Guns on the Prairie — David Robbins

In this Western novel by the author of Badlanders, a con man's ruse casts him in the role of heroic lawman...

THE GREAT PRETENDER

Alonzo Pratt, alias Robert Grant, has always survived by his wits, working his way up from petty pickpocket to polished con artist. Saddlebags bulging with disguises, he is a master impersonator, whether limping in a Civil War uniform or toting a Bible dressed in black. On occasion, a tin star pinned to his vest is just the ticket to winning the trust of his innocent marks.

When Federal Marshal Jacob Stone happens to come across another lawman while taking in a wounded prisoner, he's grateful for some assistance. And when he hears tell that Cal Grissom's gang is roaming these parts, he enlists Deputy Grant to help him track down the thieves. But he does wonder why his new partner seems so…reluctant.

Alonzo never planned to join a manhunt. But now he's shooting Sioux and rescuing an outlaw's gorgeous daughter. His disguise may have fooled the marshal, but it won't stop lead…