What do you think?
Rate this book
McKenna Brothers #1
This Gun for Hire
Jo Goodman, a premier writer of western romance and the author of In Want of a Wife, is back with a sensational new novel for fans of Linda Lael Miller and Joan Johnston.
He’s got a job to do…
Former army cavalryman Quill McKenna takes pride in protecting the most powerful man in Stonechurch, Colorado: Mr. Ramsey Stonechurch himself. But the mine owner has enemies, and after several threats on his life, mines, and family, Quill decides to hire someone to help guard the boss’s daughter. Only problem is the uncontrollable attraction he feels toward the fiery-haired woman who takes the job.
…but she’s a piece of work.
Calico Nash has more knowledge of scouting and shooting than cross-stitching, but she agrees to pose as Ann’s private tutor while protecting her. But between her growing attraction to Quill and the escalating threats against the Stonechurches, Calico will soon have a choice to make—hang on to her hard-won independence or put her faith in Quill to create the kind of happy ending she never imagined…
He’s got a job to do…
Former army cavalryman Quill McKenna takes pride in protecting the most powerful man in Stonechurch, Colorado: Mr. Ramsey Stonechurch himself. But the mine owner has enemies, and after several threats on his life, mines, and family, Quill decides to hire someone to help guard the boss’s daughter. Only problem is the uncontrollable attraction he feels toward the fiery-haired woman who takes the job.
…but she’s a piece of work.
Calico Nash has more knowledge of scouting and shooting than cross-stitching, but she agrees to pose as Ann’s private tutor while protecting her. But between her growing attraction to Quill and the escalating threats against the Stonechurches, Calico will soon have a choice to make—hang on to her hard-won independence or put her faith in Quill to create the kind of happy ending she never imagined…
361 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published April 7, 2015
About the author
Jo Goodman
53 books474 followersTo find characters to illustrate my first family saga, I cut out models from the Sears catalogue. I was in fourth grade, but it was a start. In seventh grade I wrote a melodrama about two orphan sisters, one of whom was pregnant. There was also a story about a runaway girl with the unlikely name of Strawberry and one about mistaken identities and an evil blind date. My supportive, but vaguely concerned parents, sighed with relief when I announced I was going to write children's books. They bought me an electric typewriter and crossed their fingers, but somehow PASSION'S BRIDE came out. No one was really surprised.
I graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a major in biology and a minor in chemistry and some notion that I would do marine research. Years of competitive swimming didn't help me anticipate seasickness. A career change seemed in order. I began working with adolescents and families, first as a childcare worker and later, after graduating from West Virginia University with a master's degree in counseling, as a therapist. I am currently the executive director of a child caring/mental health agency and find my work and my writing often compliment each other. One grounds me in reality and the other offers a break from it.
I graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a major in biology and a minor in chemistry and some notion that I would do marine research. Years of competitive swimming didn't help me anticipate seasickness. A career change seemed in order. I began working with adolescents and families, first as a childcare worker and later, after graduating from West Virginia University with a master's degree in counseling, as a therapist. I am currently the executive director of a child caring/mental health agency and find my work and my writing often compliment each other. One grounds me in reality and the other offers a break from it.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
July 15, 2017
3.5 Stars
Listened to the audio narration and while the male voices were good (male narrator) he made the female voices all sound like a fussy old lady. I got used to it, and the story was entertaining enough for me to let it go.
On to another Jo Goodman.
Listened to the audio narration and while the male voices were good (male narrator) he made the female voices all sound like a fussy old lady. I got used to it, and the story was entertaining enough for me to let it go.
On to another Jo Goodman.
April 14, 2015
Calico Nash is our heroine, and not only does she have an awesome name but she is an awesome person all around. Calico is a bounty hunter, learning how to shoot a gun by the age of ten from her father. Set in Colorado in the late 1800's, she is a bad ass for her time. She wears pants and a stetson and can hunt and take down men twice her size. When the book starts, she is undercover as a prostitute in a brothel. Our hero, Quill McKenna is just stopping through for a drink and some company. He sees Calico go with a man who isn't so nice, and becomes concerned. He shouldn't be worried though because when he barges in the room, the man is tied up and knocked out and Calico is no worse for wear. He soon learns who she really is and is quite impressed.
This first chapter starts excellent witty and sharp banter. Calico is no-nonsense but also has a very dry sense of humor. She is quick with her mouth and not afraid of anyone. Quill is more quiet, but his sense of humor is right there with hers. He knows how to just sit back and with one small comment get her going. It made me laugh several times throughout this book.
The real story gets going as Quill eventually becomes a bodyguard for a wealthy man who owns a mine. His life has been threatened a few times, as he isn't the best employer and some of his miners have become angry with him. When his daughter is harmed, he knows she needs protection too - and Quill recommends Calico. Calico is sick of trudging through the snow hunting criminals for not the best pay, and when she learns the very sexy Quill will be hanging around, she decides to take the job under the guise of a tutor. This throws Calico and Quill under the same roof. A very sexy romance starts to develop.
It's sad to say, but so many times when I read the first chapter or two of a book, I fall in love, only for the book to fall apart halfway through. But that is not the case here! After a great start, the book is consistently well done through to the very end. The romance is not in your face - it's slow to start but once it gets going it's sultry and sexy. I love that Calico is a very no-nonsense, high-spirited, "doesn't need anyone in her life" type girl, yet fully acknowledges that Quill is one sexy dude.
She owns it, and when he finally, finally kisses her, she loves it
"Ah, hell," he said. He closed the distance between them before he had time to think better of it and pulled her to her feet. As he had anticipated, she was not tuckable. Staring at her lush mouth, only inches away now, he had just enough time to wonder why tuckability had ever been a consideration before his lips closed over hers.
He had no expectations about the kiss and had made no predictions about her reaction. He told himself he was prepared for anything. That turned out to be a lie.
But she is also a little shy under the covers and that made me smile. To see her vulnerable enriched her character. She never had regrets or pushed him away. The romance just developed at its own pace and was sexy all the way.
There is suspense in this book - a few things come into play. I won't go into details because it's more fun if you let it play out, but it's enough to keep you turning the pages.
I love finding solid historical western. The banter and romance will keep you smiling. Highly recommend this one!
Rating: B+
This first chapter starts excellent witty and sharp banter. Calico is no-nonsense but also has a very dry sense of humor. She is quick with her mouth and not afraid of anyone. Quill is more quiet, but his sense of humor is right there with hers. He knows how to just sit back and with one small comment get her going. It made me laugh several times throughout this book.
The real story gets going as Quill eventually becomes a bodyguard for a wealthy man who owns a mine. His life has been threatened a few times, as he isn't the best employer and some of his miners have become angry with him. When his daughter is harmed, he knows she needs protection too - and Quill recommends Calico. Calico is sick of trudging through the snow hunting criminals for not the best pay, and when she learns the very sexy Quill will be hanging around, she decides to take the job under the guise of a tutor. This throws Calico and Quill under the same roof. A very sexy romance starts to develop.
It's sad to say, but so many times when I read the first chapter or two of a book, I fall in love, only for the book to fall apart halfway through. But that is not the case here! After a great start, the book is consistently well done through to the very end. The romance is not in your face - it's slow to start but once it gets going it's sultry and sexy. I love that Calico is a very no-nonsense, high-spirited, "doesn't need anyone in her life" type girl, yet fully acknowledges that Quill is one sexy dude.
She owns it, and when he finally, finally kisses her, she loves it
"Ah, hell," he said. He closed the distance between them before he had time to think better of it and pulled her to her feet. As he had anticipated, she was not tuckable. Staring at her lush mouth, only inches away now, he had just enough time to wonder why tuckability had ever been a consideration before his lips closed over hers.
He had no expectations about the kiss and had made no predictions about her reaction. He told himself he was prepared for anything. That turned out to be a lie.
But she is also a little shy under the covers and that made me smile. To see her vulnerable enriched her character. She never had regrets or pushed him away. The romance just developed at its own pace and was sexy all the way.
There is suspense in this book - a few things come into play. I won't go into details because it's more fun if you let it play out, but it's enough to keep you turning the pages.
I love finding solid historical western. The banter and romance will keep you smiling. Highly recommend this one!
