best new western fiction

There are quite a few in the 'best new western fiction' category. For instance, 'The Sisters Brothers' by Patrick deWitt. It's a darkly comedic take on the western genre, following two brothers on a journey filled with misadventures. Also, 'Empire of the Summer Moon' by S.C. Gwynne, which delves deep into the history of the Comanche nation and their interactions with settlers in the west. It gives a rich and detailed view of the western frontier from a different perspective.

Sure. Cormac McCarthy is a great one. His works often have a dark and gritty take on the western landscape and human nature within it. Another is Annie Proulx. Her writing can vividly bring the western settings and characters to life.

Well, new western fiction often features complex characters. These characters are not just the typical cowboys. They might be ranchers dealing with modern problems like environmental regulations. It also tends to have more nuanced settings, showing both the beautiful and the harsh aspects of the western landscape. And the themes can be quite diverse, including family, heritage, and the struggle between tradition and modernity.

Many of these novels are known for their vivid descriptions of the Western landscape. Whether it's the deserts, mountains or small towns, the settings play an important role. Also, they usually have a strong sense of history. They might incorporate historical events such as the expansion of the West or the treatment of Native Americans into their narratives. For example, some novels retell the stories of Native American tribes during the Western expansion from a new perspective.

'The Redemption of Sarah Cain' by Beverly Lewis also fits the bill. It's about a modern - day woman who has to go to the country (a western - type rural setting) and through her experiences, there are Christian themes of forgiveness, love, and redemption.

Cormac McCarthy's 'Blood Meridian' is also highly regarded. It's a brutal and unflinching look at the west. The prose is sparse yet powerful, and it delves deep into the dark side of the frontier, with complex themes about violence, fate, and the human condition.

Well, 'Western Story Magazine' is a top choice. It has a long history of publishing western fiction. It includes tales of outlaws, sheriffs, and the adventures in the wild west. Then there's 'Range & River', which focuses on the relationship between the people and the land in the west. It offers great settings and themes for western fiction. And don't forget 'The Westerner', which contains a variety of western - themed stories, from action - packed gunfights to more emotional stories about the settlers in the west.

The 'Leviathan Wakes' by James S.A. Corey is great. It has a setting that combines the vastness of space (science fiction aspect) with a frontier - like feel similar to the western genre. There are conflicts over resources, exploration, and the characters have to be tough and resourceful, much like in a western.

One of the best is 'Lonesome Dove' by Larry McMurtry. It's a classic that vividly portrays the lives of Texas Rangers on a cattle drive. Another great one is 'True Grit' by Charles Portis. The character of Mattie Ross is really memorable. And 'The Virginian' by Owen Wister is also highly regarded as it was one of the first novels to really define the western genre.

One characteristic is the strong presence of Christian values. The characters often face moral dilemmas and make decisions based on their faith. For example, they might show forgiveness in difficult situations.