Janie Pencek

The protagonist of this story, Leland Vance, is plucked from a pitiful existence in the coal fields of Kentucky and placed in the new center of the coal industry Williamson County, Illinois. He tries to take advantage of this good fortune by starting a new life for himself striving to make good on is promise to his old caregiver Mrs. Goshen to walk on the good side of life. He quickly adapts t his new surroundings making friends and finding work that will keep him from breaking the law as he did in the past. The images of life in the 1920's seems to be appropriate and the influx of Italians and their influence was significant to the area as the story tells. Extensive research by the author on the living conditions and the culture of that time in Williamson County enhanced his images of a laborer’s life and add to the feeling of authenticity. Descriptions of the massacre are wrenching, but the effect of that manslaughter were felt as far away as the office of the President of the United States so the meaning is appropriate. It certainly played an important role in Leland’s life. His relationship with Bertha is developed tastefully, as she plays and important role in his growth as a member of his society. Using the Italian waitress as an outlet for his martial frustrations adds to his authenticity. Several instances throughout the book illustrate the effects of alcohol on individuals, especially the lasting impact of alcoholism. This area might cause some people to not like the book, but I felt it adds to the credibility of the story. As the title indicates, this is a dark story about the life and times of that era that is described as Bloody Williamson. Overall, I found this to be a different story with a different voice of the author, but one that I found to be very entertaining. I definitely recommend it with five stars.