developed characters (not even the protagonist seems all that well grounded), half-baked dialogue, and uninspired exposition would have been enough to put me off the book after the first couple of chapters, if I hadn’t felt obligated to read a little more. Mr. McCauley may be an award-winning author and Spur Award finalist, but he is not writing at the level of Elmore Leonard or Elmer Kelton. That’s okay. But neither is he writing at the level of Louis L’Amour, whose time-honored formula began to wear thin for me decades ago.
The majority of reviews I’ve read so far suggest McCauley’s latest book is sufficiently entertaining for many western fiction buffs, if not one as fussy as I am. Whether or not the next reader likes it will depend largely on what kind of reader they are.
April 8, 2022
I think it would be fair to say that most folks interested in this book more than likely are already acquainted with McCauley's other western hero, Aaron Mackey. If so, then you have been introduced to the character of Jeremiah Halstead, and will get an immediate sense of familiarity when you begin reading this solo adventure of his,
If this happens to be your McCauley western debut, fear not! Though a direct spinoff of the Mackey series, this totally accommodates a new reader. Sure, Mackey and characters from that series are referenced frequently, but this is Halstead's story. The references won't throw new readers off. In fact, through Halstead's recollections and thoughts, a new reader actually gets a kind of mini introduction to Mackey as well.
And of course, seasoned readers will feel right at home hearing about Mackey and Sunday.
I mean, after all, you didn't necessarily have to read The Hobbit before starting Lord of the Rings, but doing so would make you a bit more savvy on the references.
So, what about the story itself? Does Halstead's tale rank up there with Mackey's stories? After all, McCauley has set the bar rather high for himself, busting right out through the gate with his western series debut. I read a lot of the Pinnacle westerns, and there are many great books and authors to be found working today in the genre. The Mackey series in particular I made a special effort not to miss when a new one would come out. Well, the answer to this long winded rant is yes. Halstead holds his own, and is a worthy character and deserves of his own series. The five star rating isn't smoke blowing either, this is some good stuff. Granted, at the moment the Mackey series has the advantage of being richer in characters and plot considering it's multiple books in. Blood On the Trail builds off that and puts Halstead in his own adventure.
I won't get into plot details as they are in the description. I will say that when Halstead makes a pit stop in a small town en route to his destination, all manner of hell breaks loose. Halstead wants to make a good impression with his first real job as a deputy marshal, but everything seems stacked against him! He's pursued by enemies, winds up having to solve a murder, and rubs a whole lotta people the wrong way. And none of this is even his assignment! But he does it all with a toughness worthy of Mackey himself.
Again, excellent book. A great story and strong debut of Halstead as a hero holding his own. I'm looking forward to more.
If this happens to be your McCauley western debut, fear not! Though a direct spinoff of the Mackey series, this totally accommodates a new reader. Sure, Mackey and characters from that series are referenced frequently, but this is Halstead's story. The references won't throw new readers off. In fact, through Halstead's recollections and thoughts, a new reader actually gets a kind of mini introduction to Mackey as well.
And of course, seasoned readers will feel right at home hearing about Mackey and Sunday.
I mean, after all, you didn't necessarily have to read The Hobbit before starting Lord of the Rings, but doing so would make you a bit more savvy on the references.
So, what about the story itself? Does Halstead's tale rank up there with Mackey's stories? After all, McCauley has set the bar rather high for himself, busting right out through the gate with his western series debut. I read a lot of the Pinnacle westerns, and there are many great books and authors to be found working today in the genre. The Mackey series in particular I made a special effort not to miss when a new one would come out. Well, the answer to this long winded rant is yes. Halstead holds his own, and is a worthy character and deserves of his own series. The five star rating isn't smoke blowing either, this is some good stuff. Granted, at the moment the Mackey series has the advantage of being richer in characters and plot considering it's multiple books in. Blood On the Trail builds off that and puts Halstead in his own adventure.
