Absaroka

Joan Bochmann
Raven Publishing (2005)
ISBN 0971416184
Reviewed by William Phenn for Reader Views (5/06)

A Western writer with a modern twist, that’s how I would describe Joan Bochmann. She was raised in the high Yampa River valley in Colorado. Her love of horses brought out by her father, while her mother instilled in her the value of literature. These factors are what make up this compelling novel called “Absaroka.”

“Absaroka” is a moving story of a Vietnam Vet and his struggle to regain his normal life after the war. Matt Reed is a veteran of the Vietnam era who comes home to find his mother has died, his father old and ailing, and his home about to be taken away by unscrupulous people and his town on the verge of extinction.

Matt hooks up with a few of his friends from diverse backgrounds to battle the forces that are threatening Matt and his town. They encounter many obstacles at every turn in their valiant effort to save the town and Matt’s home. Though the story is modern day, the struggles are as old as the days of the Wild West. Cowboys, Indians, a Damsel, and a Villain make “Absaroka” a compelling read.

“Absaroka” is not like any western I have read to date. It is modern, exciting and was a pleasure to read. Joan has presented this story in a way that has earned it my very high approval. If you enjoy westerns and all the wonderful things that comprise a good western, you will enjoy “Absaroka.” I give it an A.

(Note: Absaroka recently garnished Honorable Mention (1st Runner Up) in the IPPY (Independent Publisher Awards) in the Western - Regional category - 2006.)

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