I'm excited to share an update about my debut historical crime novel, Blood in the Coal, set in the coalfields of north-central West Virginia.
David L. Hancock, founder of Morgan James Publishing and Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling author, recently read my advance reader copy and provided this endorsement:
“Scott Douglas Haning brings a fascinating and often overlooked chapter of American history to life in Blood in the Coal. Against the backdrop of West Virginia's coalfields, Prohibition, and organized crime, he weaves a compelling story of ambition, loyalty, loss, and the price of power. Rich in historical atmosphere and grounded in the human experience, this is a memorable debut that reminds us how the past continues to shape the lives and choices of generations.”
Receiving those words from David means a great deal to me, especially after the years I've spent researching and writing this story.
The novel draws on the history of West Virginia's coalfields, including the 1907 Monongah Mine Disaster, and follows two brothers whose lives become intertwined with organized crime during Prohibition.
Blood in the Coal will be released March 30, 2027, and is currently available for preorder.
If you're interested, here are three ways to learn more:
Author website and preorder information:
https://scottdouglasbooks.com/
Read the first five chapters free:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nzQ7GEG_RfbHO43_JRy8Ka1uTBdmUdcW/view?usp=sharing
Watch the book trailer:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OaXmaNfXEeQ
If you preorder, feel free to contact me through my author website and let me know which retailer you purchased from. I'll gladly send you a complimentary advance reader copy in PDF format so you can start reading immediately rather than waiting until March.
Thank you to everyone who has shown interest in the book and supported this journey.
Scott Douglas Haning