I won't get into plot details as they are in the description. I will say that when Halstead makes a pit stop in a small town en route to his destination, all manner of hell breaks loose. Halstead wants to make a good impression with his first real job as a deputy marshal, but everything seems stacked against him! He's pursued by enemies, winds up having to solve a murder, and rubs a whole lotta people the wrong way. And none of this is even his assignment! But he does it all with a toughness worthy of Mackey himself.
Again, excellent book. A great story and strong debut of Halstead as a hero holding his own. I'm looking forward to more.
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April 9, 2022I think it would be fair to say that most folks interested in this book more than likely are already acquainted with McCauley's other western hero, Aaron Mackey. If so, then you have been introduced to the character of Jeremiah Halstead, and will get an immediate sense of familiarity when you begin reading this solo adventure of his,
If this happens to be your McCauley western debut, fear not! Though a direct spinoff of the Mackey series, this totally accommodates a new reader. Sure, Mackey and characters from that series are referenced frequently, but this is Halstead's story. The references won't throw new readers off. In fact, through Halstead's recollections and thoughts, a new reader actually gets a kind of mini introduction to Mackey as well.
And of course, seasoned readers will feel right at home hearing about Mackey and Sunday.
I mean, after all, you didn't necessarily have to read The Hobbit before starting Lord of the Rings, but doing so would make you a bit more savvy on the references.
So, what about the story itself? Does Halstead's tale rank up there with Mackey's stories? After all, McCauley has set the bar rather high for himself, busting right out through the gate with his western series debut. I read a lot of the Pinnacle westerns, and there are many great books and authors to be found working today in the genre. The Mackey series in particular I made a special effort not to miss when a new one would come out. Well, the answer to this long winded rant is yes. Halstead holds his own, and is a worthy character and deserves of his own series. The five star rating isn't smoke blowing either, this is some good stuff. Granted, at the moment the Mackey series has the advantage of being richer in characters and plot considering it's multiple books in. Blood On the Trail builds off that and puts Halstead in his own adventure.
I won't get into plot details as they are in the description. I will say that when Halstead makes a pit stop in a small town en route to his destination, all manner of hell breaks loose. Halstead wants to make a good impression with his first real job as a deputy marshal, but everything seems stacked against him! He's pursued by enemies, winds up having to solve a murder, and rubs a whole lotta people the wrong way. And none of this is even his assignment! But he does it all with a toughness worthy of Mackey himself.
Again, excellent book. A great story and strong debut of Halstead as a hero holding his own. I'm looking forward to more.
If this happens to be your McCauley western debut, fear not! Though a direct spinoff of the Mackey series, this totally accommodates a new reader. Sure, Mackey and characters from that series are referenced frequently, but this is Halstead's story. The references won't throw new readers off. In fact, through Halstead's recollections and thoughts, a new reader actually gets a kind of mini introduction to Mackey as well.
And of course, seasoned readers will feel right at home hearing about Mackey and Sunday.
I mean, after all, you didn't necessarily have to read The Hobbit before starting Lord of the Rings, but doing so would make you a bit more savvy on the references.
So, what about the story itself? Does Halstead's tale rank up there with Mackey's stories? After all, McCauley has set the bar rather high for himself, busting right out through the gate with his western series debut. I read a lot of the Pinnacle westerns, and there are many great books and authors to be found working today in the genre. The Mackey series in particular I made a special effort not to miss when a new one would come out. Well, the answer to this long winded rant is yes. Halstead holds his own, and is a worthy character and deserves of his own series. The five star rating isn't smoke blowing either, this is some good stuff. Granted, at the moment the Mackey series has the advantage of being richer in characters and plot considering it's multiple books in. Blood On the Trail builds off that and puts Halstead in his own adventure.
