"Between Life and Death" opens with Dade Lockett, recently released from prison, heading to Tucson to settle the score with Pete Dillard, his partner in a stagecoach robbery who abandoned him during the chase and took off with all the money. Unfortunately for Dade's plan, he comes upon a raid by hooded riders on a ranch defended by a young woman, her younger brother, and an old man. His fundamental sense of decency will not allow him to watch and do nothing. Using the element of surprise, he is able to turn the tide, and the raiders leave. But now that he has rescued the three, Dade feels the need to stay -- at least for a while . . .