The Bootlegger's Secret: 12/20/11

I have a fondness for novels set in the 1920s and 1930s, especially ones that deal directly with prohibition. So I was curious to read The Bootlegger's Secret by Michael Springer when it was pitched to me.

Two boys on summer vacation Mark Penn and Swede Larson find a 1931 Pierce-Arrow. Inside is the body of a once notorious bootlegger as well as his cigarette case. Curious, the boys take the cigarette case and it leads them through a series of misadventures that help to unveil the truth behind the bootlegger's death.

The book isn't just about the bootlegger though. It's part of the atmosphere of a historical novel. There's also mention of the circus coming to town and 4th of July celebrations and other typically American summertime activities. This mixture of nostalgia with adventure gives The Bootlegger's Secret a Ray Bradbury sort of feel to it.

I received this book for review from the author.

Four stars.

Comments (2)

Comment #1: Saturday, January 21, 2012 at 08:55:49

C.J. Martin

Also liked the sequel

Comment #2: Monday, January 23, 2012 at 22:10:58

Pussreboots

Thanks for the heads up. I've added the sequel to my wishlist.