I won't get into plot details as they are in the description. I will say that when Halstead makes a pit stop in a small town en route to his destination, all manner of hell breaks loose. Halstead wants to make a good impression with his first real job as a deputy marshal, but everything seems stacked against him! He's pursued by enemies, winds up having to solve a murder, and rubs a whole lotta people the wrong way. And none of this is even his assignment! But he does it all with a toughness worthy of Mackey himself.
Again, excellent book. A great story and strong debut of Halstead as a hero holding his own. I'm looking forward to more.
Want to read
February 22, 2022Title: Blood on the Trail
Series: A Jeremiah Halstead Western, Book 1 of 2
Author: Terrence McCauley
Genre: Western
Publisher: Kensington Books, Pinnacle
Release Date: March 29, 2022
Format: Kindle (read), Mass Market Paperback
Pages: 311
Source: NetGalley
Cover: Well done. Catches the eye. Easy to read even in a thumbnail.
Description:
Deputy U.S. Marshal Jeremiah Halstead is taking the leader of the Hudson Gang for trial. But the gang is in pursuit. Surviving a shoot-out, Halstead holds up in Silver Cloud, Montana with his prisoner. The one-night stay stretches into several. And the Sheriff does not seem to be on the law’s side. For that matter, neither does the town? Why does his boss in Helena tell him to stay in Silver Cloud? Is he going to have to stand alone against the gang?
Review:
Gritty. That’s the one word that describes Blood on the Trail. This is not a ‘western romance’ — it’s a gritty Western with really bad guys and one known good guy. Some not so bad but none of them appear at first to be on Jeremiah Halstead’s side.
His job — find and bring in John Hudson, the leader of the notorious Hudson Gang. That job is Halstead’s first “official assignment as a deputy“. No pressure. Be aware, there is a lot more to learn about Jeremiah than being a Deputy U.S. Marshall.
This is a healthy-sized book as Jeremiah’s history is made known. But not all at once. Pieces are brought forth as the action moves. Even his pappy and grand-pappy are mentioned more than once.
When it says blood in the book title, be prepared as this wasn’t the days when rights were read. If you drew your gun, you better be faster than the other guy or be ready to meet your maker. Each member of the gang is met individually. The author, Terrence McCauley, does the same with all the characters. You find out more about them as the story moves along.
The pacing for this reviewer was a bit slow. However, the pace made it easy to keep the various characters straight.
I was hoping to REALLY like this author’s writing style but for this reviewer, there was just too much blood. It did fit the story. Just not right for me. If you like gritty Westerns, you will enjoy this well-developed book.
I received a complimentary e-ARC copy of Blood on the Trail via NetGalley from the publisher, Kensington Books, Pinnacle. A positive review was not required; the opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
#BloodOnTheTrail #NetGalley #TerrenceMcCauley
Series: A Jeremiah Halstead Western, Book 1 of 2
Author: Terrence McCauley
Genre: Western
Publisher: Kensington Books, Pinnacle
Release Date: March 29, 2022
Format: Kindle (read), Mass Market Paperback
Pages: 311
Source: NetGalley
Cover: Well done. Catches the eye. Easy to read even in a thumbnail.
Description:
Deputy U.S. Marshal Jeremiah Halstead is taking the leader of the Hudson Gang for trial. But the gang is in pursuit. Surviving a shoot-out, Halstead holds up in Silver Cloud, Montana with his prisoner. The one-night stay stretches into several. And the Sheriff does not seem to be on the law’s side. For that matter, neither does the town? Why does his boss in Helena tell him to stay in Silver Cloud? Is he going to have to stand alone against the gang?
Review:
Gritty. That’s the one word that describes Blood on the Trail. This is not a ‘western romance’ — it’s a gritty Western with really bad guys and one known good guy. Some not so bad but none of them appear at first to be on Jeremiah Halstead’s side.
His job — find and bring in John Hudson, the leader of the notorious Hudson Gang. That job is Halstead’s first “official assignment as a deputy“. No pressure. Be aware, there is a lot more to learn about Jeremiah than being a Deputy U.S. Marshall.
