Murder in Thin Air

Murder in Thin Air

Dr. Janet Reid, a chemistry professor at Alma College ─ and a champion hot air balloon pilot is murdered when her balloon, The Bagpiper, explodes over Battle Creek, Michigan.  Detective Lou Searing and Jack Kelly with help from Maggie McMillan and Heather Moore, investigate the murder, involving a cast of suspects at Alma College and in the ballooning world. Revenge, competition, and suspense figure into the equation as Lou and Jack solve a complex set of circumstances.

About the Author

Richard L. Baldwin was a special educator and administrator. The last 7 years of his career he served as the State Director of Special Education for the State of Michigan. Following his retirement he established a second career as author and publisher. He has written (to date) 19 cozy mysteries set in Michigan. He formed a small independent publishing company, Buttonwood Press, and currently publishes the work of four authors. Richard speaks at conferences, schools, libraries, senior centers, and book clubs. He lives in Haslett, Michigan with his wife Patty and beloved cat, Sami.

Why are Baldwin’s books popular?

First and foremost his books and those he publishes are safe reads, free of profanity, sex, and graphic violence. Secondly, even though the books are murder mysteries, the story centers around justice, compassion for people, and places familiar to readers. Baldwin sets his fictitious stories in real cities. Third, the stories are suspenseful providing a challenge to discover “who done it?” Finally, Baldwin’s books are fun quick reads where people boast of reading his books in a day or two.