Francis Tucket and his adopted family, Lottie and Billy, are heading west in search of Francis's parents on the Oregon Trail. But when winter comes early, Francis turns south to avoid the cold, and leads them right into enemy territory. The United States and Mexico are at war, and Francis, Lottie, and Billy are captured by the most ruthless band of outlaws Francis has ever seen. Loyalty, endurance, and the element of surprise offer hope for their survival in Tucket's Ride, the third book about Francis Tucket.