Sometimes heroes are disguised as gunslingers . . . and sometimes the most unlikely dreams really can come true.

Past promises will be tested as new ones are given in Gray's latest, "A Texan's Promise," sure to please her fans and readers.

Texas, 1874. Years ago, Will McMillan had fought in the open, next to his Captain, Clayton Proffitt. Now he's waging another war undercover, pretending to be a member of the notorious Walton Gang.

From fighting for his life to pursuing a career in the NFL, ACC Player of the Year and star Pittsburgh Steelers running back James Conner has lived a story offering wisdom and advice for anyone who has faced adversity. During his first two years at the University of Pittsburgh, running back James Conner became one of the Panthers’ biggest stars, breaking records and winning the adoration of fans. Then, in the first game of his junior year, disaster struck in the form of a torn MCL. During rehab, James’s health continued to inexplicably deteriorate until a chest X-ray and biopsy confirmed the unthinkable: a diagnosis of Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Suddenly, it wasn’t just the dream of an NFL career that was in jeopardy; it was James’s life. Yet when he shared the news of his diagnosis publicly, James rallied family, friends, and fans, with his message of hope and courage: “Fear is a choice. I choose not to fear cancer.” In just ten words, James defined his own journey on his own terms and refused to back down from one of the most dreaded diseases known to man. Drawing strength from his faith in God and the support of his community and loved ones, James underwent treatment but continued to practice with his team despite the intense physical toll of chemotherapy. He was declared cancer-free within a year. Returning to the field in 2016, he finished his college career with a record-breaking 3,733 rushing yards and 56 touchdowns. Entering the NFL draft early, his success continued. Selected in the third round by the Pittsburgh Steelers, he quickly became one of the most beloved rookies in the league. In Fear is a Choice, James candidly shares his experiences during his battle with cancer and beyond, encouraging readers and illustrating the spiritual truths and personal principles that got him through his darkest days. James Conner is an inspiration for everyone who wants to learn how to tackle life’s problems with dignity, faith, and determination.

“Gail Collins is the funniest serious political commentator in America. Reading As Texas Goes… is pure pleasure from page one.” —Rachel Maddow A Kirkus Reviews Best Book of the Year (Nonfiction) As Texas Goes . . . provides a trenchant yet often hilarious look into American politics and the disproportional influence of Texas, which has become the model for not just the Tea Party but also the Republican Party. Now with an expanded introduction and a new concluding chapter that will assess the influence of the Texas way of thinking on the 2012 election, Collins shows how the presidential race devolved into a clash between the so-called “empty places” and the crowded places that became a central theme in her book. The expanded edition will also feature more examples of the Texas style, such as Governor Rick Perry’s nearsighted refusal to accept federal Medicaid funding as well as the proposed ban on teaching “critical thinking” in the classroom. As Texas Goes . . . will prove to be even more relevant to American politics by the dawn of a new political era in January 2013.

In a clear and encouraging voice, Sosa reveals how Napoleon Hill’s positive, practical, and empowering ideas can help Latinos overcome self-esteem issues, thrive while embracing change, and map a clear-cut plan to achieve their goals and fulfill their dreams. By applying the proven principles of preparation, competence, hard work, and sincerity devised by legendary motivational author Napoleon Hill, Lionel Sosa advanced from painting signs at $1.10 an hour to running the largest Hispanic ad agency in America. In this indispensable guide to prosperity, Sosa shares his inspiring story of achievement, as well as those of other respected members of the Latino community, including: Alberto Gonzales, who rose from humble roots in San Antonio and Houston to become the first Hispanic attorney general of the United States. Linda Alvarado, who defied both racism and sexism to head the biggest construction company in America led by a woman. Jeff Valdez and Bruce Barshop, the team that created SiTV, the first and only twenty-four-hour English-language cable channel aimed at Latinos. Patricia Diaz Dennis, who triumphed over many obstacles and personal tragedy to serve as the first Latina chair of the Girl Scouts in the United States.

Text and numerous illustrations trace the history of Texas during the nineteenth century.