Western novelist and livestock journalist Elmer Kelton clearly instilled a love for storytelling in his son, Steve. Though both have now passed on, the younger Kelton also worked as a journalist and wrote several nonfiction books (Renderbrook, 2000) before turning to fiction. The western genre is lucky he did. Finally breaking away from his abusive boss, ranch hand Hewey Calloway agrees to move a herd of horses from Texas to Colorado for a neighboring land owner. Calloway's reckless subordinate, Billy Joe Bradley, grows out of control as the herd reaches its destination. Eventually, Bradley's actions turn ruthless and deadly. With the financial assistance of a wealthy, principled rancher and his staff, Calloway teams up with retired Texas Ranger Hanley Baker to bring Bradley to justice. The plot is ambitious but never meanders; though Calloway and Baker's pursuit takes them all over Colorado, including testifying in multiple trials, each distinct journey feels precisely charted and allows for Calloway's contemplative growth. The characters resonate with traditional genre values but don't fall into stereotype. Baker, in particular, is introspective and compassionate. Steve Kelton's author's note shows an obvious affection for both his rancher grandfather and his father, and The Unlikely Lawman honors his family's legacy.