New Regional Books

Short story collections in the historical true crime theme are some of my favorites. Several authors I know have produced new titles of late, and here is just a sampling of recent titles from the top shelf.

Strange Tales

Crime connoisseur Keven McQueen strayed out of Kentucky and ventured into Indiana for his latest collection. 

Strange Tales of Crime and Murder in Southern Indiana [Amazon; not on B&N] is a true crime book from the History Press that chronicles several stories of mayhem and murder that took place in the state between 1880 and 1912. As the book description warns readers, "Prepare to take a tour of some dark, strange moments..."

The author is simultaneously releasing Forgotten Tales of Indiana, a true story collection with a more supernatural flavor, to cement the warm regards of Hoosier state residents.

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Gangsters of Miami

The newly published Gangsters of Miami: True Tales of Mobsters, Gamblers, Hit Men, Con Men and Gang Bangers from the Magic City [Amazon; B&N] is the first comprehensive look at that city’s colorful criminal history. The book includes tales of Al Capone and the Russian Mafia.

The author, Ron Chepesiuk, has penned a number of well-received books in the theme in the past several years, incuding titles on the gangsters of Harlem and many others. His essays also appear on the Crime Magazine website and he is a consultant for the Gangland show on the History Channel.

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Queen City Gothic

Queen City Gothic: Cincinnati's Most Infamous Murder Mysteries [Amazon; B&N] focuses on the worst unsolved cases in the city's history.

The book is author J.T. Townsend's first book.  I'm familiar with his writing fro m various message boards and short pieces he has written here and elsewhere, so I know it will be a nicely written book. It includes present-day photos of some of the locales where these events took place.

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Watch this space for more free books! I'm putting together more contests and giveaways in November.

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