Published in the spring of 1902, the same year as The Virginian, Frances McElrath's novel The Rustler enjoyed only brief success before fading from public memory. While The Virginian has indisputably served as the model for the genre of the Western, The Rustler remains virtually unknown. Although both novels were inspired by the Johnson County massacre, The Rustler is an account sympathetic to the perspective of the small cattleman, while The Virginian takes the part of the large cattle operations. Both novels also address, with differing conclusions, the clash between the independent Western man and the genteel Eastern woman. In this story of the stoic, competent, and fiercely independent cowboy Jim and his ill-fated love for the beautiful Hazel Clifford, McElrath offers an alternative view of the West and the standard marriage plot. In contrast to The Virginian, The Rustler points to the vulnerability of the cowboy ethos and a different sort of redemption for the frivolous Eastern woman. The Rustler is also a significant example of the connection between popular and literary traditions whereby sentimentalism, the Western, and a feminist perspective converge in surprising and fascinating ways.

Where does an outlaw go when he's ready to turn straight? For Wyatt Yarbro, reformed rustler and train robber, Stone Creek is his place of redemption. And lovely Sarah Tamlin is the perfect angel to help him clean up his act.… But Sarah keeps a dark secret behind her prim and proper facade, even as her heart is lost to charming, sexy Wyatt. When a vengeful enemy prepares to unleash havoc on the peaceful town, Wyatt and Sarah will discover that they can't hide from the past. To win the fight, they must believe in something they never trusted before—the hope of tomorrow.

Saul Chadron's plan to hire Mark Thorn to kill the rustler, Alan MacDonald, goes awry with his own daughter falling for his enemy. On the top of it, he couldn't have anticipated the huge backlash the rustlers would put up against him and his mighty band of settlers. Who will have the last word or say the last bullet? Excerpt: "When a man came down out of the mountains looking dusty and gaunt as the stranger did, there was no marvel in the matter of his eating five cans of cove oysters. The one unaccountable thing about it was that Saul Chadron, president of the Drovers' Association, should sit there at the table and urge the lank, lean starveling to go his limit. Usually Saul Chadron was a man who picked his companions, and was a particular hand at the choosing. He could afford to do that, being of the earth's exalted in the Northwest, where people came to him and put down their tribute at his feet..."

When he arrives in Stone Creek to start a new life, reformed rustler and train robber Wyatt Yarbro sets his sights on prim and proper Sarah Tamlin who, unbeknownst to Wyatt, is harboring her own dark secret.

Rosie and her wranglers meet up with Greasy Ben and his gang in this rollicking tale of adventure. "The Old West has never been more appealing than in this rip-roaring tale of ranchers vs. rustlers [with] clever, charming, and detailed watercolor illustrations." --"School Library Journal"

Reproduction of the original: The Rustlers of Pecos Country by Zane Grey

This adventure classic follows two Texas rangers. They are sent to small town of Linrock in order to beat the gang of rustlers who are controlling the town. However, they will fall in love with two girls who may be related to the leader of the gang of rustlers… Zane Grey (1872-1939) was an American author best known for his popular adventure novels and stories that were a basis for the Western genre in literature and the arts. With his veracity and emotional intensity, he connected with millions of readers worldwide, during peacetime and war, and inspired many Western writers who followed him. Grey was a major force in shaping the myths of the Old West; his books and stories were adapted into other media, such as film and TV productions. He was the author of more than 90 books, some published posthumously and/or based on serials originally published in magazines.

Zane Grey's novel, 'The Rustlers of Pecos County', is a classic Western tale set in the rugged landscape of Texas. With vivid descriptions of the untamed wilderness and thrilling shootouts, Grey's literary style captures the essence of the Wild West. The story follows the protagonist, Jim Traft, as he navigates the dangers of cattle rustlers and bandits, showcasing themes of justice, loyalty, and bravery. Written in a straightforward yet engaging manner, this book appeals to fans of Western literature and those interested in the historical American frontier. Grey's attention to detail and realistic characters bring the narrative to life, immersing readers in the harsh reality of the frontier life. As one of the pioneers of Western fiction, Grey's authentic portrayal of the Old West continues to resonate with audiences today.