Brave Rider

By: Harvey Goodman

Narrated by: Brandon J. Peterson

Jericho Buck is young, tough, and fearless, and has been burning across the western frontier like a prairie fire since he left home at 14. Now 21, Jericho finds his biggest adventures yet riding 100 miles a day through a desolate, hostile landscape for the famed Pony Express. The camaraderie amongst the riders and crew is iron-clad, and it’s the best money he has ever made. But on a fateful day, Jericho comes across a lonesome spot where desperadoes have just captured a beautiful young Paiute woman. In a life and death moment, Jericho’s bravery forever bonds him with a Paiute tribe in a righteous quest for survival and ultimate justice.

©2020 Harvey Goodman (P)2023 Harvey Goodman

A Basic Feel Good Western

It is pretty much like you would expect from a clean western story. Just an average dude trying to be good in the Ole West despite desperadoes taking advantage of a general lawlessness as Americans begin to move into the new western territories. In this case, the MC manages to find work riding for the pony express, but before too long, end up convalescing with a tribe of native Americans … with the expected trope running true to form … which undermines any potential for edge of your seat drama … especially when there really isn’t a specific bad guy or major identifiable conflict. The research seems to be pretty good though, and this does help make the story more interesting to me.

The performance was okay as well. Character accents were good, but the range and timbre of the voices was pretty limited. Still better than having Alexa read it to you.

I was given this free advance review/listener copy (ARC) audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
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The Wild West goes Postal!!!!

It's not every day that you stumble upon a hidden gem like "Brave Rider" by Harvey Goodman, narrated by the incredibly talented Brandon J. Peterson. This captivating tale of courage, camaraderie, and romance set against the backdrop of the American Wild West is nothing short of a literary treasure, and it kept me hooked from the very first word to the last.

At its core, "Brave Rider" introduces us to Jericho Buck, a young and fearless adventurer who has been traversing the rugged western frontier since the tender age of 14. Now 21, Jericho embarks on his most daring journey yet as he joins the legendary Pony Express, a historic mail delivery service that demanded riders to cover 100 miles a day through a perilous and desolate landscape. The allure of adventure, the bonds formed amongst riders, and the prospect of good money make the Pony Express a dream come true for Jericho.

The narration by Brandon J. Peterson is nothing short of remarkable. His rich and expressive voice brings every character to life, making it feel like you're right there in the heart of the Wild West, riding alongside Jericho. Peterson's ability to capture the essence of each character, from the rugged cowboys to the strong-willed Paiute tribespeople, adds an extra layer of depth to an already engrossing story.

One of the most delightful aspects of "Brave Rider" is the unpredictability of the plot. Harvey Goodman masterfully keeps readers on their toes, never revealing where the story is headed until you're pleasantly surprised halfway through. This element of surprise, combined with the well-crafted characters, ensures that the audiobook never loses its grip on your attention.

The audiobook offers a perfect blend of action and romance. Jericho's adventures with the Pony Express provide ample doses of adrenaline-pumping action, from daring rides through treacherous terrain to confrontations with outlaws. Amidst the danger and excitement, a beautiful love story unfolds, adding a layer of tenderness to the narrative that tugs at the heartstrings.

"Brave Rider" is a tapestry of Western elements that history enthusiasts and fiction lovers alike will appreciate. It seamlessly weaves together themes of Western adventure, the rich tapestry of Native American culture, the gritty reality of the Pony Express, love, war, and the harsh realities of life in the early American West. It's a story that captures the spirit of the era with vivid descriptions and meticulous attention to historical detail.

What sets "Brave Rider" apart is its ability to evoke the same epic grandeur as classics like "Lonesome Dove" and "Dances with Wolves." Harvey Goodman's storytelling prowess shines through as he paints a vivid portrait of a time when the Wild West was untamed, and its heroes, like Jericho Buck, were as tough as the land they rode across.

The Pony Express, a central element of the story, is a fascinating piece of American history. Established in 1860, it was a daring and innovative mail delivery service that relied on brave riders like Jericho Buck to carry messages and parcels across the vast and perilous expanse of the American West. The Pony Express played a crucial role in connecting the East and West coasts during a time when communication was slow and unreliable. Although the service lasted for only 18 months due to the advent of the telegraph, it left an indelible mark on American history.

The Pony Express was not without its perils. Riding for the Pony Express was a treacherous endeavor, and riders faced numerous dangers, including hostile Native American tribes, harsh weather, and the constant threat of attacks by outlaws. It's estimated that at least 16 riders lost their lives in the line of duty, highlighting the extraordinary courage and determination required for the job.

"Brave Rider" beautifully captures the essence of the Pony Express and the brave souls who risked it all to deliver the mail. Jericho Buck's journey mirrors the challenges and triumphs of those real-life riders, making the audiobook a poignant tribute to their enduring legacy.

"Brave Rider" is a triumph of storytelling that transports listeners to the untamed landscapes and vibrant characters of the Wild West. Harvey Goodman's masterful narrative, brought to life by Brandon J. Peterson's superb narration, makes for an unforgettable listening experience. It's a tale of bravery, love, and justice that will leave you breathless and longing for more. If you're a fan of historical fiction, Westerns, or simply a well-told story, "Brave Rider" deserves a place at the top of your must-listen list. It's a Wild West adventure that will stay with you long after the final chapter, just like the enduring spirit of the Pony Express itself.