Dave Vizard's Blog, page 2
December 30, 2023
"Be Mine" another great Richard Ford novel
Loved this story, another Frank Bascombe tale.
For those not familiar, Bascombe is a retired sports writer who becomes a realtor and leads an adenturous life.
In Be Mine, author Richard Ford takes us along on a last journey with Bascombe and his son, who is suffering from a debilitating illness that they both know is going to end badly.
Like all dads and sons, they have history and we get to ride through the peeks and valleys of their relationship.
Touching and tragic story but also told with sly humor. Really good read that I recommend highly.
Be MineRichard Ford
For those not familiar, Bascombe is a retired sports writer who becomes a realtor and leads an adenturous life.
In Be Mine, author Richard Ford takes us along on a last journey with Bascombe and his son, who is suffering from a debilitating illness that they both know is going to end badly.
Like all dads and sons, they have history and we get to ride through the peeks and valleys of their relationship.
Touching and tragic story but also told with sly humor. Really good read that I recommend highly.
Be MineRichard Ford
December 26, 2023
Unexpected Christmas present from Michigan in Books blog
Praise for "Murder, so Sweet"
"The last half of the book is breathlessly gripping. New revelations, totally unexpected character reactions, and a tension filled conclusion will keep the reader compulsively turning the pages. And then when the reader thinks they have seen and heard it all the last short two paragraphs are absolutely stunning. Page for page one of the most original and entirely involving books I read this year." - Michigan in Books.
Very nice review of "Murder, So Sweet," the first novel I published in 2023. Michigan in Books is an interesting blog by Tom Powers, who oversees a blog and bookmark worth checking out if you enjoy books about the Great Lakes State.
Check out the full review of "Murder, So, Sweet" and other books by following link below:
https://michiganinbooks.blogspot.com/
Murder, So SweetDave Vizard
"The last half of the book is breathlessly gripping. New revelations, totally unexpected character reactions, and a tension filled conclusion will keep the reader compulsively turning the pages. And then when the reader thinks they have seen and heard it all the last short two paragraphs are absolutely stunning. Page for page one of the most original and entirely involving books I read this year." - Michigan in Books.
Very nice review of "Murder, So Sweet," the first novel I published in 2023. Michigan in Books is an interesting blog by Tom Powers, who oversees a blog and bookmark worth checking out if you enjoy books about the Great Lakes State.
Check out the full review of "Murder, So, Sweet" and other books by following link below:
https://michiganinbooks.blogspot.com/
Murder, So SweetDave Vizard
December 23, 2023
December 15, 2023
Went to library to pitch new book and discovered young writer
When I arrived at the Pigeon ibrary last night with a suitcase full of books, my laptop, and quad cane, I wrestled with the building's heavy side-door, thick glass and aluminum with what felt like spring-loaded hinges designed to protect Fort Knox.
A young guy spotted me lurching and lugging and hustled over to help. I noticed him eyeing my suitcase, standard carry-on with wheels and able to neatly hold 24 books without damage. I said, "I'm not moving in, I'm here for the program."
"Me, too," he responded, taking command of my bag. As I prepared for the presentation, the lanky high-school freshman talked my ear off about the new story he's writing. He offered to get me coffee and cookies, graciously supplied by the library.
A fine lad, I thought, and quickly discovered the method to his madness. While I sipped and munched, he proceeded to talk my other ear off.
All good, though. The young guy was bright, funny, and spilling over with creativity. I also noticed that he was as energetic as the battery bunny.
Now, get this. He took a seat in the front row, opened a notebook, and began scribbling copious notes as the presentation began. The young guy asked far more questions than anyone else. At one point, he held up his hand like a traffic cop pausing a motorist at an intersection and read from his notes, asking me to backup for clarification.
I loved this. That's exactly what good news reporters do. Obviously, he's very sharp and not afraid to speak his mind.
