Ralph Compton The Bloody Trail (Ralph Compton Western Series)

Jeremiah Correy is leading his family in a wagon train to Oregon when his plans are waylaid by a group of bounty hunters led by Sam Madigan, who take a man from Correy's party-the quiet, unassuming Emmett Natham, who is actually a known fugitive. But Madigan also aims to nab the rest of the travelers and ransom them off.

Now, Jeremiah must stop Madigan-and his greatest ally may be the mysterious and dangerous Emmett Natham, whose skills could save them all-or lead them to their deaths...