Calamity Jane: How the West Began

By: Bryan Ney

Narrated by: Becky Brabham

Gold, gunfire, and horseplay make for a dangerous and exciting mix for Jane, a newcomer to frontier Montana. The neglect of her parents gets her nicknamed “Calamity”, but her fearless nature and skill at the gambling table makes her the toast of the town.

At the same time, robbery and murder escalate, resulting in the loss of a friend - and Jane knows who leads the gang. But can she rally the town and bring the killers to justice?

Finalist, 2016 Wishing Shelf Book Awards

Finalist, 2016 Rossetti Book Awards

Praise:

"The details of life in the 1860s Montana mining town are rich, and the quick-moving tale is well-situated in the tradition of 20th century frontier town novels, such as Jack Schaefer's Shane." (Kirkus Reviews)

©2018 Bryan Ney (P)2019 Bryan Ney

Review of Calamity Jane author: Bryan Ney

I enjoyed the overall story and tried to pay attention to which parts were based on actual history, and which parts were likely fiction. I had read the author's essay on Symbolism before listening to the narration and was disappointed that the narration did not include details of Plummer's necktie and Jane's scarf in the last chapter description of the hangings.

At the end of the story I found myself wishing that there was more information about Jane's life. What might have happened if Jane had gone to the Country School with her friends.

Perhaps she would have become a reporter for a frontier newspaper as she learned about spelling, grammar, and writing; telling the true facts of her world.

Perhaps she would have been interested in becoming a doctor for the women of her times.

The experience of the 5 hours of involvement in this book has been fun. Thank you.
Barbara Elwood
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