McCafferty discussed 'Bangtail Ghost' with local book club

By Cathy and Jeff Harrits

SEELEY LAKE – Bozeman mystery writer Keith McCafferty presented his most recent novel, The Bangtail Ghost, Saturday night, Oct. 15, at Alpine Artisans Open Book Club author series.

It's easy to appreciate a book that describes the beauty and wildness of Montana and the state's interesting people, unique places and magnificent wildlife. Throw in a great mystery and what do you have? A novel from the Sean Stranahan mystery series by Keith McCafferty, complete with humor and plenty of adventure thrown in.

McCafferty's novels feature a cast of colorful characters, many of whom would be right at home in Seeley Lake. Sean Stranahan is a transplant to Montana, a water color artist who also works as a fishing guide and has experience as a private detective. That's how Sean ends up working with the local by-the-book sheriff, Martha Ettinger. Sam Meslik, also a fishing guide, is Sean's crusty confidant who always has a humorous comment. Then there is Deputy Sheriff Harold Little Feather, who shares his skills and wisdom as an expert tracker. The eccentric members of the Madison River Liars and Fly Tiers Club add to the story. The interaction among these characters, among others, offers amusement, conflict, and insight into human nature.

Although fly fishing and floating on some of Montana's premier trout streams flow throughout the book series, it is solving the crimes woven into each tale that is the real focus.

In the most recent novel, The Bangtail Ghost, initial evidence seems to show that a woman was attacked and dragged away by a mountain lion. However, her death would not be the last suspicious killing that needs to be investigated.

If you're looking for an entertaining mystery series to get you through the winter, The Bangtail Ghost and other selections from the Sean Stranahan mystery series are available at the Grizzly Claw Trading Co. in Seeley Lake.