Review: Michael McGarrity's Backlands

I recently finished reading the second book in Michael McGarrity's trilogy which details the history of the Kerney family. McGarrity is well-known for his crime novels featuring Kevin Kerney as the central character. These new books explore Kerney's ancestry.  

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As a native of the Tularosa Basin, I thoroughly enjoy McGarrity's vivid descriptions of region and its people. As I was reading Backlands, I was transported to the dusty barren landscapes and I could visualize the gorgeous New Mexico sunsets. McGarrity has done his research. He skillfully and convincingly intertwines the history and culture of the area into the lives of his fictional characters. For those who love the Southwest, McGarrity's books offers beautiful imagery, along with geographic and historic accuracy. 

Michael McGarrity creates characters that are believable and relatable, even when they are despicable. While the Kerney men are central to the story, his depictions of the women in the Kerney world as strong and vital figures is unwavering. A girl can wrap her imagination around these smart and capable ranching women, lending balance to a story that might otherwise be historically and culturally male dominant. 

I would strongly recommend Michael McGarrity's historical fiction trilogy. Pick up a copy of Hard Country before Backlands and then we'll all wait with baited breath till the final piece of the chronicle is released next year!