"After an ill-advised indiscretion with his greedy landlady, Longarm is forced to defend himself against her jealous husband. But after the gun smoke clears, the woman accuses Longarm of assaulting her and murdering her husband. Turns out, the landlord's family is rich, and his wily widow is determined to enjoy his inheritance--while an innocent man dangles from the gallows. Deputy U.S. Marshal Custis Long is determined not to take this lying down--heck, that's how he got into trouble in the first place! But with a sadistic sheriff and a hanging judge against him, his boots may be kicking air in a matter of days. He's hoping that if he gives his lying landlady enough rope, she may hang herself...or else he'll be paying for this month's rent with his life."--P. [4] of cover.