Larry D. Sweazy's "The Rattlesnake Season" delivers a Western adventure steeped in atmosphere, though its predictable plot and underdeveloped characters keep it from reaching its full potential. That said, if you're a fan of the genre, there's still plenty to enjoy as Sweazy paints a vivid picture of the Old West with flair.

The novel's strength lies in its atmospheric setting. Sweazy has crafted the bustling streets of frontier towns, teeming with colourful characters, the dust swirling in the heat and the lingering tension that hangs over every interaction. The piece feels authentic, pulling the reader into a world where the gun rules and survival often depends on the sharpness of one's instincts and trigger finger.

However, while the backdrop is immersive, the characters populating it feel less so. My main problem was that the relationship between Josiah Wolfe and his nemesis, Langdon - purportedly driving the whole story - is utterly underdeveloped and inconsistent. Josiah, as a conflicted hero grappling with his place in this rugged world, shows promise, but the narrative leans too heavily on Langdon's Civil War memories to establish him as a villain. This reliance on the past—though historically relevant—misses an opportunity to flesh out Langdon with more nuance. Instead of a complex exploration of their dynamic, we're given little more than a one-dimensional portrayal that leaves their ultimate confrontation feeling hollow.

That said, this is a solid read for fans of Westerns. The vivid setting makes it worth the ride, even if the characters and narrative don't quite push the boundaries. It's not groundbreaking by any stretch, but for fans of dusty trails, rugged heroes, and a slice of frontier life, Sweazy's novel still delivers an engaging experience.

⭐ ⭐ 1/2