Why read The Notorious Luke Short?

Book cover of The Notorious Luke Short

Book description

Luke Short perfected his skills as a gambler in locations that included Leadville, Tombstone, Dodge City, and Fort Worth. In 1883, in what became known as the "Dodge City War," he banded together with Wyatt Earp, Bat Masterson, and others to protect his ownership interests in the Long Branch Saloon…

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American history

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Why read it?

1 author picked The Notorious Luke Short as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

David Grassé

Author

Luke Short is best remembered as a gambler and gunfighter, and a friend of Wyatt Earp. This biography deconstructs the myth which has been built up around the man, and also some myths about the Old West. There was no such thing as gunfighters, just men, like Short, who occasionally had to use a gun. It also gives the reader a good idea of what it was to be a professional gambler during this era.

From David's 3 favorite reads in 2025.