Alright, so now that Beyonce has released the instant classic Cowboy Carter album, it’s put everyone in a Western mood! Whether you’re a big city gal, or a Houston native (like Beyonce!), if you’re dying to read some modern Westerns, I’ve got you covered!
But these modern Westerns aren’t the same ones your dad loves – these books are more diverse in all kinds of different ways. From tackling difficult themes of racism and colonization, to including more queer characters and characters of color than your typical traditional Western. Say goodbye to the same old cowboy stereotypes, and say hello to a richer tapestry of characters and stories that reflect how diverse the American West actually was (I mean, did you know that most cowboys were Hispanic, Indigenous, or Black??).
I’ve got a little something for everyone in this list of diverse and modern Westerns…from romance to horror to assassins to literary fiction, I guarantee you’ll find your new favorite book on this list. These modern Westerns have everything, gripping plots, complex characters, dusty saloons, and wide-open prairies. Get ready to meet fierce gunslingers, trailblazing pioneers, and unforgettable characters who will have you yearning for the Wild West!
So put on Cowboy Carter, grab your favorite drink, and get lost in one of these diverse and modern Westerns!
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What Makes Modern Westerns Different from Classic Westerns?
Westerns have changed a LOT since your parents read them, and most modern Westerns involve themes that are absent from the classics. Modern Westerns contain themes that are reflective of our changing values and perspectives as a society. While classic Western books usually focus on individualism, adventure, and exploration, modern Westerns tend to focus on deeper social and cultural issues.
One of the biggest themes in modern Westerns is identity and belonging. Authors often explore characters who are struggling with their cultural heritage and where they fit into a rapidly changing world. The Western frontier was an extremely diverse place, with most cowboys being Mexican, Black, indigenous, or a mix of many different cultures.
Modern Westerns also explore a lot of themes of social justice and inclusivity. Authors often write about historical injustices such as colonization, imperialism, and the displacement of indigenous peoples. Modern Westerns often challenge the stereotypes that traditional Westerns have put into place and include a more nuanced look at history.
Alright, let’s jump into those modern Westerns! ⬇️
The Best Diverse and Modern Westerns
Outlawed by Anna North
Outlawed is a combination of The Crucible and True Grit. Set in the year 1894, Ada’s life takes a drastic turn when she becomes an outlaw on the day of her wedding due to societal pressures and the threat of being labeled a witch because of her barrenness.
Ada joins forces with the infamous Hole in the Wall Gang, led by the charismatic preacher-turned-robber known as the Kid and together they embark on a perilous journey. The Gang wants to carve out a sanctuary for marginalized women, but their plan teeters on the edge of disaster. As Ada struggles with the decision to risk everything for a chance at a better future, readers are swept along into a narrative full of courage, determination, and the relentless pursuit of hope.
Anna North’s Outlawed introduces an unforgettable heroine whose unwavering spirit challenges the conventions of the Old West. With feminist themes and a new perspective on frontier life, this book revitalizes the Western genre, offering an incredible tale of resilience, truth-seeking, and the quest for liberation against a backdrop of prejudice and fear.
How Much of These Hills Is Gold by C Pam Zhang
How Much of These Hills is Gold follows the story of two siblings navigating a harsh landscape, not only trying to survive, but to discover a place to call home.
With their father passing away, and their mother already dead, Lucy and Sam become orphans in a land that refuses to acknowledge their existence. Escaping the dangers that lurk in their western mining town, they embark on a quest to lay their father to rest that will allow them to leave their troubled past behind. Along the way, they encounter the relics of a bygone era – giant buffalo bones, tiger tracks, and the remnants of a ravaged environment. They confront family secrets, sibling rivalry, and tantalizing glimpses of a different future.
This story weaves together Chinese symbolism with a reimagined history. How Much of These Hills is Gold is a haunting odyssey, exploring themes of race, immigration, and the search for belonging. This book dives into the intricate threads that both unite and divide families, capturing the universal longing for a place to call home.