Turns out he's writing Fantasy, and enthusiastically immersed in a new world with wild characters, names, and motives. His goal now is trying to figure out how to put it all together.
When I finished, I offered to give him a book if he promised to read it and discuss it with me. He nodded and smiled, which I took as agreement.
My only condition was that he write down my email and get parental consent to accept the book. My novels do not contain F-bombs, hard-K words, or stomach-turning imagery. But they do include the untidy aspects of murder. These days, I want to make sure parents are OK with a teen reading a murder mystery. I would hate to be accused of encouraging Jenni or Johnny to go on a killing spree.
It was a good night. I packed up and left, feeling bookless, earless, and a little parched. I stopped for a cold beer – one and only one since I was driving – and thought about the young guy with the all the questions.
When I got home, I discovered an e-mail from mom. It said: "Hello, my son met you at the library tonight and he can't stop talking about the program. He says you offered him a book. I think that is so considerate of you to ask my permission. Yes, you may send him a book. I like to read, too, so we'll both read it. Please confirm for me that you will send the book tomorrow so I can get him to finally shut up and go to sleep. Thank you."
This morning, I signed a book and wrote a side note of encouragement, urging him to continue reading and writing and chasing his dreams. I stuck it in the mail, fully confident that we've got a budding young writer on our hands and I doubt I've heard the last of him.
Dave VizardMurder for Treasure: Booty is in the Eye of the Beholder
A young guy spotted me lurching and lugging and hustled over to help. I noticed him eyeing my suitcase, standard carry-on with wheels and able to neatly hold 24 books without damage. I said, "I'm not moving in, I'm here for the program."
"Me, too," he responded, taking command of my bag. As I prepared for the presentation, the lanky high-school freshman talked my ear off about the new story he's writing. He offered to get me coffee and cookies, graciously supplied by the library.
A fine lad, I thought, and quickly discovered the method to his madness. While I sipped and munched, he proceeded to talk my other ear off.
All good, though. The young guy was bright, funny, and spilling over with creativity. I also noticed that he was as energetic as the battery bunny.
Now, get this. He took a seat in the front row, opened a notebook, and began scribbling copious notes as the presentation began. The young guy asked far more questions than anyone else. At one point, he held up his hand like a traffic cop pausing a motorist at an intersection and read from his notes, asking me to backup for clarification.
I loved this. That's exactly what good news reporters do. Obviously, he's very sharp and not afraid to speak his mind.
Turns out he's writing Fantasy, and enthusiastically immersed in a new world with wild characters, names, and motives. His goal now is trying to figure out how to put it all together.
When I finished, I offered to give him a book if he promised to read it and discuss it with me. He nodded and smiled, which I took as agreement.
My only condition was that he write down my email and get parental consent to accept the book. My novels do not contain F-bombs, hard-K words, or stomach-turning imagery. But they do include the untidy aspects of murder. These days, I want to make sure parents are OK with a teen reading a murder mystery. I would hate to be accused of encouraging Jenni or Johnny to go on a killing spree.
It was a good night. I packed up and left, feeling bookless, earless, and a little parched. I stopped for a cold beer – one and only one since I was driving – and thought about the young guy with the all the questions.
When I got home, I discovered an e-mail from mom. It said: "Hello, my son met you at the library tonight and he can't stop talking about the program. He says you offered him a book. I think that is so considerate of you to ask my permission. Yes, you may send him a book. I like to read, too, so we'll both read it. Please confirm for me that you will send the book tomorrow so I can get him to finally shut up and go to sleep. Thank you."
This morning, I signed a book and wrote a side note of encouragement, urging him to continue reading and writing and chasing his dreams. I stuck it in the mail, fully confident that we've got a budding young writer on our hands and I doubt I've heard the last of him.
