This was a great entry in the Hunter Buchanon Black Hills Western series. It had everything that I enjoyed from other works from the Johnstones’ writing style. It worked as a Western and had that element that I was hoping for. I’m glad I got to read this and can’t wait for more.

First, the title fits the book. The cover is different for a Johnstone book and I like it. Thing is, someone didn't know what the book was about. The 'Whip hand' is about the main character's ability to pull gun, not handling a whip.

This book, via access through NetGalley.com, is really 3 books in one. This direction does solve contractual obligations to reach a page count and works better than the more and more fluffed out books coming out of the Johnstone Clan. I really think a better direction is to have the books be a collection of stories. Basically as is being done collecting the Smoke Jensen and Preacher earlier books. I propose taking this Buchanon book and make it 3 separate stories. I believe these would also sell better. Shorter for today's readers and the "3 books in one!" tag.

The three tales are solid and well woven together. The three breakout from the beginning. One at the start and the another breaks out a bit further in. All 3 reconnect in the end with a lot that unfolds in 3 entirely different ways. This works well do to the typical strong Johnstone characters.

Bottom line I recommend this book. 8 out of ten points.