The novel I'm (Debra) working on now includes a Texas Ranger as one of the leads. For Christmas, I received from my husband, two books on the evolution of the Texas Rangers. The book I will review today is, LONE STAR JUSTICE, The First Century of the Texas Rangers, by Robert M. Utley.
Author: Robert M. Utley
Website: http://www.robertutley.net/
Purchase: http://us.penguingroup.com/
Pros: What I love about this book is the detailed historical accuracy of the rise and fall and rise again of the Texas Rangers. While reading the book, the author captures a mental picture of history and makes the reader imagine it as if history was unfolding like a movie. the author incorporates a blend of narrative and dialogue taken straight from 19th century journals. I also appreciate the thoroughness of the author's research which is quite evident from the beginning.
The book includes early pictures and images of early artist renderings of battles scenes. I particulary enjoyed the images of real life heroes of the past, such as Sam Houston, Sam Walker, and Leander H. McNelly. You hear of such Texas heroes and it is a pleasure to put a face with a name.
Cons: This book is an awesome book filled with historical facts, perfect for my research. The only complaint I have is that the book is heavy on battle scenes and I grew weary of reading one skirmish after another. I would've enjoyed more information on historical characters and their relationships. However, that is only an opinion. My son who adores reading of battle scenes would enjoy this book, but I'm more of a romance writer. I love getting to know characters better.
