The Legacy of Willie centers on Willie Newman, the escaped slave who joined the Union Army and became a loyal and vital part of the Lazy M Ranch family. Set about five years after the cattle drive that brought Angie and Joe Bob together in Legacy of the Lazy M, this third volume picks up where many familiar characters left off—and brings their stories forward.
Willie is still searching for the family he was separated from—those who were, in his words, “sold down the river.” His journey is one of resilience, identity, and hope, and it’s been a powerful experience writing from his perspective.
You’ll see many returning characters from the first two novels:
- Angie and Joe Bob
- Charles, the ranch patriarch
- Lizzie, and Jack, ever steady and reliable
But this story also expands the lives and roles of some side characters who’ve been waiting for their moment in the spotlight:
- Jim Langston,
- Spike,
- Calvin Merchant, and
- Curly
These men add complexity and tension to the story, and they’ve surprised me more than once as their motivations have come into focus.
Until then, thanks for reading, thanks for sharing, and thanks for being part of this storytelling journey.
Stay tuned.