This is a healthy-sized book as Jeremiah’s history is made known. But not all at once. Pieces are brought forth as the action moves. Even his pappy and grand-pappy are mentioned more than once.
When it says blood in the book title, be prepared as this wasn’t the days when rights were read. If you drew your gun, you better be faster than the other guy or be ready to meet your maker. Each member of the gang is met individually. The author, Terrence McCauley, does the same with all the characters. You find out more about them as the story moves along.
The pacing for this reviewer was a bit slow. However, the pace made it easy to keep the various characters straight.
I was hoping to REALLY like this author’s writing style but for this reviewer, there was just too much blood. It did fit the story. Just not right for me. If you like gritty Westerns, you will enjoy this well-developed book.
I received a complimentary e-ARC copy of Blood on the Trail via NetGalley from the publisher, Kensington Books, Pinnacle. A positive review was not required; the opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
#BloodOnTheTrail #NetGalley #TerrenceMcCauley
March 31, 2022
Blood on the Trail by Terrence McCauley
Jeremiah Halstead #1
Having read and five-starred a previous book by this author, I was more than willing to read this one next. I did see a few names from that previous book but they did not play a big part in this one. I have to say this story took time to warm up to and left me with questions I would like to have answered about the main character, where he came from, his past, why he was in prison, how he could become a Deputy Marshall if he had been in prison and those questions made me wonder if he was introduced in a previous book that I had not read. And yet, this is book one in Jeremiah Halstead’s series so what book did I miss?
The story starts out on the run, literally, with Halstead and the bad guy he was tasked with bringing in tide over a saddle. Shortly there after there is a standoff with shooting and death and then some more riding. When Halstead gets to Silver Cloud, his orders change and he finds himself stuck in town for reasons unknown, people out to get him, a murder to solve, bigots and braggarts to deal with, the gang trying to free the man he is taking to justice, and a whole lot more going on.
As with most Westerns, you will find the gambler, saloon, ladies of the night, a man who thinks he owns the town, peace keepers that are not always on the side of the law, and a man who stands out in the crowd due to his fast guns, mighty fists, and willingness to do what it takes to get the job done.
There is violence, blood, bigotry, and more. I wasn’t sure that I actually would warm up to the character or his story but by the end of the book I came away feeling I might give the second book in the series a try as I still do want to know more about Jeremiah and what he was doing in prison for three years.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington – Pinnacle Westerns for the ARC – this is my honest review.
3-4 Stars
Jeremiah Halstead #1
Having read and five-starred a previous book by this author, I was more than willing to read this one next. I did see a few names from that previous book but they did not play a big part in this one. I have to say this story took time to warm up to and left me with questions I would like to have answered about the main character, where he came from, his past, why he was in prison, how he could become a Deputy Marshall if he had been in prison and those questions made me wonder if he was introduced in a previous book that I had not read. And yet, this is book one in Jeremiah Halstead’s series so what book did I miss?
The story starts out on the run, literally, with Halstead and the bad guy he was tasked with bringing in tide over a saddle. Shortly there after there is a standoff with shooting and death and then some more riding. When Halstead gets to Silver Cloud, his orders change and he finds himself stuck in town for reasons unknown, people out to get him, a murder to solve, bigots and braggarts to deal with, the gang trying to free the man he is taking to justice, and a whole lot more going on.
As with most Westerns, you will find the gambler, saloon, ladies of the night, a man who thinks he owns the town, peace keepers that are not always on the side of the law, and a man who stands out in the crowd due to his fast guns, mighty fists, and willingness to do what it takes to get the job done.
There is violence, blood, bigotry, and more. I wasn’t sure that I actually would warm up to the character or his story but by the end of the book I came away feeling I might give the second book in the series a try as I still do want to know more about Jeremiah and what he was doing in prison for three years.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington – Pinnacle Westerns for the ARC – this is my honest review.
