Dust off your boots and brace for a wild ride into the heart-pounding world of the Cowboy Gangster series by C.J. Bishop, where gritty gangster drama meets soul-stirring M/M romance. This adult-oriented saga follows Clint 'The Cowboy' Maddox, a tough-as-nails enforcer for the Sanitini family, and Axel Anders, a vulnerable young man with a troubled past, as they navigate love, loyalty, and danger in a world where every choice could be their last.
With its raw emotion, intense action, and themes of redemption, Cowboy Gangster isn’t your typical romance—it’s a rollercoaster of heart and heat that’s captivated fans of both crime thrillers and LGBTQ+ love stories. Ready to dive into a tale where love battles the darkest corners of the underworld? Let’s explore!
How Cowboy Gangster Began
C.J. Bishop, the pen name of A.M. Snead, crafted the Cowboy Gangster series as a bold spin-off from her popular Phoenix Club novels. A Christian and staunch supporter of the LGBTQ+ community, Bishop set out to write stories that blend gritty realism with heartfelt romance, aiming to foster compassion and understanding through her characters’ journeys. Inspired by the complexities of human connection and the allure of antiheroes, she introduced Clint and Axel in 2015, launching a series that would grow to include 11 books and several novellas, each packed with emotional depth and high-stakes drama.
The Heart of Cowboy Gangster
The series kicks off with Shot Through the Heart (2018), where Clint, a hardened gangster with an 'eye for an eye' philosophy, meets Axel, a young man haunted by his own demons. Their unexpected connection sparks a romance that challenges Clint’s steely exterior, setting the stage for a saga of love and danger. Gunnin’ for Love (2018) deepens their bond as Clint grapples with guilt over losses in his criminal world, while Axel seeks a place among his newfound family. Outlaws of Love (2018) sees Axel embracing Clint’s softer side, only to face heartbreak when a fateful call pulls the Cowboy away. Innocence Lost (2020), a later installment, plunges Clint and Cochise into a brutal prison setting, testing their resilience against unspeakable horrors.
Bishop’s storytelling shines through vivid themes of redemption, the healing power of love, and the tension between duty and desire. The series’ urban underworld setting, laced with gangster rivalries and vigilante justice, contrasts beautifully with tender moments of intimacy, creating a unique blend of grit and grace. Fans praise the emotional depth of characters like Clint, whose tough facade hides a loyal heart, and Axel, whose vulnerability masks incredible strength, making each book a compelling mix of action, angst, and romance.
Why Cowboy Gangster Resonates
Cowboy Gangster has carved a niche in the M/M romance and crime drama genres, resonating with readers who crave stories that don’t shy away from darkness yet celebrate love’s transformative power. Its unflinching portrayal of trauma, paired with hopeful narratives of found family and redemption, has earned it a dedicated fanbase. Reviews highlight the series’ ability to evoke laughter, tears, and everything in between, with readers calling it an 'emotional rollercoaster' that’s impossible to put down. Bishop’s commitment to authentic LGBTQ+ representation further amplifies its impact, offering comfort to readers seeking stories of acceptance and resilience.
- Publication Years: 2015–2024
- Number of Books: 11 main novels, plus novellas
- Key Characters: Clint Maddox, Axel Anders, Cochise, Kane
- Genres: M/M romance, gangster drama, LGBTQ+ fiction
Grab Shot Through the Heart and step into the electrifying world of Cowboy Gangster, where love and danger collide in a story that’ll steal your heart!