New York: Ecco Press, (2000.) dj. Hardcover first edition - The first book, a powerful collection of five short stories and the title novella, by Boyd, whose years of experience as a 'cut-man' (the one who staunches the blood flow and allows fights to continue), gives these stories a sometimes heart-breaking authenticity. One of the stories - 'Million $$$ Baby' - was the basis for the 2004 Academy-award winning film, produced and directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Hilary Swank. 235 pp. ISBN: 0-06-0198206.