Historical novel based on the life and times of one of America's greatest frontiersmen responsible for opening up the Ohio River country, Lew Wetzel. He was known as "Deathwind of the Border" because of his dedication and ferocity in the pursuit of Native American Indians and sadistic white renegades -- known as Gargoyles. Wetzel was one of America's first notable pioneers. He was a compatriot of Jonathan Zane (ancestor of famed novelist Zane Grey). Wetzel's skill with a long rifle and tomahawk was unmatched; he had near perfect aim and was even able to reload while running after his target. Author Irv Lampman grew up on the small farms and villages of Wisconsin. He has harbored a love and talent for the freedom of the frontier, country music, and a good tale. Irv states that "the human imagination, when under control, is one of the greatest gifts...and in the deepest recesses of my being, I have a story to tell."