I have read all 3 volumes of the Bent Knife Westerns and each one keeps improving on the storyline. I can't wait to read about the rescue of Red Leaf in the next volume. There is so much that I like about the books but 3 aspects of Dave's writing make it hard to put the book down! The first is the excellent character development making you feel like these are real people and long time friends. Second are the realistic fight scenes which are very engrossing and support the adventures of the characters and third is the historic setting including weapons and locations. A must read for western fans. Ron Cleaves