Territory

I found Emma Bull's "Territory" to be an enjoyable read. It was a delight to find a book that so skillfully combined elements of fantasy, western, and historical fiction. The characters were well-described, relatable, and driven by fully formed motives; the speculative element contained the right mix of mystery and logic; and the descriptions of the Arizona landscape are breathtaking.

My only caveat is that I wish I had known going into this book that - though set against the backdrop of Tombstone, Arizona in 1881 - the narrative ends before the OK Corral. It's jarring because this history has become legend, and begining the legend sets up reader expectations as to what constitutes "the end."

That said, it is a simple enough task to reset those expectations: Future Reader, do not expect this retelling of the story of Tombstone to get you to the OK Corral. But don't let that fact keep you away.

"Territory" does have an ending - one that makes sense, provides resolution to the question of who was behind the killings with which the book opens, and that concludes a journey for the three POV characters, each of whom must come to terms with the magic that is the true source of power in Tombstone.

I have heard rumor that there will be a sequel in the future. Certainly there is ample room for one here and I would welcome the chance to spend more time in the Tombstone Emma Bull has imagined here.