Book Description
With laudibly unsentimental prose and sure command of character, Antler Dust takes us on a dark hunting trip throught the snowy Rockies. Pitting a tough but vulnerable heroine against a killer out to bag more than elk, Mark Stevens gives new meaning to the term 'trophy kill'.
Customer Reviews:
No need for a travel agent; Stevens puts you in the Rockies.......2007-08-15
"Antler Dust" puts the reader smack dab in the middle of high adventure, as in "high in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado."
Author Mark Stevens has crafted a multi-threaded tale of mystery and intrigue that moves quickly and gives readers a you-are-there feeling. My only complaint stems from the fact that I really don't like winter, snow or cold. Even though I read this in the heat of summer, Stevens literally made me cold with his descriptiveness of the snow-covered mountains of Colorado. But that's really not something about which to complain. That's good writing.
The story centers on two dead bodies found in the mountains and the life ripples that emanate from there. Hunting guides and rangers are the key players, but twists are added to the equation with animal activists and media types. Stevens not only sets his outdoors with vivid back-country imagery, he also paints cityscapes and small towns with finely detailed strokes.
But even beyond the clarity of his scene setting, Stevens made real each of his characters. I got the sense that each person he wrote was alive with distinct motivations, inner turmoil and specifically unique speech patterns. The handful of meetings of rough, tough mountain types and image-savvy, 21st-century PR pros were some of my favorite scenes, just for the way Stevens was able to create contrast without the sense that he was playing favorites or making value judgments. It was pure joy to read such great text.
I found this book fulfilling from every character, setting and storytelling aspect. It's rewarding from beginning to end.
Greed and Death in "Antler Dust".......2007-07-27
Allison Coil came out to Colorado's Flat Top wilderness to leave memories of death and destruction behind. Which is somewhat ironic since her new chosen profession was to be a hunting guide where she would routinely see death. The concept of death and what death means has become an almost constant companion while she seeks solace in the beautiful Colorado Mountains and in the local area known as Ripplecreek. Hunting guides aren't a rarity in the mountains but being a woman she stands out and once again has to prove herself--especially to the good old boy network. Of course, if the protest group "Fighting Animal Torture Everywhere" otherwise known as "FATE" has its way, nobody will be hunting in the mountains anymore.
As a snowstorm descends on the area, Alison Coil hears a gunshot. Certainly not unusual but the actions of who she thinks is the shooter when she catches a glimpse of him through the swirling snow make her wonder. She watches him or her over on the next ridge dragging something and then the snow thickens and she loses sight of what was happening. Something didn't look right and she thinks about it as she works to guide herself and her horse, Bear, safely off the mountain. Her suspicions are further encouraged when she learns that a local hunting guide is missing as is one of the protestors. She knows something funny is going on and after being shoved aside once too many times when she spoke up, begins to investigate in her own way.
In a novel that shifts point of view through numerous characters, Author Mark Stevens weaves a compelling tale of greed a d murder with the majestic beauty of the Colorado Rockies as his backdrop. Allison Coil is a strong complex character who quickly comes to life despite some of the other characters who seem to be little more than stock stereotype figures. A first novel from the author, it shows most tellingly in that a significant portion of the character depth is reserved for Coil. However, it is also clear that at least two of the secondary characters have definite possibilities should this work become part of a series.
Where the author showcases real talent is in the weaving of the various storylines as well as bringing alive the beauty of the setting. A theme within the work is the fact that responsible hunting is a necessary part of wildlife management today. That theme coupled with the concept of what it means to be a female guide in an area dominated by men could have become a series of information dumps that would preach to readers. Instead, showing real skill, the information is occasionally presented in the course of doing other things and never becomes the reason for anything.
Add in the scenic beauty and the at times harsh elements, good old fashioned greed with a thoroughly modern twist, along with several plot surprises in the last fifty pages and the result is a very good book. Author Mark Stevens has created a very good read that quickly becomes a real page turner and one well worth your reading investment.