Rating: B+
April 21, 2015
Loved it! I want to be Calico, marry Quill and shoot anyone who dares to step in the way. :)
October 14, 2024
3.5 to 4 stars. A decent Western/cowboy read, with mystery and adventure, as well as a clear romance thread. Quill and Calico were very sweet together. Their first meeting was a very different type of 'meet-cute' LOL, but you could feel the mutual attraction. I enjoyed the growth of their relationship, and they were well-suited to each other.
The plot was suspenseful, although it wasn't that hard to work out who the main baddie was fairly early on. The ending scenes were dramatic, almost like a movie, but it all worked well to resolve the plot. Overall, an enjoyable read.
The plot was suspenseful, although it wasn't that hard to work out who the main baddie was fairly early on. The ending scenes were dramatic, almost like a movie, but it all worked well to resolve the plot. Overall, an enjoyable read.
May 13, 2015
10 Stars!! I loved Quill and Calico as a couple so much I wanted to move next door and have barbeques with them. JG is such a talented writer and I hope that we aren't finished with the McKennas. I could gush and gush over this book, but I won't, I will just tell you to run and pick up this book if you want to read a romance that makes you want to hug the book when you get through because it was just that good. Might we be seeing a sequel with Israel's book, maybe he has found redemption?
April 28, 2015
THIS GUN FOR HIRE is western romantic fiction at its best. It's reminiscent of great westerns with its dynamic characters and unexpected plot that will entertain fans over and over, craving a re-read of this one just to be sure you didn't miss a good part in your hurry to finish the book the first time. Recommended Read!
THIS GUN FOR HIRE exemplifies one of the most unusual female characters of western fiction, who not only steals the show, but ensures that all the secondary characters stand out against her enigmatic personality. The one-liners of humor are well placed, often unexpected and laugh-out-loud funny, as well as sometimes epitomizing ribald humor that goes so well within a man's world. Katherine "Calico" Nash knows herself well but when she's tested with an all new role to play, anything can and will happen, including love.
Quill McKenna is many things but he's best at riling Calico to distraction. His good looks and sunshine smile blind Calico to what's happening between them until she can no longer resist. They both have jobs to do for Ramsey Stonechurch, the man that Stonechurch, Colorado, is named after and the benefactor of much that goes on in this small western town. Stonechurch's life is in danger and perhaps his daughter's too, so Quill and Calico are once again working together but this time it's because this family needs them.
I'm not going to describe the background of Quill or Calico because I think this novel will be a lot more fun for you if you just jump in and discover everything for yourself. I even advise that you skip reading the blurb, because I didn't, and I had such a great time figuring out who Calico is and then getting surprised by Quill as well. This couple is one of my all-time favorites of any romantic western I've ever read. They're feisty, charming, sexy, ornery, compassionate and heartrending, but never once will you doubt their perfection together.
Even though I enjoyed IN WANT OF A WIFE immensely and highly recommended it, I'm once again enamored by Jo Goodman's ability to tell a story in THIS GUN FOR HIRE that is fun, exciting, unpredictable, as well as predictably well-written, with characters who will win your heart with their intelligence, humility and sense of what's right without giving up their belief in justice well-served. I don't know how Jo Goodman creates the exact story I want to read but I'm sure it's takes plenty of blood, sweat and tears because I felt the emotion and enjoyed this novel as if I had been there in person.
Outlaws, lawmen, bounty hunters, jailbreaks, explosives, peril, injury, healing and sneaky villains fill up this adventure and you're never quite sure who is sabotaging Stonechurch's mine and putting the Stonechurches in danger, but there are enough duplicitous suspicions to encourage rapidly turning the pages. Completely entertaining and highly recommended, Jo Goodman sets the romantic western bar with THIS GUN FOR HIRE.
Reviewed by Dorine, courtesy of Romance Junkies and TBR Mountain Range. Print ARC provided by publisher.
THIS GUN FOR HIRE exemplifies one of the most unusual female characters of western fiction, who not only steals the show, but ensures that all the secondary characters stand out against her enigmatic personality. The one-liners of humor are well placed, often unexpected and laugh-out-loud funny, as well as sometimes epitomizing ribald humor that goes so well within a man's world. Katherine "Calico" Nash knows herself well but when she's tested with an all new role to play, anything can and will happen, including love.
Quill McKenna is many things but he's best at riling Calico to distraction. His good looks and sunshine smile blind Calico to what's happening between them until she can no longer resist. They both have jobs to do for Ramsey Stonechurch, the man that Stonechurch, Colorado, is named after and the benefactor of much that goes on in this small western town. Stonechurch's life is in danger and perhaps his daughter's too, so Quill and Calico are once again working together but this time it's because this family needs them.
I'm not going to describe the background of Quill or Calico because I think this novel will be a lot more fun for you if you just jump in and discover everything for yourself. I even advise that you skip reading the blurb, because I didn't, and I had such a great time figuring out who Calico is and then getting surprised by Quill as well. This couple is one of my all-time favorites of any romantic western I've ever read. They're feisty, charming, sexy, ornery, compassionate and heartrending, but never once will you doubt their perfection together.
Even though I enjoyed IN WANT OF A WIFE immensely and highly recommended it, I'm once again enamored by Jo Goodman's ability to tell a story in THIS GUN FOR HIRE that is fun, exciting, unpredictable, as well as predictably well-written, with characters who will win your heart with their intelligence, humility and sense of what's right without giving up their belief in justice well-served. I don't know how Jo Goodman creates the exact story I want to read but I'm sure it's takes plenty of blood, sweat and tears because I felt the emotion and enjoyed this novel as if I had been there in person.
Outlaws, lawmen, bounty hunters, jailbreaks, explosives, peril, injury, healing and sneaky villains fill up this adventure and you're never quite sure who is sabotaging Stonechurch's mine and putting the Stonechurches in danger, but there are enough duplicitous suspicions to encourage rapidly turning the pages. Completely entertaining and highly recommended, Jo Goodman sets the romantic western bar with THIS GUN FOR HIRE.
Reviewed by Dorine, courtesy of Romance Junkies and TBR Mountain Range. Print ARC provided by publisher.
September 24, 2019
3.5 stars
This one was soo good. I absolutely loved the kick-ass heroine.
This one was soo good. I absolutely loved the kick-ass heroine.
April 14, 2015
http://openbooksociety.com/article/th...
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Scott
A rarity in the overpopulated romance genre, Jo Goodman, finely manages to regulate the romance with a hard-hitting action and plot. Make no mistake about it. This Gun’s for Hire is a Western first and foremost, with romance on the side. The novel almost doesn’t even feel like a romance for the most part; more like a period piece. It was a delightful change from the majority of “bed to bed” stories you typically read. Very little head shaking moments occurred.
The historical detail is light, but fact filed, and the lands of Stonechurch , 1888, is made more vibrant because of it. At no point does the prose wear thin. Vivid description, snappy banter, humorous situations and discourses on esoteric subjects pepper the book and it stands strong because of it. The writing is probably a few dozen notches up on the rest of the genre’s leaders. The sheer fact that the plot holds sway over the romance (not that it’s absent, mind you), but doesn’t reduce it to a subplot, garners merit; and the plot is a tried and true formula given new life.
The main characters are also well thought out and presented in that melodramatic western movie feel. The dialogue style was unique to each character and at no point do you confuse them – they speak in their own unique voices. Fully three-dimensional, each can basically be identified by their speech. The main protagonists, Quill McKenna, and Calico Nash, make a duo that you actually root for. Even side characters like Ramsey Stonechurch, and his daughter Ann are delightful accomplice du faits. Throughout the eddies and currents of the waters these characters ride, there is a solid reader affirmation that everything is going to plan.
The novels strongest points derive from the fact that you feel like you’re watching a Western. The situations are over the top, with larger than life characters participating in movie fair. There is humor, sadness, despair, longing, and other emotions pouring out of the book. The novel, in my opinion, just needed a fancy score and Clint Eastwood as he was in The Outlaw Josey Wales, and Sharon Stone in The Quick and the Dead and this story would hit me with the same effect. The novel conveyed it’s message in action, rather than diction, and rates it a solid five stars.
For fans of westerns, historical romances, movies like The Quick and the Dead, or The Outlaw Josey Wales, this will grip you and leave you asking for more.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Scott
A rarity in the overpopulated romance genre, Jo Goodman, finely manages to regulate the romance with a hard-hitting action and plot. Make no mistake about it. This Gun’s for Hire is a Western first and foremost, with romance on the side. The novel almost doesn’t even feel like a romance for the most part; more like a period piece. It was a delightful change from the majority of “bed to bed” stories you typically read. Very little head shaking moments occurred.
