ook Review: Derringer by William W. Johnstone and J.A. Johnstone

Derringer by William W. Johnstone and J.A. Johnstone is the start of a new Western series that follows Jesse Derringer, a former Union Army scout hired as a troubleshooter for the Union Pacific Railroad. Set in the Wyoming Territory, the book explores the challenges of railroad expansion, lawlessness, and survival in the untamed West.

The story itself is well-written, with a strong setting and an engaging premise. The descriptions bring the Western frontier to life, and the conflicts that arise feel fitting for the time period. However, in my opinion, the actual writing suffers from excessive repetition, making it feel like the author was trying to meet a word count rather than focusing on a tighter narrative. Characters often repeat information almost verbatim, which slows the pacing and makes the dialogue feel unnatural. For example, the dangers of the town and surrounding area are explained in detail by one character, only for another character to say the same thing a page later. This doesn’t add anything new to the story and quickly becomes frustrating.

Another distraction is the use of certain phrases, such as “He’s taking Jake at me.” It’s unclear whether this is an obscure Western slang term or just an unusual stylistic choice, but it stands out as odd.

Despite these flaws, the book has an interesting premise, and fans of traditional Westerns may find it enjoyable. The cover artwork and publisher’s description initially drew me in, and while I don’t typically read Westerns, I was intrigued by the setting and concept. In my opinion, if the repetitive writing had been tightened up, Derringer could have been a much stronger read.

Release Date: August 26, 2025
Publisher: Pinnacle Books, an imprint of Kensington Publishing

Disclaimer: I received an advance reader copy of this book from NetGalley and Kensington Publishing in exchange for an honest review.

This is a definite winner of a book for the Johnstones. Following a man name Derringer is a little unusual especially when he doesn’t us the pocket pistol, preferring his Henry rifle. Starts with him being a Army scout in the Wyoming Territory. From there he becomes a private scout for the Union Pacific RR as it makes tracks westward.

But there is not much to the railroad part of the story. It is much more focused on interpersonal relations with cooks, wait staff, sheriff’s office etc. he is a big man who is very good at defending himself and his friends. At one point he becomes a temporary deputy. These good deeds gets a target on his back but no one has been successful in challenging him. Derringer grown larger than life in the story.

There are some interesting and near romantic moments in the storyline. It was a fun read and one I’d recommend to any Western reader.

You can always expect a great western from the Johnstones, and this one is no exception. We meet a new protagonist whose job is to ‘grease the wheels’ as the railroad (and nation) move west. Although his methods may be atypical, his results are without question.