Kevin R. Tipple © 2007
I stayed up to read this book.......2007-07-27
I read it in a few days. It is a good book. A good summer read. Taking place in the Colorado Rockies, the story tells of a murder or two and the character trying to solve them on her own, with, of course, someone trying to stop her.
I basically judge a book, by whether I stay up at night to read it. This one kept me up a couple of nights. I loved it.
An easy fun read. I recommend it.
What a WOW of a first novel!.......2007-07-25
The best writing is writing which is invisible to the reader. It lets you sink right into the story and become part of the action. That's the way first-time author Mark Stevens has written this novel, Antler Dust. There is nothing to clog our thoughts or make us second-guess what the author means. We can just plunge into the story and read it through to the end.
Antler Dust takes place in the Colorado Rockies during elk-hunting season. Plenty of action is going on already, when an animal rights group shows up to protest the hunt. But out there in the drifting snow and cold, two people will die-one of them an animal rights protestor who dresses up like a deer and goes up the mountain hoping to make an example of himself. His hope is realized.
Meanwhile, another hunting guide simply disappears. The readers will see what happens to him right away, but that doesn't detract from the story, since there is more going on here than hunting and killing. Lead character Allison Coil hears a shot that is muffled by the snow and distance, and later sees the snow-dashed shape of a figure lugging something downhill. When she starts to investigate what she has seen, it leads her to rival outfitter George Grumley, who "always gets his elk"--using technology which is forbidden on the hunt. From there, Allison unwinds a crooked trail which will lead her to suspect everyone she trusts and holds dear.
This very readable and enjoyable novel is a fine first effort by a new author. Mark Stevens lives in Colorado and worked as a newspaper reporter and television producer before he began his current career in school public relations.
Armchair Interviews says: Excellent first novel. Hope many more books are in his (and our future).
A New and Worthy Talent.......2007-07-19
One of the best things I can ever say about a book is the ending surprised me and this one did.
Mix a woman working as a guide for a outfitter during Colorado's deer and elk season, a couple of murders, animal rights activists and a delightful sense of place with terrific characterizations and you you have Antler Dust by Mark Stevens.
The best compliment I or any other reader can pay a writer is to say we look forward to his next book--and I am.
If you like Antler Dust please check out my books How I Got Published: Famous Authors Tell You in Their Own Words and The Towers Of Greed.
Customer Reviews:
Great Book!.......2006-03-27
My husband is reading this book (I bought it as a present for him), and I know it's good because he spends time EVERY night pouring through the pages, comparing notes with other books, and planning his next hunt. :) RT
First class read for every elk hunter.......2005-09-02
As a fellow author and elk hunter I try to read everything I can get my hands on, on the subject of elk and elk hunting. Theodore Roosevelt said," People who love the outdoors should be omnivorous readers. If so, they have the best of two worlds. They learn more-and enjoy life more."
Bob Robb's, The Ultimate Guide to Elk Hunting is a must read for elk hunters of all skill levels.
Book Description
A comprehensive guide to hunting elk in any situation.
Customer Reviews:
The complete book of elk hunting.......2007-01-04
Excellent source for elk hunters, to review and obtain guidance
Not that great.......2006-03-09
This book was all together disappointing. It was very repeative and offered very little useful information. It had one or two good points, but repeated them over and over. If you want to hunt elk in Montana, this book goes over every possible place an elk could be, whick is a lot of places. Parts of the book were controdictory to other parts. No mention of field judging antlers, and very little mention of useful equipment. If you are looking for a good elk hunting book check out elk hunting by mike eastman.
From the behavior of big bulls to stalking, tracking and other tactics.......2005-12-05
Elk are one of the most popular hunting sources in the West, but they can be elusive despite their bulk and hunters need to understand their habits and habitat, to be successful. Enter The Complete Book Of Elk Hunting: Tips And Tactics For All Weather And Habitat Conditions. From the behavior of big bulls to stalking, tracking and other tactics, Sam Curtis has spent 30 years hunting elk successfully and here explores all the methods which have contributed to his own success.
