I give this book to every friend I know who professes in interest in El Paso and Southern New Mexico. A good read, and a wealth of information.

This is a magnificent work. I was born and raised in the Tularosa Basin and I feel Sonnichsen does a remarkable job capturing the very essence of this enchanted region. I hightly recommend it to anyone who has an interest in the Southwest, especially those who have lived in the Basin. -Steve Gazzoli

I was fortunate to find this book at an estate sale, and found it to be one of the best accounts of El Paso, Texas history I have read. Do you think El Paso has a water problem now? Think about turning on your tap and getting sludge. What did those 'boys' do down in the basement and back rooms of the bank? The founders of The State National Bank were major movers and shakers of early El Paso. But they were far from dull boys. Not only were they entertaining characters themselves, they were instrumental in mentoring a number of intriguing, prominent El Pasoans. I expected a dry read, but should have known that Sonnichsen didn't know how to write one. I especially liked the book in the phase of El Paso history before 1950. If you can find a copy of this book, and you are interested in El Paso history, grab it. It is a great read.

C.L. Sonnichsen has bravely compiled a history of Texas feuds stained deep with blood and treachery. Killings, revenge killings, lynchings, bushwackings, corruption, deceit, bravery and cowardice, are all fascinatingly embroiled into these terrible wars. Included in this volume are: the Sutton-Taylor feud; the Horrell-Higgins War; the tale of the Marlow brothers; the San Saba Mob; the Broocks-Wall feud - all of which tell shocking, but remarkable, tales.

It is as well to remember that these feuds were highly sensitive affairs, and in some cases, have remained so ever since. For this reason their stories should be treated with the utmost respect. As the author himself declares that the discussion of such topics does not always meet with 'enthusiasm' or with 'open arms' among some people.

However, the topic does provide much insight to historians and psychologists alike, about human behaviour under such circumstances, and how they compare to feuds of today. The book also clearly demonstrates the frailties of local communities, and the impact the development of law had on such societies.

This book though filled with many atrocities, is thoroughly enjoyable. The author has produced a great book in his uncompromising endeavour to lay bear many controversial facts. As has been proved in the past, this book is a great source for research.

I dont know how many times I have reread this volume...It is absolutely a marvel how well Sonnichsen retells these tangled tales of feuds. The Taylor Sutton feud went on 30 years...it was multi generational, but Sonnichsen makes everything plain. Great annecdotes abound in this book, like the rustler who wouldnt talk as they beat his back bloody till the vigilante leader growled" turn him over"......Bob Lee's one man feud against a pack of worthless carpetbagger types is told in heart wrenching detail....the nasty business in Shackleford County...the Woodpecker-Jaybird feud in East Texas...really I cant reccomend this book enough