The gripping tale of a murder in Dodge City

in 1878—and how legendary lawmen chased down the killer

 

 

“Written with cinematic clarity and a galloping pace . . . this charming book is the perfect read for anyone lingering over a drink (or two) in a dusty Western saloon on a lazy afternoon.”
—Jay O’Connell, author of Train Robber’s Daughter
 
“Lawmen, cowboys, songbirds and soiled doves . . . it doesn’t get much better. . . .  Thunder Over the Prairie is a great story from the history of our American West.”
—Dakota & Sunny Livesay, Chronicle of the Old West

 

 

The year was 1878. Future legends of the Old West—lawmen Charlie Bassett, Bat Masterson, Wyatt Earp, and Bill Tilghman—patrolled the unruly streets of Dodge City, Kansas, then known as “the wickedest little city in America.”

 

When a cattle baron fled town after allegedly shooting popular dancehall girl Dora Hand, these four men hunted him down, it was said, like “thunder over the prairie.” The posse’s legendary ride across the desolate landscape to seek justice influenced the men’s friendship, careers, and attitudes toward the justice system. This account of that event is a fast-paced, unforgettable glimpse into the Old West.