BLOOD RUNS DEEP. JUSTICE RUNS DEEPER.

Short stories are always a challenge to write. We have often said that we would rather write an entire novel than a short story. A good short story requires sharper language, hard-hitting action, and characters that instantly stand up on the page and stare the reader in the eye. When we agreed to contribute stories for two anthologies of western crime fiction, ROUGH COUNTRY and HARD COUNTRY, we knew we were in for a wild ride, but the anthologies were for a very good cause.

The U.S. Marshals Survivors Benefit Fund is a private organization that supports the families of U.S. Marshals who were killed in the line of duty. Among other things, it helps cover the costs of funerals and provides educational grants to families. ROUGH COUNTRY and HARD COUNTRY were created in partnership with the Survivors Benefit Fund, and all profits go to the fund. Within the pages of these two books you will find some of today’s most celebrated literary voices, including four acclaimed Wyoming writers. Each author donated his or her time to create the best darned western stories you will read anywhere. Unforgettable characters walk down our small town streets, climb our mountains, and gallop across high desert trails that seem to go on forever. The sweep of this collection is impressive. The stories are set in the past, present, and future, and focus on the beating heart of the west, our values of duty, sacrifice, and service to our communities.

The editor, and bestselling author, Reavis Z. Wortham, writes, “…we invite you to listen closely, not only to the polished voices of the authors, but to the echoes of the land itself. May these stories entertain you, move you, and above all, remind you of the power and spirit of the American people in this great land of ours.”

We are honored that two of our stories are included in these anthologies, but you will also find amazing stories from C.J. Box, Craig Johnson, and many other very talented writers. Each copy of ROUGH COUNTRY and HARD COUNTRY that you purchase helps to support the families of fallen heroes, law enforcement officers who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect us, and our communities.

Please order copies from your local bookstore. Bookstores and libraries support our communities.

Happy reading!
Michael and Kathleen

[Community Contributor]

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