The Fourth Gunman

By: Merle Constiner

Narrated by: Michael Dukes

Length: 3 hrs and 51 mins

Publisher's summary

Gun trouble in a town targeted for takeover!

George Netfield, proprietor of Kirkville's leading saloon, was a calm, deliberate man - a man who knew what he wanted. And what he wanted most was to root out the rustlers that wanted to make a ghost town out of brawling, prosperous Kirkville.

The forces he opposed were ruthless and clever - so much so that they fooled the very ranch owner they were robbing. Even the owners' daughter Cimarron thought Netfield was in the wrong - and he was desperately in love with her. Every step he took to protect her, drove her further away. Without even the help of the victims, Netfield had to find a way to unmask the marauders and catch them red-handed in their cattle swindle. If he succeeded, he knew Cimarron would hate him forever - and if he failed Netfield knew there'd be wholesale slaughter in Kirkville, and that he'd be the first to get a six-gun send-off.

©2019 Buckskin Editions (P)2019 Buckskin Editions

Critic reviews

"Western novels seldom have a saloon keeper as the hero, but Costiner breaks the mold with "The Fourth Gunman." George Netfield began to wonder when the ruthless and clever Elton Colfax, and members of the 7-Diamond begin to take over Kirkville. Colfax, Webster Dunphy and a killer named Kruger plan to take over the town and use it as a way station for stolen cattle. Only Netfield really understands their plans and has the guts and ability to stop them. He gets little help from Colonel Crewe or his daughter. She defends her foreman, Colfax, until slowly but surely Netfield begins to find the links to the gang's plan. Costiner's characters are well developed and even the minor characters are fleshed out. This hero is different." (Arkansas Times)

Excellent old western

A smooth, well-moving western story. It delivers believable characters and environment. It ranks favorably with Louis L’amour and Luke Short, but with its own flavor. Highly recommended.

A Thrilling Journey into the Old West

In a world where audiobooks have become a gateway to new dimensions of storytelling, "The Fourth Gunman" stands tall as a true masterpiece that encapsulates the essence of the Old West. Merle Constiner's gripping narrative, brought to life by the impeccable narration of Michael Dukes, takes listeners on a riveting adventure through a town besieged by ruthless rustlers, blending action, emotion, and historical context seamlessly.

The heart of any great audiobook lies in its narration, and Michael Dukes undoubtedly proves himself as a master of the craft. His voice is a time capsule, transporting listeners straight into the heart of Kirkville and the tumultuous era it represents. Dukes' delivery is nothing short of mesmerizing, capturing the grit and determination of the characters with every word. His ability to switch seamlessly between various accents and tones not only distinguishes the characters but also adds depth to the narrative, creating a vivid mental picture for the audience.

As listeners embark on this auditory journey, they are met with a tale of gun trouble, determination, and unwavering love for a town in jeopardy. George Netfield, brilliantly portrayed through Constiner's pen, emerges as a multi-dimensional protagonist driven by a desire to protect his beloved Kirkville from falling into the hands of ruthless rustlers. Constiner's narrative prowess shines as he effortlessly weaves together elements of suspense, romance, and action, leaving listeners on the edge of their seats.

The backdrop of the Old West, known for its rugged landscapes and tumultuous history, serves as more than just a setting in this audiobook. It becomes a character in itself, lending authenticity and historical weight to the story. The concept of cattle rustling, a notorious practice during those times, adds an element of realism that keeps the audience deeply engaged. The intricate details about the challenges faced by ranch owners and the lengths they went to protect their livelihoods showcase Constiner's meticulous research into the historical context. This attention to detail is what elevates "The Fourth Gunman" from a simple audiobook to an immersive experience.

In the heart of this tale lies the conflict between Netfield and the cunning rustlers. As the plot thickens, listeners are treated to an enthralling game of cat and mouse, filled with unexpected twists and turns. The emotional complexity of Netfield's character is a testament to Constiner's skill in character development. His desperate love for Cimarron, the ranch owner's daughter, adds a layer of vulnerability that resonates deeply. Netfield's struggle to balance his duty to Kirkville with his personal desires tugs at the heartstrings, leaving listeners emotionally invested in his journey.

In the realm of historical fiction, the mention of famous figures and events from the past can add an extra layer of authenticity. The prevalence of cattle rustling during the Old West era brings to mind the notorious outlaw and rustler, Billy the Kid. While not directly mentioned in the audiobook, the backdrop of rustling operations and the tension it creates evoke a sense of the era's lawlessness that Billy the Kid often symbolizes. This connection to real history adds depth to the fictional narrative, making it feel rooted in the truth of the time.

In conclusion, "The Fourth Gunman" is a tour de force that transports listeners to a bygone era, where honor clashed with treachery and the struggle for survival was as real as the dust on a cowboy's boots. Michael Dukes' narration is a work of art, painting a vivid picture of characters and landscapes. Merle Constiner's storytelling mastery, combined with a rich historical backdrop, creates an audiobook that is not only entertaining but also enlightening. The battle against cattle rustlers becomes a symbol of resilience, and Netfield's journey is a reflection of the indomitable spirit that defined the Old West. "The Fourth Gunman" is a must-listen for anyone seeking an immersive, action-packed, and emotionally resonant experience that pays homage to the legendary tales of the frontier.

Great Western

If you like westerns, this one is full of good shooting and excellent old west fun. Michael Dukes did a great job narrating it and you could be right there next to characters.