The Winter Road — Nik James

A former cavalry soldier has a new battle to fight when he runs up against the lone survivor of a wagon ambush…and the band of killers who want her dead.

As Christmas approaches, Henry Jordan is on the way to meet up with his partner, the legendary frontiersman Caleb Marlowe. Finding a fifteen year old alone in a deserted mountain cabin with a dozen fresh graves nearby, Henry decides his plans for the ranch in Elkhorn, Colorado will have to wait. For nothing fires up his blood quicker than coming face-to-face with injustice.

Nell Cody escaped death at the hands of ruthless outlaws and the treacherous trail guide, Bart Kelly. For three months, she's managed to survive alone in the wilderness. Her father's dying request was for Nell to deliver the money he'd raised for the people of Youngblood Creek. But with the unforgiving Rocky Mountain winter upon her, Nell is losing hope of ever making good on her promise…until Henry Jordan arrives.

As they start their journey west, a tentative bond of trust forms between them. Danger lurks in the high country at every stormy turn. Nature's fury and savage predators will test their strength and skill. But they'll face the greatest threat of all in a lawless mountain town where Bart Kelly and his murderous gang lie in wait.