top of page


Big Lake Troubles, a novel
Available wherever books are sold. 
​

There’s trouble, and then there’s Big Lake Troubles

 

A high-stakes drama where love, loyalty, and ethics collide in the fight to tackle the climate crisis on Lake Superior.

​

Coal might be killing the planet, but former judge Jason Erickson is reluctant to get involved in a case involving a massive coal shipper on Lake Superior. He'd prefer drinking wine and walking the California beaches rather than winter in a Wisconsin courtroom. Jason's girlfriend, Grace Clarkson, represents the opponents and is pressuring him to join her. However, committing to the case means different things to each of them, and their relationship might be at stake.

​

Hotshot Chicago attorney Courtney Sharpe represents the coal shipping company. She will crush the opposition if she can only get former mentor and lover Earl Franks—recently out of prison—to help her. But can she get to him before the other side does?

​

As this drama unfolds, alliances shift, and some of these respected attorneys become convinced they must engage in shady ethical practices involving small boats and large dogs to catch the coal facility in bad faith. But when they put someone's life in danger, can they still consider themselves the good guys?

​

Big Lake Troubles picks up where Boldt’s acclaimed first novel Blue Lake left off. It's an elegant exploration of the ethics of tackling the climate crisis in a flawed system and an inspiring journey of personal growth, connection, and truths beyond courtroom walls.

​

Reviews

“One of the best legal thrillers of the year.”

 

Kirkus Reviews Big Lake Troubles (Starred Review) Editor's Pick

 

“Thought-provoking scenarios that book clubs will want to discuss and debate as the thriller steeps its readers in unexpected outcomes.”

 

Midwest Book Review, Review by D. Donovan, Senior Reviewer, Dec. 2024

​

Book Trib review: “Readers who are put off by the idea of ​​a cold, procedural law novel: have no fear. Big Lake Troubles is filled with warmth and humanity, rich with interpersonal relationships and moral conflict, and teeming with care for the environment. It is a book that will serve as a great companion for the next few years of uncertainty for our climate, our future and our political atmosphere.”

​

Independent Book Review: “What makes Big Lake Troubles so compelling is the ensemble of voices that Boldt brings together, each with their take on the coal facility and what it means to take a stand… At the end of the day, Big Lake Troubles is a thoughtful, character-driven story about fighting for what matters—even when you’re not sure exactly what that is.”

​

"A twisty eco-thriller with high stakes and a vibrant cast of characters who battle as much within themselves as with their ability and desire to do good. I couldn't wait to see where their struggles would lead them."

​​

Christina Clancy, author of The Second Home, Shoulder Season and forthcoming The Snowbirds

​

A thrilling, thoughtful, and unflinching investigation into what we owe to the people and places we love.” 

 

Lindsay Starck, Author of Noah’s Wife and Monsters We Have

Full Cover_edited.jpg

Available Now!

Home: Latest Work

Big Lake Troubles Press

​

​​Duluth News Tribune: Best Bets: Big Lake Troubles at Fitgers (Front page story with photo and mini-review)

 

Milwaukee Magazine:

Q&A: Jeffrey Boldt Explores Law, Climate and Connection in His Novel ‘Big Lake Troubles’

​

Milwaukee Public Radio: Former Wisconsin judge takes on climate crisis in his second novel

 

Milwaukee Shepherd Express: Eco-Thriller Author at BoswellBooks

​

Madison Isthmus: Big Lake Troubles is a thriller that takes on the climate crisis directly through its dramatic Wisconsin setting involving coal shipping on Lake Superior. 

Get in Touch
Home: Welcome

Contact

Madison, WI

jeffreydb7(AT)gmail.com

Notebook and Pen
Home: Contact
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • Twitter
  • Instagram
  • Threads

©2021 by Jeffrey D Boldt. 

bottom of page