Book Description
Elk Hunting 101 is the best field guide on elk hunting in ten years. Elk Hunting 101 is a compact and comprehensive 144 page guide for elk hunters of all skill levels, packed with vital strategies, tactics, and information designed to help elk hunters and future elk hunters become more successful. You will notice that I have included many practical "Tips" on elk hunting. These are identified by bold print. The idea that anyone could or should memorize the entire content of a book is ridiculous, so I have chosen easy to remember tidbits that I believe can help you to become a more knowledgeable and more successful elk hunter.
Finally, it is important to keep in mind that Elk Hunting 101 is designed to be taken with you into the field. It is formatted to fit in a hunters cargo pants pocket. As Elk hunting 101 is intended to be a learning experience, each page has wide margins in which to takes notes during the hunt.
Customer Reviews:
Easy to read but light on technical data.......2007-08-20
This book should be titled "Chicken Soup for the Elk Hunter". It is folksy and easy to read but light on technical detail. I didn't get very much knowledge from the book although I enjoyed parts of it.
The book is definately not written for bowhunters.
Book Description
Here are 330 trail-tested, hunter-proven tips from people who know elk hunting -- members of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.
Customer Reviews:
Good collection of tips.......2005-10-15
This is a good book to sit and peruse when you have idle moments, the "tips" are all only about a paragraph long. These tips are time-tested bits of advice from experienced elk hunters regarding such practical issues as clothing, gear, handling the meat, etc. They may not all be applicable to your situation, but if you find just one tidbit that makes your hunt easier, safer, or more enjoyable, it's worth the price of the book.
Good for its purpose.......2003-11-15
If you're looking for a comprehensive guide to elk hunting, this isn't it! On the other hand, if you just want to spend some time looking through the thoughts and ideas of other elk hunters, buy this book.
Yes, some of the suggestions are contradictory. That's because this is a compilation of ideas from many different people. Ask three different hunters the best way to take an elk and you'll probably get five different answers! And all five of them are in this book.
For me, this is the perfect "bathroom book." You know, the one you can pick up and glance through when you've got nothing else to do. You don't have to start at the beginning and read through to the end. Open it to any page and see what another hunter has to say.
Especially considering the very reasonable price, I definitely recommend this book.
Marginal.......2003-01-07
Many of the tips in this book may be O.K for a begining hunter, but anyone who has spent very much time in the field, will not find many new ideas. I suppose any new idea may be helpful, but I was disappointed to only find a few.
Tips and Tactics Only Average.......2002-01-14
Elk Hunting Secrets offers more conflicting anecdotes than helpful suggestions. The stories and tips, while often amusing, seemed to conflict with each other more often than not and as such could leave the curious but unexperienced elk hunter scratching his head. My recommendation is: if you are an experienced elk hunter, you will find the stories and tips interesting, funny, and maybe from time to time, helpful. For the price, its not a bad little book. For the inexperienced hunter, look elsewhere before turning to this book. You may end up being more confused than enlightened.
One afterthought - the tips for camp and horse care were for the most part very good. If you are the leader or host of a yearly elk camp, this book may have something for you.
Somewhat less than 330 tips.......2000-07-09
When the title says tips that is exactly what it means, this is a compendium of blurbs about elk hunting that range from one liners to several paragraphs. While this book has some interesting and useful information a lot of it is not detailed enough, and there is a lot of tongue in cheek for a book that is supposed to be serious. A little more editing to remove the filler would have been useful. For the price, its not too bad, but if you expect integrated information on elk hunting spend the extra money for one of the more in-depth books.
Book Description
Advanced strategies for hunting and calling elk.
