I discovered Mr. Boggs when I read Longhorns East and jumped at the opportunity to read his latest historical fiction. It’s setting is centered around the up and coming town of Newton, Kansas during the late 1800’s. A new railroad track is going to change Newton into a booming, lawless city. The story is interspersed with period newspaper blurbs that rival current tabloid fodder. As a native Texan I’m familiar with the cattle drives and their destinations in Kansas but Newton was a tale I hadn’t heard of. I appreciated the author’s research and colorful portrayal of the adversities of the era. I became totally invested in the characters and cared about what the outcome would entail. The people are authentic and true to the period of history.
Gary is a cattle driver from Texas with two son’s, Evan and Taylor. He’s the one in charge of everything from the cattle to all the men and the success of the resulting sale. He faces dangerous river crossings, stampedes and exhaustion during the months it takes to reach trails end. He will lead the men and cattle from Texas through Indian Territory to reach Kansas. Cindy is an aspiring newspaper reporter whose misfortune lands her in Newton. Denise loves to cook and wants her own restaurant. She just needs to keep her brother out of trouble long enough to settle in one place. Gary, Cindy and Denise will cross paths in Newton and their futures are forever entwined and altered there.
If you enjoy a Western vibe with lots of historical innuendo, you’ll soak up the atmosphere in this story. There are gunfights, heartbreaking tragedy, death, hardships, love, honor, lifelong friendships, success and a glimpse of the people who founded our great country.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing an advanced reader’s copy of “Bloody Newton” by Johnny D. Boggs, Kensington Publishing, publication expected 06/25/2024. These are all my own honest personal thoughts and opinions given voluntarily without compensation.

This had that Western feel that I was looking for from the description. I could see why they've call Johnny D. Boggs one of the best Western writers today. It uses the historical element perfectly and I enjoyed the way the characters were done in this setting. I enjoyed that this uses the true story of an event and makes it interesting. I wanted the story to continue as I really enjoyed what was going on in this story. I can't wait to read more from Johnny D. Boggs.