If you write a book set in the past about something that happened east of the Mississippi, it's a 'historical novel.' If you write about something that took place west of the Mississippi, it's a 'Western'- and somehow regarded as a lesser work. I write historical novels about the frontier.

He who plants a tree is a servant of God.

Power not only corrupts he who wields the power but those who submit to it. Those who grovel at the feet of power betray their fellows to hide themselves behind the cloak of submission. It is an evil thing.

To exist is to adapt, and if one could not adapt, one died and made room for those who could.

All loose things seem to drift down to the sea, and so did I.

Enemies can be an incentive to survive and become someone in spite of them. Enemies can keep you alert and aware.

Mountains should not be judged by altitude.