The historical detail is light, but fact filed, and the lands of Stonechurch , 1888, is made more vibrant because of it. At no point does the prose wear thin. Vivid description, snappy banter, humorous situations and discourses on esoteric subjects pepper the book and it stands strong because of it. The writing is probably a few dozen notches up on the rest of the genre’s leaders. The sheer fact that the plot holds sway over the romance (not that it’s absent, mind you), but doesn’t reduce it to a subplot, garners merit; and the plot is a tried and true formula given new life.
The main characters are also well thought out and presented in that melodramatic western movie feel. The dialogue style was unique to each character and at no point do you confuse them – they speak in their own unique voices. Fully three-dimensional, each can basically be identified by their speech. The main protagonists, Quill McKenna, and Calico Nash, make a duo that you actually root for. Even side characters like Ramsey Stonechurch, and his daughter Ann are delightful accomplice du faits. Throughout the eddies and currents of the waters these characters ride, there is a solid reader affirmation that everything is going to plan.
The novels strongest points derive from the fact that you feel like you’re watching a Western. The situations are over the top, with larger than life characters participating in movie fair. There is humor, sadness, despair, longing, and other emotions pouring out of the book. The novel, in my opinion, just needed a fancy score and Clint Eastwood as he was in The Outlaw Josey Wales, and Sharon Stone in The Quick and the Dead and this story would hit me with the same effect. The novel conveyed it’s message in action, rather than diction, and rates it a solid five stars.
For fans of westerns, historical romances, movies like The Quick and the Dead, or The Outlaw Josey Wales, this will grip you and leave you asking for more.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
August 3, 2015
I really liked this book. Jo Goodman's dialogue was witty and quick. Her characters were enjoyable. This is one of her good ones.
May 4, 2015
4/5; 4 stars; A-
Another winner from Jo Goodman. I found this book a little slow in the first chapter but then it picked up. It never really developed a fast pace but there was an interesting and compelling weaving of characters, relationships, and the mystery. I really enjoy that fact that Jo Goodman's characters have a chance to get to know each other before finding each other. Quill and Calico were alternatively hilarious and touching and turned out to be a perfect match.
This book is on the historical fiction shelf but there isn't too much historical detail in the world building. Its mostly a western romance.
Another winner from Jo Goodman. I found this book a little slow in the first chapter but then it picked up. It never really developed a fast pace but there was an interesting and compelling weaving of characters, relationships, and the mystery. I really enjoy that fact that Jo Goodman's characters have a chance to get to know each other before finding each other. Quill and Calico were alternatively hilarious and touching and turned out to be a perfect match.
This book is on the historical fiction shelf but there isn't too much historical detail in the world building. Its mostly a western romance.
February 3, 2016
A harsh, but necessary 2.5%. I stand by my little mini review at around 67% this is objectively by most measures very good, but subjectively I found it very, very tough going. It started incredibly strong. The introduction to the H/h was cute and funny and well-written and I thought - 'wow, I'm onto a winner.' The follow through just wasn't there for me. All the fun of the first third or so was sucked into a kind of standard, boring house-based romance with not nearly enough H/h interaction for my liking. I was so over it that I read a whole other book in the middle of this one. I finished, but I skimmed. I'm certainly going to give Goodman another go because she has the writing chops. This one just didn't work that well for me. Sex was good though.
November 28, 2017
Let's start with what I liked about this book. Jo Goodman can tell a very engaging story. The fact that I've finished all of the books that I've started by her, even though most didn't rate more than 1.5 stars is a testament to how easy her writing is to read. I like how the MCs took their time getting to know each other before starting a physical relationship. The witty banter was funny and some of their interactions were sweet.
Now let's get down to business. Consider me a little slow on the uptake, but I finally realize that this is all I'm going to get from Jo Goodman. She can write well and her MCs usually exchange some very witty banter. I definitely do enjoy that. But as a reader, and especially as someone who's looking for romance, her books are not for me. The witty banter is not enough. And the suspense was all too predictable to be suspenseful. All in all, this is her second most romantic book that I've read, so it's definitely not as "subtle" in the romance department as some of her other books, but somehow I keep waiting and hoping for something to live up to In Want of a Wife. I suppose I would classify the historical westerns that I've read by her as historical romantic suspense, which were unfortunately light on the historical details, romance, and suspense.
This book started with the H in a brothel. He said that he was only there for a drink and some company, that he wasn't planning on spending money on a whore, but then he saw the h. Maybe I'm weird, but this beginning isn't an indication that I'm going to enjoy the story. And it's not the first of Goodman's stories that have begun this way. The H did grow on me after a while. He seemed like a good guy and his inability to lie is charming. The way that he treated the h was very sweet and I'm glad that he was adult enough to talk about his feelings instead of just stuffing everything down or going to seek out other "company" when the h frustrated him.
I also liked the h. She was a loyal person and always finished what she's started. I am, however, tired of the virgin h and the experienced H trope. And there's nothing less romantic than when the H was about to be intimate with the h for the first time, struggled with removing whatever clothing she had on and stated that he's better at removing corsets (which wasn't what she was wearing). Needless to say, the romance was lacking. Again. And while the two of them made some quirky and sweet declarations to each other, it just wasn't enough. Again. So, I think this is where Jo Goodman and I part ways. If I were looking for a historical western story with some witty dialogue, I would probably like her books more. As it is, I'm also looking for some romance, so I feel like Obi-wan Kenobi is saying to me, "These aren't the books you're looking for." Oh, Obi-wan, you're so wise.
Now let's get down to business. Consider me a little slow on the uptake, but I finally realize that this is all I'm going to get from Jo Goodman. She can write well and her MCs usually exchange some very witty banter. I definitely do enjoy that. But as a reader, and especially as someone who's looking for romance, her books are not for me. The witty banter is not enough. And the suspense was all too predictable to be suspenseful. All in all, this is her second most romantic book that I've read, so it's definitely not as "subtle" in the romance department as some of her other books, but somehow I keep waiting and hoping for something to live up to In Want of a Wife. I suppose I would classify the historical westerns that I've read by her as historical romantic suspense, which were unfortunately light on the historical details, romance, and suspense.
This book started with the H in a brothel. He said that he was only there for a drink and some company, that he wasn't planning on spending money on a whore, but then he saw the h. Maybe I'm weird, but this beginning isn't an indication that I'm going to enjoy the story. And it's not the first of Goodman's stories that have begun this way. The H did grow on me after a while. He seemed like a good guy and his inability to lie is charming. The way that he treated the h was very sweet and I'm glad that he was adult enough to talk about his feelings instead of just stuffing everything down or going to seek out other "company" when the h frustrated him.
I also liked the h. She was a loyal person and always finished what she's started. I am, however, tired of the virgin h and the experienced H trope. And there's nothing less romantic than when the H was about to be intimate with the h for the first time, struggled with removing whatever clothing she had on and stated that he's better at removing corsets (which wasn't what she was wearing). Needless to say, the romance was lacking. Again. And while the two of them made some quirky and sweet declarations to each other, it just wasn't enough. Again. So, I think this is where Jo Goodman and I part ways. If I were looking for a historical western story with some witty dialogue, I would probably like her books more. As it is, I'm also looking for some romance, so I feel like Obi-wan Kenobi is saying to me, "These aren't the books you're looking for." Oh, Obi-wan, you're so wise.
November 28, 2015
Quickie Review--Goodman amazes me every time I read one of her books. Slow burning easy reads with amazing characters, some surprises and laughs along the way. Killer heroine too.
March 30, 2016
This is the third time I've read this one and it's still as confusing as ever. I would have just about given my right arm for a damn contraction. My best description of this one is it reads clunky
July 10, 2022
Katherine Nash, más conocida como «Calico» es una cazarrecompensas en el Oeste. El ex oficial de caballería, Quill McKenna trabaja para el hombre más rico del pueblo, y piensa que Calico será ideal para portegetr a la hija de este.
Calico y Quill son dos adultos que, ni por miradas ni por palabras dejan entrever lo que sienten. Es más, la autora omnisciente ella, tampoco te lo cuenta. Pero tú, lector, sabes que entre ellos hay una fuerte atracción física y que se gustan como personas, que están colados el uno por el otro. Es deliciosa esa tensión entre lo que tú sientes que está ahí y la ausencia de palabras explícitas al respecto.
