Saddle up and step into the wild, untamed world of Sixkiller: U.S. Marshal, where the American frontier crackles with danger and justice rides shotgun! This thrilling Western series by William W. Johnstone and J.A. Johnstone follows John Henry Sixkiller, a Cherokee lawman turned U.S. Marshal, as he hunts down ruthless outlaws and battles corruption with grit, cunning, and a steady hand. Perfect for fans of classic Westerns, this series delivers heart-pounding action and a hero who’s as bold as the land he protects.
With its vivid portrayal of the post-Civil War West and a protagonist whose Cherokee heritage adds depth to his fight for justice, Sixkiller: U.S. Marshal stands out in the Western genre. Whether you’re new to Westerns or a seasoned reader, Sixkiller’s adventures promise a rollicking ride through a lawless land.
How Sixkiller: U.S. Marshal Began
The Sixkiller: U.S. Marshal series galloped onto the scene in 2012, born from the prolific pens of William W. Johnstone, a titan of Western fiction, and his nephew, J.A. Johnstone. William, known for series like The Last Mountain Man, drew inspiration from real-life Cherokee lawman Samuel Sixkiller, weaving a fictional John Henry Sixkiller who embodies the spirit of the frontier. The Johnstones crafted a hero who navigates the complexities of Indian Territory and beyond, blending historical grit with high-stakes adventure. Their collaboration ensured the series captured William’s signature action-packed style while introducing a fresh, culturally rich protagonist.
The Heart of Sixkiller: U.S. Marshal
The series kicks off with Sixkiller, U.S. Marshal (2012), where John Henry, a veteran of the Cherokee Mounted Rifles, becomes a U.S. Marshal tasked with taming the West’s most notorious criminals. In Day of Rage (2012), Sixkiller goes undercover in Purgatory to foil a gold heist, facing a town crawling with outlaws. Eight Hours to Die (2013) pits him against a corrupt sheriff in Chico, New Mexico, while Blood for Blood (2014) sees him infiltrating a vengeful gang led by a cunning woman. Each book delivers fast-paced plots and showdowns that keep readers glued to the page.
At its core, the series explores themes of justice, honor, and identity. Sixkiller’s Cherokee roots shape his perspective, making him a unique figure in a genre often dominated by Anglo heroes. The Johnstones weave historical elements—like the Indian Removal Act and post-Civil War tensions—into tales of gunfights and moral dilemmas. The rugged settings, from dusty towns to the Sierra Nevada, ground the stories in the harsh realities of the frontier, while Sixkiller’s tracking skills and respect for the law make him a compelling hero.
The series’ style is quintessential Johnstone: action-driven, with vivid shootouts and a clear line between good and evil. Yet, Sixkiller’s cultural background and the moral complexities of his missions add depth, appealing to readers who crave both excitement and substance in their Westerns.
Why Sixkiller: U.S. Marshal Resonates
Sixkiller: U.S. Marshal has carved a niche in the Western genre by offering a fresh take on the classic lawman tale. Fans praise its non-traditional hero, whose Cherokee heritage brings diversity to the frontier narrative. The series’ blend of historical accuracy and pulse-pounding action has earned it a loyal following, with readers on platforms like Goodreads calling it a “page-turner” for its gripping plots and well-crafted villains. While not as sprawling as some of Johnstone’s other works, its focus on a single, dynamic hero makes it a standout.
The series also taps into the timeless appeal of the Western: the lone hero facing impossible odds. By grounding Sixkiller’s story in Cherokee history and the turbulent post-Civil War era, the Johnstones created a saga that feels both classic and innovative, ensuring its place in the hearts of Western enthusiasts.
- Publication Years: 2012–2014
- Number of Books: 6
- Authors: William W. Johnstone and J.A. Johnstone
- Genre: Western
Ready to ride into the wild West? Grab Sixkiller, U.S. Marshal and join John Henry Sixkiller on a thrilling adventure through a land where justice is won with a quick draw and a steady heart!