Christmas Giveaway

Give the Gift of True Grit and Timeless Adventure

For the book lover on your Christmas list, explore the many stories about heroic women of the American frontier by New York Times bestselling author Chris Enss.

From tales of the first female detectives with the Pinkerton Detective Agency, to pioneering women physicians on the frontier, to the daring cowgirls who made their mark in rodeos and Wild West shows—these inspiring stories celebrate courage, love, and the untamed spirit of the West.

Whether your favorite reader loves history, heroism, or a bit of Wild West romance, there’s something in the Chris Enss catalog for everyone.

Shop the Collection

All titles are available at:

Join the Holiday Book Giveaway!

Visit www.chrisenss.com throughout December and take part in the annual Holiday Book Giveaway Contest.

Look for the holiday-decorated cowgirl boots hidden on the site and register for a chance to win any two books of your choice from the Chris Enss catalog!

Merry Christmas and Happy Trails!
Celebrate the holidays with stories of courage, adventure, and the women who helped shape the American West.

Author Chris Enss – The Voice of Women’s History in the American West

Christmas with Roy Rogers and Dale Evans

 Last Day to Enter! ⏰

Don’t miss your final chance to win a free copy of
The Cowboy and the Senorita: The Biography of Roy Rogers and Dale Evans!
If you love classic Hollywood, Western legends, or unforgettable love stories, this biography is a must-read. Today is the last day to throw your hat in the ring!
Enter now before time runs out.

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Ride on over and good luck, pardner!

The Perfect Christmas Gift

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.

 

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Enter now to win a copy of the

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

Tilghman Wins American Writing Award

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!

 

Top Ten Facts About Roy Rogers & Dale Evans’ Unforgettable Sidekicks!

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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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

 

 

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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.

Top 10 Behind-the-Scenes Facts About The Roy Rogers Show

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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.

 

 

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To learn more about Roy Rogers and Dale Evans read

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

Dale Evans: The Queen of the West – and a Bestselling Author

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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.

 

 

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10 Fun Facts About Trigger & Buttermilk — Hollywood’s Most Beloved Horses

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

 

 

To celebrate The Cowboy and the Senorita: The Biography of Roy Rogers and Dale Evans, here are ten remarkable facts about the brilliant equine stars who helped make Roy and Dale legendary.
1. Trigger went by another name before starring with Roy Rogers in film. He debuted under the name Golden Cloud in The Adventures of Robin Hood before Roy selected him for his own mount.
2. Trigger learned over 100 tricks. From bowing to signing his name with an “X,” Trigger was one of the most highly trained horses in Hollywood history.
3. Trigger was a Palomino stallion with star power. His golden coat and calm temperament made him instantly recognizable on- and off-screen.
4. Buttermilk, Dale Evans’ horse, was a speedy buckskin mare.
Known for her quickness and agility, she often outpaced the villains during chase scenes.
5. Buttermilk had a rough start in life. Rescued from neglect, she blossomed under Dale’s care and became a hero to young fans.
6. Trigger loved applause. Crew members said he’d perk up whenever a crowd gathered—he knew he was the center of attention.
7. Both horses toured with Roy and Dale. They appeared at rodeos, state fairs, and charity events, delighting audiences nationwide.
8. Trigger traveled in style. Roy had a custom trailer built so the star stallion could travel comfortably between performances.
9. Buttermilk and Trigger were fan favorites in merchandise.
Toys, photographs, coloring books—even lunchboxes featured the famous pair.
10. Their legacy lives on. Trigger and Buttermilk remain two of the most iconic horses in American entertainment, forever tied to the legacy of Roy Rogers and Dale Evans.
Want to learn more about their extraordinary lives—and the love story at the heart of their careers?

Enter to now win a copy of The Cowboy and the Senorita

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The Top Ten Songs of Roy Rogers and Dale Evans

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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.

 

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Top Ten Facts About Dale Evans

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

 

Get to know the remarkable woman behind America’s favorite cowboy couple! Dale Evans wasn’t just Roy Rogers’ on-screen partner – she was a trailblazer in film, music, and faith. Discover her incredible story in The Cowboy and the Senorita: The Biography of Roy Rogers and Dale Evans.

  1. Dale Evans wasn’t her real name – she was born Frances Octavia Smith in Uvalde, Texas.
  2. She started her career as a radio singer before Hollywood came calling.
  3. Her big break came when she starred opposite Roy Rogers in The Cowboy and the Senorita (1944) – and the nickname stuck!
  4. Dale and Roy were married for 51 years, one of Hollywood’s longest partnerships.
  5. She wrote the beloved song “Happy Trails,” which became the couple’s signature tune.
  6. She was known as “Queen of the West,” while Roy was “King of the Cowboys.”
  7. Dale wrote more than 20 books, including the inspirational bestseller Angel Unaware.
  8. She and Roy were deeply involved in charity work, especially for children with disabilities.
  9. Dale was inducted into the Cowgirl Hall of Fame in 1995.
  10. Her legacy continues to inspire generations who believe in faith, family, and the Western spirit.

Learn more about Dale’s extraordinary journey in The Cowboy and the Senorita: The Biography of Roy Rogers and Dale Evans — a story of love, courage, and cowboy charm.

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