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Jeff Koehler Mystery Books #1
The Landman
The Landman
A Jeff Koehler Mystery Book #1
Sometimes evil lurks in hidden places
Welcome to Roads End, the remote Michigan hunting camp where acclaimed wildlife photographer Jeff Koehler is about to embark on a mind-boggling mystery. During the annual deer hunt, when the camp is bustling with hunters, one of their own fails to return following the day’s hunt. The hunters discover the dead body partially frozen in the snow-covered forest. The medical examiner rules it a death by natural causes, but facts emerge, causing Jeff to question the findings. The sheriff’s case is going nowhere and Jeff feels compelled to get involved.
As he digs deeper, Jeff finds that suspects are many but answers are few. Nobody is above suspicion. Meanwhile, he’s grappling with growing feelings for the town’s new doctor, Carrie Cunningham, adding complexity to an already tangled web of intrigue. But just when Jeff seems to hit a dead end, a break in the case emerges and reveals bigger pieces in play here, something sinister that must be stopped before it’s too late.
A Jeff Koehler Mystery Book #1
Sometimes evil lurks in hidden places
Welcome to Roads End, the remote Michigan hunting camp where acclaimed wildlife photographer Jeff Koehler is about to embark on a mind-boggling mystery. During the annual deer hunt, when the camp is bustling with hunters, one of their own fails to return following the day’s hunt. The hunters discover the dead body partially frozen in the snow-covered forest. The medical examiner rules it a death by natural causes, but facts emerge, causing Jeff to question the findings. The sheriff’s case is going nowhere and Jeff feels compelled to get involved.
As he digs deeper, Jeff finds that suspects are many but answers are few. Nobody is above suspicion. Meanwhile, he’s grappling with growing feelings for the town’s new doctor, Carrie Cunningham, adding complexity to an already tangled web of intrigue. But just when Jeff seems to hit a dead end, a break in the case emerges and reveals bigger pieces in play here, something sinister that must be stopped before it’s too late.
225 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 20, 2023
149 people are currently reading
1489 people want to read
About the author
Bill Friedrich
10 books13 followersThank you for visiting my Goodreads page. Begin your journey with The Landman, the first novel in the Jeff Koehler Mystery Series, where a wildlife photographer stumbles into small-town secrets and wilderness danger that could change everything—and put him in the crosshairs.
I’m Bill Friedrich, a Michigan-born author who blends a lifelong passion for the outdoors with gripping storytelling. Raised in West Bloomfield and deeply connected to Northern Michigan traditions, I draw on decades of hunting, fishing, and wilderness exploration to bring authenticity and atmosphere to my writing.
My first three books share real stories from my family’s third-generation hunting camp in Michigan’s north woods. Today, I channel that same love of the land into fiction with the Jeff Koehler Mystery Series—a suspenseful mix of outdoor adventure, survival-driven tension, and mystery. Readers who enjoy authors like C.J. Box, William Kent Krueger, and Nevada Barr will feel right at home here.
When I’m not writing, I can often be found outdoors, camera in hand, chasing the wild places that continue to inspire my stories.
Follow for updates, giveaways, and the next adventure at https://www.billfriedrichauthor.com/
I’m Bill Friedrich, a Michigan-born author who blends a lifelong passion for the outdoors with gripping storytelling. Raised in West Bloomfield and deeply connected to Northern Michigan traditions, I draw on decades of hunting, fishing, and wilderness exploration to bring authenticity and atmosphere to my writing.
My first three books share real stories from my family’s third-generation hunting camp in Michigan’s north woods. Today, I channel that same love of the land into fiction with the Jeff Koehler Mystery Series—a suspenseful mix of outdoor adventure, survival-driven tension, and mystery. Readers who enjoy authors like C.J. Box, William Kent Krueger, and Nevada Barr will feel right at home here.
When I’m not writing, I can often be found outdoors, camera in hand, chasing the wild places that continue to inspire my stories.
Follow for updates, giveaways, and the next adventure at https://www.billfriedrichauthor.com/
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
October 20, 2025
Bill Friedrich’s The Landman completely pulled me in from the very first page. The way he describes the Michigan wilderness is so vivid that I could almost feel the cold bite of snow and smell the wood smoke from the hunting camp. What starts as a simple deer-hunting season turns into a haunting and emotional mystery when one of the hunters ends up dead. The balance between suspense, character depth, and natural atmosphere is masterful.
Jeff Koehler is a fascinating protagonist part detective, part photographer, and part philosopher. His instincts as both observer and investigator make the story feel authentic. The emotional undercurrent involving Dr. Carrie Cunningham adds another layer, showing that even in the midst of danger, human connection can be fragile yet vital. This isn’t just a mystery; it’s about trust, loss, and the hidden motives that lie beneath the surface of small-town life.
