Picture a dusty West Texas horizon, where the spirit of the Old West lives on through gripping tales of outlaws and lawmen—meet Tell Cotten! A seventh-generation Texan and award-winning author, Cotten has carved a niche in Western fiction with his thrilling Landon Saga series. With a rancher’s heart and a storyteller’s flair, he brings the rugged 1870s frontier to life, captivating readers with authentic dialogue and heart-pounding adventures.
The Making of Tell Cotten
Born and raised in West Texas, Tell Cotten is steeped in the ranching heritage that defines his identity. As a member of the Sons of the Republic of Texas, his roots trace back to the state’s earliest days. Growing up surrounded by cowboys and cattle, Cotten absorbed the rhythms of the land, which later infused his writing with gritty realism. His journey to authorship began with a deep love for Western lore, inspired by the tales of his ancestors and the vast, untamed landscapes of his homeland. Today, he continues the family tradition, running a cattle business with his wife, Andi, and their two children, all while crafting stories that resonate with fans worldwide.
Tell Cotten’s Unforgettable Stories
Cotten’s Landon Saga is a cornerstone of modern Western fiction, blending action, humor, and moral complexity. The series kicks off with Confessions of a Gunfighter (2012), where Rondo Landon, a troubled outlaw, recounts his turbulent life, earning Cotten the Best New Western in the Laramie Awards. Entwined Paths (2013) follows brothers Yancy and Cooper Landon as they chase kidnappers, weaving a tale of loyalty and vengeance. Yancy (2015) showcases Cotten’s knack for sharp dialogue, with the titular lawman tackling Apache captors and gun traders. Winchester (2019), the eleventh installment, introduces drifter Winchester Landon, whose encounter with an injured Apache sparks a whirlwind of conflict. Cotten’s style—terse, witty, and vivid—captures the frontier’s raw essence, with characters who feel like old friends and plots that keep readers glued to the page.
His storytelling shines through authentic Western drawl and well-developed characters, from reformed outlaws to steadfast lawmen. Cotten’s ability to blend everyday struggles with high-stakes drama has earned him Gold and Silver in the Readers’ Favorite awards, plus a bronze in the Global eBook Awards. Fans praise his humor and pacing, often comparing his work to legends like Louis L’Amour, while noting the unique Texas flavor that sets him apart.
Why Tell Cotten Matters
Tell Cotten’s impact lies in his ability to breathe new life into the Western genre while honoring its roots. His stories celebrate Texas’s ranching heritage, reflecting the resilience and honor of the frontier. Through the Landon Saga, he explores timeless themes—redemption, family, and justice—resonating with readers who crave authentic, character-driven narratives. His awards and dedicated fanbase, evident in vibrant Facebook groups like The Landon Saga Fan Group, underscore his influence. Cotten’s work not only entertains but also preserves the spirit of the Old West for a new generation.
- Born: West Texas, seventh-generation Texan
- Key Works: Confessions of a Gunfighter, Entwined Paths, Yancy, Winchester
- Awards: Best New Western (Laramie Awards), Gold and Silver (Readers’ Favorite), Bronze (Global eBook Awards)
Snag Confessions of a Gunfighter and saddle up for Tell Cotten’s thrilling Western world!