Below the Horizon

Charlie-Not-Afraid-of-His-Horse Lee Mick''s first published novel received wide acclaim for his memorable characters of Charlie Beth and Walk-Behind as well as for his historical accuracy. His uncanny ability to create living characters from fiction continues in Below the Horizon. It is the moving tale of a small town in the dustbowl years; but mostly it is the story of three brothers-in-law and how they help each other survive. Ed Kaufman the oldest brother-in-law as well as the sheriff is basically an honest man but understands that hard times call for ingenuity. Dietz Titus a brother-in-law and master-maker of whiskey is a self-taught philosopher and farmer who believes his wife Katie and children are worth the risk of bootlegging. Frank Hagen the youngest brother-in-law is on the brink of losing his farm due to drought. His wife Tracy is unable to conquer fears from her staunch Catholic upbringing but with Katie''s help she backs Frank in his bootlegging endeavors. From out of the dust comes a man of the times...Willie Loop. He hitches a ride with Frank at the communal water well and soon becomes a part of the team. This dynamic tale of survival gives kudos to the outlaws who in this story are the good guys.