Two for Texas

Burke is as good as it gets. Every time I think I could be a novelist, I read ANYTHING of his and realize that he sets the standard and I have far far to go.

The Book

This may be (I HOPE!) a starter novel to see reader reactions. Well, my reaction is EXCELLENT. I say starter as the novel is quite short... about 5 hours. I so wanted it to go on, but Burke resolves all threads and ends it with me wanting more. I doubt Birke reads these reviews but if he is doing so... Write more on Son and Hugh!

Somehow, the publishers summary was pretty correct... something that as we know does not always happen... so if I write much more, it might spoil for others, but just a hint...

We meet Jim Bowie, Sam Houston, come close to Davy Crockett...

Will Patton is so good he is scary. Stealing a comment from another reviewer, he could read the US tax code and make it interesting.

One of our two heroes, Hugh... well... it's Clete from some of Burke's other fine books. I recognized it instantly, but it is not even a minor distraction.

Get the book. I guarantee that the five hours you will spend will only improve your life!

The historical aspect of this novel was wonderful. Meeting Houston and Bowie were so cool. As a kid I remember these 2 historical figures. Also the humor is off the chart. I kept laughing out loud many times.

Hugh by far. One of the best and funniest characters Burke has produced. Old, salty, lippy, and one eyed. I fell in love with this character immediately.

Every one that is available on Audible. I loved this one. I put this performance near the top.

The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly visit Texas.

Burke is the best living American author.

Did not read the print version.

Any of the "Holland" series by James Lee Burke. He captures western landscapes and characters in a very insightful and artful way. I love the way he handles language.

Yes, he does a great job with Burke's novels. I believe he could do other authors equally well, but I have not personally heard them. There's something about his voice that really captures the mood of the story.

Just loved it - well researched, believable, and well told.

Great story line.

What happened at the Alamo.

I LOVED how he had a different voice for each character. I almost felt like a knew them.

When Sun went back for White Man's Woman.

Will Patton is a wonderful narrater. I especially enjoy James Lee Burke's discriptive writing.

wherever James Lee Burke takes you, there you are. this book is a trip to the Alamo. The book is too short but every single minute of it is worth the read. The narration is fantastic. I think I have read almost all of Burke's stories and this one is a good yarn. His descriptions of the old west make you smell it and feel the grit in your teeth.

The historical content

The Texas and Louisana connection

All Of his Burke readings. Compares very well.

Burke tells it like it is/was.

I love Burke/Patton so was eager to sample a different venue. I was disappointed. I like Robicheaux thrillers so much I've bought several Apple Shuffles and distributed them among my friends. I won't be adding this one.

No. I would recommend some of the many other Burke/Patton stories first.

Nothing stands out

No.

I hope Burke continues to try different venues. I know I'll buy them, just wasn't as captivated with this theme as I have been with his past works. I download books Will Patton narrates because of his incredible soothing yet passionate voice. I wonder if he can mimic a Downeaster's dialect!

It's a brutal story about brutal men. Still, there are unforgettable characters and enough of Burke's amazing story telling ability to recommend to most.

It begins with a descriptive tale of Louisiana prison life in the early 19th century. Not pleasant in the least, but surprisingly familiar to the prison portrayed in Cool Hand Luke. Most of the book revolves around the escape of two men, the main characters.( No spoiler here, all this foretold in the first paragraph.)

Hugh Allison is a 19th century version of Clete Purcell.

No question it was Allison, Son Holland seemed just to be along for the ride.

It was so violent I felt like I was in the midst of it.

Yes - JLB always stands up to multiple readings. The plot, characters, narrative voice, humour, and depth of emotion in this story make it a very rewarding experience

Anytime Hugh is knocking around. Or Deaf. Will Patton's delivery is brilliant, particularly for these two characters.

Hugh or Deaf!

Oftentimes both!

Nobody should ever be permitted to read James Lee Burke other than Will Patton. I'm addicted.

... And Will Patton should play Sun Holland.
Not to sound like a member of the heard, but this story is Amazing ;)
There is certainly a recognition of characters from prior series, but I think that is part of the magic. The flow of the story blends perfectly with the writers in-depth description of this flawless and surprising tale from the past. Though it is fiction, I found myself googling the main characters to try and see where their story ends.
To anybody ready to pass on this novel because of its short length, Don't you dare! This is a must hear. A captivating, one- sitting, listen with a satisfying finish.
Thank you JLB.