Customer Reviews:
Highly Recommended to All Elk Hunters.......2007-09-25
This is a very good book for new and experienced elk hunters. I found the first hand experiences of the authors extremely helpful in my preparations for the season. They share their own ideas on many aspects of elk hunting that helped me in the planning phases of my next hunt. I found the information on set-up and calling most helpful but enjoyed it all. Most hunters I know are always seeking new ideas on how to improve their success ratio and this book definitely provides some excellent information to consider the next time you're in the field.
Excellent coverage of strategy.......2005-02-03
Elk Tactics provides a verbally, but not pictorally graphic discussion of Elk hunting strategy. The authors focus on strategy and gloss over discussions of gear. You can find many references on gear and nobody agrees anyway so this is not a serious shortcomming of the work. I found the section on where to hunt very useful as a starting point for some serious pre-season scouting and map work. The descriptions of elk habitat and how to hunt it was very clear and logical. You will need more than this book to get the full spectrum of all that you need to know, but at the modest price it is highly recommended. I appreciated the author's contribution to the field of elk hunting literature and am confident that you will also.
Elk Tactics.......2000-01-18
Very well wriiten book on elk hunting. Not fluffy and very informative. Could have been longer and a bit more detailed in some aspects however.
Book Description
An expert guide to setting up and maintaining a comfortable, safe hunting camp.
Customer Reviews:
Creating a Traditional Elk Camp: Where the Heart of the Hunt Is Found .......2007-02-07
This is a book of narrow scope. It has some good info if you are interested in one specific kind of camp (wall tents). This is akin to writing a book about cars and only mentioning station wagons. I was expecting more of a camp life kind of thing.
I would also have liked to see some color photos and more of them.
Creating a Traditional Elk Camp.......2007-01-11
Well written, enjoyable and practical for anyone wishing to use a tent for hunting or other types of outdoor recreation.
Book Description
The ultimate source book on elk and elk hunting, from past to present, for the beginner and experts alike.
Customer Reviews:
For the Elk 'Buff'.......2007-08-16
I am grateful for the informative nature of this book...if one can be a 'Civil War Buff', then I suppose that I am an Elk Buff, as well. A Buff is a newcomer, a pilgrim...and that is what this book is aimed at. The author has gauged the greenhorn pretty well and anticipated questions about the animals, their smells and foods, and the details such as the weather and terrain in which one finds the giant creatures.
Because 'The Elk Hunter' is in my mitts, I feel a a tremendous weight of ignorance lifted from my shoulders about my upcoming elk hunt. I just pity my three companions, who don't have this book in their backpacks.
Laubach and Henckel are not necessarily great writers, but pretty straightfoward communicators about the subject on which they can lecture in their sleep. There is a credibility that seeps out of the covers of the book, that this is the real deal. When the cover wears out, tape it back on and keep it handy.
Thos. B. Fowler
Great Book.......2005-12-28
I grew up a whitetail hunter, but recently moved to the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. Having never hunted elk, or even public land, I nervously headed out on my first elk hunt this season. I luckily (or as the book suggests, unfortunately) shot a bull on my second day out of my first time elk hunting. After hearing how rare my experience was from many local long-time hunters, I dedided my mission was to prove them wrong next season... but I knew that I had a lot of work to do to learn this new way of hunting. I bought The Elk Hunter only a week after my successful hunt and feel it has given me a great foundation to start scouting for next year. The book does a good job of giving you a "feel" of where to find elk. On some recent snowshoe outings I have found myself constantly looking at the topography and vegetation of the surrounding areas and determining if it is an area that would hold elk and how I would hunt it. A great book- I definitely recommend it for someone needing a broad foundation on which years of elk hunting can be built.
An excellent source book for beginners and veterans alike........1998-12-16
This book is easy reading and packed full on tips. The authors reveal tips about elk that unless yu have spent years among them in the wild you will never learn. I have bowhunted for 6 years. This was only my 2nd year bowhunting elk. I read the book to give me a little edge and it worked. I won't be one of the people these guys refer to that go years without getting an elk. The tips in this book and all of the information about elk refreshes your memory about what you CAN do to improve your chances of having a successful season. I plan to read it again next year before I head out after these elusive and majestic mammals. Get it, read it, try it. Good luck!
