The son of a white man and Cherokee slave, Joseph Willis, gains his freedom and swims the mighty Mississippi on a mule. Driven by three winds... * a wind of freedom driving him from North Carolina * a mighty rushing wind compelling him across the Mississippi River into the Louisiana Territory * a wind of war fueled by slavery Rooted in a time of tradition and chivalry, Joseph discovers a land of innocence lost. Inspired by a true story Drawing on his family heritage of explorers, settlers, soldiers, cowboys, and pastors, Randy carries on the tradition of loving the outdoors and sharing it in the adventures he creates for readers of his novels. He is the author of two biographies and his new memoir, To the Best of My Recollection. He is also the author of Destiny, Beckoning Candle, Twice a Slave, Three Winds Blowing, Texas Wind, Louisiana Wind, The Apostle to the Opelousas, The Story of Joseph Willis, To the Best of My Recollection, and many published articles.