John Coffey Hays is just nineteen when he arrives in the town of Nacogdoches Republic of Texas in
1836. Moments later when a man is killed, none of the witnesses dispute that Jack acted in self-
defense. Despite his young age, Jack is a man who commands perhaps just as much fear as
respect.
Although Jack is too late to enlist in the fight for Texas Independence, he soon joins the ranging
company of Deaf Smith and begins a thirteen-year history of defending Texans from raids by
Comanche bands and Mexican bandits. When he is just twenty-three, he is made a captain of the
Texas Rangers. As he becomes known as a fearless fighter, Jack leads a group of men who will
follow him anywhere and under any circumstances. While Jack's Rangers scout, defend US supply
and communication lines from attacks by Mexican guerrillas, and fight with army units in the
Mexican- American War, the men earn a significant reputation for bravery and success. As Jack's
journey leads him to love and eventually marriage, he leads his Rangers to identify a county,
ultimately transforming Texas history forever.
In this fascinating historical novel, a young Texas Ranger leads his men in fierce battles against
Comanche raiders, Mexican bandits, and the Texas Regiment in the Mexican-American War.
REVIEWS (top of the back cover. Same as the prev book cover)
"An artful take on Texas history, Defender of the Texas Frontier fleshes out a legend"
-Clarion Review
"Defender of the Texas Frontier is a fascinating window into a little-understood period in America's
past, as well as an absorbing story about one hero's westward expansion."
-Blue Ink Review
"An engaging fictionalized review of the fight for Texas that should resonate with history buffs"
-Kirkus Review
