Legend of the Painted Horse

by Harry Combs

As America leaves behind the battles on the Western frontier and turns to a new type of conflict in World War I, young Steven Cartwright leaves the mountains and ranches of Colorado to become a crack fighter pilot over the battlefields of Europe. But Steven returns from war a hardened young man, seeking strength from his old friend Brules who taught him about life, love and survival. This is the third volume in Harry Combs' magnificent trilogy about mountain man, outlaw and Indian scout Cat Brules.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Westerns

307 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published January 1, 1996

Reviews

[Jon · Rating 4 out of 5]

All-in-all a good, easy read that brings to conclusion the story of Cat Brules. If you haven't yet read "Brules" or "The Scout", go back and read them first. As others have said, the amount of time spent on the history of the painted horse can be easily skimmed or skipped altogether as it doesn't add anything to the story. Mr. Combs very effectively wraps up this grandiose tale. However, I do have issues with the actions on Iwo Jima as considerable artistic license was taken in light of what actually occurred. Also, only one of the identified medals would have been awarded for a single action and not both. In spite of these shortcomings, I still recommend the book and, especially, the series.

[William Hubbartt · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fast moving interesting story on the hero life of protagonist Steven Cartright while touching on a historical background of how the paint horses came to prominence with the northern plains natives.

[Linda · Rating 3 out of 5]

Kind of disappointing after really enjoying reading the two Brules books several years ago. A very staged story. Something has changed in the writing style. Do we think the painted horse story is true? I don't know.

[Warren · Rating 5 out of 5]

3rd book on the trilogy... a great ending to a wonderful story.