Lawmen don't last long in the town of Doubtful, Wyoming Territory. The last one quit, another ended up in a hangman's noose, and one more was backshot by the hired guns at the Circle L Ranch. But the town of Doubtful has never seen the likes of the man known only as Cotton, who aims to take the badge for $125 a month, save himself a nice chunk of money over the next year, and be on his way. At least, that's his plan. Problem is, Cotton has just stuck...

Perley Gates is the son of a cattle rancher. A restless young dreamer who, under normal circumstances, would follow in his father's footsteps. Normal, however, is not his style. Like his famous grandfather and namesake Perley Gates--a hell-raising mountain man with a heavenly name--young Perley wants adventure, excitement, and freedom. And like his grandfather before him, he will find his dream--in the untamed wilds of a lawless frontier. That dream...

"Each night, the world is overrun by bloodthirsty demons. For centuries, humanity survived only by hiding behind defensive wards, magical symbols with the power to repel the demons. Now, the rediscovery of long forgotten combat wards has given them the magic they need to fight back."--Back cover.