3-4 Stars
May 12, 2022
Terrence McCauley is up there with the rest of the great authors of the wild west. He gives you unique characters along with a unique storyline. Jeremiah Halstead is a deputy United States marshal of mixed parentage. His father is white while his mother is Mexican, giving him the dark complection of a "breed". Which, in the times of the wild west, was a target to be discriminated against. Having to live and survive in the wild west with dark skin has made Halstead into a tough fighter, and because of that, he is tasked with bringing in the leader of the Hudson gang, John Hudson. With an angry gang after him on his way to the town of Helena, Halstead stops at the town of Silver Cloud for an overnight stay, using the jail as a base. Unfortunate, this brings him head to head with the sheriff, Boddington, and his bully deputies, who give him a hard time about his skin color. After having to break a few bones, Deputy Marshal Halstead and Sheriff Boddington must work together to survive a siege by the Hudson gang, and to bring John Hudson back alive to stand trial for his crimes. This isn't so simple, because Ed Zimmerman, "who was just as bad as John Hudson himself," has taken his boss' place as head of the gang.
Terrence McCauley has created a unique character in US Deputy Marshal Jeremiah Halstead. In a time where racial discrimination is a hot topic, Terrence McCauley has brought us a character who fights for his rights and works an honorable job in a time where being dark skinned was not an asset. I liked reading this book and look forward to reading more about deputy Halstead's adventures.(4+ stars)
Terrence McCauley has created a unique character in US Deputy Marshal Jeremiah Halstead. In a time where racial discrimination is a hot topic, Terrence McCauley has brought us a character who fights for his rights and works an honorable job in a time where being dark skinned was not an asset. I liked reading this book and look forward to reading more about deputy Halstead's adventures.(4+ stars)
September 23, 2022
Read The Full Review at BEST THRILLER BOOKS
I don’t normally read too many westerns, but they are by far some of my favorite stories from a time long gone. I enjoy the camaraderie and the pace of life that was present back in the day, which was a Tuesday by the way, it always is. To think that people lived life with death surrounding them from all sides without the simple necessities that we have today is amazing, which makes the authentic western feel that McCauley captures that more impressive.
In the first of a new series, McCauley brings to life a complex yet charismatic deputy U.S. Marshall Jeremiah Halstead. Halstead if on the dusty Montana trail running from Rock Creek to Helena, by way of Silver Cloud. After capturing the infamous Hudson gang leader, John Hudson, Halstead uses his wit and intrepidness to end one of the most businesslike standoffs I’ve ever seen. Halstead is doing what is right and always thinking about the implications of the actions he takes, yet at no point is he able to rest...
Don't forget to check out the full review!!
I don’t normally read too many westerns, but they are by far some of my favorite stories from a time long gone. I enjoy the camaraderie and the pace of life that was present back in the day, which was a Tuesday by the way, it always is. To think that people lived life with death surrounding them from all sides without the simple necessities that we have today is amazing, which makes the authentic western feel that McCauley captures that more impressive.
In the first of a new series, McCauley brings to life a complex yet charismatic deputy U.S. Marshall Jeremiah Halstead. Halstead if on the dusty Montana trail running from Rock Creek to Helena, by way of Silver Cloud. After capturing the infamous Hudson gang leader, John Hudson, Halstead uses his wit and intrepidness to end one of the most businesslike standoffs I’ve ever seen. Halstead is doing what is right and always thinking about the implications of the actions he takes, yet at no point is he able to rest...
Don't forget to check out the full review!!