Al final me resultó un poco desequilibrada, porque hubo momentos fantásticos, con pasión y amor y todo lo que esperas de una romántica,… y otros de aburrimiento lector.
Crítica más extensa, en mi blog.
Calico y Quill son dos adultos que, ni por miradas ni por palabras dejan entrever lo que sienten. Es más, la autora omnisciente ella, tampoco te lo cuenta. Pero tú, lector, sabes que entre ellos hay una fuerte atracción física y que se gustan como personas, que están colados el uno por el otro. Es deliciosa esa tensión entre lo que tú sientes que está ahí y la ausencia de palabras explícitas al respecto.
Al final me resultó un poco desequilibrada, porque hubo momentos fantásticos, con pasión y amor y todo lo que esperas de una romántica,… y otros de aburrimiento lector.
Crítica más extensa, en mi blog.
April 7, 2015
Review originally posted at the Bookpushers
Lou: Can I just write, “This book was fucking awesome and I loved everything about the romance, including the heroine who kept wanting to shoot the hero because that’s how she rolls,” for my review, pretty please?
Has: Ha! The opening chapter for This Gun for Hire was just freaking sublime. I loooooved how Calico and Quill first met which set the tone and romance throughout the book. And yes! I adored that Calico kept threatening to shoot him, and he was like, “ohhh pretty awesome lady, I am so impressed and admire you wanting to do so.” The humour and wit was classic Goodman, but Calico was definitely one of my all time favourite heroines of Goodman’s because Calico was smart, resourceful and capable and I liked she had the badass reputation in the book.
Lou: The opening scene for the chapter had high stakes and it glued me to the pages. It made me fall in love with the western romance genre all over again. Calico was a bounty hunter who had earned the respect and fear from both the law and criminals. She was smart, wily and so full of confidence. I adored her. What made me love her that extra bit harder was her reaction to Quill and her horror at his unnatural smiling way. She made me laugh so much. She also wanted to shoot him numerous times. The humour in This Gun for Hire tickled my funny bone. Quill was equally awesome because Calico didn’t know it but she was his from the very first moment he laid eyes on her. He wasn’t possessive towards her (far from it) but he had this quiet confidence that was just as powerful as Calico’s powerful personality and nature.
Has: That is what I loved so much about their relationship and dynamic. It was one filled with mutual respect and partnership as well as a growing attraction. I was expecting a more action packed story with a gritty undertone. But instead there was a slow pace mystery that reflected the tone of the romance and I think that really added to the romance. Quill was not only supportive towards Calico, but admired her for her skills and traits and that helped draw Calico to him. I loved their quiet understated chemistry. It really illustrated the overall feel of the romance and plot.
Lou: It shows how talented Goodman is because the lack of tension between Calico and Quill didn’t lesson the romance or story whatsoever. The dialogue between them was full of banter, laughter and like Has said above, mutual respect. The love scene when it happened was a major surprise because I was expecting something to interrupt them because heroes and heroines are drawn together and then broken apart from outside or inner conflict. None of that happened here. Their romance blossomed and I was expecting Calico to retreat maybe or turn Quill away but NOPE. They had their smexy times and damn anyone else who might hear them. I loved that aspect about Quill. He didn’t care if people found out about them. And when danger comes knocking at Calico’s door, he didn’t turn into a caveman and shout and growl, “you are my woman, I’ll protect you.” He would never act that way towards Calico because he respected her too much and because she would never allow him to get away with it.
Has: THIS! It was a true partnership, and I love when a hero admires and supports the heroine by giving her space to let her do her own thing, instead of being the alpha protector if she is able to defend herself. I also felt the way their relationship evolved was realistic and I am glad there was no real obstacles because it would have felt forced for me.
However, I did find the mystery was a bit predictable. I guessed who was the villain from the beginning, but I was curious to see how Calico and Quill would tackle it.
Lou: I was torn because without revealing spoilers, I was hoping for a secondary romance between Ramsey and a certain character but halfway the mystery did become predictable and I knew no secondary romance was about to happen. Calico and Quill worked as a team and this is why their HEA will be a true partnership on equal footing. I was surprised by Quill’s sneaky reveal towards the end in his profession, and I must admit my first reaction was, “omg, this makes him so much hotter.” Yes, I am that shallow. I would loved to have seen more smexy happenings but alas, that is me being very greedy because I didn’t want Calico and Quill’s romance to end.
This Gun for Hire is a wonderful romance with one of my favourite heroines of this year. It made me want to read all of Goodman’s backlist titles. If you love a kickass bounty hunter heroine with a quiet but self-confident and humorous hero, then go read this book.
I give This Gun for Hire an A.
Has: This Gun for Hire was an enjoyable read, and I adored the relationship between Calico and Quill which was filled with witty sexy banter that underlined a wonderful romance. While I think the mystery and conflict was understated, the engaging leads and their chemistry made this book a truly memorable and entertaining romance!
I give This Gun for Hire a B+
Lou: Can I just write, “This book was fucking awesome and I loved everything about the romance, including the heroine who kept wanting to shoot the hero because that’s how she rolls,” for my review, pretty please?
Has: Ha! The opening chapter for This Gun for Hire was just freaking sublime. I loooooved how Calico and Quill first met which set the tone and romance throughout the book. And yes! I adored that Calico kept threatening to shoot him, and he was like, “ohhh pretty awesome lady, I am so impressed and admire you wanting to do so.” The humour and wit was classic Goodman, but Calico was definitely one of my all time favourite heroines of Goodman’s because Calico was smart, resourceful and capable and I liked she had the badass reputation in the book.
Lou: The opening scene for the chapter had high stakes and it glued me to the pages. It made me fall in love with the western romance genre all over again. Calico was a bounty hunter who had earned the respect and fear from both the law and criminals. She was smart, wily and so full of confidence. I adored her. What made me love her that extra bit harder was her reaction to Quill and her horror at his unnatural smiling way. She made me laugh so much. She also wanted to shoot him numerous times. The humour in This Gun for Hire tickled my funny bone. Quill was equally awesome because Calico didn’t know it but she was his from the very first moment he laid eyes on her. He wasn’t possessive towards her (far from it) but he had this quiet confidence that was just as powerful as Calico’s powerful personality and nature.
Has: That is what I loved so much about their relationship and dynamic. It was one filled with mutual respect and partnership as well as a growing attraction. I was expecting a more action packed story with a gritty undertone. But instead there was a slow pace mystery that reflected the tone of the romance and I think that really added to the romance. Quill was not only supportive towards Calico, but admired her for her skills and traits and that helped draw Calico to him. I loved their quiet understated chemistry. It really illustrated the overall feel of the romance and plot.
Lou: It shows how talented Goodman is because the lack of tension between Calico and Quill didn’t lesson the romance or story whatsoever. The dialogue between them was full of banter, laughter and like Has said above, mutual respect. The love scene when it happened was a major surprise because I was expecting something to interrupt them because heroes and heroines are drawn together and then broken apart from outside or inner conflict. None of that happened here. Their romance blossomed and I was expecting Calico to retreat maybe or turn Quill away but NOPE. They had their smexy times and damn anyone else who might hear them. I loved that aspect about Quill. He didn’t care if people found out about them. And when danger comes knocking at Calico’s door, he didn’t turn into a caveman and shout and growl, “you are my woman, I’ll protect you.” He would never act that way towards Calico because he respected her too much and because she would never allow him to get away with it.
Has: THIS! It was a true partnership, and I love when a hero admires and supports the heroine by giving her space to let her do her own thing, instead of being the alpha protector if she is able to defend herself. I also felt the way their relationship evolved was realistic and I am glad there was no real obstacles because it would have felt forced for me.
However, I did find the mystery was a bit predictable. I guessed who was the villain from the beginning, but I was curious to see how Calico and Quill would tackle it.
Lou: I was torn because without revealing spoilers, I was hoping for a secondary romance between Ramsey and a certain character but halfway the mystery did become predictable and I knew no secondary romance was about to happen. Calico and Quill worked as a team and this is why their HEA will be a true partnership on equal footing. I was surprised by Quill’s sneaky reveal towards the end in his profession, and I must admit my first reaction was, “omg, this makes him so much hotter.” Yes, I am that shallow. I would loved to have seen more smexy happenings but alas, that is me being very greedy because I didn’t want Calico and Quill’s romance to end.
