"The Headless Horseman: A Strange Tale of Texas" by Mayne Reid is a novel published in 1866, based on the author's American adventures and a South Texas folk tale. Set in Texas after the Mexican-American War, the story follows beautiful Louise Poindexter, courted by two rivals: the vindictive Cassius Calhoun and the dashing mustanger Maurice Gerald. When Louise's brother is murdered, all evidence points to Maurice—while a mysterious headless rider haunts the Poindexter plantation. Reid's thrilling adventure weaves romance, mystery, and frontier legend into an unforgettable tale.