Ray Hogan Books In Order

Publication Order of Shawn Starbuck Westerns Books

Publication Order of Standalone Novels

Publication Order of Short Story Collections

Publication Order of Double D Western Books

About Ray Hogan

Ray Hogan was an American author known for his western novels. He wrote many books that fans of the genre enjoyed. His stories often featured strong, memorable characters who felt real. Readers liked how his protagonists faced challenges in straightforward, exciting ways.

Hogan had a talent for making his plots engaging and easy to follow. His writing kept people interested with well-paced action and clear storytelling. The way he built tension and resolved conflicts made his books hard to put down. Many found his work entertaining because he balanced drama with simplicity.

His ability to create vivid settings and believable dialogue added depth to his stories. Hogan’s characters often had distinct personalities that stood out. Readers appreciated how his narratives felt fresh yet familiar. His skill in crafting compelling tales made him a respected name in western fiction.

Through his books he reached readers across the globe, offering them exciting adventures set in the American West. His stories resonated because they stayed genuine to his style—simple, fast-paced, and full of action. Fans from different places enjoyed his work because it was easy to follow yet packed with energy. He didn’t try to overcomplicate things, which made his writing widely appealing.

He stayed true to himself by writing the kinds of tales he loved—classic westerns with strong heroes and clear stakes. His authenticity made his books feel real, even to readers unfamiliar with the Old West. By sticking to what he did best, Hogan created stories that were both entertaining and reliable. People knew they could pick up one of his novels and get a solid, satisfying read.

His ability to entertain came from his focus on straightforward storytelling and well-drawn characters. Hogan didn’t rely on gimmicks—just good plots, sharp dialogue, and steady momentum. Readers worldwide appreciated that his books delivered exactly what they promised. His dedication to his craft kept fans coming back for more.

Ray Hogan’s books remain popular today, with new readers still discovering his action-packed westerns. Writers in the genre often look to his work for inspiration, appreciating his clean, engaging style. His stories continue to be reprinted and shared, keeping his legacy alive. Fans old and new enjoy his timeless tales of adventure, proving his writing still holds up.

Early and Personal Life

Ray Hogan was born in Willow Springs, Missouri, on December 15, 1908, but spent much of his life in New Mexico. His father worked as a Western marshal and lawman, exposing Hogan to frontier life early on. These experiences helped spark his fascination with the Old West, shaping his future as a writer.

Growing up around lawmen and rugged landscapes gave Hogan a deep appreciation for Western stories. He developed a love for reading and writing, drawn to tales of adventure and justice. Over time, he honed his craft, turning his passion into a successful career as an author.

Hogan’s background and surroundings provided rich inspiration for his many novels. His firsthand understanding of Western life helped him create authentic, engaging stories. Though he passed away on July 14, 1998, his work continues to entertain readers who enjoy classic Western fiction.

Writing Career

Ray Hogan built a prolific writing career, publishing over 100 Western novels that captivated readers worldwide. His work reached a global audience, translated into 16 languages, and several of his stories were adapted into films. Among his most popular series was Shawn Starbuck, featuring action-packed titles like The Outlawed (1970) and The Rimrocker (1978), showcasing his talent for fast-paced storytelling.

Hogan also created the Doomsday Marshal series, beginning with The Doomsday Marshal (1975), which followed a relentless lawman through dangerous frontier justice. His first novel, Land of the Strangers (1957), set the foundation for his long and successful career. With gripping plots and memorable characters, Hogan’s books remain a staple for fans of classic Western fiction.

The Vigilante

Ray Hogan’s Western novel The Vigilante was published in 1975. It follows his signature action-driven style, set in the Old West once more.

Ex-lawman Jake Harper was framed by outlaws who killed a miner and his wife while stealing gold. They bribed officials to go free, sending Harper to prison. After being pardoned, he hunts the killers for justice. A corrupt U.S. marshal interferes, trying to send Harper back to jail.

Readers who enjoy classic Westerns will find The Vigilante a satisfying ride, with Hogan’s trademark action, justice-driven plot, and rugged frontier tension.

The Trackers

Hogan’s classic Western novel The Trackers was published in 1960. The book features Hogan’s characteristic action-packed storytelling set in the traditional Old West landscape.

Matt Campion arrives in Harmony to start ranching but is falsely accused of murder. A lynch mob and hanging judge threaten him despite his innocence. He must escape jail and evade Albert Toon, a relentless lawman known as ‘The Mantracker.’ Toon pursues Campion fiercely because the victim was his brother.

Fans of fast-paced Westerns will enjoy the thrilling action here, featuring Hogan’s signature suspense, a wrongfully accused hero, and a relentless lawman in classic frontier justice drama.

Outlaw Marshal

This Western novel from Ray Hogan was published in 1959. The book delivers Hogan’s trademark fast-paced action and frontier justice themes in a classic Old West setting.

Deputy Decket faces trouble after arresting dangerous outlaw Shotgun Travers. Though wearing a U.S. Marshal’s badge, Decket is actually just a small-town lawman. He had used the badge improperly to intimidate others. Now his deception puts him in grave danger as the situation backfires.

Anyone who enjoys tense Westerns will appreciate Outlaw Marshal for its gritty premise, moral complexities, and Hogan’s signature frontier action.

The Ridgerunner

The Western novel The Ridgerunner was published in 1960. The book exemplifies Hogan’s signature blend of frontier justice and rugged adventure in the Old West.

John Locke returns home to reunite with his foster brothers, Bert and Star Whitcomb. Upon arriving, a marshal arrests him as a murder suspect due to his family ties. Locke learns his brothers are wanted for murder, making him guilty by association. Outside the jail, an angry lynch mob forms, threatening his life.

Fans of classic Westerns will appreciate The Ridgerunner for its tense family drama, wrongful accusation plot, and Hogan’s trademark frontier action.