Top Ten Best‑known and Most Frequently Recommended Works by Chris Enss

• Hearts West: True Stories of Mail‑Order Brides on the Frontier — Frequently cited as Chris Enss’s breakthrough bestseller; it appeared on major bestseller lists and is widely regarded as her signature work.
• Frontier Teachers: Stories of Heroic Women of the Old West — A beloved collection highlighting the often overlooked women who taught frontier children; it remains a popular pick for readers interested in social and women’s history in the West.
• Wicked Women: Notorious, Mischievous, and Wayward Ladies from the Old West — Captures readers’ imagination with stories of female outlaws and gamblers; ranked among her more popular and discussed works.
• Object: Matrimony: The Risky Business of Mail‑Order Matchmaking on the Western Frontier — Explores the darker and more complex aspects of frontier matchmaking; appeals to those curious about gender, survival, and social dynamics of the Old West.
• The Pinks: The First Women Detectives, Operatives, and Spies with the Pinkerton National Detective Agency — A fascinating dive into women in law enforcement and espionage in the West, a less common but compelling angle.
• Bedside Book of Bad Girls: Outlaw Women of the Midwest — Another gritty, engaging collection of outlaw women’s stories — good for readers drawn to lesser‑known tales and a more “saga-like” approach.
• Along Came a Cowgirl: Daring and Iconic Women of Rodeos and Wild West Shows — Highlights women who challenged norms through rodeos and Wild West performances — a great read for those interested in entertainment and frontier culture.
• The Doctor Wore Petticoats: Women Physicians of the Old West — Sheds light on early female physicians on the frontier — an inspiring, historically rich book especially for those interested in women’s history and medicine.

Christmas Giveaway 2025

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Enter the Christmas Giveaway Now for A Chance to Win Any Two of the Titles Above

Enter now to win a copy of the

Cowboy and the Senorita: The Biography of Roy Rogers and Dale Evans

Top 10 Reasons the Cowboy and the Senorita is a Perfect Christmas Gift

1. Celebrates a Legendary Love Story
The book chronicles the enduring romance between Roy Rogers and Dale Evans, a heartwarming story that fits the spirit of the season.
2. Iconic American Western Icons
Roy and Dale are cultural legends, and the biography offers fans a chance to connect with the lives behind the screen.
3. A Family-Friendly Read
With wholesome stories and values, it’s safe for all ages and perfect for family reading around the holidays.
4. Inspiration Through Faith and Perseverance
The couple’s strong faith, charitable work, and perseverance inspire readers to reflect on gratitude and generosity.
5. Behind-the-Scenes Hollywood Stories
Offers fascinating insights into the making of classic films and TV shows, from on-set adventures to personal anecdotes.
6. Perfect for Fans of Classic Westerns
Brings to life the golden era of Hollywood westerns, making it a nostalgic gift for longtime fans.
7. Beautifully Researched Biography
Carefully documented and richly illustrated with rare photos, adding a personal touch and collectible quality.
8. Encourages Family Values and Morality
Stories highlight honesty, kindness, and teamwork—qualities celebrated during the holiday season.
9. A Thoughtful Keepsake
Beyond a book, it serves as a lasting memento of one of Hollywood’s most beloved couples.
10. Fun and Entertaining Holiday Reading
From exciting adventures to touching personal moments, it’s an engaging read that captures attention from start to finish.

Enter now to win a copy of the

Cowboy and the Senorita: The Biography of Roy Rogers and Dale Evans

I’m thrilled to share two exciting honors from the American Writing Awards!

Winner – Western Category
Tilghman: The Legendary Lawman and the Woman Who Inspired Him has officially won the American Writing Award for Western writing. I’m deeply grateful for this recognition and for the readers who continue to keep the stories of the American West alive.

Finalist – True Crime Category
Meet the Kellys: The True Story of Machine Gun Kelly and His Moll Kathryn Thorne has been named a finalist in the True Crime category. This story has been years in the making, and I’m honored to see it acknowledged among such compelling works.