Upright Women Wanted by Sarah Gailey
Upright Women Wanted is a groundbreaking reinvention of the pulp Western genre, blending elements of dystopia with a story steeped in queer identity and anti-facism.
Esther finds herself a stowaway in the Librarian’s book wagon, escaping an arranged marriage that her father made for her – a marriage to the man who was engaged to her best friend. Esther’s best friend, whom she was in love with, and who has just been executed for possessing illegal propaganda.
Set against the backdrop of a near-future American Southwest with bandits and fascists, this story follows Esther and a cadre of queer librarian spies as they navigate danger and resistance.
Upright Women Wanted is an exploration of love, identity, and the fight against oppression.
Inland by Téa Obreht
Inland starts in the drought-ridden Arizona Territory in 1893, where Nora, a resilient frontierswoman, awaits the return of her husband, who has left in search of water, and her sons, who have completely vanished after an argument. Lurie, a former outlaw, is haunted by ghosts and embarks on a transformative journey. Their lives intertwine in an unexpected relationship that leads to a momentous expidition across the West.
Inland blends mythical storytelling with historical realism, offering a lyrical exploration of the American frontier, reimagining Western myths and crafting a captivating narrative.
Whiskey When We’re Dry by John Larison
Whiskey When We’re Dry is a tale set in the late 19th century American West. The story follows Jessilyn Harney, a determined and courageous young woman who disguises herself as a man named Jesse to pursue her outlaw brother in the rugged frontier.
As Jessilyn naviagtes the tough landscapes and lawless towns of the Wild West, she encounters outlaws, lawmen, and pioneers, all with their own secrets and motivations. Along the way, she confronts the challenges of survival, identity, and the pursuit of justice in a world where violence and deception reign.
Larison’s novel is a gripping exploration of gender roles, family bonds, and the complexities of morality. Through rich prose and historical detail, he crafts a a captivating narrative that immerses readers in the raw beauty and harsh realities of the frontier. Whiskey When We’re Dry is a powerful and unforgettable story that resonates long after the final page is turned.
Done and Dusted by Lyla Sage
Okay, now I know this one isn’t really a typical Western, BUT it is a Western-themed romance! Plus the cover is reminiscent of those old pulp cowboy novels, so I’m gonna let this one slide as a Western and include it in the list!
In Done and Dusted, Clementine “Emmy” Ryder finds herself at a crossroads after a life-altering accident shatters her dreams of horseback riding. Returning to her hometown of Meadowlark, Wyoming, she grapples with uncertainty about her future.
Meanwhile, Luke Brooks, Meadowlark’s notorious bad boy and Emmy’s brother’s best friend, finds himself drawn to Emmy despite their complicated history. As they navigate their growing attraction, both Emmy and Luke must confront their pasts and wrestle with the possibility of a future together.
With warmth and wit, Sage crafts a heartfelt story of love, redemption, and second chances against the backdrop of small-town life in the American West.
Sabrina & Corina: Stories by Kali Fajardo-Anstine
Sabrina & Corina: Stories by Kali Fajardo-Anstine is a stunning collection that explores the lives of Latina women in the American West, particularly in Denver, Colorado. Through a series of interconnected short stories, Fajardo-Anstine delves into themes of family, identity, culture, and the struggles faced by marginalized communities.
In these tales, readers encounter characters grappling with loss, displacement, and the complexities of their heritage. From young girls navigating the challenges of adolescence to mothers confronting the ghosts of their past, each story offers a poignant glimpse into the lives of women whose voices are often silenced or overlooked.
Fajardo-Anstine’s prose is vivid and evocative, painting a rich tapestry of the Denver landscape and the vibrant cultures that inhabit it. With compassion and insight, she captures the resilience and strength of her characters as they navigate the intersections of race, class, and gender in a changing world.
Sabrina & Corina is a powerful and lyrical debut that shines a light on the often-overlooked experiences of Latina women in the West. Through its intimate portrayals and masterful storytelling, Fajardo-Anstine’s collection offers a compelling exploration of identity and belonging that will resonate with readers long after the final page.