This Gun for Hire is a wonderful romance with one of my favourite heroines of this year. It made me want to read all of Goodman’s backlist titles. If you love a kickass bounty hunter heroine with a quiet but self-confident and humorous hero, then go read this book.
I give This Gun for Hire an A.
Has: This Gun for Hire was an enjoyable read, and I adored the relationship between Calico and Quill which was filled with witty sexy banter that underlined a wonderful romance. While I think the mystery and conflict was understated, the engaging leads and their chemistry made this book a truly memorable and entertaining romance!
I give This Gun for Hire a B+
April 7, 2015
Review: This Gun For Hire by Jo Goodman I am still having the lingering after-effects of a book hangover with this book. I loved the hero and heroine, whose romance was filled with witty banter and a reserved but sizzling undertone chemistry that carries throughout the book. Jo Goodman is a fabulous author who has a great grasp and use of dialogue and likeable characters. But I think she threw the ball out of the ballpark with this one.
Although the romance was slow burn, and other than the beginning and ending, which was action packed, I highly enjoyed this book!
I also did a joint review with Lou - here at The Book Pushers.
http://thebookpushers.com/2015/04/07/...
Although the romance was slow burn, and other than the beginning and ending, which was action packed, I highly enjoyed this book!
I also did a joint review with Lou - here at The Book Pushers.
http://thebookpushers.com/2015/04/07/...
November 13, 2018
#50States50Romances #Colorado
April 19, 2015
A rousing good time is had by all when a saucy lady bounty hunter and a man with more charm than any male should be blessed with partner up on this western suspenseful adventure romp. I eagerly grabbed this one up, set spurs to it and finished with a delighted grin on my face. My second book by this author and I do believe I've established that I love her stuff. She hits a good balance between wild, harsh west and sassy-fun western spirit.
This is a standalone story that starts with a madcap opening scene. Quill McKenna stops by Madame Fry's establishment to relax, enjoy the liquor and an armful of curvy woman when his plans are derailed by the most captivating female he has ever seen. She's nothing like his ideal woman, but who cares. His protective instincts are aroused when he senses something off about her new customer. This lands him into an adventure with the infamous female bounty hunter, Calico Nash and it is her skill in bringing down her criminal target that later has him recommending her for the task of guarding his boss' daughter. Not that he would admit that he has some personal interest in the exciting, witty woman that stirs him out of his complacency.
Calico had an unusual childhood that made her more fit for a man's world and lacking in refined feminine skills, but it uniquely qualifies her to bodyguard the daughter of wealthy mine owner, Ramsay Stonechurch even as Quill works to keep his headstrong boss from getting nailed by whoever is making the deadly attempts on his life. Quill McKenna got under her skin and close proximity with the truly handsome, enigmatic man leaves her off-balance. For the first time, she thinks about something permanent though the idea of putting down roots with a man terrifies her. Still, Calico is no coward and let's the chips fall where they may. Meanwhile, she and Quill work to figure out who is threatening Ramsay and Anne with no obvious suspects and a vengeful enemy from their past draws closer and closer.
The story covered some truly fun western territory from a cathouse to a mine. Western cliches are where its at with me, but the author doesn't write tired plots even if there is very familiar stuff that can be noted in most Western Historical Romance. Nope, this was exciting, dangerous and fun. I loved the feeling of anticipation the author built so that I knew it was going to be an adventure on many levels including the romance between Quill and Calico. There is a gritty quality overlayed with humor and passion. The bad guys are scary and are worthy of their roles and the secondary storylines added good layers to the plot.
The plot was strong with a variety in pacing. There are the scenes with the Stonechurches establishing their situation and filling in their stories around Quill and Calico's story. There were nicely drawn details about the mine town and mine setting during that period in history. And also there was a slow to tease out suspense plot that gained momentum near the end. Not sure how it happened, but I cottoned to things and why it was happening from pretty much the beginning with that so I wasn't surprised at the crisis point or at the reveal. It was still pretty exciting to see how things filled in between point A and point B.
My only niggle was the dialogue takes some adjustment. The main characters are very precise and formal in their speech. I was expecting it to be more relaxed and casual, but as I said, small niggle.
As to characters, I'll start with the heroine. I am so hard on the gals in stories, but seriously this one was a treasure and a treat. Calico is a reversal role for gender as a female bounty hunter, but she isn't over-played so that she's a caricature of herself. I loved how she was written as a woman who happens to have a certain skill set and a brain. She is shrewd, observant and doesn't play around. Oh, she has her weaknesses. She doesn't know what to make of having feelings for Quill and fears that he won't accept her as she is. That doesn't mean that she got coy about stuff. Oh no, Calico embraced her fears. She threw a loop over that bronco and rode him hard.
Then there is Quill. The author let Quill start the narration on this one long before it switched to Calico. Usually when that happens, I get to know that person so much better, but nada. Quill was a mystery even though he narrated half the book. Oh, who he is as a person shines through with his thoughts and dialogue, but his background is teased out slowly. There are clues, but even I wasn't ready for the final reveal to his story. Poor Calico didn't stand a chance. She wasn't used to having a guy around that could see right through her and think circles around her. He was her match just as she was his. Quill's the renaissance man of the west. He's assertive, but he also can be persuaded. He is as taken by Calico as she is by him and he doesn't want to change her even though she challenges him at every turn.
The romance was paced well developing over time long after the original spark of attraction. It is sassy, witty and oh so caliente hot. Calico might not have had a lot of experience before being with Quill, but she sure wasn't shy once they got going. These two had a good time exploring their sensual connection. Their sexy times were steamy, but they were humor-filled and fun too. They could argue like an old married couple, but there was respect and humor involved so it didn't get ugly. Some people match up so well and I honestly could have kept reading beyond the point of the story because I liked them so well.
I loved the way the secondary characters had strong roles too. Sometimes they even got to narrate a scene or two. Ramsay cracked me up particularly when he and Quill are together. He's got a mischievous quality even though he has a diabolic intellect just like his daughter. Quill has to keep the man in line. I felt sorry for Ramsay in the end and I would love to see him get his own Autumn romance. Ann is a chip off the old block and has many of Ramsay's qualities which makes her keep Calico on her toes.
So, to wrap it up, this was a fantastic read that carried me back to the Old Wild West giving me a spicy romance, strong plot, and sparkling characters. Lovers of western historical romance should definitely give this a try.
My thanks to Penguin Group for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is a standalone story that starts with a madcap opening scene. Quill McKenna stops by Madame Fry's establishment to relax, enjoy the liquor and an armful of curvy woman when his plans are derailed by the most captivating female he has ever seen. She's nothing like his ideal woman, but who cares. His protective instincts are aroused when he senses something off about her new customer. This lands him into an adventure with the infamous female bounty hunter, Calico Nash and it is her skill in bringing down her criminal target that later has him recommending her for the task of guarding his boss' daughter. Not that he would admit that he has some personal interest in the exciting, witty woman that stirs him out of his complacency.
Calico had an unusual childhood that made her more fit for a man's world and lacking in refined feminine skills, but it uniquely qualifies her to bodyguard the daughter of wealthy mine owner, Ramsay Stonechurch even as Quill works to keep his headstrong boss from getting nailed by whoever is making the deadly attempts on his life. Quill McKenna got under her skin and close proximity with the truly handsome, enigmatic man leaves her off-balance. For the first time, she thinks about something permanent though the idea of putting down roots with a man terrifies her. Still, Calico is no coward and let's the chips fall where they may. Meanwhile, she and Quill work to figure out who is threatening Ramsay and Anne with no obvious suspects and a vengeful enemy from their past draws closer and closer.
The story covered some truly fun western territory from a cathouse to a mine. Western cliches are where its at with me, but the author doesn't write tired plots even if there is very familiar stuff that can be noted in most Western Historical Romance. Nope, this was exciting, dangerous and fun. I loved the feeling of anticipation the author built so that I knew it was going to be an adventure on many levels including the romance between Quill and Calico. There is a gritty quality overlayed with humor and passion. The bad guys are scary and are worthy of their roles and the secondary storylines added good layers to the plot.
The plot was strong with a variety in pacing. There are the scenes with the Stonechurches establishing their situation and filling in their stories around Quill and Calico's story. There were nicely drawn details about the mine town and mine setting during that period in history. And also there was a slow to tease out suspense plot that gained momentum near the end. Not sure how it happened, but I cottoned to things and why it was happening from pretty much the beginning with that so I wasn't surprised at the crisis point or at the reveal. It was still pretty exciting to see how things filled in between point A and point B.
