A century ago, the life expectancy of a man living in the Florida Panhandle was less than 50 years. Women faired hardly any better. Yellow fever and malaria, parasites and poisonous snakes, sweltering heat and cataclysmic weather: These combined to make pioneer life in Northwest Florida one of the most challenging frontiers in the whole United States. Still, the settlers came, as the bounty and potential of the Panhandle were far too alluring. Rich farmland, primeval forests, abundant fishing and game, pristine coastline, and clean, fresh water held the promise of a good life and great wealth. So even in sometimes hellish conditions, paradise seemed within reach.Yet, in every paradise there are fallen angels, and Florida's backwoods had its fair share of those. Post-Civil War, these bayous and timberlands became a haven for moonshiners, outlaws, and bandits as mean and wretched as any desperado of the American West. Walton County, the absolute heart of the Florida Panhandle, may have been the wildest community of all. Before being splintered into Okaloosa, Washington, and Holmes Counties, Walton was some 3,000 square miles of wilderness patrolled by only a handful of law men and women. Peacekeeping was sporadic at best, but when applied, it was often by severe means. Inspired by the 2015 "Grit & Grace" production by the same name (www.gritandgrace.org), Wild, Wild Walton is Ronnie McBrayer's exploration of pioneer justice in Florida's Panhandle. Combining the elements of historical fact, oral storytelling, and narration, this is an exceptional look at the good guys and gangsters, the posses and picaroons, the devils and deputies who shaped Walton County's past - and who continue to forge its future.

The Outlaws of the Wild West: 150+ Westerns in One Edition stands as a monumental anthology that explores the allure and the multifaceted nature of the American West through its most emblematic genre: the Western. Within its pages, readers are treated to a diverse array of literary styles, from the rugged realism of pioneer life to the mythmaking narratives of outlaws and heroes. This collection, unparalleled in its scope, showcases the evolution of Western literature over time, presenting seminal works alongside lesser-known gems, offering a comprehensive insight into the genre's development and its lasting impact on American culture. The inclusion of works by celebrated authors such as Mark Twain and Jack London alongside those by niche writers ensures a rich and varied reading experience, encapsulating the broad expanse of the Western narrative landscape. The collective backgrounds of the anthology's authors provide a vivid tapestry of the American literary canon. From Twains razor-sharp wit to Londons raw depiction of adversity and survival, and Cathers evocative portrayal of frontier life, the anthology spans a critical period in American history. These authors, hailing from diverse walks of life, bring authenticity and depth to their depiction of the West, reflecting the socio-political landscapes and cultural shifts of their respective eras. The anthology not only commemorates the traditional Western but also underscores the genres role in exploring themes of identity, conflict, and the American dream, echoing the complexity and contradictions of American society itself. The Outlaws of the Wild West: 150+ Westerns in One Edition offers readers an unparalleled opportunity to dive deep into the heart of American literary heritage. It appeals not only to aficionados of the Western genre but also to those keen on exploring the narratives that have shaped American identity and mythology. This anthology opens up a dialogue among a wide array of voices, each adding its unique perspective to the vast, untamed landscapes of the American West. As such, it is an essential read for anyone looking to grasp the full spectrum of American literary output, offering an educational journey through time and across the plains, mountains, and deserts that have inspired generations of storytellers.