The Jordans are en route from Arizona to Texas to take over the Flying W ranch inherited by Mary-Lou (Ma) Jordan. John is checking out the trail. Hardy is already at the Flying W and is struggling to bring order out of chaos. The family, complete with wagons, trail herd and remuda, battle with Indians and rustlers and struggle to ford flooded rivers before finally reaching the ranch.

Meanwhile, Hardy falls for Ann, the daughter of a neighbouring rancher. The romance is encouraged by Ann's father, Jack Donovan. Clay Wallace tells Ma of his feelings for Sara-Jane. Ellie-May has a brush with Apaches and earns a reputation as an Indian fighter. She precipitates an Apache attack on the ranch, only beaten off by the cavalry' timely arrival. The sheriff of Dorando approaches Lance with a view to being his replacement. Lance agrees.

Back in Texas the Anderson brothers, old adversaries of Mary-Lou, stage a jail-break, escaping to Mexico. Heading west, they are recruited by Domingo Sanchez, the local Comanchero leader, to strike back at the Jordans. The story concludes with Ma realising that her plans brought triumph and tragedy in equal measure and wondering if it has all been worthwhile.