IN THE MOON OF RED PONIES

James Lee Burke is at his gripping best in this story of murder and conspiracy against Johnny American Horse, a decorated Native American war veteran and eco-activist whose mad, bad lady love is the beautiful daughter of a U.S. Senator. Lawyer (and former Texas Ranger) Billy Bob Holland finds his whole family under threat when he tries to defend Johnny. Tom Stechschulte is particularly delicious in his portrayal of the Southern-fried nut job, Wyatt Dixon, who once buried Billy Bob’s wife alive but is now out of prison and praising the Lord. But Stechschulte’s ease with all the demands of this top-notch thriller, from violence, to breathless panic, to love, is brilliant, the sum even greater than a series of masterful character parts. B.G. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC 04/ JAN 05]