April 11, 2022
The Wild West is Alive and Well
The Old West was an unforgiving place, and readers of Terrence McCauley’s latest, “Blood on the Trail.” will soon come to that realization. There was little, if any, margin for error. Deputy U.S. Marshal Jeremiah Halstead, charged with transporting outlaw John Hudson to Helena, Montana, understands that better than most. With the remaining members of the Hudson gang in hot pursuit, determined to free their leader, Halstead realizes his next mistake could be his last. Seeking refuge in the mining town of Silver Cloud, Halstead is puzzled when he is ordered to remain there. Knowing that the battle will come to him sooner rather than later, the marshal begins forging alliances and preparing for the inevitable.
McCauley has created a great read, but more important he has peopled it with characters that you care about and want to know more about. His characters are fully realized individuals with quirks, flaws, and in some cases, pasts they’d rather forget.
It’s a taunt, fast-paced thriller that should be on your TBR list. I can’t wait to read more about Marshal Halstead.
The Old West was an unforgiving place, and readers of Terrence McCauley’s latest, “Blood on the Trail.” will soon come to that realization. There was little, if any, margin for error. Deputy U.S. Marshal Jeremiah Halstead, charged with transporting outlaw John Hudson to Helena, Montana, understands that better than most. With the remaining members of the Hudson gang in hot pursuit, determined to free their leader, Halstead realizes his next mistake could be his last. Seeking refuge in the mining town of Silver Cloud, Halstead is puzzled when he is ordered to remain there. Knowing that the battle will come to him sooner rather than later, the marshal begins forging alliances and preparing for the inevitable.
McCauley has created a great read, but more important he has peopled it with characters that you care about and want to know more about. His characters are fully realized individuals with quirks, flaws, and in some cases, pasts they’d rather forget.
It’s a taunt, fast-paced thriller that should be on your TBR list. I can’t wait to read more about Marshal Halstead.
November 28, 2024
The cover declares this to be a new series, but the character keeps referencing things from his past to suggest it is a spinoff from another series.
I thought this would be a corny western, but for the most part found it to be competently written, well-plotted, and executed in an interesting manner.
While it was better than I expected, it still had some minor flaws. The young deputy marshal is a bit of a bully, sort of like a western version of Jack Reacher. The difference is that he has the authority of the badge, while Reacher, at times, just likes punishing the bad guys. I'm uncertain why the author made his character of mixed heritage, at times it sort of just seemed like an attempt to be inclusive, but perhaps the origins of the character are better explained elsewhere.
The plot is very, very good. Of course, the odds are more than a little against the hero and it is sort of unbelieveable how he manages in the end. Also, I don't like cliff hangers and the conclusion left an unresolved issue that will likely be explored in future titles of this series.
At times, the dialogue felt a bit modern.
Still I enjoyed it.
I thought this would be a corny western, but for the most part found it to be competently written, well-plotted, and executed in an interesting manner.
While it was better than I expected, it still had some minor flaws. The young deputy marshal is a bit of a bully, sort of like a western version of Jack Reacher. The difference is that he has the authority of the badge, while Reacher, at times, just likes punishing the bad guys. I'm uncertain why the author made his character of mixed heritage, at times it sort of just seemed like an attempt to be inclusive, but perhaps the origins of the character are better explained elsewhere.
The plot is very, very good. Of course, the odds are more than a little against the hero and it is sort of unbelieveable how he manages in the end. Also, I don't like cliff hangers and the conclusion left an unresolved issue that will likely be explored in future titles of this series.
At times, the dialogue felt a bit modern.
Still I enjoyed it.
June 9, 2022
I haven’t read a western genre novel in over 60 years, but I received an Advanced Readers Copy of “Disturbing the Peace” by Terrence McCauley. It is the second in the Jeremiah Halstead series. I thought it would be prudent to buy and read “Blood on the Trail” before reading “Disturbing the Peace” and I’m happy I did, because it was a great read. McCauley is a terrific story teller with great character development. I’ve read his University series and am a fan of those four books. So, now I’m hooked on McCauley’s westerns. Next up, “Disturbing the Peace” followed by the Sheriff Aaron Mackey novels.
