"THERE ARE LOTS OF SECRETS IN THE NEVADA DESERT.": AN INTERVIEW WITH THE BLUE HORSE'S BRUCE BORGOS

Bruce Borgos' latest novel dealing with Sheriff Porter Beck has him investigating the murders connected to the the controversial wild horse roundup that pits activists against ranchers. Mr. Borgos took some questions about the book, the series, and his Nevada setting.

SCOTT MONTGOMERY: What drew you to the setup of a murder on a wild horse roundup?

BRUCE BORGOS:The wild horse issue is constantly in the news in my state of Nevada. It’s a political battle, and these government round ups are very controversial. I figured a murder on one of those was the perfect way to start the story.

S.M.: What I dug about the book was the craftsmanshIp of how  the story directly affected all of the supporting characters as well as Breck. Is that something you consider before writing?

B.B.: Yes. When I outline each book, I’m thinking about ways I can use the storyline to touch the lives of each character. They’re human beings. They need to be affected.

S.M.: Charlie Blue Horse is a great character. How did you constRuct hr as both a foil and love interest for Breck?

B.B.: Beck needed a love interest. He was getting close to 50. Charlie was the perfect match, someone who shared his interests, would challenge his brain, and have his back in a fight. 

S.M.: Besides familiarity, what does the rural side of Nevada allow for you to do as a writer?

B.B.: Pick a whole lot of low hanging fruit. About 80% of Nevada is owned by the federal government. So there are forces at play that often conflict with local interests. There are lots of secrets in the Nevada desert! That gives me ideas!

S.M.: Your books often start as mysteries, at least for a while turn into thrillers, and carry a western setting and attitude. What do you enjoy about working in cross-genre?

B.B.: I was always a bigger thriller fan than a mystery fan, but as a writer I enjoy having my protagonist trying to solve a crime. I think the two genres blend pretty seamlessly and I enjoy using the elements of both to create that sense of urgency in my novels.

S.M.: What makes Porter Beck a good series character for you?

B.B.: Beck has some unique gifts that serve him well, but he’s not indestructible. He’s battling a progressive eye disease and has some real family issues. He’s real. I think readers relate to him.