Dave VizardMurder for Treasure: Booty is in the Eye of the Beholder
December 12, 2023
New novel, 'Murder for Treasure,' focus of Pigeon Library program Thursday
From Pigeon District Library
Local author Dave Vizard will be featured in the Pigeon District Library’s “Author Talk” program at 6 p.m. Thursday in the library.
Lisa DiCamillo, Pigeon Library Director, said she and Beth Mauer, library program director, are pleased to have Vizard as a showcased contributor in its meet-the-author series.
During the event, Vizard will introduce his new novel, Murder for Treasure – Booty is in the Eye of the Beholder, a Thumb-area adventure published in November. The book is the seventh novel in the author’s Nick Steele Mystery Series.
“Huron County plays a prominent role in the new book for two reasons,” said Vizard, who lives in the Caseville area and is a native of the Thumb. “First, it’s based on a historical event that took place off Pte. aux Barques, just north of Port Austin, in 1871. That’s when a steamship carrying 73 passengers and loaded with silver ore sank in Lake Huron during a raging storm. About half the passengers and crew survived, but the ship and its cargo have never been found.
“From that event, I created an adventure that involves a double murder, an attempted killing, and a wild hunt for long-lost treasure. Most of the novel’s colorful characters live in Huron County and the exciting chase to find the treasure involves the communities of Rose Island, Bay Port, Caseville, Port Austin, Harbor Beach, and Pigeon.”
Vizard said he will also focus his presentation on the talented artists from Huron County who helped him create the novel, which comprises 258 pages, 22 chapters and about 75,000 words.
“The story was written here this past summer,” he said, “and I relied on the skill and talent of several gifted Huron County artists to bring it to fruition. Their contributions to this writing project will be highlighted during the program.”
Most of the program in the Pigeon Library will be open for questions and answers, Vizard said. He indicated that he will be happy to talk about the writing process as well as publishing.
“I’ve been asked to conduct writing workshops for aspiring writers of all ages at colleges, public libraries, and local schools, mostly in northern and eastern Michigan,” he said. “As a rule, writers are eager to share what they’ve learned. I always look forward to these events as a way for me to learn more about the process from other writers as well as readers.”
Recently, Vizard was one of four authors from the Thumb who met with Sixth Graders from Laker Schools as part of a morning-long forum focused on the importance of communication, writing, and reading.
DeCamillo said the forum, called “You Can Be An Author” was well-received by students who learned that authors can be male or female and of any age so long as they have a good book idea and the support of family and friends.
“Students are still talking about the program, and Beth and I appreciate the energy and experience that our local authors brought to the program,” the library director said.
Vizard, who is a former managing editor of The Bay City Times and editor of True North Magazine, was a journalist for 40 years, working in Detroit, Flint, and Bay City. His news reports and feature articles have been published in every daily newspaper in Michigan. He grew up on a farm between Mayville and Marlette.
He graduated from Mayville High School, attended Flint Junior College, graduated from Wayne State University in Detroit, and worked on a master’s degree at Saginaw Valley State University. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps for two years in the 1970s, was trained as a combat correspondent, and worked as editor of a base newspaper.
The Nick Steele Mystery Series, including Murder for Treasure, is available as an e-book on Kindle and can be purchased as a paperback via Amazon or directly from the author. The series also can be found for checkout at many Michigan libraries.
“I love the libraries,” Vizard. “They have been supportive of my work, and I think they are fabulous community assets for young people as well as senior citizens. They are a window to the world and an adventure for all interests. If you can’t find what you need to learn or experience, just ask a librarian.”
Murder for Treasure: Booty is in the Eye of the BeholderDave Vizard
Local author Dave Vizard will be featured in the Pigeon District Library’s “Author Talk” program at 6 p.m. Thursday in the library.
Lisa DiCamillo, Pigeon Library Director, said she and Beth Mauer, library program director, are pleased to have Vizard as a showcased contributor in its meet-the-author series.