My only niggle was the dialogue takes some adjustment. The main characters are very precise and formal in their speech. I was expecting it to be more relaxed and casual, but as I said, small niggle.
As to characters, I'll start with the heroine. I am so hard on the gals in stories, but seriously this one was a treasure and a treat. Calico is a reversal role for gender as a female bounty hunter, but she isn't over-played so that she's a caricature of herself. I loved how she was written as a woman who happens to have a certain skill set and a brain. She is shrewd, observant and doesn't play around. Oh, she has her weaknesses. She doesn't know what to make of having feelings for Quill and fears that he won't accept her as she is. That doesn't mean that she got coy about stuff. Oh no, Calico embraced her fears. She threw a loop over that bronco and rode him hard.
Then there is Quill. The author let Quill start the narration on this one long before it switched to Calico. Usually when that happens, I get to know that person so much better, but nada. Quill was a mystery even though he narrated half the book. Oh, who he is as a person shines through with his thoughts and dialogue, but his background is teased out slowly. There are clues, but even I wasn't ready for the final reveal to his story. Poor Calico didn't stand a chance. She wasn't used to having a guy around that could see right through her and think circles around her. He was her match just as she was his. Quill's the renaissance man of the west. He's assertive, but he also can be persuaded. He is as taken by Calico as she is by him and he doesn't want to change her even though she challenges him at every turn.
The romance was paced well developing over time long after the original spark of attraction. It is sassy, witty and oh so caliente hot. Calico might not have had a lot of experience before being with Quill, but she sure wasn't shy once they got going. These two had a good time exploring their sensual connection. Their sexy times were steamy, but they were humor-filled and fun too. They could argue like an old married couple, but there was respect and humor involved so it didn't get ugly. Some people match up so well and I honestly could have kept reading beyond the point of the story because I liked them so well.
I loved the way the secondary characters had strong roles too. Sometimes they even got to narrate a scene or two. Ramsay cracked me up particularly when he and Quill are together. He's got a mischievous quality even though he has a diabolic intellect just like his daughter. Quill has to keep the man in line. I felt sorry for Ramsay in the end and I would love to see him get his own Autumn romance. Ann is a chip off the old block and has many of Ramsay's qualities which makes her keep Calico on her toes.
So, to wrap it up, this was a fantastic read that carried me back to the Old Wild West giving me a spicy romance, strong plot, and sparkling characters. Lovers of western historical romance should definitely give this a try.
My thanks to Penguin Group for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 5, 2016
Originally published at Reading Reality
When I saw this title, I assumed, as one does, that the gun that was for hire was attached to a guy. However, that is marvelously not so, and is only the first of many wonderful surprises in this trope-bending western romance.
This is also a scenario that I’ve seen before, but by moving it to a historical western setting, it makes a lot of the normally tried-and-true tropes fresh and new. Calico Nash is, first and foremost, an original, and it is her story and her unexpected point of view that make it so much fun.
While we generally think of bounty hunters and security agents in the “Wild West” as having been men, there’s no logical reason why some couldn’t have been women. Certainly, the first female Pinkerton Agent, Kate Warne, precedes the setting of This Gun For Hire by a couple of decades. So Calico Nash, while not likely, is certainly plausible enough to make this story interesting without tripping the willing suspension of disbelief.
When Calico Nash and Quill McKenna first meet in a whorehouse, neither of them is exactly what they seem. And while both of them seem more than competent at dealing with a bunch of villains, they also both seem not to like each other much.
Looks, as they say, can be deceiving.
So when Quill needs to find a way to protect the daughter of the man he is body-guarding, Calico is the first and only solution that comes to mind. He knows she can protect Ann Stonechurch, and he knows that Calico can pretend to be anything she needs to be to make her surreptitious protection effective.
He also knows that he wants to see Calico again, whether he is fully admitting that to himself or not.
So while Quill is guarding mining baron Ramsey Stonechurch by pretending to be just his lawyer, Calico protects Ann by pretending to be her teacher. And both Quill and Calico pretend that their inevitable liaison is just due to propinquity and shared danger, and has no deeper feelings involved.
Calico also tries to pretend that she has no deeper feelings that could be involved. Not just because it’s never happened before, but because she never believed it could happen to her at all.
Meanwhile, both Quill and Calico are forced to pull their charges out of danger, over and over again. Ramsey Stonechurch is being threatened by person or persons unknown, who seem to be interested in either unionizing his miners or creating a more ‘equitable” distribution of profits between the mining baron and his employees.
Ann Stonechurch is being threatened purely as a way to rattle her father. And it’s working.
But while Quill and Calico are busy looking for outside threats, they overlook the proverbial viper in the family’s bosom. And no one expects that the villains they thwarted all the way back in Act 1 could possibly make common cause with the one they face at the mine.
It’s a mistake that could cost them their lives.
Escape Rating A-: I picked this up because so many of my fellow book addicts over at The Book Pushers absolutely raved about it. I wanted to get in on today’s joint review of the followup book, The Devil You Know, and I just couldn’t go there without reading the first book first.
Not that each book doesn’t stand perfectly well on its own, but it was so much fun to read them back to back. The Old West probably wasn’t ever like this for women, but dagnabbit, it should have been.
Calico is just a terrific heroine. She became a bounty hunter and security guard because she both worshiped her father and tried to live up to his image. Badger Nash was a bounty hunter and scout for the U.S. Army, and he taught his daughter everything he knew – which was a heck of a lot. When he died on the trail, she finished up his last job for him, took the reward money, and never looked back.
Calico’s knowledge of what women usually do in the “Wild West” comes from two nearly contradictory resources – the Army wives who manipulate and dissect life in remote Army postings, and the whorehouse where Quill finds her handling security. She knows what hides behind civilized behavior, and she’s pretty cynical about the roles that women are supposed to play. She can fake it if she has to, but she’s never going to be anyone other than who she is.
And she’s become almost as much of a legend as Annie Oakley or Calamity Jane.
The irony in the relationship that blossoms between Calico and Quill is that Calico never pretends with Quill. He always sees her exactly as she is. She may dissemble in front of others, but with him she is always her authentic self. Quill, on the other hand, is hiding layers within layers from the beginning of the story until very nearly the end.
This is also a story where much of the romance occurs in, and is punctuated with, intelligent banter. These two fall in love because they “get” each other, even if that phrase wouldn’t have been used at the time. They spark each other’s best wits, and it is fun to watch.
There is also a suspense element to this story. Quill and Calico are both on the job because there is a threat hanging over the head of Ramsey Stonechurch. Their job is both to protect the family and to figure out where the threat is coming from and eliminate it. Whatever the reader or both Quill and Calico think of Ramsey Stonechurch, his daughter is certainly innocent.
Ramsey Stonechurch is an interesting character himself, because he does not fall into the stereotype. At first we think he must be a typical overbearing robber baron, but first impressions deceive (somewhat) and he is much more nuanced than first appears.
While I sort of figured out who was probably behind some of the threats fairly early on, the author does a good job of concealing means and especially motive until the very end. I knew who it must be, but not the whys or the wherefores. I also couldn’t see this person as being the motivator behind all events, it just didn’t seem likely for most of the story. I kept looking for a bigger evil who just wasn’t there.
Calico’s character makes This Gun for Hire a trip to the “Wild West” as it should have been.
When I saw this title, I assumed, as one does, that the gun that was for hire was attached to a guy. However, that is marvelously not so, and is only the first of many wonderful surprises in this trope-bending western romance.
This is also a scenario that I’ve seen before, but by moving it to a historical western setting, it makes a lot of the normally tried-and-true tropes fresh and new. Calico Nash is, first and foremost, an original, and it is her story and her unexpected point of view that make it so much fun.
While we generally think of bounty hunters and security agents in the “Wild West” as having been men, there’s no logical reason why some couldn’t have been women. Certainly, the first female Pinkerton Agent, Kate Warne, precedes the setting of This Gun For Hire by a couple of decades. So Calico Nash, while not likely, is certainly plausible enough to make this story interesting without tripping the willing suspension of disbelief.
When Calico Nash and Quill McKenna first meet in a whorehouse, neither of them is exactly what they seem. And while both of them seem more than competent at dealing with a bunch of villains, they also both seem not to like each other much.