The Good Luck Girls by Charlotte Nicole Davis
The Good Luck Girls by Charlotte Nicole Davis is a gripping and powerful young adult novel set in a fantasy world inspired by the American West. The story follows a group of young women known as the Good Luck Girls who are forced into a life of servitude in the “Welcome House,” a brothel that exploits their magical abilities. When one of the girls, Clementine “Clem” accidentally kills a wealthy patron who was assaulting her sister, the girls go on the run, pursued by powerful forces determined to silence them.
As they journey across a dangerous landscape, Clem and her friends must rely on each other’s strength and resilience to survive. Along the way, they encounter allies and enemies, confront the injustices of their world, and discover the true power of friendship and solidarity.
Davis’s novel is a thrilling blend of adventure, magic, and social commentary, tackling issues such as gender, race, and class with nuance and sensitivity. With its diverse cast of characters and fast-paced plot, The Good Luck Girls is a compelling and thought-provoking read that will leave readers eagerly awaiting the next installment in the series.
Under a Painted Sky by Stacey Lee
Under a Painted Sky by Stacey Lee is a captivating historical fiction novel set against the backdrop of the mid-19th century American West. The story follows Samantha Young, a Chinese-American girl who finds herself orphaned and on the run after a tragic accident. Fleeing from the law, Samantha teams up with Annamae, a runaway slave, and the two embark on a perilous journey along the Oregon Trail.
Disguised as boys, Samantha and Annamae face countless challenges and dangers as they navigate the harsh terrain and encounter a diverse cast of characters, from rugged pioneers to ruthless outlaws. Along the way, they forge a deep and enduring bond, relying on each other’s strength and resilience to survive.
As they travel westward, Samantha and Annamae confront the realities of racism, sexism, and prejudice, while also discovering the true meaning of friendship, freedom, and self-discovery. With its richly drawn characters, evocative prose, and compelling narrative, Under a Painted Sky is a poignant and unforgettable tale of adventure, courage, and hope in the face of adversity.
Trail of Lightning by Rebecca Roanhorse
Trail of Lightning by Rebecca Roanhorse is a thrilling urban fantasy novel set in a post-apocalyptic world where the Navajo Nation has been reborn and magic has returned with devastating consequences. The story follows Maggie Hoskie, a skilled monster hunter with supernatural powers, as she navigates a treacherous landscape plagued by monsters and dark magic.
When a young girl goes missing, Maggie is reluctantly drawn into a desperate search that leads her into the heart of a dangerous conspiracy. Along the way, she teams up with Kai Arviso, a charming medicine man with secrets of his own, and together they uncover the truth behind the disappearances and confront the malevolent forces threatening their world.
Roanhorse’s novel is a thrilling blend of Navajo mythology, dystopian grit, and pulse-pounding action. As Maggie delves deeper into the mysteries surrounding her past and her powers, she must confront her own demons and make difficult choices that will determine the fate of her people.
With its vivid world-building, complex characters, and breakneck pacing, Trail of Lightning is a mesmerizing and unputdownable read that will leave readers eagerly awaiting the next installment in the series.
The Thousand Crimes of Ming Tsu by Tom Lin
In The Thousand Crimes of Ming Tsu, Ming Tsu, son of Chinese immigrants, is raised by a notorious crime syndicate leader who molds him into a lethal enforcer. When Ming falls for Ada, daughter of a powerful railroad magnate, they elope, offering Ming a chance at a new life. However, Ada is kidnapped by the railroad magnate’s henchmen, compelling Ming into service for the Central Pacific Railroad.
Determined to rescue Ada and seek revenge, Ming joins forces with a blind clairvoyant named the prophet. Together, they embark on a journey across the West, aided by a troupe of magical performers they meet along the way. Ming’s quest for justice leads to a dramatic and unexpected conclusion.
Combining the raw intensity of Cormac McCarthy with the imaginative flair of Ted Chiang, The Thousand Crimes of Ming Tsu is a gripping tale of love, vengeance, and redemption set against the backdrop of American brutality.
