In Part I, Jake makes one last unsuccessful attempt to gain custody of his boys, which is overshadowed by a fight to the death with an adult bully who slapped his boys. He and Mary Jane say adiós to Texas and take up residence in Springerville, Arizona.
He changes his name to J.V. Brighton, is appointed Springerville District Constable, opens a blacksmith shop, and a saloon, and sits on several juries in the Round Valley town. There are shooting incidents he is either involved in directly or tangentially. J.V. is deputized and goes after Ike Clanton and Lee Renfro, who are two notorious desperados.
In Part II, J.V. and Mary Jane relocate to California. While working as a farm laborer J.V. gets in a knife fight and later breaks a leg in a riding incident. They relocate to San Francisco. He works a domestic case that brings him up against a ruthless mobster. They flee to Visalia, where they play a significant part in the arrest of California’s most notorious outlaw of the day, Chris Evans. More quiet detective work in Los Angeles, then retirement in Orange County, where he passes at the age of eighty-one. He is interred at Los Angeles National Cemetery.
Rawhide Jake: Westward Ho! was published by Hat Creek in hardcover in July 2023, and in paperback in March 2024.
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Praise for Rawhide Jake: Westward Ho!
“A fitting and fine conclusion to Arnold’s trilogy of discovery and frontier justice. Rawhide Jake: Westward Ho! should find a home in any library strong in contemporary Western writers, appealing to patrons that hold an interest in history, mystery, and problem-solving stories.”
—D. Donovan, Senior Reviewer, Midwest Book Review
“Arnold’s storytelling skill and historical accuracy make this a must-read for Western enthusiasts. He vividly brings the Old West to life, portraying the hardships and dangers faced by pioneers and lawmen. Jonas V. Brighton’s character development is nuanced and compelling, with moral dilemmas adding depth. The pacing is well-balanced, with action, suspense, and character growth. Rawhide Jake: Westward Ho! is a remarkable addition to the Western genre. Arnold’s storytelling prowess shines, introducing readers to a diverse cast of characters and immersing them in the era. JD Arnold masterfully weaves action, suspense, and moral dilemmas throughout the story, exploring themes of justice and family in the turbulent American frontier. It is an authentic and captivating glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of frontier life.”
—Natalie Soine, Readers’ Favorite reviewer