Review - Gold Mine Massacre - 5 stars

 

Gold Mine Massacre by William and J. A. Johnstone is another book in the Smoke Jensen series.  Like the others it does not disappoint the reader of Western novels.  This particular novel ‘s storyline focuses on Smoke Jensen’s daughter Denise better known as Denny.

The plot begins with several men who are buying up old gold mining properties in the area with the idea of resurrecting them through the use of modern hydraulic mining techniques.  For those not in the know, this entails using a high-pressure water hose to blast rocks and dirt free and then uses a sluice to capture the gold.  Of course, this creates muddy water, which the ranchers were not familiar with.

As can be expected this is not what the ranchers who sold the mining rights were expecting as their money lies in ranching and cattle.  A German engineer names Strom and a handsome business partner named Conrad seem interested mostly in the gold.  But things happen in the partnership making for an interesting story.

It does not hurt that Conrad is the son of a fast gun sort of along the lines of Smoke and who is very handsome and is struck by Denny’s beauty.  Of course, a U.S. Marshal n
amed Brice also likes her.  So, there are some romantic overtones to go along with the political issues of hydraulic mining and cattle ranching colliding.

A standoff ensues in the valley and various alliances come and go including hiring some hired hands who are fast with the gun but loose with morals and ethics.

A delightful read that moves very fast and leaves the reader wanting more.  A definite read for any Western aficionado and especially for those liking to learn more about the Jensen family.