FICTION

Hop Alley

by Scott Phillips

Counterpoint. 2014. 192p. ISBN 9781619023079. $25. F

COPY ISBN

In this sequel to Phillips's Cottonwood, featuring photographer Bill Ogden's unsuccessful efforts to make 1872 Cottonwood, KS, a boomtown, our hero is now Bill Sadlaw of Denver, abandoned by classy wife Maggie, involved in a steamy affair, and investigating murder.

VERDICT Not a squeaky clean 1950s TV-style Western but not brutally noir either, this is fun, propulsive reading for anyone who likes historicals with a touch of mystery.

Reviewed by Barbara Hoffert , Jun 01, 2014

Comment Policy:

Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.