American Westerns discussion

I remember reading one of Mr. L'Amour's books about a boy whose father "died winners." The father won big at some type of gambling (probably cards, not sure), then was almost immediately killed. The boy manages to escape with his father's winnings, and caches part of it before taking off to a new life.
I loved the book. I'd like to read it again. lol - but I can't remember the title! Does this sound familiar? Please post the title if you know it. :-D Thanks

Was it "Reilly's Luck"?

Oh, that's a good one! Unfortunately, it's not the one I remember. The one I'm thinking of doesn't involve a mother at all, just a father (biological) who mostly gambles and loses. Until his last game...

That sounds like The Proving Trail—except I think it begins with the boy trying to retrieve some or all of his father's stolen winnings. Unfortunately not the best L'Amour I've read; the plot is terribly confusing!

Thanks, Elisabeth, I think that's it! As far as confusing plot lines, I'd vote for Fair Blows the Wind, though. Of course, given that I couldn't even remember this title, I obviously need to read it again before I decide for sure. ;-)

Lea,

Thanks for prompting me to head for the library to check out Jory by Milton Bass ... book starts with father getting killed in saloon ... considered putting this comment in with best westerns discussion. Think this will be my fourth read ... a laugh out loud tale the author likely had fun writing.

Jory

:) Life is just full of dominoes!