If you receive Craig Johnson’s newsletter through his website, https://craigallenjohnson.com/, you may have already read most of the short stories in Have Courage: Longmire Stories. But, you haven’t read “Angel Shot with a Twist”, previously unpublished. And, you didn’t have the pleasure of reading all these holiday stories together, reading about Sheriff Walt Longmire from Absaroka County, Wyoming, and his co-workers.
The book is introduced by A. Martinez who played Jacob Nighthorse in the TV show “Longmire”. He’s right in his description of Longmire. “The big man is whip-smart, doggedly fair-minded, and committed to justice…” Martinez goes on to delve into the sheriff’s personality and soul. Longmire is beloved by readers, and these short stories, with satisfying, sometimes funny endings, show why.
There are thirteen stories to savor in this enjoyable collection. I had several favorites. “The Perfect A”, set Sept. 30, 1972 during a Wyoming ice storm is the story of a Basque sheepherder and a violin. That one brought a few tears.
There’s a hostage situation at the Congregational Church In “Land of the Blind”, and Longmire’s deputy, Double-Tough, handles it in an unusual manner.
“Musical Chairs’ has such a funny ending that my sister laughed when I related the story to her. That ending might be my favorite. Walt is so practical with his solutions when dealing with people in trouble.
Or, even when he’s dealing with skunks as in “Scents of the Season” when a skunk shows up for a dinner party. Fans of the series probably won’t remember Longmire’s Deputy Vic Moretti being scared. In this story, and in “Recidivism”, it’s a surprise as to who is releasing animals, skunks or dogs.
Craig Johnson’s short stories are clever, capturing the holiday feeling and Longmire’s Absaroka County. Between the animals, a few drunks, a few people in need, and Walt Longmire’s team, Have Courage is a charming collection.
Craig Johnson’s website is https://craigallenjohnson.com/
Have Courage: Longmire Stories by Craig Johnson. Viking, 2026. 252p.
FTC Full Disclosure – The publicist supplied a galley through NetGalley, with no expectation of a positive review.