March 9, 2022
I found this book to be a pretty good western with lots of action. The main character was seen in McCauley's Sherriff Arron Mackey series. Mackey is now the US Marshal for the Montana territory and Jeremiah Halstead is his new Deputy tasked with bringing in the leader of the notorious Hudson Gang. Unfortunately the gang has other ideas. Halstead holes up in the tiny mining town of Silver Cloud but things go from bad to worse. If you have enjoyed other books by Terrence McCauley, you know you're going to want to read this one too. If you haven't what are you waiting for?
March 30, 2022
Blood on the Trail is the first book in a new series by Terrence McCauley featuring Jeremiah Halstead, a deputy US Marshal in the old west wilds of Montana. It is a Western Thriller. I was fascinated with McCauley's writing style. As I read the book, I was able to easily visualize on the screen of my mind, and it felt more like watching a movie than reading a book. It was very enjoyable experience. I look forward to seeing where the series goes from here.
Disclosure: I was given a copy of the book in exchange for my honest feedback and opinion.
Disclosure: I was given a copy of the book in exchange for my honest feedback and opinion.
May 24, 2022
As a new reader to the western genre I found this very good. The pace was slow and methodical (that’s a good thing) just like the main character. Being a political thriller genre junkie this had the action but not the action pack fast pace. That’s the old west for you. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to more.
Deputy US Marshal Jeremaih Halstead got his man but that’s just the beginning bringing him in is the hard part. With the wanted man’s gang in his heals Deputy Halstead holds up is Silver Cloud. Silver Cloud residents become friend or foe or both.
Deputy US Marshal Jeremaih Halstead got his man but that’s just the beginning bringing him in is the hard part. With the wanted man’s gang in his heals Deputy Halstead holds up is Silver Cloud. Silver Cloud residents become friend or foe or both.
May 13, 2023
I hadn’t read a Western in ages, and I decided to read this one in honor of my grandfather, who loved reading Westerns. Without a doubt I’m so glad that I made this choice. It has thrills and adventure, and has a strong sense of place: I had a film of the book in my head as I was reading. Best of all, the characters are so well written and I came to care about so many of them, to the point that I felt sad when certain characters died. Jeremiah Halstead is a dynamic main character, and I’m glad to find out that this series will continue (this title was the first). A big thumbs up to this book.
November 24, 2024
I like the storytelling of a good western and McCauley is one of the best at it. Usually, what it takes to stay alive is using your head, screwing up your courage, knowing how to adapt on the fly, and just some dumb luck. All of those are qualities of the “hero” of this story. I’m looking forward to the next book in this series.
April 21, 2022
I love a good western! Great writing style as it takes you right there. Action packed with some great characters you come to care about set against a beautiful backdrop. Look forward to reading more books in the series.
July 18, 2022
I hadn't read a western since my Louis L'Amour addiction 20 years ago. Terrence McCauley helped me fall off the wagon and start my western addiction again. Great story telling, and awesome action sequences made this book hard to put down.
March 20, 2024
A new series with a US Marshall who takes his job seriously. True to an era where guns and violence often ruled the law, this story has enough action to keep even die hard western lovers turning those pages.
April 16, 2022
Excellent Book
This was an excellent read. I can't wait to read the second book in the set and I hope Mr. McCauley keeps the series going.
This was an excellent read. I can't wait to read the second book in the set and I hope Mr. McCauley keeps the series going.
March 7, 2023
Love this. I love a good western
April 11, 2023
I just finished this book. I won this book from Goodreads. I liked reading this western very much as I have not read anything by this author till now and I did enjoy it very much.
dnf
August 4, 2023DNF @ 6% I received a copy of this ebook in a Goodreads giveaway.
I realize that the racism depicted in westerns is historically accurate, but that doesn’t mean I want to read about it.
I realize that the racism depicted in westerns is historically accurate, but that doesn’t mean I want to read about it.
October 9, 2023
another good book in the series
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