The Red River

Rivers West #17

by Frederic Bean

Elias Mcbee and Seth Booker have fought and killed more than their fair share of river pirates while piloting flatboats on the Mississippi. Tired of the life, they set out on the Red River following vague rumors of riches to be had west, beyond the frontier. The untamed land beyond the frontier is a mystery seen only by a handful of Americans, but it promises wealth and escape for Elias and Seth. But promises are often too good to be true and the two men quickly find themselves living among the smallpox ravaged Kiowa Indians. All too soon they find themselves caught between the warring tribes of the Kiowa and their enemies the Osage. Once again Elias and Seth must decide between flight or fight as their lives hang in the balance.

Genres: Westerns

272 pages, Paperback

First published November 3, 1997

Reviews

[Alton Motobu · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ex-rivermen, Eli McBee and Seth Booker, set out to become fur trappers on the Red River. They encounter a couple of Jesuit priests who are trying to build a mission. All get caught in the middle of a tribal war between the Kiowas and Osages. Seth is mistaken for a god because of his dark skin and 6' height. He helps fight off a small pox epidemic. Eli falls in love with an Indian girl. They kill the Osage chief and stave off the war. Nothing special.

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

Definitely kept my attention. Bantam books are usually good.