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The Nigel Logan Stories #1
Tales from Stool 17: The Nigel Logan Stories
“I’m not running. I’m not hiding. I’m just going. There’s a difference.” That’s how Nigel Logan would explain it. A Navy Chief Petty Officer, he is compelled to retire from the only life he’s ever known to escape a past and a violent crime. A crime he knows will one day catch up to him.
He slipped out of the Norfolk, Virginia Naval Base marina in the dead and silence of night. He and "MisChief", his 32 foot Pearson Vanguard sailboat, set sail for destinations unknown and is ultimately drawn to Port St. Joe on Florida’s beautiful Forgotten Coast. There, he stumbles into the lap of some of the craziest and lovable people which help him to forget as he tries to start a new life. And while a new home and friends help distract him from his darker side, Nigel Logan will never get to completely erase it from his mind.
These are the stories and episodes of his life.
He slipped out of the Norfolk, Virginia Naval Base marina in the dead and silence of night. He and "MisChief", his 32 foot Pearson Vanguard sailboat, set sail for destinations unknown and is ultimately drawn to Port St. Joe on Florida’s beautiful Forgotten Coast. There, he stumbles into the lap of some of the craziest and lovable people which help him to forget as he tries to start a new life. And while a new home and friends help distract him from his darker side, Nigel Logan will never get to completely erase it from his mind.
These are the stories and episodes of his life.
Paperback
First published February 4, 2015
436 people are currently reading
244 people want to read
About the author
Kirk Jockell
17 books16 followersKirk Jockell loves stories. Growing up with ADD--nobody knew what it was way back then--his imagination ran wild. Little stories constantly danced through his head. His Mom would say, “He lives in his own little world.” Over Fifty-three years later, he still does. The only exception is, now he puts his little world on paper. He wishes he had done so sooner.
Kirk sleeps most nights in Flowery Branch, Georgia but considers Port St. Joe, Florida as home. He is an avid sailor, a photographer of sailboats, and a lover of small batch bourbon. He lives with his wife Joy, Dixie, the smartest dumb dog in the world, and a black cat named Stormy that pukes a lot.
Kirk sleeps most nights in Flowery Branch, Georgia but considers Port St. Joe, Florida as home. He is an avid sailor, a photographer of sailboats, and a lover of small batch bourbon. He lives with his wife Joy, Dixie, the smartest dumb dog in the world, and a black cat named Stormy that pukes a lot.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
April 15, 2015
Goodreads win. Will read and review once received.
I was surprised at how much I enjoyed myself while reading this book. It was one of those books that really grabbed a hold of my attention and held it throughout the whole entire book. I read the book within a day. The writing was good and the book was paced good. It was definitely worth the read. I would definitely recommend this book to people.
I was surprised at how much I enjoyed myself while reading this book. It was one of those books that really grabbed a hold of my attention and held it throughout the whole entire book. I read the book within a day. The writing was good and the book was paced good. It was definitely worth the read. I would definitely recommend this book to people.
October 20, 2015
it was boring in the start but as soon as it started to pick up, I could not put the book down. It reminded me of all the times I had in the navy, and how there was never a dull moment and all the adventures I have after the navy. Very well written. all around great book.
September 26, 2020
Thanks Don Rich for your review and recommendation. Great read!
December 29, 2017
There's a reason why the term "fish story" became a part of our culture, as opposed to, say, "hunting story" or "hiking story" or something similar. There's something about a nautical environment, a few beers, and some colorful characters that just seems to naturally lead to the swapping of such stories. Author Kirk S. Jockell relates a few of them in his collection, Tales from Stool 17. Those looking for a tight storyline and compelling plot should look elsewhere, but those who simply enjoy hearing a good yarn will have a lot of fun with this collection.