Looks, as they say, can be deceiving.
So when Quill needs to find a way to protect the daughter of the man he is body-guarding, Calico is the first and only solution that comes to mind. He knows she can protect Ann Stonechurch, and he knows that Calico can pretend to be anything she needs to be to make her surreptitious protection effective.
He also knows that he wants to see Calico again, whether he is fully admitting that to himself or not.
So while Quill is guarding mining baron Ramsey Stonechurch by pretending to be just his lawyer, Calico protects Ann by pretending to be her teacher. And both Quill and Calico pretend that their inevitable liaison is just due to propinquity and shared danger, and has no deeper feelings involved.
Calico also tries to pretend that she has no deeper feelings that could be involved. Not just because it’s never happened before, but because she never believed it could happen to her at all.
Meanwhile, both Quill and Calico are forced to pull their charges out of danger, over and over again. Ramsey Stonechurch is being threatened by person or persons unknown, who seem to be interested in either unionizing his miners or creating a more ‘equitable” distribution of profits between the mining baron and his employees.
Ann Stonechurch is being threatened purely as a way to rattle her father. And it’s working.
But while Quill and Calico are busy looking for outside threats, they overlook the proverbial viper in the family’s bosom. And no one expects that the villains they thwarted all the way back in Act 1 could possibly make common cause with the one they face at the mine.
It’s a mistake that could cost them their lives.
Escape Rating A-: I picked this up because so many of my fellow book addicts over at The Book Pushers absolutely raved about it. I wanted to get in on today’s joint review of the followup book, The Devil You Know, and I just couldn’t go there without reading the first book first.
Not that each book doesn’t stand perfectly well on its own, but it was so much fun to read them back to back. The Old West probably wasn’t ever like this for women, but dagnabbit, it should have been.
Calico is just a terrific heroine. She became a bounty hunter and security guard because she both worshiped her father and tried to live up to his image. Badger Nash was a bounty hunter and scout for the U.S. Army, and he taught his daughter everything he knew – which was a heck of a lot. When he died on the trail, she finished up his last job for him, took the reward money, and never looked back.
Calico’s knowledge of what women usually do in the “Wild West” comes from two nearly contradictory resources – the Army wives who manipulate and dissect life in remote Army postings, and the whorehouse where Quill finds her handling security. She knows what hides behind civilized behavior, and she’s pretty cynical about the roles that women are supposed to play. She can fake it if she has to, but she’s never going to be anyone other than who she is.
And she’s become almost as much of a legend as Annie Oakley or Calamity Jane.
The irony in the relationship that blossoms between Calico and Quill is that Calico never pretends with Quill. He always sees her exactly as she is. She may dissemble in front of others, but with him she is always her authentic self. Quill, on the other hand, is hiding layers within layers from the beginning of the story until very nearly the end.
This is also a story where much of the romance occurs in, and is punctuated with, intelligent banter. These two fall in love because they “get” each other, even if that phrase wouldn’t have been used at the time. They spark each other’s best wits, and it is fun to watch.
There is also a suspense element to this story. Quill and Calico are both on the job because there is a threat hanging over the head of Ramsey Stonechurch. Their job is both to protect the family and to figure out where the threat is coming from and eliminate it. Whatever the reader or both Quill and Calico think of Ramsey Stonechurch, his daughter is certainly innocent.
Ramsey Stonechurch is an interesting character himself, because he does not fall into the stereotype. At first we think he must be a typical overbearing robber baron, but first impressions deceive (somewhat) and he is much more nuanced than first appears.
While I sort of figured out who was probably behind some of the threats fairly early on, the author does a good job of concealing means and especially motive until the very end. I knew who it must be, but not the whys or the wherefores. I also couldn’t see this person as being the motivator behind all events, it just didn’t seem likely for most of the story. I kept looking for a bigger evil who just wasn’t there.
Calico’s character makes This Gun for Hire a trip to the “Wild West” as it should have been.
April 30, 2018
I don't read that many Western romances, but this one intrigued me from the preview chapter. Fortunately, the full book lived up to the promise. Quill is a hero to fall in love with and in many ways the quintessential Western hero: honorable, brave, smart, good with a gun, and a perfect gentleman. Bounty hunter Calico Nash finds him disturbingly sexy--and annoying as all get out--but always respectful of her unladylike choice of profession. He gets that she's competent, trusts her more than she trusts him--and sooner--and lets her come to her own conclusions about him in her own good time. Their banter is a delight. Even though the plot is less filled with gunfights and shootouts than one might expect from a Western, the clever mystery keeps the reader's interest and is very satisfyingly solved.
May 6, 2015
Originally Reviewed For: Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy
There is just something special when a new book comes out from and old favorite. Jo Goodman has been one of my favorites for years. She doesn't write genres she writes books. Books about Pirates, the Civil War, The Revolutionary War, Regency England and the Old West.
Her characters aren't perfect examples of mankind, they are human with flaws. Each character comes with a history, family issues, mistakes, and failings. And because of this they are endearing.
In This Gun for Hire Ms. Goodman tells the story of a bounty hunter and a bodyguard...
Calico Nash is pretty much a living legend. Raised by a father who lived an interesting life, Calico lacked any traditional upbringing. But is able to hunt, track, shoot and bring in any target. What she doesn't have? Is a home and family. And the fact that she's a female bounty hunter confuses just about everyone. No one ever sees that one coming. With her upbringing she knows how to keep just about everyone at arms distance. That is until Quill McKenna comes barging into her life.
Quill McKenna, former cavalryman, has lived his life on his terms. Right now he is guarding the man who owns Stonechurch.. and of course the local mine. Someone is out to kill Mr. Stonechurch and Quill worries that his family is next. So he calls in the one woman he knows he can trust and rely on, Calico Nash. It doesn't hurt that she has captures his attention.
I just fall into love with Ms. Goodman's books and This Gun for Hire is no different.
When Quill and Calico get together there is no swooning or sweeping off someone's feet. Instead there is this awkward meeting. Two people that while good at what they do and who they are discover love rather clumsily. It's just brilliant. I am not saying that these two are humorous, or this is a slapstick kind of romance. Instead it makes the romance realistic.
Calico is blissfully naive that Quill is attracted to her, that he is the one man who can and will accept her for who she is. It takes time. She can accept a physical relationship but she has no clue on how to love. Just brilliantly written.
It's hard for me to describe Ms. Goodman's style but I adore it.
This is one of those books that is a must read.
Shauni
There is just something special when a new book comes out from and old favorite. Jo Goodman has been one of my favorites for years. She doesn't write genres she writes books. Books about Pirates, the Civil War, The Revolutionary War, Regency England and the Old West.
Her characters aren't perfect examples of mankind, they are human with flaws. Each character comes with a history, family issues, mistakes, and failings. And because of this they are endearing.
In This Gun for Hire Ms. Goodman tells the story of a bounty hunter and a bodyguard...
Calico Nash is pretty much a living legend. Raised by a father who lived an interesting life, Calico lacked any traditional upbringing. But is able to hunt, track, shoot and bring in any target. What she doesn't have? Is a home and family. And the fact that she's a female bounty hunter confuses just about everyone. No one ever sees that one coming. With her upbringing she knows how to keep just about everyone at arms distance. That is until Quill McKenna comes barging into her life.
Quill McKenna, former cavalryman, has lived his life on his terms. Right now he is guarding the man who owns Stonechurch.. and of course the local mine. Someone is out to kill Mr. Stonechurch and Quill worries that his family is next. So he calls in the one woman he knows he can trust and rely on, Calico Nash. It doesn't hurt that she has captures his attention.
I just fall into love with Ms. Goodman's books and This Gun for Hire is no different.
When Quill and Calico get together there is no swooning or sweeping off someone's feet. Instead there is this awkward meeting. Two people that while good at what they do and who they are discover love rather clumsily. It's just brilliant. I am not saying that these two are humorous, or this is a slapstick kind of romance. Instead it makes the romance realistic.
Calico is blissfully naive that Quill is attracted to her, that he is the one man who can and will accept her for who she is. It takes time. She can accept a physical relationship but she has no clue on how to love. Just brilliantly written.
It's hard for me to describe Ms. Goodman's style but I adore it.
This is one of those books that is a must read.
