The Prohibition Era saw countless dangerous bootleg liquors, but Templeton rye whiskey emerged as a rare, high-quality exception. This book chronicles the true story of that beverage and its creators, focusing on Joe Erlbeck, who established a bootlegging operation in Templeton, Iowa, shortly after the Eighteenth Amendment's ratification. Despite the illegality of his trade, Erlbeck's venture provided a crucial lifeline for farmers struggling to make ends meet, offering a stark contrast between the risks of revenuers and the necessity of survival. The narrative explores the complex moral landscape of the time, where illicit activities were intertwined with economic hardship.

This book appears to be a well-researched historical account that balances the illicit nature of bootlegging with the economic struggles of the era. The author's admitted bias toward the bootleggers suggests a narrative that humanizes their actions within the context of survival. The work is presented as both informative and engaging, promising a compelling story of a specific, high-quality bootleg beverage.