When to Fire, Ryan Standley’s latest novella, is a captivating blend of classic Western grit and mind-bending science fiction. What begins as a traditional tale of a legendary gunslinger on the run evolves into a narrative filled with unexpected twists reminiscent of Planet of the Apes. Standley’s ability to merge these genres creates a story that is both surprising and thrilling. The novella introduces us to a trio of infamous bandits: Chaske, Euna, and Matt Frimm, known as the Pistol Kid. Their exploits across the frontier, robbing banks to fund the Native cause against an oppressive federal government, form the story’s foundation. When a heist goes awry, Chaske is killed, leaving Euna and Matt to navigate a dangerous path of survival, rebellion, and personal discovery—all while chasing the mystery of Matt’s missing parents.

Initially, the plot unfolds with a familiar, almost predictable rhythm. The Pistol Kid channels a Robin Hood-like charm, a rogue with a noble heart hidden beneath his swagger. Euna, too, follows a well-worn archetype of the strong, determined outlaw. Yet, as the story progresses, these familiar tropes give way to something far more intricate. After an audacious bank heist spirals into chaos, the narrative takes a sharp turn. Matt gains access to a mysterious power that transforms him into a “Seer,” granting visions of the past and future. This newfound ability elevates him from a sharpshooting outlaw to a near-supernatural force. Standley uses these powers to craft exhilarating action scenes, where Matt’s precognitive edge allows him to dominate gunfights with uncanny precision, solidifying his place as a larger-than-life hero.

Despite its brevity, When to Fire develops its characters with remarkable depth. Matt’s powers serve not only as a narrative device for thrilling action but also as a lens to explore both his and Euna’s motivations, vulnerabilities, and shared history. Euna’s ultimate fate is revealed early, yet this knowledge heightens, rather than diminishes, the emotional stakes and tension as the story unfolds. Standley’s novella excels as a fusion of cowboy adventure and speculative fiction, anchored by an intriguing central mystery. The hints at a broader mythology suggest a world ripe for further exploration, leaving readers eager for a sequel that could delve deeper into its lore. If there’s a flaw, it’s that When to Fire ends too soon. Its rapid pace keeps the story moving but leaves little time to fully savor the rich world Standley has created. Just as the momentum reaches its peak, the novella concludes, leaving readers yearning for more.

In When to Fire, Ryan Standley delivers a thrilling and imaginative ride, seamlessly blending the grit of the Wild West with the wonder of science fiction. It’s a story that sticks with you, not just for what it is but for the tantalizing promise of what it could become.

Pages: 126 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0DX8CBT8N