Shauni
May 14, 2015
Jo Goodman always manages to hit all of my buttons. She takes her time building complete characters and convincing me that they are in fact meant to be together. On top of that, Calico was one of the most fabulously competent heroines I've come across in historical romance. The story kicks off with Quill (the hero's name drove me crazy but he's so delightful that I forgave Goodman for that one) having some serious lust-at-first-sight for a prostitute and watching her go up with a man who he recognizes immediately as trouble. He goes snooping, hears some suspicious noises from their room, and bursts in. Only, he discovers that the "prostitute" is actually bounty hunter Calico Nash who was hired to take care of a man abusing women at this establishment. And she has the situation completely in hand. Quill and I are completely smitten from here on out. He waits patiently for a chance to contact her again and when the man he is hired to protect from death threats is looking for a person to guard his daughter, Quill recommends Calico and she just can't resist seeing the smart-mouthed and sexy man again.
Now, I knew who the bad guy was very early on although I second guessed myself a few times. So if you're reading for the mystery and suspense this may not be the story for you. I was reading to watch Quill and Calico face their own demons and find comfort in each other. The romance was beautifully done, both sweet and playful and sexy in turns, and left me sighing happily to myself in the end.
Now, I knew who the bad guy was very early on although I second guessed myself a few times. So if you're reading for the mystery and suspense this may not be the story for you. I was reading to watch Quill and Calico face their own demons and find comfort in each other. The romance was beautifully done, both sweet and playful and sexy in turns, and left me sighing happily to myself in the end.
April 24, 2015
This, compared to other Jo Goodman's books, is very light read. Almost a rom com type of book, which is new (for her). Except for the first scene which is when the instant attraction takes place, I couldn't even tell this is by Jo Goodman. And I don't mean this in a bad way, I just didn't think she had it in her. Despite the mystery and suspense (which you can guess whodunit from a mile away), it is light and fun. The banters are playful and sexy, although don't carry so much heat, tension and angst like those in her other books. I absolutely love this new style, but fervently hope she won't depart from her old form for good because I love it even more. The first scene is still good ole Jo Goodman through and through. I complain all too often about h/h falling in love with just one look. I actually don't oppose to the idea, I just don't like the execution as rarely is it done in a believable way. And if you can't buy into the idea, eveything that comes afterward would feel forced. The first scene in this book is an instant attraction done right. The author doesn't hit you in the head with bombardment of flowery words, no. However, it's so obvious that one party is, if not falling, crushing. Hard.
I adore Jo Goodman. I wish her book came out more often, or we had many of her so that I can get to read her books all year round. 4 stars
I adore Jo Goodman. I wish her book came out more often, or we had many of her so that I can get to read her books all year round. 4 stars
May 5, 2016
I really liked this book. The romance was the main storyline, but not the main conflict; the protags were both very open and good at communicating and it was just an all-around healthy relationship, which was fantastic. They were also likable as characters, particularly the heroine; she managed to be an ass-kicking, name taking badass without falling into the Strong Female Character(tm) trap, which is to say she still got to have emotions and skillsets and thoughts about things besides beating people up.
The conflict came from the usual western suspects -- your standard no-account saloon-dwelling baddies -- plus a more unexpected character. I called that twist fairly early, but that didn't really ruin the novelty for me.
My complaints are few; the main one is that I could have used a little more action and a little less chat in some places, particularly the middle third. The standard bad guys also could have been a leetle less western-bad-guy stereotype, and the ending could have been less abrupt -- but whatevs. I got a romance plot with a healthy, mutually respectful relationship, an action plot in which not a single damsel ever requires rescuing, and an ass-kicking lady bounty hunter who is also a decently rounded character - I'm good, y'all.
The conflict came from the usual western suspects -- your standard no-account saloon-dwelling baddies -- plus a more unexpected character. I called that twist fairly early, but that didn't really ruin the novelty for me.
My complaints are few; the main one is that I could have used a little more action and a little less chat in some places, particularly the middle third. The standard bad guys also could have been a leetle less western-bad-guy stereotype, and the ending could have been less abrupt -- but whatevs. I got a romance plot with a healthy, mutually respectful relationship, an action plot in which not a single damsel ever requires rescuing, and an ass-kicking lady bounty hunter who is also a decently rounded character - I'm good, y'all.
March 14, 2016
Actual Rating: 4.5 Stars
“Here it is, Calico, the truth. If I kiss you now, it won’t end there. Not this time. I don’t mind if you take me for a gentleman, buy you should not mistake me for a saint.”
This Gun For Hire was an action-packed, kickass western historical romance that had everything a girl could want: a good guy with just a hint of mystery and trouble surrounding him, an independent, brave heroine with a quick wit, and a mystery to figure out.
So. Much. Fun. This was my first Jo Goodman book (I know, right?) and I can absolutely see what all the acclaim and fuss is about. Right from the start I was knocked out by the quick back-and-forth between Calico and Quill. Their scenes together made me laugh with Calico’s attitude and with Quill’s inability to lie. Their lively bantering continued throughout the book, making this an absolute breeze to read. Actually, all of the dialogue was very well-written and fitting of the time period.
Read More
“Here it is, Calico, the truth. If I kiss you now, it won’t end there. Not this time. I don’t mind if you take me for a gentleman, buy you should not mistake me for a saint.”
This Gun For Hire was an action-packed, kickass western historical romance that had everything a girl could want: a good guy with just a hint of mystery and trouble surrounding him, an independent, brave heroine with a quick wit, and a mystery to figure out.
So. Much. Fun. This was my first Jo Goodman book (I know, right?) and I can absolutely see what all the acclaim and fuss is about. Right from the start I was knocked out by the quick back-and-forth between Calico and Quill. Their scenes together made me laugh with Calico’s attitude and with Quill’s inability to lie. Their lively bantering continued throughout the book, making this an absolute breeze to read. Actually, all of the dialogue was very well-written and fitting of the time period.
Read More
July 21, 2016
This is my first book by Jo Goodman. And I may say that Westerns are not my usual romance subgenre. But I absolutely loved this one!
Katherine "Calico" Nash is a kickass Wild West woman. Her father was an Army scout and she is a bounty hunter. As the story opens, she is undercover as a prostitute in a brothel, which is where she first meets our -and her - hero, Quill McKenna. When Quill sees her go upstairs with a big, bad-looking man, he is ready to go to her rescue. But she doesn't need it.
And that is one of the best things about this couple. They don't necessarily NEED each other, but they enhance each other. He saves her, she saves him - they stand together. Perfect and just the way it ought to be!
The dialogue was just brilliant - dry, intelligent, witty. I just loved it so much. Am I gushing yet? I really loved it.
I said at the beginning that this is my first Goodman? It's not going to be the last.
Katherine "Calico" Nash is a kickass Wild West woman. Her father was an Army scout and she is a bounty hunter. As the story opens, she is undercover as a prostitute in a brothel, which is where she first meets our -and her - hero, Quill McKenna. When Quill sees her go upstairs with a big, bad-looking man, he is ready to go to her rescue. But she doesn't need it.
And that is one of the best things about this couple. They don't necessarily NEED each other, but they enhance each other. He saves her, she saves him - they stand together. Perfect and just the way it ought to be!
The dialogue was just brilliant - dry, intelligent, witty. I just loved it so much. Am I gushing yet? I really loved it.
I said at the beginning that this is my first Goodman? It's not going to be the last.
January 3, 2017
Parts of this were slow, but I did really like the characters. Quill was an intriguing hero who wasn't completely alpha. He was polite and honorable. Calico was a cool heroine. She was a bit stubborn, but then she was also a female bounty hunter, so I was kind of predestined to love her. I thought the mystery was pretty easy to solve, but it was nice getting to see Quill and Calico coming to know one another in such close quarters, after they'd previously met while Calico was capturing a bounty. All in all, this was a good book, though not my favorite. I recommend it because Calico and Quill were just so good together and they made for good characters to follow.
May 29, 2016
Both the characters and plot of this were conceptually strong, and it was cute, but just never quite got off the ground - the climax was dull and predictable and the romance was flimsy and happened too quickly and easily. I'd like to read more of this western-romance genre - with more focus on the former than the latter - but I'm not inspired to read more books by Jo Goodman
April 29, 2015
4+ for Calico and Quill, both their characters and their understated romance. 2 for the suspense/mystery plot--waiting and waiting and waiting for an unknown threat to the father and daughter Calico & Quill have been hired to protect, with no gradually building tension or suspects in sight.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews