A hero who stands alone, malicious bandits, wild animals. Does that sound like a western? Surprise! It’s a fantasy. With western underpinnings but fused heavily with its fantasy elements, Calico Thunder Rides Again makes for one thrilling read.
Inheriting a traveling circus from his father, Jake Strickland has been managing it for years and been living on the road with the performers. Jake, a former stunt rider, has found he has fallen for the animal trainer, Grace Hawkins. Life is good until someone arrives and tells him about an old debt of his father’s.
Repaying a debt might not appear to be a plot device to hang an adventure on, but it allows the reader to see how much Jake cares for the circus performers. As the story progresses, the desperation of the characters increases, and the relationship to each other grows more and more important. Jake’s sacrifices for the show and Grace’s resolve and support of Jake are admirable.
The world-building, the circus life, and the tension work together to keep the reader enthralled in Calico Thunder Rides Again’s grip. When the climax comes, author T. A. Hernandez weaves some magic of her own with her poignant passages. The depth of feeling the characters have for each other is beautifully described and tugs at the reader’s heart.
The last quarter of the book changes the tone of the novel. The energy of the plot and writing propels the narrative forward to an amazing conclusion. This novel has a satisfying ending, sure to please even the most picky reader.
One note about the cover art and art design of Calico Thunder Rides Again. It’s amazing! Also created by author T. A. Hernandez, the illustration, colors, and design blend together perfectly. This indie cover compliments the engrossing story inside. Go ahead and judge this book by its cover.
This novel is enjoyable from start to finish. While all characters are adults, the story isn’t mired in mundane adult drama, complimenting its exciting tone. Most of the novel hums along as readers expect it will right to the end. A jarring twist at the end wouldn’t have fit the theme or sense of exhilaration the novel wants to convey.
Calico Thunder Rides Again is a fun and spirited romp of a circus-fantasy-western. Take it for a “ride.” You won’t be disappointed.