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The BootleggerClive Cussler and Justin Scott

Historical adventure thriller

The Bootlegger

by Clive Cussler and Justin Scott

Book 7 of the Isaac Bell series

435 pages · First published 2014

In the early days of Prohibition, private detective Isaac Bell is drawn into a deadly investigation when his mentor, Joseph Van Dorn, is nearly killed while pursuing a rum-running vessel. Bell vows to bring the attackers to justice, but the murder of a key witness reveals that the criminals are far more dangerous than ordinary bootleggers. His investigation uncovers a sophisticated smuggling empire operated by Bolshevik agents who are using America's appetite for illegal liquor to finance a plot against the United States. From New York's speakeasies to the waterways of Florida and the streets of Detroit, Bell must stop a ruthless international conspiracy before its deadly ambitions become reality. A strong choice for readers craving Prohibition-era intrigue, undercover enemies, and a fast-moving investigation through speakeasies and smuggling routes.

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Black Coffee + Dark ’n’ Stormy

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At a glance

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Spice2 of 5
Suspense5 of 5
Creepy2 of 5
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No surprises at chapter twelve

Content notes

Gun violence, shootings, and assassination attempts · Murder and violent deaths · Explosions, fires, and dangerous high-speed pursuits · Threats, intimidation, and sustained peril · Organized crime, corruption, and political terrorism · Alcohol consumption, illegal liquor trafficking, and Prohibition-era criminal activity

Alcohol-Free Pour

Black Coffee

Rich coffee suits a tense, twist-filled reading session that suits Bell's determined investigation style.

What you'll need

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How to mix it

  1. Its black coffee. There is no recipe.
  2. Garnish: We aren't going to distract you with a garnish.
  3. Glassware: Mug. You can't beat a classic.
21+

Cocktail Pour · 21+

Dark ’n’ Stormy

For adults of legal drinking age. Please drink responsibly.

Dark rum and fiery ginger evoke the dangerous rum-running routes and criminal intrigue of Prohibition.

What you'll need

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How to mix it

  1. Fill a highball glass with ice. Add the ginger beer and lime juice, then slowly pour the dark rum over the top to create the signature storm-cloud effect. Serve without stirring so the drink retains its dark-over-light appearance.

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