The Raiders of Spanish Peaks

"Laramie's horse went lame, and as it was the only living creature he had to care for, he halted at mid-day, without thought of his own needs." With this opening line Zane Grey introduces another of his famous gunfighters, and with the addition of a couple of companions, he helps John Lindsey and his family settle in on the range known as Spanish Peaks. Lindsey had come west because of an illness in hopes the drier climate would ease his illness, but Spanish Peaks set smack dab in the middle of a dangerous gang of outlaws and cattle thieves who effectively controlled the area. Harriet Lindsey, the oldest daughter, is asked by her father to persuade Laramie to stay on at the ranch when it seems he is quitting so, "he can have a free hand" after Lenta is taken captive. Lindsey fears Laramie will simply ride on when the job is finished and they need him to head the protective organization, and he knows money won't keep him; so, it was only right the daughter is to persuade him to stay. Zane Grey is at his best creating conflict and romance.