I loved how the author turned the wilderness itself into a character unpredictable, dangerous, and strangely beautiful. By the time I finished, I felt like I had lived the story, not just read it. A gripping and atmospheric mystery that deserves every bit of praise it’s getting.
Jeff Koehler is a fascinating protagonist part detective, part photographer, and part philosopher. His instincts as both observer and investigator make the story feel authentic. The emotional undercurrent involving Dr. Carrie Cunningham adds another layer, showing that even in the midst of danger, human connection can be fragile yet vital. This isn’t just a mystery; it’s about trust, loss, and the hidden motives that lie beneath the surface of small-town life.
I loved how the author turned the wilderness itself into a character unpredictable, dangerous, and strangely beautiful. By the time I finished, I felt like I had lived the story, not just read it. A gripping and atmospheric mystery that deserves every bit of praise it’s getting.
October 20, 2025
The Landman is an absolute gem of a mystery novel. It’s rare to find a story that combines outdoor adventure with emotional depth so naturally. Bill Friedrich has written a book that’s as much about the human heart as it is about uncovering a killer.
The northern Michigan backdrop is stunning icy forests, quiet lakes, and a hunting camp that feels both inviting and unsettling. The imagery is cinematic, yet the tone remains intimate. Jeff Koehler is the kind of character readers can root for: intelligent, introspective, and quietly brave.
What really stayed with me was the atmosphere that constant sense of unease mixed with beauty. The mystery is clever and tightly woven, but it’s the author’s sensitivity to character and place that makes the story shine. You can tell Bill Friedrich writes from real experience, both in understanding people and in loving the outdoors.
It’s engaging from start to finish, and the final pages left me both satisfied and eager for the next book. Highly recommended for readers who appreciate mysteries with substance and soul.
The northern Michigan backdrop is stunning icy forests, quiet lakes, and a hunting camp that feels both inviting and unsettling. The imagery is cinematic, yet the tone remains intimate. Jeff Koehler is the kind of character readers can root for: intelligent, introspective, and quietly brave.
What really stayed with me was the atmosphere that constant sense of unease mixed with beauty. The mystery is clever and tightly woven, but it’s the author’s sensitivity to character and place that makes the story shine. You can tell Bill Friedrich writes from real experience, both in understanding people and in loving the outdoors.
It’s engaging from start to finish, and the final pages left me both satisfied and eager for the next book. Highly recommended for readers who appreciate mysteries with substance and soul.
October 20, 2025
The Landman is more than just a mystery it’s an experience. Bill Friedrich captures the beauty and danger of nature with such precision that the setting almost steals the show. But what really keeps you turning pages are the layers of the story: friendship, betrayal, love, and the haunting sense that everyone is hiding something.
Jeff Koehler isn’t your typical detective. He’s thoughtful, observant, and grounded in real-world experience. His background as a wildlife photographer gives him a unique eye for detail, and that comes through in the writing. You can practically see the frosted trees, hear the crunch of boots in the snow, and feel the tension in the air.
The mystery itself is full of twists, but it never feels forced. Each revelation adds to the characters’ depth. I especially liked how the author balanced suspense with humanity even the villains feel believable. If you enjoy mysteries with a strong sense of place and authentic characters, this one’s a must-read.
Jeff Koehler isn’t your typical detective. He’s thoughtful, observant, and grounded in real-world experience. His background as a wildlife photographer gives him a unique eye for detail, and that comes through in the writing. You can practically see the frosted trees, hear the crunch of boots in the snow, and feel the tension in the air.
The mystery itself is full of twists, but it never feels forced. Each revelation adds to the characters’ depth. I especially liked how the author balanced suspense with humanity even the villains feel believable. If you enjoy mysteries with a strong sense of place and authentic characters, this one’s a must-read.
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September 22, 2025The Landman completely pulled me in from the very first scene. The opening in the deer blind was so atmospheric that I felt like I was right there, watching the woods wake up at dawn. What I thought might just be a hunting story quickly turned into something much bigger a layered drama about family, grief, and second chances.
Bill Friedrich does an excellent job of painting the northern Michigan setting so vividly that the outdoors almost feels like a character itself. I also enjoyed how the book balances suspense with heart there are real emotional stakes here, especially with the history of loss and the relationships that unfold throughout the story. By the end, I was not only entertained but also deeply moved. Highly recommend this one to readers who love stories that mix action, family drama, and the raw beauty of nature.
October 20, 2025
This is not just another murder mystery it’s an exploration of people, place, and secrets buried under years of friendship and rivalry. The author’s love for the outdoors is obvious. Every scene set in the woods feels alive, whether it’s the stillness of dawn or the eerie quiet of snowfall after tragedy strikes.