Tales from Stool 17 is the saga of Nigel Logan, a retired Navy Chief Petty Officer who settles down with his sailboat in the sleepy fishing town of Port St. Joe, FL. Because Logan knows his way around a boat and a bar and is a stand-up guy, he fits right in. The stories in the collection, narrated by Logan, relate some of the things that happen to him or that he witnesses. Notice that I didn't say that the stories were his "adventures" or some similar wording, because few of them have a traditional structure with a definite beginning and end point. Instead, he often merely spouts out some observations about the people he knows or recounts some of his experiences in the navy until the author decides that Logan has said enough for one story. The effect is undoubtedly similar to what a reader would feel sitting down in the bar and listening to Logan talk for a couple of hours until closing time.
While this lack of structure may frustrate some people, I often found it fascinating. Simply put, Jockell knows how to spin a yarn. The best story in the collection, "A Ransom for Maxine," is also the longest. The Maxine in this case is a goat that an old-timer in town treats as family. The goat is kidnapped (a quite literal term in this case) and held for ransom. Logan tries to help recover the goat, but he takes his sweet time in doing it and manages to spin a few more yarns along the way. The author winds up juggling about four stories in one here, leading to a hilarious confrontation with the kidnappers. A couple of the other stories involve Logan butting heads with various obnoxious jerks and jackasses and thinking on his feet in order to turn the tables on them.
The stories in the collection seem to take place in roughly chronological order, so there are some story arcs that span several of them, such as Logan’s budding romance with the local bartender or his efforts to start a career as a photographer. Readers should enjoy seeing how these storylines progress, even though there are no “big” moments. There is one more serious story arc, involving the reasons for Logan’s rather abrupt departure from the navy. The author hints that Logan left under somewhat of a cloud, and, in the last story, pretty much reveals what the problem was, leading to a natural hook to some more stories in a later volume.
For the most part, however, there is no major progression throughout the book, merely Jockell spreading around some of the local color for readers to soak up. Occasionally, he repeats himself a bit much in trying to tie some of the stories together, and , even by the rather relaxed standards of this style of storytelling, a couple of the stories seem exceptionally lacking in any point. Still, for the most part, Tales from Stool 17 is like a lazy afternoon fishing trip. Jockell is in no hurry to finish his stories, are readers aren’t likely to be either. Instead, they just want to enjoy the atmosphere and listening to Nigel Logan spin his yarns.
Tales from Stool 17 is the saga of Nigel Logan, a retired Navy Chief Petty Officer who settles down with his sailboat in the sleepy fishing town of Port St. Joe, FL. Because Logan knows his way around a boat and a bar and is a stand-up guy, he fits right in. The stories in the collection, narrated by Logan, relate some of the things that happen to him or that he witnesses. Notice that I didn't say that the stories were his "adventures" or some similar wording, because few of them have a traditional structure with a definite beginning and end point. Instead, he often merely spouts out some observations about the people he knows or recounts some of his experiences in the navy until the author decides that Logan has said enough for one story. The effect is undoubtedly similar to what a reader would feel sitting down in the bar and listening to Logan talk for a couple of hours until closing time.
While this lack of structure may frustrate some people, I often found it fascinating. Simply put, Jockell knows how to spin a yarn. The best story in the collection, "A Ransom for Maxine," is also the longest. The Maxine in this case is a goat that an old-timer in town treats as family. The goat is kidnapped (a quite literal term in this case) and held for ransom. Logan tries to help recover the goat, but he takes his sweet time in doing it and manages to spin a few more yarns along the way. The author winds up juggling about four stories in one here, leading to a hilarious confrontation with the kidnappers. A couple of the other stories involve Logan butting heads with various obnoxious jerks and jackasses and thinking on his feet in order to turn the tables on them.
The stories in the collection seem to take place in roughly chronological order, so there are some story arcs that span several of them, such as Logan’s budding romance with the local bartender or his efforts to start a career as a photographer. Readers should enjoy seeing how these storylines progress, even though there are no “big” moments. There is one more serious story arc, involving the reasons for Logan’s rather abrupt departure from the navy. The author hints that Logan left under somewhat of a cloud, and, in the last story, pretty much reveals what the problem was, leading to a natural hook to some more stories in a later volume.
For the most part, however, there is no major progression throughout the book, merely Jockell spreading around some of the local color for readers to soak up. Occasionally, he repeats himself a bit much in trying to tie some of the stories together, and , even by the rather relaxed standards of this style of storytelling, a couple of the stories seem exceptionally lacking in any point. Still, for the most part, Tales from Stool 17 is like a lazy afternoon fishing trip. Jockell is in no hurry to finish his stories, are readers aren’t likely to be either. Instead, they just want to enjoy the atmosphere and listening to Nigel Logan spin his yarns.
May 8, 2020
Book 1 in The Nigel Logan Stories is a thoroughly enjoyable book and a great kickoff to a series. Author Kirk Jockell introduces the reader to a variety of compelling characters with interesting backstories. Jockell's knowledge and experience with the inner workings of the US Navy clearly shine through in this book without overburdening the reader with a lot of military jargon. Set in the friendly, panhandle town of Port St. Joe, FL, it doesn't take long to appreciate and connect with the "locals" that Jockell introduces.
The main character, Nigel Logan, has a few skeletons in his closet that aren't immediately disclosed to the reader, which adds greatly to the mystery of his being. Lots of terrific storytelling will leave readers wanting more - which they will get from succeeding stories in the series.
I'm hooked.
The main character, Nigel Logan, has a few skeletons in his closet that aren't immediately disclosed to the reader, which adds greatly to the mystery of his being. Lots of terrific storytelling will leave readers wanting more - which they will get from succeeding stories in the series.
I'm hooked.
August 1, 2016
I found this book quite by accident when googling "Port St. Joe" and "books", in preparation for a quick trip to the Forgotten Coast, one of my favorite places. My mother taught in Port St. Joe - Go Sharks! - so this has always been a special place to me. By coincidence, this book was a Kindle "deal". I really enjoyed these stories containing some of the familiar spots in the Port St. Joe area, and Jockell describes the area and the locals well. I read this ebook off and on, one story at a time, and then I became intrigued with a bigger plot - guess I'll have to follow Logan in the Tate's Hell stories! Another coincidence is that the author lives just a few miles from where I live. I will be interested to see in what direction Kirk Jockell takes his writing!
July 6, 2017
If you enjoy a good story, you should read "Tales from Stool 17",
told by Nigel Logan - Chief Petty Officer USN, retired.
Kirk S. Jockell has the start of a great series; this was one of the most
enjoyable books I have had the pleasure to read lately.
It is on my MUST READ LIST, and I think you will thank me,
when you finish it.
Do not forget to send a "Thank You" to the author :)
told by Nigel Logan - Chief Petty Officer USN, retired.
Kirk S. Jockell has the start of a great series; this was one of the most
enjoyable books I have had the pleasure to read lately.
It is on my MUST READ LIST, and I think you will thank me,
when you finish it.
Do not forget to send a "Thank You" to the author :)
December 31, 2017
Great Tale For Any Avid Sailor
I really enjoyed this book it has started with some tall tales, that I have thoroughly enjoyed. My new year will now have an author to follow. As someone who has sailed, I wish I had a winning lottery ticket, so that I could buy a home in Port St. Joe.
I really enjoyed this book it has started with some tall tales, that I have thoroughly enjoyed. My new year will now have an author to follow. As someone who has sailed, I wish I had a winning lottery ticket, so that I could buy a home in Port St. Joe.
September 20, 2020
"Waterfront Escapism." It's a term I coined to describe coastal books that pull you into their character's lives and make you want to hang out and have a beer with them. This is a perfect example of that. So much so that I downloaded the next book in the series right after I finished this one. Keep 'em coming, Kirk!
April 5, 2018
I want the seat next to Stool 17
The book reads like stories told by the guy in the next stool over at your friendly neighborhood bar. He spins a good yarn. The sailing/naval background and Gulf coast locale give the story an interesting hook.
The book reads like stories told by the guy in the next stool over at your friendly neighborhood bar. He spins a good yarn. The sailing/naval background and Gulf coast locale give the story an interesting hook.
June 21, 2021
Awesome book. It just kept on getting better and better. It's very amusing. I have already recommended it to other members of my family.
December 31, 2020
Tales from Stool 17 is a lively read which is authentic in its connection to Navy life and single hand sailing. As a former Marine, I enjoyed being taken back, through story telling, to my life on Navy ships and also to my days of single hand sailing at sea. The story is broken down into small short stories, each one has its own chapter. But all the chapter and mini stories come together to hold your attention to the main theme. All through the book there are unannounced moments where events cause hilarious out comes and offhand remarks that made me chuckle. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a great story well told.
December 31, 2020
Loved it
I loved this book! It is not what I usually read but is the most fun book ever! I know bad English but it is true. It isn’t a novel. It isn’t a lot of things. I don’t know what it is except fun. It would have been just as good if written about a myriad of other places but it only caught my attention because of the location. My “real home” is the Forgotten Coast altho I live inland a little. I am anticipating reading more from this amazing storyteller.
I loved this book! It is not what I usually read but is the most fun book ever! I know bad English but it is true. It isn’t a novel. It isn’t a lot of things. I don’t know what it is except fun. It would have been just as good if written about a myriad of other places but it only caught my attention because of the location. My “real home” is the Forgotten Coast altho I live inland a little. I am anticipating reading more from this amazing storyteller.
December 8, 2020
Guy walks into a bar...
I picked this one up on the recommendation of another author and it wasn't quite the mystery/thriller I expected. Happily, it IS a very entertaining read. I enjoyed the characters and the laid back lifestyle that's abundant in that area. I'll definitely be reading the next one!
I picked this one up on the recommendation of another author and it wasn't quite the mystery/thriller I expected. Happily, it IS a very entertaining read. I enjoyed the characters and the laid back lifestyle that's abundant in that area. I'll definitely be reading the next one!
June 7, 2021
Outstanding Start of a Series
So - the author lives there, is a sailor, is a photographer and drinks Bourbon. With those credentials you can not expect anything except a PERFECT first book!
Moving to book #2.
So - the author lives there, is a sailor, is a photographer and drinks Bourbon. With those credentials you can not expect anything except a PERFECT first book!
Moving to book #2.
November 19, 2020
I enjoyed this story. At first I thought it was a bit disjointed with the changing time frames of segments. But then I started enjoying the flow and found it to be a well written book. We love the Forgotten Coast and this book rings true to that area. Well done!
December 29, 2020
It started a little slow but I stayed with it and after a few more pages was hooked. I'm familiar with the life style and somewhat with the place and in the end enjoyed the book very much. Though I gave it only a 4-star, It's a solid 4.
March 23, 2021
A good beginning
My first book with this author. Missing the excitement and drama of other tropical authors, but not a bad thing. I guess laying ground work for future adventures of Nigel. Looking forward to the next.
My first book with this author. Missing the excitement and drama of other tropical authors, but not a bad thing. I guess laying ground work for future adventures of Nigel. Looking forward to the next.
January 3, 2021
A good read.
Nigel Logan is my kind'a guy. Yes, he can be a real pain in the patoot to those who deserve it. I think that's what I like about home.
Nigel Logan is my kind'a guy. Yes, he can be a real pain in the patoot to those who deserve it. I think that's what I like about home.
August 24, 2023
For me, Stool 17 was a sort of trip back in time. As a Navy veteran, I could relate to so much of Nigel’s life. Navy vocabulary is difficult for civilians to understand. But it’s a language I’ve never forgotten, which made the book so much more of a pleasure to read. As a resident of southwest Florida I can also relate to the characters that Kirk introduces us to. They are so believable that you think you already know them. Unlike a lot of books I read, Stool 17 was not a suspenseful page turner. Instead, it was a welcomed, relaxing read with more than its share of humor and real people. Great read!
May 3, 2023
A slow, easy read. Very slow. After 1/3 of the book, the most exciting thing to happen was the hero finding a missing goat. The writing is good enough, but the proofreading is lacking. The entire book seems to be setting up the character, and for what I don't know. If the protagonist had an actual problem to solve, it would take 800 pages at this rate. The book hints at a tragic backstory, and finally tells the story, but only part of it. I guess the reader has to keep going with the series to get the rest. I don't have the patience.
