Juke: A Blues Novel

by Brian D. Briscoe

Juke is the debut novel by Brian Briscoe. Set in Texas over the course of several decades, Juke follows troubled Mitch Casey and blues musician Juke Mills. Mitch finds himself on the wrong side of the tracks one night and follows the sound of music to Juke, long thought to be dead. A young man trying to make sense of his turbulent upbringing, Mitch is entranced by Juke’s tales of music and murder.

440 pages, Paperback

First published August 9, 2014

About the author

Brian Briscoe is a counselor based in the Fort Worth, Texas area. Dually licensed as a mental health and a substance abuse clinician, he counsels at his private practice and via law enforcement.

Having graduated from the University of Texas with a broadcasting degree, he worked in television and other media for several years before seeking a Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Texas Wesleyan University.

He sees patients from all walks of life, and works primarily with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.

Reviews

[Whit McClendon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this novel! The stories of two men converge in a small South Texas town, one man young and troubled, the other old and careworn, both connected by their love of the blues. Briscoe's writing style is smooth and evocative, and made this a fast and easy read. The story is compelling and irresistible; I found myself reading in every free moment (and sneaking more free moments than usual) so that I could follow the journeys of the two main characters. It's very real, unique, and interesting, and I highly recommend this book.