Step into the dusty trails of the Wild West with the Loner series by J.A. Johnstone, where vengeance, justice, and a sharp-shooting hero collide in a whirlwind of action! This gripping Western saga follows Conrad Browning, a polished businessman who trades his suit for a six-shooter after tragedy strikes, becoming the enigmatic Kid Morgan. With its heart-pounding gunfights and tales of redemption, Loner captures the untamed spirit of the frontier.
Perfect for fans of classic Westerns, the series blends raw emotion with high-stakes adventure. Whether you’re drawn to tales of lone heroes or the rugged charm of the Old West, Loner’s thrilling narrative will keep you hooked from the first page.
How Loner Began
The Loner series kicked off in 2009, born from the prolific pen of J.A. Johnstone, niece of Western legend William W. Johnstone. Building on her uncle’s legacy, J.A. crafted a fresh saga that honors the genre’s roots while carving its own path. Inspired by the timeless allure of the Wild West, she created Conrad Browning, a character whose dual identity as a refined heir and vengeful gunslinger reflects the tension between civilization and lawlessness. The series emerged as J.A. transitioned from co-authoring her uncle’s works to penning original stories, earning praise for its fast-paced storytelling.
The Heart of Loner
The series spans 15 books, each plunging readers into Conrad’s journey as Kid Morgan. The Loner (2009), the first novel, sets the stage: Conrad’s idyllic life shatters when his wife, Rebel, is kidnapped and murdered. Faking his death, he becomes Kid Morgan, hunting her killers with unmatched skill. The Devil’s Badland (2010) deepens the quest, as Conrad uncovers the mastermind behind Rebel’s death while entangled in a range war. Trail of Blood (2011) sees him chasing a secret about his hidden twins, facing deadly foes in a gritty Kansas town. Inferno (2012) shifts gears, with Conrad scouting a wagon train and battling Apache raiders to save captives.
Loner’s themes resonate deeply: vengeance fuels Conrad’s early path, but justice and redemption define his growth. The Wild West setting, with its lawless towns and sprawling deserts, mirrors his inner turmoil. J.A.’s style—lean, action-packed, and rich with vivid characters like the loyal Arturo or the troubled marshal Jared Tate—brings the frontier to life. While some critics call the series formulaic, fans adore its straightforward thrills and Conrad’s evolution from grieving widower to legendary loner.
Why Loner Resonates
Loner stands out in the Western genre for its blend of personal stakes and classic tropes. Conrad’s transformation from businessman to gunslinger captivates readers, reflecting the timeless appeal of a hero forged in tragedy. The series has carved a niche among fans of William W. Johnstone’s works, with its 15-book run earning a loyal following. Its influence lies in delivering what Western lovers crave: high-octane action, moral dilemmas, and a hero who embodies the rugged individualism of the frontier. For newcomers, Loner offers an accessible entry into the genre’s enduring allure.
- Publication Years: 2009–2013
- Number of Books: 15
- Main Character: Conrad Browning, aka Kid Morgan
- Related Series: The Last Gunfighter (featuring Frank Morgan)
Saddle up and grab The Loner to ride into the Wild West’s thrilling world! Whether you’re a seasoned Western fan or a curious newcomer, Conrad’s journey promises adventure, heart, and plenty of gunfire.