My heartfelt thanks to the judges, readers, and everyone who supports historical storytelling. Your encouragement makes all the research, writing, and long hours worthwhile.

More updates coming soon—and thank you for celebrating these stories with me!

Enter now to win a copy of

The Cowboy and the Senorita: The Biography of Roy Rogers and Dale Evans

From the silver screen to beloved television classics, Roy Rogers and Dale Evans were rarely alone on their adventures. Their sidekicks – both human and four-legged – played a huge role in shaping the humor, heart, and heroics fans loved for generations. Here are 10 little-known facts about the unforgettable crew that rode alongside America’s King of the Cowboys and the Queen of the West:

1. Gabby Hayes Wasn’t Really a Cowboy

George “Gabby” Hayes, Roy’s most iconic film sidekick, grew up in New York and had zero ranching experience—but his gruff charm made him a Western legend.

2. Pat Brady Started as a Singer

Before becoming the comedic driver of Nellybelle on The Roy Rogers Show, Pat Brady was a talented vocalist with the Sons of the Pioneers.

3. Nellybelle Had Her Own Fan Mail

The quirky, cantankerous Jeep that Pat Brady drove became one of the most popular characters on television, receiving letters from children across the country.

4. Dale Evans’ Horse, Buttermilk, Was a Sidekick in Her Own Right

Often overshadowed by Trigger, Buttermilk appeared in numerous films and episodes, showcasing remarkable agility and personality.

5. Andy Devine’s Distinctive Voice Was a Happy Accident

The beloved character actor – frequently cast as Roy’s film sidekick – developed his raspy voice after a childhood accident.

6. Bullet the Wonder Dog Was a Scene-Stealer

Bullet wasn’t just a set prop—he performed his own stunts and appeared in nearly every episode of The Roy Rogers Show.

7. Sons of the Pioneers Provided More Than Music

Members of the group not only sang in several Rogers films but also appeared onscreen as supporting characters, blending harmony with heroics.

8. Smiley Burnette Brought Comedy and Heart

Known for his musical talent and slapstick charm, Smiley brightened the early Rogers films with his warm, lovable presence.

9. Sidekicks Helped Shape the Rogers–Evans Brand

The humor and humanity added by sidekick characters made the films uniquely family-friendly, helping Roy and Dale become crossover stars.

10. Their Sidekicks Were As Beloved As the Stars

For many fans, Roy Rogers films felt incomplete without the signature banter, loyalty, and warmth provided by the supporting players who helped define an era of American Western entertainment.

If you love learning the stories behind Roy Rogers, Dale Evans, and the larger-than-life figures who traveled the trail with them, you’ll enjoy The Cowboy and the Senorita: The Biography of Roy Rogers and Dale Evans — a richly detailed look at their lives, careers, and enduring legacy.

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The Cowboy and the Senorita: The Biography of Roy Rogers and Dale Evans

The adventures of Roy Rogers, Dale Evans, Trigger, and Bullet lit up American television screens throughout the 1950s – but the real magic often happened off-camera. Here are ten behind-the-scenes facts most fans never hear:

1. Trigger had his own dressing room – and a fan club.
   The world’s smartest horse was treated like the star he was. He had his own grooming area on set, and fan mail poured in addressed directly to him.
2. Dale often rewrote her own lines.
   Producers trusted Dale’s instincts, especially when it came to adding warmth or humor. She regularly polished dialogue to better suit her character’s strength and intelligence.
3. Roy insisted on doing most of his own stunts.
   Even as the show gained popularity, Roy preferred riding, roping, and action scenes without stunt doubles whenever possible.
4. Bullet was originally trained as a police dog.
   His tracking, guarding, and chase skills came from his early training—something that made him a natural scene-stealer in action sequences.
5. Real townspeople sometimes appeared as extras.
   Filming took place in locations like Iverson Ranch and Pioneertown, and locals were occasionally recruited for saloon scenes and street crowds.
6. Dale’s costumes were handmade – and she designed many herself.
   Her signature western skirts and blouses weren’t off-the-rack. Dale collaborated closely with wardrobe designers to create her iconic look.
7. Roy refused to depict excessive violence.
   He believed the show should offer family-friendly adventure, so he often pushed back against scripts that were too dark or aggressive.
8. Trigger learned new cues specifically for the show.
   The crew invented new hand signals and voice commands so the horse’s tricks could be performed on tight TV shooting schedules.
9. The cast and crew were like family.
   Birthdays, cookouts, and trail rides were common during filming breaks. Roy and Dale made sure everyone—from camera operators to extras—felt appreciated.
10. “Happy Trails” was never planned as the theme song.
    The tune Dale wrote for Roy became so beloved by audiences and crew that it gradually shifted into the show’s unofficial – and later official – musical signature.

To learn more about Roy Rogers and Dale Evans read

The Cowboy and the Senorita: The Biography of Roy Rogers and Dale Evans.

Enter now to win a copy of

The Cowboy and the Senorita: The Biography of Roy Rogers and Dale Evans

Long before celebrity memoirs filled bookstore shelves, Dale Evans was writing honest, heartfelt stories that inspired millions. Known around the world as the Queen of the West, Dale wasn’t just Roy Rogers’ cherished partner on screen and in life – she was also a gifted author whose books became national bestsellers and touched readers for generations.

From her moving, faith-filled classic Angel Unaware, written after the loss of her daughter Robin, to uplifting titles like The Woman at the Well, and In the Hands of the Potter, Dale wrote with compassion, courage, and a remarkable understanding of the human heart. Her storytelling helped define her legacy as more than a Western icon – she became a voice of hope for families across America.

To explore Dale’s extraordinary life, her partnership with Roy, and the real stories behind their most beloved films, dive into The Cowboy and the Senorita: The Biography of Roy Rogers and Dale Evans – a rich, intimate portrait of two legends who shaped the golden age of the American West.

Celebrate the life, words, and enduring spirit of Dale Evans – one of the West’s brightest stars, on screen and on the page.

Enter now to win a copy of

The Cowboy and the Senorita: The Biography of Roy Rogers and Dale Evans

Enter now to win a copy of

The Cowboy and the Senorita: The Biography of Roy Rogers and Dale Evans

Roy Rogers and Dale Evans weren’t just the King of the Cowboys and the Queen of the West – they were the heart and soul of American Western music. Their timeless songs celebrated courage, faith, and the wide-open spirit of the West. Here are ten of their most beloved tunes that continue to inspire fans old and new:

1. “Happy Trails” – Their signature duet and one of the most recognizable Western songs ever written.
2. “Don’t Fence Me In” – A carefree anthem to freedom and adventure on the range.
3. “My Heart Went That-a-Way” – A sweet, lighthearted tune that showcased their playful chemistry.
4. “The Bible Tells Me So” – A heartfelt gospel number reflecting their deep faith.
5. “Dusty” – A tender tribute to Roy’s faithful horse, capturing the cowboy’s bond with his loyal companion.
6. “A Four-Legged Friend” – Another Rogers classic celebrating man’s best friend, both on and off the trail.
7. “Yellow Rose of Texas” – A lively Western favorite they performed with warmth and charm.
8. “Blue Shadows on the Trail” – A hauntingly beautiful ballad that evokes the quiet peace of a desert evening.
9. “Along the Navajo Trail” – A smooth, romantic tune filled with Western imagery.
10. “Tumbling Tumbleweeds” – One of Roy’s early hits that became a cowboy classic, embodying the restless spirit of the West.

To learn more about the music, movies, and remarkable love story of Roy Rogers and Dale Evans, explore The Cowboy and the Señorita: The Biography of Roy Rogers and Dale Evans by New York Times bestselling author Chris Enss.