During the event, Vizard will introduce his new novel, Murder for Treasure – Booty is in the Eye of the Beholder, a Thumb-area adventure published in November. The book is the seventh novel in the author’s Nick Steele Mystery Series.
“Huron County plays a prominent role in the new book for two reasons,” said Vizard, who lives in the Caseville area and is a native of the Thumb. “First, it’s based on a historical event that took place off Pte. aux Barques, just north of Port Austin, in 1871. That’s when a steamship carrying 73 passengers and loaded with silver ore sank in Lake Huron during a raging storm. About half the passengers and crew survived, but the ship and its cargo have never been found.
“From that event, I created an adventure that involves a double murder, an attempted killing, and a wild hunt for long-lost treasure. Most of the novel’s colorful characters live in Huron County and the exciting chase to find the treasure involves the communities of Rose Island, Bay Port, Caseville, Port Austin, Harbor Beach, and Pigeon.”
Vizard said he will also focus his presentation on the talented artists from Huron County who helped him create the novel, which comprises 258 pages, 22 chapters and about 75,000 words.
“The story was written here this past summer,” he said, “and I relied on the skill and talent of several gifted Huron County artists to bring it to fruition. Their contributions to this writing project will be highlighted during the program.”
Most of the program in the Pigeon Library will be open for questions and answers, Vizard said. He indicated that he will be happy to talk about the writing process as well as publishing.
“I’ve been asked to conduct writing workshops for aspiring writers of all ages at colleges, public libraries, and local schools, mostly in northern and eastern Michigan,” he said. “As a rule, writers are eager to share what they’ve learned. I always look forward to these events as a way for me to learn more about the process from other writers as well as readers.”
Recently, Vizard was one of four authors from the Thumb who met with Sixth Graders from Laker Schools as part of a morning-long forum focused on the importance of communication, writing, and reading.
DeCamillo said the forum, called “You Can Be An Author” was well-received by students who learned that authors can be male or female and of any age so long as they have a good book idea and the support of family and friends.
“Students are still talking about the program, and Beth and I appreciate the energy and experience that our local authors brought to the program,” the library director said.
Vizard, who is a former managing editor of The Bay City Times and editor of True North Magazine, was a journalist for 40 years, working in Detroit, Flint, and Bay City. His news reports and feature articles have been published in every daily newspaper in Michigan. He grew up on a farm between Mayville and Marlette.
He graduated from Mayville High School, attended Flint Junior College, graduated from Wayne State University in Detroit, and worked on a master’s degree at Saginaw Valley State University. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps for two years in the 1970s, was trained as a combat correspondent, and worked as editor of a base newspaper.
The Nick Steele Mystery Series, including Murder for Treasure, is available as an e-book on Kindle and can be purchased as a paperback via Amazon or directly from the author. The series also can be found for checkout at many Michigan libraries.
“I love the libraries,” Vizard. “They have been supportive of my work, and I think they are fabulous community assets for young people as well as senior citizens. They are a window to the world and an adventure for all interests. If you can’t find what you need to learn or experience, just ask a librarian.”
Murder for Treasure: Booty is in the Eye of the BeholderDave Vizard
First review: New novel 'adventure to read,' 5 stars
Delighted to see the first written review in Goodreads of my new novel, 'Murder for Treasure - Booty is in the Eye of the Beholder.'
Amber K. gave it 5 stars and is looking for more. Here's her take on the story:
'December 10, 2023
This book was a fast-paced, tons of fun, adventure to read! I easily became caught in the story and didn't want to put it down!
Looking forward to more!'
Thanks, Amber. That's what I'm hearing from readers who have bought the book directly from me as a result of two book signings. Of course, many of my sales are going to be Christmas presents, so I'm not likely to hear many more until next year.
Looking forward to more reader feedback!
Murder for Treasure: Booty is in the Eye of the BeholderDave Vizard
Amber K. gave it 5 stars and is looking for more. Here's her take on the story:
'December 10, 2023
This book was a fast-paced, tons of fun, adventure to read! I easily became caught in the story and didn't want to put it down!
