Saddle up and step into the dusty trails of Powell’s Army, where the Wild West comes alive with heart-pounding action and unforgettable characters! This gripping western series, penned by James Reasoner under the pseudonym Terence Duncan, follows Lt. Col. Amos Powell and his fearless team as they navigate the untamed frontier. From 1987 to 1989, eight novels captured the spirit of justice, survival, and adventure, earning a cherished spot in western fiction’s hall of fame.
With Reasoner’s knack for blending historical grit with thrilling narratives, Powell’s Army invites readers to ride alongside a band of heroes facing outlaws, land disputes, and the rugged beauty of the American West. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the genre, this series promises a rollicking journey through a world where courage and camaraderie reign supreme.
How Powell’s Army Began
In the late 1980s, western fiction was riding high, and James Reasoner, a prolific Texan author with a passion for the Old West, was at the helm of crafting iconic tales. Writing as Terence Duncan, Reasoner teamed up with publisher Kensington to launch Powell’s Army, a series created by Barbara Puechner, who wrote the first three novels. Reasoner took the reins for several entries, infusing his signature blend of historical detail and high-stakes drama. Inspired by the genre’s golden age, the series was designed to deliver fast-paced adventures centered on a charismatic leader and his eclectic crew, appealing to readers hungry for authentic western thrills.
The Heart of Powell’s Army
Powell’s Army follows Lt. Col. Amos Powell, a steadfast commander leading a dynamic team: Landrum Davis, a former soldier and Texas Ranger; Gerald Glidinghawk, a Dartmouth-educated Native American; and Celia Burnett, a sharpshooting horsewoman. Together, they tackle challenges across the sprawling frontier, from battling outlaws to protecting critical missions. Key novels like Unchained Lightning (1987), the series opener, set the tone with Powell’s team thwarting a gang of ruthless raiders. Robbers Roost (1988) sees them hunting payroll thieves, while Rocky Mountain Showdown (1988) pits them against land speculators in a high-stakes Denver mission. Rio Renegades (1989) closes the series with a blazing showdown against river outlaws.
The series shines through its vivid settings—dusty plains, rocky mountains, and lawless towns—paired with themes of loyalty, justice, and resilience. Reasoner’s prose captures the West’s raw energy, weaving historical accuracy with larger-than-life characters. Each book stands alone, making it easy to jump in anywhere, though the team’s evolving bonds reward dedicated readers. The mix of action, moral dilemmas, and frontier spirit makes Powell’s Army a standout in the genre.
Why Powell’s Army Resonates
Powell’s Army carved a niche in western fiction by balancing pulse-pounding adventure with nuanced characters, appealing to fans of both classic shoot-’em-ups and deeper historical tales. Reasoner’s contributions, later re-released under his own name, showcased his mastery, earning praise for their robust storytelling. Though a shorter series, its vivid portrayal of the Wild West’s challenges and triumphs keeps it alive for collectors and new readers alike. Its cult status among western enthusiasts speaks to its enduring charm and the timeless allure of a well-told frontier saga.
- Publication Years: 1987–1989
- Number of Books: 8
- Key Author: James Reasoner (as Terence Duncan)
- Publisher: Kensington Publishing
Ready to ride into the Wild West? Grab Unchained Lightning and dive into Powell’s Army’s thrilling world of grit, glory, and gunslinging adventure!