RaveThe Houston Chronicle... densely researched ... At more than 400 pages, backed by 34 pages of single-spaced footnotes, Cult of Glory will likely withstand challenges to its accuracy ... Its tone is matter-of-fact, and Swanson does not make the mistake of imposing contemporary values on bygone days. He does, however, meticulously fill in the historical voids and correct the misrepresentations...And for any student of Texas history, the book is a treasure, on several levels. First, it is a fascinating historical narrative, packed with colorful episodes and outsize characters including Ranger legends like Jack Hays, Sam Walker, Bigfoot Wallace and Alfred Allee...And, whatever their faults, the Rangers were often a wild and daring bunch, which sometimes left a strong impression on observers ... Perhaps more important, the book is also a critical retelling of Texas history as seen through a different lens. And in setting the record straight about the Texas Rangers, Swanson clarifies and enriches the remarkable story of Texas for everyone.
