The Outlaw's Quest — Jason D. Morrow

Nathaniel Cole doesn't want to be an outlaw anymore. He's tired of people chasing him. He's tired of being on the run. But the only way he can get back home is if he steals all three of The Ancient Books -- an act that will make him the most wanted man in Galamore.
The first of the three books, The Book of Life, is in the possession of the mysterious Kellen, a Sentinel whose magical powers exceed any other. In order to steal the book from him, Nate must travel through a desert of snow, fight off the ruthless gray elves, kill the unmerciful ravagers, and rob a train.
But even if he gets the book, he has no idea what is in store for him. The ancient magic undoubtedly carries its own mysteries and puzzles, for which Nate knows he isn't ready.
The Outlaw's Quest is the second book of the Keeper of the Books series. It continues to blend a story of magical fantasy with the classic style of the Old West.