The Legends of Ryland Creek, Book III of the Ryland Creek series was something of a first. While magical realism, and the land itself as a character, began with the preceding books, Legends delves heavily into the myth and lore of Painted Post and the surrounding regions.

The creature, the Gandalark, while considerable literal license was levied in the story, was roughly based on the reported sightings (in 1869) of a big foot-like creature (with a really nasty attitude) near Woodhull, New York, which is about 25 miles to the west of Painted Post.

Legends was also the most thematic of the series to date as it deals with both the issue of bullies as well as choosing one's path, and the consequences that ensue.