beyond the book
MIKE RIPINSKI CENTURY 21 Curran & Oberski – Royal Oak BIG BEAVER ROAD
What do you hope your readers take away from your book?
I hope readers will enjoy the story and the characters. Anyone from the Metro Detroit area will recognize and even relate to most of the locations as the plot unfolds. What was your favorite part of the writing/publishing journey?
My favorite part of the journey was having the final product in print and e-book, as well as receiving positive feedback from family and friends. Who helped you write your book, and/ or who do you pay tribute to in your book acknowledgments?
My wife, Dawne, encouraged me even when I wanted to give up. The book is dedicated to her. Year of Publication: 2014 Publisher: Kindle Direct Genre: Mystery What inspired you to write your book?
My daughter Angela encouraged me when she was taking journalism classes at Michigan State. She knew that I enjoyed writing and telling stories and inspired me to go for it. What is your book about?
Dick Hagen, a retired Detroit Homicide detective, is drawn into a murder investigation in Troy, Michigan. As it unfolds, a well-known politician and his banker friend become suspects, and the motive involves a cover-up of a real estate development with undisclosed hazardous waste. The trail leads to other partners in the deal, and as Hagen gets closer, the pace quickens with a high-speed chase, a plane crash and a final confrontation in Chicago.
Do you hear from your readers much? What do they have to say about your book?
My family and friends were very encouraging and supportive. Reviews were generous; however, I had one Amazon review that I thought was a little harsh. This project was for fun and to see if I could really accomplish a longtime dream. I do not consider myself a literary master, and I can accept the criticism.
Do you plan to write another book in the future, or do you currently have another writing project in the works?
I have already published a second book, “Jack’s Hot Dog,” which was loosely inspired by events and people I knew while growing up in Toledo, Ohio. It is a story of friendship, mystery and redemption that takes place over five or six decades. It is also available on Amazon and at local bookstores. Is there anything else you’d like to share about your writing process, your book or the reception of your book?
Writing is like many other pursuits or endeavors: To be successful, it takes practice, commitment, patience and creativity … and thick skin.
Where can readers purchase your book?
The book is still available on Amazon, or people can contact me directly at mjripinski@yahoo.com. A few local bookstores such as Paper Trail Books in downtown Royal Oak and Yellow Door Artist Market in Berkley also carry it.
Describe your book in 7 words or less.
Do you have any tips or advice for aspiring writers?
A murder mystery with political sub-plot
Read as many books as you can in the
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genre(s) that interest you. For mystery, pay attention to the dialogue and the way other writers develop a story. My favorite author is the late Elmore Leonard.
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