The Ranch at the Wolverine   By: B. M. Bower (1874-1940)

The Ranch at the Wolverine by B. M. Bower is a captivating story set in the vast wilderness of Montana. The novel follows the life of protagonist Chip Bennett, a young cowboy who inherits his late father's failing ranch. Facing numerous challenges and unexpected obstacles, Chip embarks on a journey filled with hope, resilience, and the sheer determination to save the ranch from financial ruin.

One of the most striking aspects of this book is the author's remarkable ability to depict the beauty of the Montana landscape. Bower's vivid and rich descriptions transport readers to the rugged terrain, allowing them to experience the magnificent scenery and appreciate the overwhelming sense of freedom that comes from living in such a untamed environment.

The characters in The Ranch at the Wolverine are equally appealing, each with their unique qualities and flaws. Chip, in particular, is depicted as a relatable, hardworking protagonist with an unwavering love and loyalty towards the ranch. His interactions with the various secondary characters add depth to the story, as they bring their own distinct personalities and stories to the forefront.

Furthermore, the plot of this novel keeps readers engaged from beginning to end. The Ranch at the Wolverine does an exceptional job of combining elements of adventure, romance, and suspense. Bower intricately weaves these different genres together, making the story consistently exciting and unpredictable. The reader is constantly left wondering what challenges Chip will face next and how he will overcome them.

While the pacing and writing style of Bower's novel are generally steady and smooth, there are certain moments where the narrative could have benefitted from a bit more depth. Some scenes felt rushed or lacked a more thorough exploration of emotions, which occasionally hindered the reader's ability to fully connect with the characters.

Overall, The Ranch at the Wolverine is a captivating western novel that successfully highlights the struggles and triumphs of ranch life in early 20th century Montana. B. M. Bower's ability to bring the landscape to life, coupled with an engaging plot and a cast of memorable characters, makes this book an enjoyable and rewarding read.

First Page:

I. LET US START AT THE BEGINNING II. A STORM AND A STRANGER III. A BOOK, A BANNOCK, AND A BED IV. "OLD DAME FORTUNE'S USED ME FOR A FOOTBALL" V. MARTHY BURIES HER DEAD AND GREETS HER NEPHEW VI. A MATTER OF TWELVE MONTHS OR SO VII. WARD HUNTS WOLVES VIII. HELP FOR THE COW BUSINESS IX. WHEN EMOTIONS ARE BOTTLED X. THIS PAL BUSINESS XI. WAS IT THE DOG? XII. THE LITTLE DEVILS OF DOUBT XIII. THE CORRAL IN THE CANYON XIV. EACH IN HIS OWN TRAIL XV. "YOU WON'T GET ME AGAIN" XVI. "I'M GOING TO TAKE YOU OUT AND HANG YOU" XVII. "SO LONG, BUCK!" XVIII. FORTUNE KICKS AGAIN XIX. THE BRAVE BUCKAROO XX. "WE BEEN SORRY FOR YOU" XXI. SEVEN LEAN KINE XXII. THE BILLY OF HER XXIII. BILLY LOUISE GETS A SURPRISE XXIV. THE HOOKIN' COUGH MAN XXV. THE WOLF JOKE XXVI. "HM MM!" XXVII. MARTHY XXVIII... Continue reading book >>