DRY GULCH WATER
The Walking Y Series
Book 4

by Jeter Isely

Narrated by: Jason Markiewitz

Production by: Jeter Isely

The Walking Y Rides Again

Woody’s Walking Y Ranch faces disaster when Senator Bell pushes through a law designed to strip the ranch of its life-giving water rights. But politics is only the beginning. With the ruthless Sicario clan prepared to enforce the senator’s plans through violence and murder, everyone connected to the Walking Y becomes a potential target. As Jennifer Hathaway takes up a rifle to protect her family, the youngsters race to thwart attacks on horseback, while Fred discovers that the telephone might be just the weapon needed to turn their enemies against one another.

Author Jeter Isley provides a well-written story with strong character development. Each character is vividly portrayed through descriptions, actions, and dialogue, giving them distinct personalities and making it easy to become invested in their lives. The storyline flows smoothly and has the feel of the Westerns I grew up watching on television and reading in books. Isley captures that familiar combination of danger, loyalty, humor, and characters willing to stand their ground, while adding well-placed plot twists.

I especially enjoyed the cook and his involvement in the unfolding events. His ability to communicate information in an almost spy-like manner added intrigue to the story. Jennifer Hathaway was another standout, and her determination to protect her family felt genuine and believable.

My only issue was the use of the phrase “snitches get stitches.” Research shows no historical trace of its use during the 19th century, making it anachronistic for the period. While the meaning fits the situation, the phrase felt noticeably out of place in an otherwise authentic Western.

I always enjoy listening to Jason Markiewitz, and his performance as the narrator here is another example of why. His narration is polished and perfectly suited to the atmosphere Isley creates. He captures the feel of a Western without overplaying it, allowing the story and characters to remain the focus. Markiewitz gives the characters distinct voices and handles humor, tension, danger, and action equally well. His pacing keeps the story moving smoothly, while his natural delivery makes it easy to become immersed in the world of the Walking Y.

With strong characters, plenty of action, unexpected twists, and the familiar feel of the Westerns I grew up enjoying, this was another entertaining visit to the Walking Y. The minor historical misstep did little to diminish my enjoyment, while Markiewitz’s narration once again proved an excellent match for the story.

There were no issues with the production or quality of this audiobook.

Disclaimer: This Audiobook was provided free of charge by the author, narrator, and/or publisher in exchange for a non-biased, honest review.