Jeff Koehler is a refreshingly real protagonist. He’s smart but not perfect, compassionate but also flawed, which makes his search for the truth feel honest. The romantic tension between him and Dr. Carrie Cunningham adds emotional depth without overshadowing the mystery. The pacing builds gradually but with purpose, and when everything comes together, the payoff feels earned. The Landman reminded me why I love mysteries that respect both the reader’s intelligence and the beauty of setting. It’s immersive, thoughtful, and quietly thrilling.
Jeff Koehler is a refreshingly real protagonist. He’s smart but not perfect, compassionate but also flawed, which makes his search for the truth feel honest. The romantic tension between him and Dr. Carrie Cunningham adds emotional depth without overshadowing the mystery. The pacing builds gradually but with purpose, and when everything comes together, the payoff feels earned. The Landman reminded me why I love mysteries that respect both the reader’s intelligence and the beauty of setting. It’s immersive, thoughtful, and quietly thrilling.
September 24, 2025
The Landman is a gripping blend of outdoor adventure, small-town drama, and generational legacies. Bill Friedrich captures the essence of Northern Michigan with vivid descriptions of hunting camps, family bonds, and the struggles that shape his characters’ lives. From the chilling prologue to the layered personal histories of the Koehler brothers, the narrative unfolds with both suspense and heart. The book balances action-packed hunting scenes with deep emotional resonance, making it appealing not only to fans of outdoor literature but also readers who enjoy character-driven storytelling. Friedrich’s authentic voice and attention to cultural and environmental detail set this novel apart as a memorable contribution to contemporary American fiction.
October 20, 2025
I didn’t expect to get so caught up in this story, but Bill Friedrich hooked me from the first few pages. The Michigan wilderness setting is written so vividly you can almost feel the snow crunching under your boots. The Landman isn’t just another mystery it’s a smart, emotionally layered story about friendship, loyalty, and the secrets that thrive in isolated places. Jeff Koehler is a fascinating lead: observant, grounded, and human in all the right ways. The mystery itself unfolds at a perfect pace, with plenty of twists that feel organic rather than forced. It’s suspenseful but also deeply atmospheric. Highly recommend for anyone who loves mysteries with strong characters and a real sense of place.
September 22, 2025
The Landman by Bill Friedrich surprised me in the best way. At first, I thought it was going to be just a hunting story, but it turned out to be so much more. It’s about family, loss, love, and finding peace with the past.
I loved how real the characters felt. Joe’s struggles made me root for him, and the way Friedrich described the woods and the traditions of hunting made me feel like I was right there. The mix of suspense and heartfelt moments kept me hooked all the way through.
This book isn’t just for hunters or outdoor lovers — it’s for anyone who enjoys a good story about people, resilience, and the ties that bind us together. I finished it feeling both moved and entertained.
I loved how real the characters felt. Joe’s struggles made me root for him, and the way Friedrich described the woods and the traditions of hunting made me feel like I was right there. The mix of suspense and heartfelt moments kept me hooked all the way through.
This book isn’t just for hunters or outdoor lovers — it’s for anyone who enjoys a good story about people, resilience, and the ties that bind us together. I finished it feeling both moved and entertained.
September 24, 2025
Wow! what a ride! The Landman hooked me from the very first page with its tense prologue, and it never let go. I loved how Friedrich weaves together suspense, hunting traditions, and family secrets. The characters feel real, especially Joe and his brothers, each so different yet bound by their shared history.
What stood out most for me was the vivid writing you can almost hear the crunch of boots on frozen ground or feel the icy wind across Lake Huron. The balance of action, emotion, and local color kept me turning the pages late into the night. If you enjoy novels with mystery, adventure, and heart, this is one you don’t want to miss.
What stood out most for me was the vivid writing you can almost hear the crunch of boots on frozen ground or feel the icy wind across Lake Huron. The balance of action, emotion, and local color kept me turning the pages late into the night. If you enjoy novels with mystery, adventure, and heart, this is one you don’t want to miss.
September 22, 2025
The Landman pulled me in from page one. Bill Friedrich writes with such vivid detail that I could almost feel the chill of the Michigan woods and smell the fresh earth of hunting season. What I loved most, though, were the characters — layered, real, and carrying the kind of scars that make their choices matter. This isn’t just a hunting tale; it’s about grief, resilience, and rediscovering life after tragedy. I stayed up late more than once because I just had to know what would happen next. If you enjoy family drama wrapped in suspense, you’ll love this one.