February 16, 2021
Very good read.
I really enjoyed this book. It was very light-hearted and genuine. Knowing something of the area made it even better. I love reading books that are centered around some place that I know and can relate to. While not accustomed to Navy life, I understand military life and could relate to that. Nigel Logan is a great character, as are the rest of the gang. Can’t wait to read the next one.
I really enjoyed this book. It was very light-hearted and genuine. Knowing something of the area made it even better. I love reading books that are centered around some place that I know and can relate to. While not accustomed to Navy life, I understand military life and could relate to that. Nigel Logan is a great character, as are the rest of the gang. Can’t wait to read the next one.
June 2, 2021
Jiuoyiquituyweurpiewoewopyytrewpruew
Kfi poi
Jingle is .wrestling. let's ,one review. And I have.I have no control over it The headline was supposed to be justice!But now kindle is decided to write what it wants to right.So it takes a while to find out what crime was committed and why the chief has resigned and gone elsewhere I'm going to try to do another book in the series and we'll see what happens when I get to the end of the street view goodbye
Kfi poi
Jingle is .wrestling. let's ,one review. And I have.I have no control over it The headline was supposed to be justice!But now kindle is decided to write what it wants to right.So it takes a while to find out what crime was committed and why the chief has resigned and gone elsewhere I'm going to try to do another book in the series and we'll see what happens when I get to the end of the street view goodbye
September 9, 2022
Former Navy Officer Nigel Logan sails into the small coastal town of Port St. Joe, along Florida's Forgotten Coast, after an unexpected early retirement. He enjoys the people and the small town atmosphere, and decides to stay. This book is filled with humorous tales of Nigel's new life along the Gulf of Mexico. This is a fun, light read, especially if you've been to this beautiful part of the Florida shoreline in the past.
September 4, 2024
Good read
My family and I love the Mexico Beach , Port St Joe area. I feel this story takes place just before it became 'tourst-y'. Great story excellent read. Nigel is someone I would've enjoyed spending the evenings with on either stool 16 or 18. And one of the characters is from my hometown! I'll let you guess which one. Hint: Go Falcons!
My family and I love the Mexico Beach , Port St Joe area. I feel this story takes place just before it became 'tourst-y'. Great story excellent read. Nigel is someone I would've enjoyed spending the evenings with on either stool 16 or 18. And one of the characters is from my hometown! I'll let you guess which one. Hint: Go Falcons!
March 22, 2025
Fun read that was different from my usual. Parts of the book were enjoyable, but parts left me wondering why they were there. It seemed that the men were all drunks and the attitude towards women was dismissive.
Authors did a good job of explaining things clearly, so that everyone could understand Navy jargon, sailing concepts and shrimping.
Authors did a good job of explaining things clearly, so that everyone could understand Navy jargon, sailing concepts and shrimping.
June 29, 2017
Good story but did not like that it was part of a series. I love this part of Florida and am very familiar with places he mentioned. The people there are still the same as they used to be for the most part. This man fit in well with the folks in that part of Florida. Thanks for the good story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 4, 2021
Better than I expected.
Better than I expected. I quirky set of vignettes and characters who really grow on you! All the little stories are food but the parts that delve into Logan’s US Navy past are riveting. I hope we get a lot more of those.
Better than I expected. I quirky set of vignettes and characters who really grow on you! All the little stories are food but the parts that delve into Logan’s US Navy past are riveting. I hope we get a lot more of those.
May 22, 2023
Stool 17
A rather good novel about a retired naval NCO. I thought that the various stories were quite interesting. I especially liked the information about Port St. Joe which I visited once.
A rather good novel about a retired naval NCO. I thought that the various stories were quite interesting. I especially liked the information about Port St. Joe which I visited once.
November 2, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed book one; a collection of anecdotal tales from a bar stool, with a background story neatly weaved through the book. I'm adding the rest of the series to my 'to be read' stack!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews