"Trouble in Peaceful Haven" - a Science fiction/western Mash-Up Novella Review

Fast Facts:

Title: "Trouble in Peaceful Haven"
Author: C.R. Leverette
​Genre: Science Fiction (Western twist)
Rating: 4.5 stars

A quintessential science fiction with a loving "western" dressing that has a storyline which can be enjoyed by all!

Trouble in Peaceful Haven is a science fiction/western novella that was just filled with pleasant surprises. C.R. Leverette carves his world with beautiful descriptions and fills it with a solid storyline.

When you first crack the story open, you don't immediately realize you're on another planet. The author drops hint and after hint that makes the discovery pleasant for the reader. (A man with ocular implant? Hmmm...) The balance between futuristic tech and a calming old western vibe was done tastefully throughout the story, and the author's attention to detail is really what sets this apart from the staggering choices for your next read. I will say, while western in taste, I wouldn't say it's steampunk.

The story's voice alternates between various points of view- from the conflicted main character Movian Jenks, pleasant tavern owner Bill Conner, to the mysterious Darin (and more!). One thing I love is that the antagonist, Darin, isn't a 2D bully- he is fully fleshed with a heart-wrenching reason for his arrival to shake things up in Peaceful Haven. The prose was well written, and it read smoothly. There was one "reveal" at the end from Bill Conner to Movian Jenks about his fiancé that I didn't understand why Movian didn't know from the start (WHY, Bill???) But I won't spoil it here.
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It took me only two (work) days to inhale this lovely story! I highly recommend this.Trouble in Peaceful Haven motivates me to seek outmode novellas and shorter pieces. I also can't wait to see more of C.R. Leverette. 

Peace!

J.E. Klimov

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