Bitter Trail

In Bitter Trail, Kelton tells the story of a tough teamster named Frio Wheeler whose wagons haul cotton from Texas to Mexico.

Sounds like a peaceable enterprise?

The problem is that the Civil War is raging throughout the South and Wheeler's cotton is to be sold for gold--gold used to buy guns and ammunition for the Confederate army.

And, added to his balky mules, the broiling heat, and killing drought of the Mexican dessert, Wheeler has even more serious matters to contend with: His wagons are attacked, his cotton bales are burned, he is captured and tortured by bandidos in league with Union sympathizers, and he is betrayed by his best friend--his former partner and brother of the woman he loves!

Critic reviews

“Elmer Kelton is an authentic American voice.” —<i>John Jakes</i>

Interesting review of Texas and the Civil War

I really enjoyed the study of what happened in Texas during the Civil War. The horrific battle between friends and family. Very sad.

Great Western Story

Elmer Kelton is one of the best western writers . Ranking below Zane Grey and Louis l’Amour. Sad that none of our modern western writers come close to good stories like these classic western writers.