September 22, 2025
The Landman is a gripping mix of family drama, outdoor adventure, and mystery. Bill Friedrich captures the beauty and danger of Michigan’s wilderness with vivid, atmospheric detail. From the haunting prologue to the intimate family struggles, the story pulled me in and kept me turning the pages. The Koelher brothers are complex, flawed, and compelling, each wrestling with their past while trying to shape their futures. Fans of novels that blend small-town secrets with rugged landscapes will find this book both heartfelt and thrilling.
September 24, 2025
What struck me most about The Landman is the way Friedrich develops his characters through family histories, personal tragedies, and small-town dynamics. The Koelher brothers and their complicated lives become the heart of the story, showing how past wounds shape present choices. It’s not just about hunting or the land it’s about relationships, resilience, and the weight of memory. Readers who enjoy multi-generational drama with a dose of suspense will find this book richly rewarding.
October 7, 2023
Let me preface this review with stating that I am not a hunter.
I still loved the book.
The story is engaging, the characters have been created in a way that allows you to become invested in their stories.
There are lots of twists and turns, and I always appreciate when I can't see the ending coming from a mile away.
Can't wait to read the next book in the series!
I still loved the book.
The story is engaging, the characters have been created in a way that allows you to become invested in their stories.
There are lots of twists and turns, and I always appreciate when I can't see the ending coming from a mile away.
Can't wait to read the next book in the series!
September 27, 2023
Most of the story is set in a deer camp. Grant supposedly dies of a heart attack. Let the mystery begin. The story was well thought out and entertaining. A appreciated the humor and the characters were developed.
January 24, 2024
An Okay Start
An easy and clean read. A lot of the underlying plot, especially the boy meets girl, girl meets boy thing, is template of so many others, the Elk character, especially, but it is an okay read nonetheless.
An easy and clean read. A lot of the underlying plot, especially the boy meets girl, girl meets boy thing, is template of so many others, the Elk character, especially, but it is an okay read nonetheless.
December 1, 2023
Bill is a very good writer . This book will keep you guessing until the end. Highly recommend any of them.
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October 21, 2024Another griping book that will keep you on your seat until you find out who the Murderer is.
I was NOT who I thought it was, nope, not even close. A must read thriller, right to the end.
I was NOT who I thought it was, nope, not even close. A must read thriller, right to the end.
December 21, 2024
Good story!
Kind of a sad story all the way around but made good reading. Liked reading about that part of the country and the photography. Different slant on a mystery.
Kind of a sad story all the way around but made good reading. Liked reading about that part of the country and the photography. Different slant on a mystery.
April 29, 2025
Exceptional book
I really enjoyed this book as it held my attention from the very first chapter and beyond. It's my kind of book with some suspense and not a lot of romance!
I really enjoyed this book as it held my attention from the very first chapter and beyond. It's my kind of book with some suspense and not a lot of romance!
April 17, 2024
I liked the story but I don't like the language. I get that some characters swear a lot but is it really necessary to print it for emphasis? Not for me. I hear it enough, too much in real life outside this home of mine so I really can't take a lot of it in my books. But this was not nearly as bad as some writers which I will never buy another book from.
This is not about that though. Just a bit of my own complaint.
The story was good but read better. I think if I read the first one then the other 2 would have got some references to some things but maybe not. I was surprised who actually was the killer but I also got to admit long time since I read a story of murder where the victim was ........ hmm . for the sake of not spoiling that part of the story for anyone wanting to read this one I will say it was pleasant surprise anyway. Characters were interesting though I wish the book was just a little longer not so much for story but character development so maybe could get little more background on the woman who is such a great cook but wow she must have a story of her own I think. What got her to be so mean but nice too. Anyway I would recommend this book to anyone who likes good mystery and murder stories but be warned the language get pretty bad mostly with a few characters not so with the main character of the book. Give it a try but it wont be for everyone. If you don't like bad language swearing then leave this one. There are better ones without that in them. Peace.
This is not about that though. Just a bit of my own complaint.
The story was good but read better. I think if I read the first one then the other 2 would have got some references to some things but maybe not. I was surprised who actually was the killer but I also got to admit long time since I read a story of murder where the victim was ........ hmm . for the sake of not spoiling that part of the story for anyone wanting to read this one I will say it was pleasant surprise anyway. Characters were interesting though I wish the book was just a little longer not so much for story but character development so maybe could get little more background on the woman who is such a great cook but wow she must have a story of her own I think. What got her to be so mean but nice too. Anyway I would recommend this book to anyone who likes good mystery and murder stories but be warned the language get pretty bad mostly with a few characters not so with the main character of the book. Give it a try but it wont be for everyone. If you don't like bad language swearing then leave this one. There are better ones without that in them. Peace.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews