Welcome True West Readers!

Step beyond the myth. Discover Arizona’s true frontier spirit brought to life through meticulously researched historical fiction.

Two Authors. Two Journeys. 

One Mission: Real Western Stories.

The Rustler Hunter by R.J. Sloane

Classic Western Action Rooted in Arizona's Wild Past

Step into the boots of J.J. Westin as he pursues justice across the legendary Aztec Land & Cattle Company's million-acre domain. R.J. Sloane brings the dangerous world of the 1890s Arizona Territory to vivid life with authentic period details that will satisfy even the most discerning Western history enthusiast.

Special True West Connection:

  • Walnut-handled Remington six-shooters
  • Winchester M97 pump-action shotgun
  • Winchester M94 lever-action rifle
 

Each weapon reflects the practical realities of frontier justice.

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What Readers Are Saying

“James Bond in a cowboy’s skin—this Western hits every mark. Crisp, pulpy prose that radiates an appreciation for old school Westerns.” —B.J., Coffee Addicted Writer

“R.J. Sloane rides the river of the greats — Louis L’Amour, Larry McMurtry, and Elmore Leonard.”
— J. Walch, Western reader and reviewer

"Adventure. Suspense. Romance. Cattle rustling mystery. Faith that hits home. Classic Western storytelling done right." —N. Atkins, Book Podcaster


A Dream Unfolding by Karen Baney

The Arizona Territory's Birth Through Pioneer Eyes

Hannah Anderson and her husband head West hoping to start over. The journey costs more than either expected. Will Colter is forced to leave the Texas ranch he's called home for thirty years. The cattle drive west challenges him and his men—threatening their very lives. Two epic journeys converge at the birth of a territory.

Historical Authenticity:

  • Governor Goodwin’s 1863 expedition
  • First-hand pioneer accounts
  • Seamless blend of fact and fiction
 
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What Readers Are Saying

“Baney’s attention to historical detail is unmatched. I felt like I was riding alongside the Governor’s expedition.” – Goodreads Reviewer

“Will Colter’s struggle felt like something my grandfather might’ve lived.” – Verified Reader

“The historical detail was spot-on. I learned things about the Arizona Territory I’d never heard before.” – Goodreads Reviewer

Get a Signed Copy with a Personal Touch

For readers who value connection and craftsmanship, a signed paperback offers something special. Each copy is hand-signed by the author and can include a personalized message of your choosing, making it a meaningful addition to your Western library or a thoughtful gift for a fellow history enthusiast.

Please allow 2–4 weeks for processing as we prepare your copy with care. Limited quantities available. Orders may be paused or delayed during high-demand periods.

Holiday Notice: Orders placed after December 10th are unlikely to arrive before Christmas.

Signed Editions Available

Click below to order your signed paperback:

The Rustler Hunter
A Dream Unfolding

Heritage Travel Connections

Following THE RUSTLER HUNTER Trail

Experience the vast landscape that shaped J.J. Westin's world by driving I-40 from the New Mexico-Arizona border through Holbrook, Winslow, and Flagstaff. This route crosses the heart of the historic Aztec Land & Cattle Company's sprawling million-acre ranch which was at one time the largest cattle operation in the American Southwest.

Tracing A DREAM UNFOLDING's Path

Only the truly courageous would have attempted the historic Santa Fe Trail journey that Hannah and Drew Anderson undertook with Governor Goodwin's party. After experiencing their adventure in Karen's novel, follow their footsteps from Flagstaff down I-17 into Prescott, where you can visit:

  • Sharlot Hall Museum - Arizona's premier history museum
  • Governor's Mansion - Where territorial Arizona was governed (located on the grounds of the Sharlot Hall Museum)
  • Fort Whipple - The military outpost that protected early settlers
 
Both locations offer guided tours and authentic artifacts from the territorial period depicted in the novel.


Download A Special Travel Guide

Step into the landscapes that shaped our stories. This special travel guide—crafted by Karen Baney and R.J. Sloane—invites you to explore Arizona’s rich history through the places we love most. From frontier forts and railroad bridges to quiet lakes and legendary hotels, each stop carries echoes of the True West. Whether you’re retracing a character’s journey or planning your own, we hope this guide inspires wonder, reflection, and a deeper connection to the land we call home.

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Discover More Arizona Adventures

Thank you for stopping by to explore Desert Life Media's carefully crafted stories. We're passionate about bringing Arizona's rich heritage to life through authentic, engaging fiction.

Explore our complete collection:

  • Classic Western action and adventure
  • Meticulously researched historical fiction rooted in Arizona's fascinating past
  • Modern heartwarming romances set against this great state's stunning landscapes
 

Each book is written with the historical accuracy and attention to detail that True West readers demand, combined with the storytelling that keeps you turning pages late into the night.

Whether you’re a collector, a traveler, or a lifelong student of the West there’s a story here waiting for you.

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