Excellent overall information for all levels of experience........1998-09-25
The newest book by the same authors is actually even better. Both are excellent in the approach to the subject, advice given, and readability. I have learned a great deal from each of these books...as a student of elk hunting must always strive to do!
Product Description
Elk Hunting 201, Big Bulls...Essentials for a Successful Hunt is the sequel to Jay Houston's best selling book Elk Hunting 101, A Pocketbook Guide to Elk Hunting. Elk Hunting 201 takes the reader to the next level, teaching more on how to become a successful elk hunter. Elk Hunting 201 introduces some new strategies on how and where to locate big bulls including what Jay calls Extreme Elk Hunting. Like Elk Hunting 101, this volume is full of elk hunting stories designed to help communicate topics essential to success in elk hunting.
Customer Reviews:
The Sequel is never as good as the original........2007-08-20
This book should be titled "Chicken Soup for the Elk Hunter Part Two". It is folksy and easy to read but light on technical detail. I didn't get very much knowledge from the book although I enjoyed parts of it.
The book is definately not written for bowhunters.
Elk Hunting 201, Big Bulls.......2007-03-09
This is an excellent follow-up book to the "101" Edition. There is valuable information and essential hunting tips, from binoculars and boots to rifles and scopes. Plus, Jay Houston is a valuable resource of experience and knowledge for questions and recommendations for quality hunts and trust-worthy outfitters.
Average customer rating:
- Comprehensive Research
- Elk Talk
- Elk hunting guide
- Elk hunting guide
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Elk Talk
Don Laubach
Manufacturer: Falcon
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Similar Items:
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The Elk Hunter
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Elk Tactics
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The Ultimate Guide to Elk Hunting
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Elk Hunting Guide: Skills, Gear, And Insight
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Elk Hunting Secrets
ASIN: 0937959227 |
Book Description
Your guide to finding elk, calling elk, and hunting elk with a rifle, bow and arrow, or a camera.
Customer Reviews:
Comprehensive Research.......2007-10-05
As an elk hunter, I found every chapter well researched and valuable. There were enough personal stories attached as illustrations to keep it a page turner.
Elk Talk.......2001-02-24
Elk Talk is a very informative book, which I have found to be very useful and has given me ideas for the upcoming archery season. Mark Henckel and Don Laubach seem to have all there hunting ideas together and are very experinced on the topic of elk calling wether it be for hunting or for enjoyment. I would recommend this book to anyone who would like to be a more succesful hunter or just enjoys the world of elk.
Elk hunting guide.......2001-01-27
I read Elk Hunter about 4 years ago and found it to be a vital part to my elk hunting library. This books gives many ideas and strategies that will pay off when your chasing those majestic elk around. I have used some of the tactics that are mentioned in the book and found them to be quite useful at times. They cover a lot of ground in this book and I would recommend this book to anybody who is looking to start elk hunting . Ever since I read this book I have harvested 4 bulls in 4 years. Do I owe it all to the book you ask? No way. Hard work and leg work is something you have to do by yourself. I would also like to say that this book does not get into the bow hunting side and that was something I just had to deal with. So if your a person who would like to know about elk and the habits then this book will suit your needs just fine.
Elk hunting guide.......2001-01-27
I read Elk Hunter about 4 years ago and found it to be a vital part to my elk hunting library. This books gives many ideas and strategies that will pay off when your chasing those majestic elk around. I have used some of the tactics that are mentioned in the book and found them to be quite useful at times. They cover a lot of ground in this book and I would recommend this book to anybody who is looking to start elk hunting . Ever since I read this book I have harvested 4 bulls in 4 years. Do I owe it all to the book you ask? No way. Hard work and leg work is something you have to do by yourself. I would also like to say that this book does not get into the bow hunting side and that was something I just had to deal with. So if your a person who would like to know about elk and the habits then this book will suit your needs just fine.
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