The Bay of Lies Murder

Residents of St. James City adore the serenity of their isolated fishing village. But, when Hurricane Irma threatens to destroy everything they love they band together to help save what they can. As they begin to put their lives back together following the storm's near miss they learn that someone has senselessly stolen an old fishing chart. Initially, the loss of this chart is considered trivial. But, before long they begin to believe that the stolen chart contained clues to the location of one of Southwest Florida's legendary lost treasures. But, shortly they start to worry that the chart contained even more important information- information that could literally change American history. The Bay of Lies Murder, in addition to involving the reader in the hunt for treasure, reliving the experience of surviving Hurricane Irma, and describing enjoyable days spent fishing in the Gulf of Mexico, incorporates the history of Useppa Island and the role it played in the Bay of Pigs invasion. And, as if all that wasn't enough, the tale explores the roles played by the Cuban exile community, the CIA, and the Mafia in the assassination of President John Kennedy.All of these disparate elements serve to puzzle the protagonists as they, unwillingly, become more and more deeply involved. Eventually, after they get to know an elderly Cuban who had gifted the missing chart, they learn that not only had he participated at the Bay of Pigs, but that he might have played a far more important role in American history. Following his murder, they try to unravel a puzzle that he left for them- only to find that he has tasked them with preserving, and sharing, important and dangerous information. Trying to fulfill this obligation puts all of their lives at risk. ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Mitch Grant was inspired to write his series of St. James City mysteries by his deep admiration for the writing of legendary Florida authors Randy Wayne White and John D. MacDonald. The author, a seventh generation Floridian, is a retired banker. He is also a one-time field artillery officer, sailor, licensed boat captain, champion auto racing driver, and, most recently, an aspiring buccaneer.He and his wife Sherry are now residents of Ormond Beach, Florida. But, their hearts remain in St. James City where they lived full time for many years. They return to the island often, and enjoy fishing, boating, playing cards, and partying with their island friends. When not engaged in these important pursuits they continue trying to educate their grandchildren in the ways of the legendary pirates that once called this part of Southwest Florida home.