The Gun Man Jackson Swagger
Stephen Hunter. Atria/Bestler, $28 (304p) ISBN 978-1-6680-3039-4
In his energetic latest Swagger family novel (after Targeted), Pulitzer winner Hunter traces the sharpshooting dynasty back to 1897. Elderly Jack Swagger, his face “a net of fissures and gullies,” arrives at Callahan Ranch in Arizona territory looking for work as a hired gun. He puts on an impressive enough display that Colonel Callahan offers him a job protecting grain and flour deliveries to a corrupt official in Mexico. First, though, the colonel relays a cautionary tale about a previous employee known as Teacher, whose noble refusal to let horses suffer during a shoot-out led to his death. From the outset, Hunter makes it clear that Jack’s job search belies his ulterior motives, but author and character both keep their cards close to the vest. Meanwhile, Jack displays superb marksmanship while facing down foes including smuggler Joe Pye, Mexican army major Arau, and violent Frenchman Etienne d’Auclair. Hunter tends to favor ornate dialogue (“The ranch is America,” the colonel says at one point. “It is large, splendid, and provides for the many. Indeed, some sins have been committed to keep it on keel. That is always so of large entities”), but he keeps tension high throughout, and readers with a thirst for bullets will be satiated. This is a solid yarn. Agent: Esther Newberg, CAA. (Oct.)
Details
Reviewed on: 07/16/2025
Genre: Mystery/Thriller
Compact Disc - 978-1-7971-8590-3
Downloadable Audio - 978-1-7971-8588-0