Lucky Red by Claudia Cravens
In Claudia Cravens’ Lucky Red, Bridget finds herself in Dodge City, destitute and disillusioned by the challenges of the unforgiving landscape and unreliable men. With only her resourcefulness to rely on, she is drawn into the world of the Buffalo Queen, the town’s sole brothel operated by women. Embracing the camaraderie and independence it offers, Bridget thrives among her fellow “sporting women.”
As tensions rise with the arrival of notorious outlaws, Bridget faces difficult choices. When the Buffalo Queen’s safety is threatened, she must confront her loyalties and forge her own path.
This reimagining of the Western genre offers a fresh take on adventure, loyalty, and love. Lucky Red is a gripping tale of resilience and self-discovery set against the backdrop of the untamed West, showcasing Cravens’ skillful storytelling and vibrant characters.
In the Distance by Hernan Diaz
The first novel by the Pulitzer Prize–winning author of Trust, an exquisite and blisteringly intelligent story of a young Swedish boy, separated from his brother, who becomes a legend and an outlaw
A young Swedish immigrant finds himself penniless and alone in California. The boy travels east in search of his brother, moving on foot against the great current of emigrants pushing west. Driven back again and again, he meets criminals, naturalists, religious fanatics, swindlers, American Indians, and lawmen, and his exploits turn him into a legend. Diaz defies the conventions of historical fiction and genre, offering a probing look at the stereotypes that populate our past and a portrait of radical foreignness.
Woman of Light by Kali Fajardo-Anstine
In every generation, there emerges a seer entrusted with preserving tales of the past.
In 1930s Denver, Luz “Little Light” Lopez, a tea leaf reader and laundress, is left to fend for herself after her brother Diego, a snake charmer and factory worker, is driven away by a violent white mob. As Luz navigates her surroundings, she experiences visions that transport her to her Indigenous homeland in the nearby Lost Territory. There, she learns of her ancestors’ struggles and triumphs, witnessing the threats they faced and the resilience they displayed.
As Luz grapples with these revelations, she realizes the importance of safeguarding her family’s stories from fading into obscurity. Kali Fajardo-Anstine’s Woman of Light is a captivating multigenerational saga, rich with the complexities of the Lopez family’s lives. Filled with unforgettable characters and profound themes of survival, secrets, and love, this novel immerses readers in Luz’s world—a world just as vibrant and intricate as the heroine herself.
Book of the Little Axe by Lauren Francis-Sharma
In 1796 Trinidad, young Rosa Rendón rebels quietly yet purposefully against societal expectations. With her bright intellect, competitive spirit, and strong opinions, Rosa refuses to conform to traditional gender roles, believing her true calling lies in managing the family farm. However, as Trinidad transitions from Spanish to British rule, the future of free black property owners like Rosa’s family becomes uncertain, jeopardizing their assets, land, and freedom.
By 1830, Rosa resides among the Crow Nation in Bighorn, Montana, alongside her husband, Edward Rose, a Crow chief, and their children. As Rosa’s son Victor approaches the pivotal age of manhood, Rosa must confront the secrets she has kept from him, prompting a journey back to their roots in Trinidad. Along this journey, Rosa grapples with painful memories and events that shaped her life, from her origins in the Caribbean to her new existence in the rugged terrain of the American West.
Lone Women by Victor Lavalle
In this gripping portrayal of the American West, Lone Women, Adelaide Henry carries with her a mysterious trunk containing a dark secret—one that causes people to vanish when it’s opened. Set in 1915, Adelaide, burdened by a tragic past, flees California and settles as a homesteader in Montana, accompanied by her enigmatic trunk. Despite the promise of free land for settlers, Adelaide finds herself entangled in a web of danger and deception, grappling with the sins that haunt her and threaten her survival in the harsh frontier.
LaValle’s masterful storytelling weaves together shimmering prose and an unforgettable cast of adventurers, exploring themes of horror, sisterhood, and redemption in the unforgiving landscape of early-twentieth-century America. Lone Women offers a mesmerizing blend of suspense and historical fiction, painting a vivid portrait of a woman’s quest to bury or redeem her troubled past amidst the vast and untamed wilderness of the West.
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