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The Bootlegger's Legacy
When an old-time bootlegger dies and leaves his son Mike a cryptic letter hinting at millions in hidden cash, Mike and his friend Joe embark on a journey that takes them through three states and 50 years of history. What they find goes beyond money and transforms them both.
It all starts with a key, embossed with the letters CB, and a cryptic reference to Deep Deuce, a neighborhood once filled with hot jazz and gangs of bootleggers. Out of those threads is woven a tapestry of history, romance, drama, and mystery; connecting two generations and two families in the adventure of a lifetime.
It all starts with a key, embossed with the letters CB, and a cryptic reference to Deep Deuce, a neighborhood once filled with hot jazz and gangs of bootleggers. Out of those threads is woven a tapestry of history, romance, drama, and mystery; connecting two generations and two families in the adventure of a lifetime.
314 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2015
643 people are currently reading
865 people want to read
About the author
Ted Clifton
23 books73 followersAward-winning author Ted Clifton has written mystery novels which feature the settings of New Mexico and Oklahoma, places where Ted spent considerable time.
One of his books, The Bootlegger’s Legacy, won the IBPA Benjamin Franklin award and the CIPA EVVY award.
He currently has three mystery series: Pacheco and Chino, the Muckraker Mystery series and the Vincent Malone series. The first book, Santa Fe Mojo, from the Malone series was just published.
Today, Ted resides in Denver with his wife and grandson, after many years living in the New Mexico desert.
One of his books, The Bootlegger’s Legacy, won the IBPA Benjamin Franklin award and the CIPA EVVY award.
He currently has three mystery series: Pacheco and Chino, the Muckraker Mystery series and the Vincent Malone series. The first book, Santa Fe Mojo, from the Malone series was just published.
Today, Ted resides in Denver with his wife and grandson, after many years living in the New Mexico desert.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
May 4, 2017
The Bootlegger's Legacy by Ted Clifton
I'm not commenting much on this book because I didn't finish it. However, it isn't because Mr. Clifton doesn't write lovely prose, he does. It isn't because he doesn't give details, he does (maybe too many). It's not because the proof-reading isn't top notch -- it is! It's because, half way through the book, I'm just not interested yet. I can see where he's taking the story, I think it could be interesting, but I'm bored. I haven't touched the book in 3 days, which is something of a record for me. I read EVERY day -- but I'm tired of the skipping around in the timeline, tired of the individual character sketches (fully fleshed out as they may be), tired of nothing particular happening. Others may love this style of writing. But it's just not for me.
I'm not commenting much on this book because I didn't finish it. However, it isn't because Mr. Clifton doesn't write lovely prose, he does. It isn't because he doesn't give details, he does (maybe too many). It's not because the proof-reading isn't top notch -- it is! It's because, half way through the book, I'm just not interested yet. I can see where he's taking the story, I think it could be interesting, but I'm bored. I haven't touched the book in 3 days, which is something of a record for me. I read EVERY day -- but I'm tired of the skipping around in the timeline, tired of the individual character sketches (fully fleshed out as they may be), tired of nothing particular happening. Others may love this style of writing. But it's just not for me.
November 27, 2018
This book is pretty good. These books are easy to read. An old bootlegger leaves a trail of crumbs for his son to follow, after his death, is search of his hidden stash. Even though it doesn't say so. This is the 1st book in a series of three. You should read this book first, then read (Dog Gone Lies) and then read (Shy High Stakes). You will enjoy the books more if you read them in order......TJ
July 17, 2016
I found this a very enjoyable book which held me all the way through.
When first reading the Prolog (prologue if you are from GB) I was a little apprehensive how it was starting. I needn't have worried. this was after all the Prolog. Once I got into the book I didn't want to put it down. Full of twists and turns.
A lot of American history here with many good but complex characters, this is a book well worth reading.
When first reading the Prolog (prologue if you are from GB) I was a little apprehensive how it was starting. I needn't have worried. this was after all the Prolog. Once I got into the book I didn't want to put it down. Full of twists and turns.
A lot of American history here with many good but complex characters, this is a book well worth reading.
July 10, 2016
great book. I loved the way the author took you from the 1950's to the 2000's and back. It was a constant mystery until the very end. Some things came as no surprise at all but then others smacked you right upside the head. Being from Oklahoma myself, I could so see this as actually happening. great job.
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January 16, 2016I received this book from a Goodreads Giveaway. The story was detailed and intriguing - the family history throughout Oklahoma and how those continuing dynamics affected the plotline made for an easy, fast-paced read. I would have liked to see more individual character development and personal drive, as sometimes the "family reasoning" wasn't enough to make individual decisions believable. All in all, a good read.
August 24, 2016
Good reading
Good reading this story is a little bit different than what you normally find . At first I was confused by the skipping from one to another so hang in there it really gets 5 star rating in the end
Good reading this story is a little bit different than what you normally find . At first I was confused by the skipping from one to another so hang in there it really gets 5 star rating in the end
May 3, 2016
Terrific book
I read so much I rarely give reviews but this is a fascinating story. Much different than most books I read. I can't recommend it highly enough.
I read so much I rarely give reviews but this is a fascinating story. Much different than most books I read. I can't recommend it highly enough.
July 7, 2016
Yowzet
Great book.couldn't put it down. The plot is never boring.the writing was superb and he really did great research.I can't wait to read more by Mr.Clifton.thank you.
Great book.couldn't put it down. The plot is never boring.the writing was superb and he really did great research.I can't wait to read more by Mr.Clifton.thank you.
December 17, 2018
1952, Oklahoma City, OK. The Billy Parker Band didn’t miss any notes.
John “Johnny” Giovanni (Italian) was not there to listen to jazz.
The bootlegger is planning on retiring & Johnny was going to take over.
Patrick “Pat” Allen (60+, husband/Mike’s dad, bootlegger, former insurance sales) was going to meet with Johnny.
Pat was accompanied by Sally Thompson (John A. Browns & Co. department store/restaurant, waitress, Pat’s mistress).
Later, what happened to Sally?
1987, Oklahoma City, OK. Joe Meadows (44, husband/father, BMF, CPA) & Mike Allen (husband/father, son, Allen’s Hardware owner) were going to discuss his profit/loss margin.
Joe gave him the bottom line.
Triples bar. Having a few drinks, Mike showed/told Joe about Deep Deuce/St. Francis (cryptic letter) & there was also a key (# 487; CB) from Patrick “Pat” Allen (deceased).
Elizabeth Ruth “Bugs” Allen (29, Pat’s wife/mother, nee Hall) was fed up with Pat.
There were 2 children to think about also.
3/1987, Las Cruces, NM. Sheriff Ray Pacheco (Dona Ana County) went to see Chuck (Owen’s Realty) to see what he might get for his house in Hatch, & then buy a lake lot.
Patrick Allen (Mike’s father, former bootlegger), & Mrs. Allen (mother) had both passed away.
Michael “Mike” Allen (son), & Jeff Young went to speak to Rick Lopez (Citizen’s Bank mgr.) about a lockbox left by Patrick.
Jim Emerson (Citizen’s Bank owner, Kiwanis club exec.) spoke with Rick about the matter.
It seems Samantha “Sam” Allen (Christian, nymphomaniac, nee Rogers) wasn’t sure she still loved Mike.
Sam & Mike built/started the Legacy Chapel (TV/radio).
Warning: This book contains extremely graphic adult content, violence, or expletive language &/or uncensored sexually explicit material which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive or have potential adverse psychological effects on the reader.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written mystery book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a large set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great adventure mystery, or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; Purple Sage Books LLC.; Lisaatmanybooks; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
John “Johnny” Giovanni (Italian) was not there to listen to jazz.
The bootlegger is planning on retiring & Johnny was going to take over.
Patrick “Pat” Allen (60+, husband/Mike’s dad, bootlegger, former insurance sales) was going to meet with Johnny.
Pat was accompanied by Sally Thompson (John A. Browns & Co. department store/restaurant, waitress, Pat’s mistress).
Later, what happened to Sally?
1987, Oklahoma City, OK. Joe Meadows (44, husband/father, BMF, CPA) & Mike Allen (husband/father, son, Allen’s Hardware owner) were going to discuss his profit/loss margin.
Joe gave him the bottom line.
Triples bar. Having a few drinks, Mike showed/told Joe about Deep Deuce/St. Francis (cryptic letter) & there was also a key (# 487; CB) from Patrick “Pat” Allen (deceased).
Elizabeth Ruth “Bugs” Allen (29, Pat’s wife/mother, nee Hall) was fed up with Pat.
There were 2 children to think about also.
3/1987, Las Cruces, NM. Sheriff Ray Pacheco (Dona Ana County) went to see Chuck (Owen’s Realty) to see what he might get for his house in Hatch, & then buy a lake lot.
Patrick Allen (Mike’s father, former bootlegger), & Mrs. Allen (mother) had both passed away.
Michael “Mike” Allen (son), & Jeff Young went to speak to Rick Lopez (Citizen’s Bank mgr.) about a lockbox left by Patrick.
Jim Emerson (Citizen’s Bank owner, Kiwanis club exec.) spoke with Rick about the matter.
It seems Samantha “Sam” Allen (Christian, nymphomaniac, nee Rogers) wasn’t sure she still loved Mike.
Sam & Mike built/started the Legacy Chapel (TV/radio).
Warning: This book contains extremely graphic adult content, violence, or expletive language &/or uncensored sexually explicit material which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive or have potential adverse psychological effects on the reader.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written mystery book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a large set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great adventure mystery, or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; Purple Sage Books LLC.; Lisaatmanybooks; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
November 27, 2017
When an old-time bootlegger dies, he leaves his son, Mike, a cryptic letter and a key, hinting at a secret stash of millions of dollars that he hopes his son is smart enough to find. With his best friend, Joe, he sets off on an adventure that covers three states and fifty years of a family history that sets the two friends’ minds reeling.
The Bootlegger’s Legacy by Ted Clifton is a rollicking and heartwarming tale of love, loss, and redemption that traces the lives of several people over a fifty-year period, as they come to terms with their past and present, and forge new futures. Once you start reading this book, you’ll be pulled into their lives as if they’re old friends with whom you’ve lost contact, and are now discovering things about them that you never knew.
The author does an amazing job of introducing characters, and then leaving you wondering what will happen to them next, and then, in the end, tying up every loose end in a wonderful package that will leave you completely satisfied.
The Bootlegger’s Legacy by Ted Clifton is a rollicking and heartwarming tale of love, loss, and redemption that traces the lives of several people over a fifty-year period, as they come to terms with their past and present, and forge new futures. Once you start reading this book, you’ll be pulled into their lives as if they’re old friends with whom you’ve lost contact, and are now discovering things about them that you never knew.
The author does an amazing job of introducing characters, and then leaving you wondering what will happen to them next, and then, in the end, tying up every loose end in a wonderful package that will leave you completely satisfied.
June 14, 2022
Joe and Mike were friends. Mikes dad left the hardware store to him when he died. Joe was a accountant who handled Mikes business. The business was going down hill but Mike continued to drink and ignore his advice. Pat and Liz werent in a good place in their marriage, His business took him out of town alot and she didnt know exactly what he did for a living. He eventually met a younger woman who he fell in love with. To make a long story short. Mike and Joe find information about some things that were in his deceased moms files. A business was out there and a letter to the lady Joe was seeing was in the lockbox..They decided they would search it down to find out what it was all about. Boy then everyones luck started to change and most everyone came out ahead and happy.
August 9, 2018
Loved reading this book.
A great read, I enjoyed how the story went from Pat, to Joe and Mike, then to Pat and Sally. I couldn't believe how smooth every thing went, with that much money, But then again you never know. And the strange way everything worked out. Even though there were some sad parts. I was so into this book, that I was rooting for Pat and Sally, and Mike and Joe. I would recommend this book!!
A great read, I enjoyed how the story went from Pat, to Joe and Mike, then to Pat and Sally. I couldn't believe how smooth every thing went, with that much money, But then again you never know. And the strange way everything worked out. Even though there were some sad parts. I was so into this book, that I was rooting for Pat and Sally, and Mike and Joe. I would recommend this book!!
February 3, 2019
Fun read
This author has an ability to describe the locations, atmosphere and individual voices with such authenticity and clarity that you feel you are the character telling the story. What an adventure. Bad guys that are real mobsters and bad guys who are polished and hold to a deal. Ethics are explored, relationships built on false pretenses and others raw and authentic. Brilliant!
This author has an ability to describe the locations, atmosphere and individual voices with such authenticity and clarity that you feel you are the character telling the story. What an adventure. Bad guys that are real mobsters and bad guys who are polished and hold to a deal. Ethics are explored, relationships built on false pretenses and others raw and authentic. Brilliant!
September 27, 2019
Didn't meet expectations
I expected something more like a mystery, but the use of multiple POVs from different time frames filled in the pieces, eliminating any puzzle for me to enjoy putting together. The writing itself was not up to my basic expectations either. Of the characters, only the historical Pat felt real. The rest were shallower with character relying on a few traits.
I expected something more like a mystery, but the use of multiple POVs from different time frames filled in the pieces, eliminating any puzzle for me to enjoy putting together. The writing itself was not up to my basic expectations either. Of the characters, only the historical Pat felt real. The rest were shallower with character relying on a few traits.
November 1, 2016
What a great story
This has been in my library because my wife picked it up. I didn't have an internet connection when it came time to download one from the cloud. This book was on my device so what the hey. I am certainly glad it was there, what a terrific story. I am now on to another by Ted Clifton, thanks Ted.
This has been in my library because my wife picked it up. I didn't have an internet connection when it came time to download one from the cloud. This book was on my device so what the hey. I am certainly glad it was there, what a terrific story. I am now on to another by Ted Clifton, thanks Ted.
March 3, 2017
The Bootlegger's Legacy
Well written. I enjoyed reading this book. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoy reading mysteries. It wasn't an edge of your seat murder mystery but it keeps you interested in what's going to happen next. It tells the story of the past and present at the same time without giving up any spoilers. I'd give it 5 stars but I never give any book 5 stars.
Well written. I enjoyed reading this book. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoy reading mysteries. It wasn't an edge of your seat murder mystery but it keeps you interested in what's going to happen next. It tells the story of the past and present at the same time without giving up any spoilers. I'd give it 5 stars but I never give any book 5 stars.
November 10, 2017
Easy read
This book moves along easily, at times it can be hard to recall the characters, but than they come back. This story line would make an interesting movie, but I'm sure as it is, it would not make enough money for Hollywood. Those who appreciate real human emotions would find it wonderful, romance, intrigue,mystery,betrayal, morals all that is in life
This book moves along easily, at times it can be hard to recall the characters, but than they come back. This story line would make an interesting movie, but I'm sure as it is, it would not make enough money for Hollywood. Those who appreciate real human emotions would find it wonderful, romance, intrigue,mystery,betrayal, morals all that is in life
May 1, 2018
Bootlegger
Once again I do enjoyed reading this Book. Forbidden Love that could not be stopped and it rolled into disaster for Sally. This is a fast paced story and your pulled into a long span of time. It's all good, quite the Story of People who become someone you could be Friends with! 4🌟 and Ted Cliften don't stop now!! MORE
Once again I do enjoyed reading this Book. Forbidden Love that could not be stopped and it rolled into disaster for Sally. This is a fast paced story and your pulled into a long span of time. It's all good, quite the Story of People who become someone you could be Friends with! 4🌟 and Ted Cliften don't stop now!! MORE
August 27, 2018
The character development was first rate . The story telling kept me engaged and it very difficult to put down . I definitely recommend this book.
I very much enjoyed the description of the various cities used in the story. I am familiar with each one and was impressed with the factual accuracy depicting each one .
I very much enjoyed the description of the various cities used in the story. I am familiar with each one and was impressed with the factual accuracy depicting each one .
May 7, 2020
Beware Bootlegger
Sounded good, so tried it. This Auther is now on my "Definitely read list." I decided to try something different and I am so glad I did. Loved the detail, the odd group of characters and the story. What was even a great plus, the eplog. Finding out what happened to this interesting group was an added enjoyment.
Sounded good, so tried it. This Auther is now on my "Definitely read list." I decided to try something different and I am so glad I did. Loved the detail, the odd group of characters and the story. What was even a great plus, the eplog. Finding out what happened to this interesting group was an added enjoyment.
October 4, 2021
What a Wonderful Saga
What did I dislike? Very little. There are a few spots where the narrative drags, but it is always eclipsed by humor, a strange or sudden turn of events, or a wonderful and creative story. I really enjoyed this book. Thank you, Mr. C!ifton, for writing a really cool first book.
What did I dislike? Very little. There are a few spots where the narrative drags, but it is always eclipsed by humor, a strange or sudden turn of events, or a wonderful and creative story. I really enjoyed this book. Thank you, Mr. C!ifton, for writing a really cool first book.
February 14, 2022
I quite enjoy Mr Clifton's work. I read "Dog Gone Lies" first so this filled-in some of the gaps for that. This book was a bit disconcerting in the beginning with all the different threads but it all came together beautifully in the end. The plot was something different for me in the mystery writing genre. Looking forward to more from this author.
May 22, 2022
I unhappily felt that this book dragged on and on. Half as much would have been enough. Simply too many details and overlong passages. I grew to throughly dislike Pat, Mike and even Joe. If I had read this book first, I would have passed on the rest of the Ray Pacheco books, which would have been a shame.
November 13, 2016
Good read
Gangster retires and leaves his son a mystery to solve . How would you handle that if all you remembered of your father was that he ran the local hardware store that he left to you and it is a financial drain on your life? So the tale begins
Gangster retires and leaves his son a mystery to solve . How would you handle that if all you remembered of your father was that he ran the local hardware store that he left to you and it is a financial drain on your life? So the tale begins
September 17, 2018
Brother's Legacy
This was an interesting story introducing Red Clifton's series I read the first book of the series before this book. It filled in the blanks of the first in the series. I do look forward to reading the rest of the stories in the series.
This was an interesting story introducing Red Clifton's series I read the first book of the series before this book. It filled in the blanks of the first in the series. I do look forward to reading the rest of the stories in the series.
November 14, 2018
Quite a fun adventure! The characters made this book interesting, keeping me guessing and wanting to know what would happen next. The author did a good jump with the time jumps. Glad I read this delightful adventure.
March 8, 2020
Really enjoyed this story!
I loved this story, it kinda reminded me of some of the stories told around the kitchen table about bootlegging here in the Ca desert! A awesome storyline and so glad that Joe ended up happy! Can't wait to read more from this author!
I loved this story, it kinda reminded me of some of the stories told around the kitchen table about bootlegging here in the Ca desert! A awesome storyline and so glad that Joe ended up happy! Can't wait to read more from this author!
November 11, 2020
Very interesting story
Great story. The book was very interesting and kept me reading to see where would happen next. I really liked the bootlegger theme and the love story between Pat and Sally.
Great story. The book was very interesting and kept me reading to see where would happen next. I really liked the bootlegger theme and the love story between Pat and Sally.
December 12, 2020
This was a very enjoyable book. I'll admit I had a bit of trouble following the different generations but, in general, the characters were great and very believable. It was exciting right up to the end.
January 31, 2022
I enjoy reading this author's books. He is a good storyteller and this one did not disappoint. A search for a former bootlegger's stash of cash. Lots of interesting characters and twists along the way.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews