Step into the dusty trails of the Blood Bond series, where the Old West comes alive with gunfights, loyalty, and the unbreakable bond between two unlikely heroes! Written by William W. Johnstone and later continued by his nephew J.A. Johnstone, this Western saga follows Matt Bodine, a rancher’s son, and Sam Two Wolves, a half-Cheyenne warrior, as they forge a legendary brotherhood amidst the rugged American frontier.
With its blend of historical grit and heart-pounding action, Blood Bond captures the spirit of the Wild West, weaving tales of justice, friendship, and cultural identity that keep readers hooked. Ready to saddle up for an adventure? Let’s explore this iconic series!
How Blood Bond Began
The Blood Bond series kicked off in 1989, born from the prolific pen of William W. Johnstone, a titan of Western fiction with over 300 books to his name. Known for series like The Last Mountain Man, Johnstone crafted Blood Bond to blend classic Western tropes with deeper themes of unity across divides. The story of Matt and Sam, bonded by a life-saving act, reflected Johnstone’s love for tales of camaraderie set against historically rich backdrops. After his passing in 2004, J.A. Johnstone took the reins, ensuring the series’ legacy continued with the same grit and heart.
The Heart of Blood Bond
The series spans 16 books, each a standalone adventure tied by the enduring friendship of Matt and Sam. The first book, Blood Bond (1989), sets the stage as young Matt saves Sam’s life, leading to a Cheyenne ritual that makes them blood brothers. Their journey takes them to the Battle of Little Bighorn, blending historical fiction with Western action. Brotherhood of the Gun (1990) sees the duo tackling a range war, showcasing their knack for landing in trouble. Gunsight Crossing (1991) pits them against ruthless outlaws, while Gunsmoke and Gold (1992) dives into a Colorado feud, highlighting their moral code.
At its core, Blood Bond explores themes of loyalty, justice, and bridging cultural divides. Matt and Sam’s friendship—between a white man and a Native American—challenges the era’s prejudices, offering a nuanced take on identity. Johnstone’s vivid descriptions of Montana’s big skies and gritty towns ground the action, while his slower pacing lets characters shine. Fans praise the series for its authentic Western vibe, with just enough gunplay to keep pulses racing.
Why Blood Bond Resonates
Blood Bond stands out in the Western genre for its heartfelt portrayal of brotherhood and its nod to historical events like the Great Indian Wars. Readers on platforms like Goodreads and Amazon laud its engaging characters and immersive storytelling, often comparing Johnstone to Louis L’Amour. Though some note the first book’s slower pace, the series’ later entries ramp up the action, cementing its appeal. J.A. Johnstone’s continuation keeps the spirit alive, making Blood Bond a staple for fans craving classic Westerns with a modern edge.
Its niche status only adds to its charm, offering a treasure trove for readers seeking lesser-known gems. The series’ focus on unity and justice resonates today, proving the Old West still has stories to tell.
- First Published: 1989
- Total Books: 16
- Authors: William W. Johnstone, J.A. Johnstone
- Genre: Western, Historical Fiction
Grab Blood Bond and dive into the wild, thrilling world of Matt and Sam’s adventures! Whether you’re a Western fan or a newcomer, this series promises a rootin’-tootin’ ride through the Old West!