Saddle up for a wild ride into the dusty trails of the Peacemaker series, a gritty Western saga that brings post-Civil War Texas to life! Written under the pen name William S. Brady by authors John Harvey and Angus Wells, this nine-book adventure follows John T. McLain, a war-hardened soldier turned reluctant hero, as he seeks peace in the lawless town of Garrison. With Colt Dragoon pistols in hand and justice in his heart, McLain’s tale is a thrilling blend of action, morality, and rugged frontier spirit that’ll keep you hooked!
From its debut in 1981, Peacemaker has captivated fans of classic Westerns with its vivid storytelling and no-nonsense protagonist. Whether you’re a cowboy at heart or just love a good tale of grit and redemption, this series delivers a punch as powerful as a Texas dust storm.
How Peacemaker Began
The Peacemaker series was born in the early 1980s, crafted by British authors John Harvey and Angus Wells, who donned the pseudonym William S. Brady to channel the spirit of American Westerns. Known as part of the ‘Piccadilly Cowboys,’ this duo was inspired by the pulp fiction boom, aiming to create fast-paced, action-packed stories for fans craving tales of the Wild West. Set in the chaotic aftermath of the Civil War, Peacemaker reflects the era’s fascination with rugged individualism and frontier justice, drawing readers into a world where peace comes at the barrel of a gun.
The Heart of Peacemaker
The series kicks off with Comanche!, where John T. McLain, a widower with a burned-out farm, heads to Texas only to face the fierce Nokoni Comanche in a brutal fight for survival. In Outlaws!, McLain battles a band of ruthless renegades threatening Garrison’s fragile peace. Whiplash! pits him against Zac Moffat’s gang, whose terror tactics spark a bloody range war. By Lynch Law!, McLain takes on a badge to hunt the men who committed a heinous crime against a townsfolk, proving justice is non-negotiable.
Peacemaker’s themes dig deep into the human struggle—justice versus vengeance, peace versus violence, and rebuilding in a fractured world. The series’ dusty Texas setting, with its saloons, prairies, and moral gray zones, feels alive, while McLain’s stoic yet evolving character anchors the saga. Known for its graphic combat and mature themes, including tough topics like violence against women, the series doesn’t shy away from the West’s harsh realities, earning its reputation as a standout in pulp Western fiction.
Why Peacemaker Resonates
Peacemaker’s raw energy and focus on community-building in a lawless land strike a chord with Western fans. Its blend of high-stakes action and moral dilemmas mirrors the timeless appeal of classics like The Virginian. Readers praise its vivid characters and relentless pace, with recent reviews highlighting its nostalgic charm and ability to transport readers to a rugged era. Though niche, Peacemaker endures as a testament to the Piccadilly Cowboys’ knack for crafting unforgettable tales.
- Publication Years: 1981–1984
- Number of Books: 9
- Authors: John Harvey and Angus Wells (as William S. Brady)
- Setting: Post-Civil War Texas
Ready to ride into Garrison with John T. McLain? Grab Comanche! and dive into the Peacemaker series’ thrilling Western world!