Tusks & Saddles
by Lizzie Strong
Welcome to Irongarde, a dusty city in the middle of nothing, where the tumbleweeds are lively and monsters lurk just beyond the train station. Through a heavy crowd, smoke, and kicked up sand, two brother’s spot each other from across the platform. Boone and Welborn Larokson have not seen each other in a couple of years and well, they lead very different lives. Between the Cattle Spurs and Bad Company, who has time to catch up?
Cattle Spurs: Boone Larokson is one of the only Paladin’s in town. A good man, hard working, pays his fair share, and does what he can for this two horse town where he met his best friend. Jacobus is a clumsy fool, but he’s Boone’s clumsy fool who has just broken his leg ten ways to Sunday. Problem is Jacobus is supposed to help his older sister, Willamina Jones, push the last part of their cattle to the stronghold. It’s imperative for this town and their families ranch that this push goes off without a hitch. And Willamina is rightfully pissed when she finds Jacobus limping home with his tail between his legs. Boone offers to take his place. What’s the harm? It’s not like he’s been secretly in love with the hot-headed, stubborn enriyes of a woman since the day he met her. But after one unfortunate event happens after another, it’s come to their attention someone is trying to sabotage them. They’ll have to work together, and not kill each other long enough, to get 300 angry moos to the stronghold.
Bad Company: Welborn is a cleric to the All Seer, the deity of curiosity and knowledge. His devotion is so great that when the opportunity to help open a temple in the city of Irongarde arrives, he can’t say no. Reuniting with his brother Boone seems promising, but Welborn’s plans quickly go wrong. Train heists, bandits, and a mysterious veiled woman pique Welborn’s interest. With Bad Company at her side, Miss Eaves is a woman who is perfectly capable of taking care of herself. She doesn’t need him to help search for the missing High Cleric—Welborn’s superior. Yet, Welborn can’t help but chase his curiosity—and Miss Eaves—into the wild. The Searing Wastelands, a scorching desert with long days, short nights, and dangerous creatures roaming… this is fine.
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Martial Peak Reviews
Lizzie Strong's Tusks & Saddles is a captivating blend of fantasy and Western genres, set in the intriguing, dusty city of Irongarde. The novel immediately immerses readers in a world where the mundane meets the mythical, with lively tumbleweeds and lurking monsters setting the stage for a tale of brotherhood, adventure, and mystery.
At its core, Tusks & Saddles is a story about two brothers, Boone and Welborn Larokson, whose paths diverge yet intertwine in unexpected ways. Boone, a Paladin, embodies the archetype of the rugged, dependable cowboy, dedicated to his community and friends. His character is a study in contrasts: a man of action with a secret vulnerability, particularly when it comes to his feelings for Willamina Jones. Boone's journey is not just about moving cattle but also about navigating the complexities of unspoken love and the challenges of leadership. Strong crafts Boone's character with a deft hand, making him relatable and endearing, even as he faces sabotage and personal turmoil.
In contrast, Welborn is a cleric devoted to the All Seer, a deity symbolizing curiosity and knowledge. His storyline offers a fascinating counterpoint to Boone's more grounded narrative. Welborn's quest to establish a temple in Irongarde and his subsequent entanglement with the enigmatic Miss Eaves and the mysterious disappearance of the High Cleric add layers of intrigue and suspense. Welborn's character development is particularly compelling as he grapples with his faith, his curiosity, and his growing attraction to Miss Eaves. Strong's portrayal of Welborn is nuanced, capturing the internal conflict of a man torn between duty and desire.
The novel's dual narrative structure is one of its strengths, allowing Strong to explore themes of family, loyalty, and the pursuit of knowledge from different perspectives. The brothers' contrasting paths highlight their individual growth while underscoring the enduring bond between them. This thematic exploration is reminiscent of works by authors like Brandon Sanderson, who similarly weaves intricate character dynamics into expansive world-building.
Strong's world-building in Tusks & Saddles is both vivid and imaginative. Irongarde, with its dusty streets and lurking dangers, is brought to life with rich detail. The setting serves as more than just a backdrop; it is a character in its own right, influencing the events and shaping the lives of its inhabitants. The Searing Wastelands, with their scorching heat and perilous creatures, add an element of danger and unpredictability that keeps readers on edge. This setting is reminiscent of the gritty, immersive worlds created by authors like Joe Abercrombie, where the environment plays a crucial role in the narrative.
One of the novel's standout elements is its character interactions, particularly the dynamic between Boone and Willamina. Their relationship is fraught with tension and unspoken emotions, providing a compelling subplot that adds depth to the main narrative. Willamina, with her fiery spirit and determination, is a formidable character in her own right, challenging Boone and pushing him to confront his feelings. Similarly, the chemistry between Welborn and Miss Eaves is electric, driven by mutual curiosity and a shared sense of adventure. Strong excels at crafting relationships that feel authentic and engaging, drawing readers into the emotional lives of her characters.
While the novel is rich in character development and thematic depth, it also delivers on action and suspense. The plot is peppered with thrilling moments, from train heists to bandit encounters, ensuring that the pace remains brisk and engaging. Strong balances these action sequences with quieter, introspective moments, allowing readers to catch their breath and reflect on the characters' journeys.
In conclusion, Tusks & Saddles is a masterful blend of fantasy and Western elements, offering a fresh take on both genres. Lizzie Strong's skillful storytelling, combined with her ability to create complex characters and immersive settings, makes this novel a standout addition to the fantasy canon. Fans of authors like Neil Gaiman and Patrick Rothfuss will find much to admire in Strong's work, from her imaginative world-building to her nuanced exploration of human relationships. Whether you're drawn to tales of adventure, romance, or mystery, Tusks & Saddles has something to offer, making it a must-read for anyone seeking a captivating and thought-provoking story.
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