Andrew Apperley is in the East, visiting with his brother David, who he has persuaded to join him on his ranch in the West. Accompanying Andrew is a giant wolf dog named Comanche who is so wild that he has to be chained up at all times. But after Comanche saves escaped prisoner Single Jack Deems from drowning, Deems wants the dog for himself, and he follows the Apperleys west. Everything Andrew owns is imperilled by Alex Shodress, a clever and dangerous cattle thief who has learned how to steal with immunity from the law, hiding behind his gang of thugs. So when Deems shows up at the Apperley ranch to negotiate with Andrew for Comanche, Apperley tells him there is just one way he can win possession of the wolf dog, if he is willing to do it...
Frederick Schiller Faust (see also Frederick Faust), aka Frank Austin, George Owen Baxter, Walter C. Butler, George Challis, Evin Evan, Evan Evans, Frederick Faust, John Frederick, Frederick Frost, David Manning, Peter Henry Morland, Lee Bolt, Peter Dawson, Martin Dexter, Dennis Lawson, M.B., Hugh Owen, Nicholas Silver
Max Brand, one of America's most popular and prolific novelists and author of such enduring works as Destry Rides Again and the Doctor Kildare stories, died on the Italian front in 1944.
I enjoyed this novel that introduces Andrew Apperley when he visits his brother David Andrew brings along a giant wolf dog, Comanche. Something his brother didn't expect. Comanche is wild and has to be chained up for the safety of others. The Apperley brothers come across a man drowning and Comanche surprises all when he becomes a hero. Good story.
It was an interesting story which captured the idyllic wild west of good vs evil, and redemption. However, the writing style just wasn't something I could connect with as it had a dime novel feel. With that said I know of several people I could recommend to read more from this author. It's never a waste of time when you find something you can use to connect with other readers.
Great story of the bond between wolf and man and the power of their commitment to each other. Great read of those who like to take a little diversion into the world of the Ole' West.