Review of Appaloosa by Robert B. Parker
There’s something inherently captivating about a good Western novel. When I stumbled upon Appaloosa, the first in Robert B. Parker’s Virgil Cole and Everett Hitch series, it beckoned me in with the promise of dusty streets and gunfights—a thrilling escape from the daily grind. Parker, renowned for his sharp dialogue and compelling characters, had me eager to see how he would paint the old West through his unique lens.
Set in the titular town of Appaloosa, Parker crafts a familiar yet vivid scene—a quintessential Western landscape dotted with a saloon, a general store, and the intimidating presence of a rogue rancher who seems to embody the lawlessness of the frontier. The town’s plight comes to a head when the sheriff perishes in a confrontation, prompting desperate townsfolk to hire the gunslinger Virgil Cole. Cole, a man of few words and even fewer morals, negotiates his own brand of justice—“My way, or the highway!”—a mantra that speaks volumes about his character.
Parker’s writing style, succinct and devoid of unnecessary flourishes, lets the action and characters breathe. I found myself moving quickly through the pages, surprised that I only marked a couple of passages, reflecting his ability to let the narrative unfold naturally. The dialogue flows with such authenticity that it feels like eavesdropping on real-life conversations, avoiding the pitfalls of overanalysis that can bog down character development.
Speaking of characters, the dynamic between Virgil Cole and Everett Hitch is a highlight. Cole’s stoic demeanor provides the hard edge, while Hitch, serving as the first-person narrator, offers a more rounded perspective sprinkled with humor and insights from his past. They form a compelling duo, reminiscent of classic Western archetypes, yet intricately drawn in their interactions. Hitch’s comedic quips and take on life deliver just enough levity to balance the grim undertones, as seen in his cheeky commentary on women: “I got more notches on my pecker than a handsaw.”
The novel also introduces the formidable rancher Randall Bragg, who initially appears as a typical villain but gains depth as he represents the advent of progress, a fitting metaphor for the impending clash of gunpowder and capitalism. And let’s not forget the woman who complicates the tale—Allie French, a sultry figure who piques both Cole’s and Hitch’s interests, thereby creating a love triangle entwined with their quest for survival.
The scene that lingers in my mind involves the wild horses—a poignant moment when Cole reflects on competition and desire. Their interaction—“Is it over?… That was all about the mares?”—provokes thoughts about possession versus love, adding philosophical weight to a genre often dismissed for its simplicity.
Overall, Appaloosa is a refreshing reimagining of classic Western tropes, crafted by a master storyteller. It’s a quick read that feels perfect for a vacation or a cozy weekend, and I can’t wait to see how Cole and Hitch evolve in subsequent installments. If you’re a fan of Westerns or enjoy tales rich with moral ambiguity and sharp wit, I wholeheartedly recommend giving this novel a shot. Parker’s ability to merge action with thoughtful narrative makes for a rewarding literary experience, one I’m eager to revisit.
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