Step into the dusty trails of the Longarm series, where U.S. Deputy Marshal Custis Long, nicknamed Longarm, brings justice to the wild 1880s frontier with a six-shooter and a sharp wit! This sprawling Western saga, penned under the pseudonym Tabor Evans, blends gritty action, steamy romance, and moral complexity, making it a cornerstone of the 'adult Western' genre. With 436 novels, Longarm captivated readers for nearly four decades, offering a thrilling escape into a lawless America.
Unlike traditional Westerns with their clear-cut heroes, Longarm dives into the gray areas of justice, delivering pulse-pounding adventures laced with mature themes. Whether you’re a fan of frontier tales or just craving a bold, unapologetic hero, Longarm’s world is ready to rope you in!
How Longarm Began
In 1978, Jove Books launched the Longarm series, aiming to reinvent the Western novel for a modern audience. Created by author Lou Cameron under the Tabor Evans pseudonym, the series introduced Custis Long, a rugged lawman whose nickname reflected his role as the 'long arm of the law.' Cameron, a prolific writer, crafted the early novels, infusing them with gritty realism and bold sensuality that set Longarm apart from classic Westerns. The series’ monthly releases and a rotating roster of writers ensured its staying power, turning Tabor Evans into a household name for Western fans.
The Heart of Longarm
The Longarm series kicks off with *Longarm* (1978), where Custis is tasked with tracking Cotton Younger, a possible relative of Jesse James, in the chaotic town of Crooked Lance. In *Longarm and the Avenging Angels* (1978), he faces a cult kidnapping a Mormon woman, blending mystery with high-stakes action. *Longarm and the Loggers* (1979) pits him against corrupt lumber barons, showcasing his knack for tackling societal issues. Later, *Longarm and the Lone Star Legend* (1982), a 'Giant' edition, delivers a longer, epic tale of betrayal and redemption.
Set in the 1880s across Denver and the American West, the series thrives on its vivid settings—dusty saloons, rugged plains, and lawless towns. Themes of justice, loyalty, and survival dominate, but Longarm’s mature edge—explicit violence and steamy encounters—defines its 'adult Western' label. Custis Long is no saint; his moral ambiguity, quick draw, and charm make him a compelling hero who navigates a world where right and wrong blur.
The series’ style is fast-paced, with sharp dialogue and colorful characters, from cunning outlaws to fiery love interests. Its blend of action, mystery, and romance keeps readers hooked, while the monthly release schedule fed fans’ appetite for more adventures.
Why Longarm Resonates
Longarm’s impact lies in its bold reinvention of the Western genre. By embracing mature themes, it carved out a niche in the 1970s 'adult Western' boom, appealing to readers seeking edgier tales. The series’ longevity—436 books through 2015—speaks to its devoted fanbase, who relished Custis Long’s relentless pursuit of justice. Its influence endures in modern Westerns that dare to explore complex characters and raw realism, proving Longarm’s legacy is as enduring as the frontier itself.
- Publication Years: 1978–2015
- Number of Books: 436, plus 29 'Giant' editions
- Key Authors: Lou Cameron, Will C. Knott, Melvin Marshall, and others under Tabor Evans
- Setting: 1880s American West, primarily Denver, Colorado
Ready to ride into the wild West? Grab *Longarm* and dive into Custis Long’s thrilling world of gunslinging and frontier justice!