Looking forward to more!'
Thanks, Amber. That's what I'm hearing from readers who have bought the book directly from me as a result of two book signings. Of course, many of my sales are going to be Christmas presents, so I'm not likely to hear many more until next year.
Looking forward to more reader feedback!
Murder for Treasure: Booty is in the Eye of the BeholderDave Vizard
December 8, 2023
My web site went from bad to Wurst, and I'm so glad it did
I am a total klutz when it comes to computer tech stuff – all things, big and small.
When my sons see me quietly cursing and muttering with my laptop or iPhone, they sigh heavily, roll their eyes, put their hands on their hips, and (thankfully) say, "let me take a look at it, dad," usually putting me out of my misery – at least temporarily.
So, when I need help with the bigger tech jobs, I go to a professional I know and trust.
That's why I turn to friend and fellow writer Duane Wurst of Pigeon to help with the tech aspect of publishing my books. Duane, who helps many with publishing, is also a talented painter and general good guy,
I call on Duane, who is also a substitute teacher (I mention this so you understand that this is a man with great patience) paginates my Word-document manuscripts for publication as e-books and paperbacks and helps with graphics when needed.
Duane also came to my rescue with web-site help after publication of my latest book, "Murder for Treasure." He created the site several years ago when I started writing novels. Believe me, it needed updating and a fresh look. I hope readers agree and find it helpful.
davevizard.com
Thanks, Duane. He can be found via: duane0w@gmail.com
Murder for Treasure: Booty is in the Eye of the BeholderDave Vizard
When my sons see me quietly cursing and muttering with my laptop or iPhone, they sigh heavily, roll their eyes, put their hands on their hips, and (thankfully) say, "let me take a look at it, dad," usually putting me out of my misery – at least temporarily.
So, when I need help with the bigger tech jobs, I go to a professional I know and trust.
That's why I turn to friend and fellow writer Duane Wurst of Pigeon to help with the tech aspect of publishing my books. Duane, who helps many with publishing, is also a talented painter and general good guy,
I call on Duane, who is also a substitute teacher (I mention this so you understand that this is a man with great patience) paginates my Word-document manuscripts for publication as e-books and paperbacks and helps with graphics when needed.
Duane also came to my rescue with web-site help after publication of my latest book, "Murder for Treasure." He created the site several years ago when I started writing novels. Believe me, it needed updating and a fresh look. I hope readers agree and find it helpful.
davevizard.com
Thanks, Duane. He can be found via: duane0w@gmail.com
Murder for Treasure: Booty is in the Eye of the BeholderDave Vizard
December 4, 2023
Idea for new novel sparked during Lions Club meeting
"Murder for Treasure - Booty is in the Eye of the Beholder" was written and published this year, but the idea for it was spawned two years ago.
That happened during a Pigeon Lions Club meeting when our program for the evening was a presentation by noted artist Robert McGreevy, who paints beautiful renditions of Great Lakes ships. Part of Bob's program was a segment about the "R.G. Coburn," a Great Lakes steamer that sank in Lake Huron in 1871 about 20 miles off the tip of the Thumb region of Michigan. About half the ship's passengers and crew perished in the disaster. The one-year old ship was loaded with grain and raw silver ore from the Upper Peninsula. The sunken ship and its cargo have never been found.
Eureka! This nugget of information about lost silver was golden for me. It struck me as a natural idea for a work of fiction. I started tossing the idea around in my mind like a clothes dryer tumbling wet towels. How could I build a murder mystery around it? How could I develop a full-fledged novel from one piece of Michigan history?
The result: An intriguing double murder plot and a diabolical plan for an attempted killing, a thrilling hunt for long-lost treasure, and a touching newspaper story all rolled into one fast-paced page burner – 22 chapters, 75,000 words, and 258 pages. "Murder for Treasure," my seventh novel, published on Nov.9, 2023.
Initial reaction to the book launch has been strong. Last weekend, I had a publicized book signing at the Cove, an artists' boutique, in Port Austin, MI, and SOLD OUT in two hours. I should have brought a second box of books with me. However, the Cove stock will soon be replenished. Murder for Treasure: Booty is in the Eye of the BeholderDave Vizard
That happened during a Pigeon Lions Club meeting when our program for the evening was a presentation by noted artist Robert McGreevy, who paints beautiful renditions of Great Lakes ships. Part of Bob's program was a segment about the "R.G. Coburn," a Great Lakes steamer that sank in Lake Huron in 1871 about 20 miles off the tip of the Thumb region of Michigan. About half the ship's passengers and crew perished in the disaster. The one-year old ship was loaded with grain and raw silver ore from the Upper Peninsula. The sunken ship and its cargo have never been found.
Eureka! This nugget of information about lost silver was golden for me. It struck me as a natural idea for a work of fiction. I started tossing the idea around in my mind like a clothes dryer tumbling wet towels. How could I build a murder mystery around it? How could I develop a full-fledged novel from one piece of Michigan history?
The result: An intriguing double murder plot and a diabolical plan for an attempted killing, a thrilling hunt for long-lost treasure, and a touching newspaper story all rolled into one fast-paced page burner – 22 chapters, 75,000 words, and 258 pages. "Murder for Treasure," my seventh novel, published on Nov.9, 2023.
Initial reaction to the book launch has been strong. Last weekend, I had a publicized book signing at the Cove, an artists' boutique, in Port Austin, MI, and SOLD OUT in two hours. I should have brought a second box of books with me. However, the Cove stock will soon be replenished. Murder for Treasure: Booty is in the Eye of the BeholderDave Vizard
Idea for new novel prompted from Lions Club meeting
"Murder for Treasure - Booty is in the Eye of the Beholder" was written and published this year, but the idea for it was spawned two years ago.
That happened during a Pigeon Lions Club meeting when our program for the evening was a presentation by artist Robert McGreevy, who paints beautiful renditions of Great Lakes ships. Part of Bob's program was a segment about the "R.G. Coburn," a Great Lakes steamer that sank in Lake Huron in 1871 about 20 miles off the tip of the Thumb region of Michigan. About half the ship's passengers and crew perished in the disaster. The one-year old ship was loaded with silver ore from the Upper Peninsula. The sunken ship and its cargo have never been found.
Bingo! This nugget of information about lost silver was golden for me. It struck me as a natural idea for a work of fiction. I started tossing the idea around in my mind like a clothes dryer tumbles wet jeans. How could I build a murder mystery around it?
The result: An intriguing double murder plot and a diabolical plan for an attempted killing, a thrilling hunt for long-lost treasure, and a touching newspaper story all rolled into one fast-paced page burner – 22 chapters, 75,000 words, and 258 pages. My seventh novel published on Nov.9, 2023.
Initial reaction to the book launch has been strong. Last weekend, I had a publicized book signing at the Cove, an artists' boutique, in Port Austin, MI, and SOLD OUT in two hours. I wish I'd brought a second box of books with me.Murder for Treasure: Booty is in the Eye of the BeholderDave Vizard
That happened during a Pigeon Lions Club meeting when our program for the evening was a presentation by artist Robert McGreevy, who paints beautiful renditions of Great Lakes ships. Part of Bob's program was a segment about the "R.G. Coburn," a Great Lakes steamer that sank in Lake Huron in 1871 about 20 miles off the tip of the Thumb region of Michigan. About half the ship's passengers and crew perished in the disaster. The one-year old ship was loaded with silver ore from the Upper Peninsula. The sunken ship and its cargo have never been found.
Bingo! This nugget of information about lost silver was golden for me. It struck me as a natural idea for a work of fiction. I started tossing the idea around in my mind like a clothes dryer tumbles wet jeans. How could I build a murder mystery around it?
The result: An intriguing double murder plot and a diabolical plan for an attempted killing, a thrilling hunt for long-lost treasure, and a touching newspaper story all rolled into one fast-paced page burner – 22 chapters, 75,000 words, and 258 pages. My seventh novel published on Nov.9, 2023.
Initial reaction to the book launch has been strong. Last weekend, I had a publicized book signing at the Cove, an artists' boutique, in Port Austin, MI, and SOLD OUT in two hours. I wish I'd brought a second box of books with me.Murder for Treasure: Booty is in the Eye of the BeholderDave Vizard
April 13, 2021
Victory! "Murder, Key West Style" prompting readers to think
My latest novel, "Murder, Key West Style," is causing those who pick it up to think differently about the plights of both Veterans and the homeless.
Since its publication, 68 readers have taken the time to review and rate the book. It's getting a very respectable 4.3 out of 5 stars. I'm delighted.
But even more important to me is the notion that most of their comments revolve around the idea that the story caused them to view or think differently about the homeless and our military veterans.
Fabulous! If you could see me now, you'd be watching a senior doing handstands and back flips across a living room floor. Ah, well, that might be a bit of exaggeration. I am after all, an Old Fart, who is happy and satisfied just to be walking under my own power across most rooms.
But I cannot mask my delight with the idea that my works of fiction are causing people to think and evaluate their positions on issues of the day.
As a newspaper journalist for more than 35 years, one of my goals was to prompt thought and discussion among readers. The idea was to lay out for readers all sides of an issue in an even-handed and fair manner, and let them make their own decisions. For democracies to thrive, they need robust thought and debate.
I loved every minute of my career as a journalist. It was exciting, challenging, and different every day.
And, now, as a writer and creator of fiction, I am trying to do the same kind of thing. Each of my five novels focuses on issues of the day while presenting an interesting and entertaining story to engage readers.
I am happy to report success at a level that I am actually considering the handstands and back flips (don't fret, my chiropractor is on speed-dial).
The latest accolade comes via Kindle's top reviewer, Big Al, who says "Murder, Key West Style" is a "thought-provoking story. But most important, in the end, this is a good and entertaining read. 5 Stars!"
Those kinds of comments are music to a writer's ears. They are also giving me a sense of Victory!
Dave Vizard
Since its publication, 68 readers have taken the time to review and rate the book. It's getting a very respectable 4.3 out of 5 stars. I'm delighted.
But even more important to me is the notion that most of their comments revolve around the idea that the story caused them to view or think differently about the homeless and our military veterans.
Fabulous! If you could see me now, you'd be watching a senior doing handstands and back flips across a living room floor. Ah, well, that might be a bit of exaggeration. I am after all, an Old Fart, who is happy and satisfied just to be walking under my own power across most rooms.
But I cannot mask my delight with the idea that my works of fiction are causing people to think and evaluate their positions on issues of the day.
As a newspaper journalist for more than 35 years, one of my goals was to prompt thought and discussion among readers. The idea was to lay out for readers all sides of an issue in an even-handed and fair manner, and let them make their own decisions. For democracies to thrive, they need robust thought and debate.
I loved every minute of my career as a journalist. It was exciting, challenging, and different every day.
And, now, as a writer and creator of fiction, I am trying to do the same kind of thing. Each of my five novels focuses on issues of the day while presenting an interesting and entertaining story to engage readers.
I am happy to report success at a level that I am actually considering the handstands and back flips (don't fret, my chiropractor is on speed-dial).
The latest accolade comes via Kindle's top reviewer, Big Al, who says "Murder, Key West Style" is a "thought-provoking story. But most important, in the end, this is a good and entertaining read. 5 Stars!"
Those kinds of comments are music to a writer's ears. They are also giving me a sense of Victory!
Dave Vizard
