The Silent Battle of Dawn — Del Tritten

The year 1900 reveals an energized and changing America. Lake Tahoe mountain man, Wig Blackhammer, bears the physical and emotional scars of fighting that change. Although renowned as "The Legend" his wastrel existence of drinking, gambling, and performing daring stunts falters the day his old friend, Wally Rupert, makes him a partner in a new lodge and casino at Tahoe City. As Blackhammer struggles to regain his dignity, he pits his intelligence against a horrid enemy named Bart Sample, and his heart against the beautiful Dr. Veronica Goldman. Dr. Goldman, a rare female doctor of medicine, dedicates her medical career to San Francisco's Chinese population. She consistently overcomes anti-Chinese hatred to improve the health and welfare of her Chinatown friends. When plague strikes, however, her fianc, the vice-mayor, betrays her. As Chinatown erupts in flames and death, Veronica's heroism isn't enough to overcome her self-imposed dishonor. Veronica escapes to Lake Tahoe where she encounters "The Legend." The doctor and the mountain man overcome their initial suspicions and antagonisms toward each other to work together for the benefit of the lodge. Their hardened hearts soften and join as they reach for consummation of their love. But before they complete their desire, Veronica's treacherous fianc arrives to recapture her affection. A Bart Sample killing forces Blackhammer into a final gambit for his life. Wig and Veronica's silent battle brings them new life and purpose or infamy as the victims of malevolence.