Shore Leave 41 Guest: Howard Weinstein

Best known for writing many Star Trek novels and comic books, Howard Weinstein's most recent book, and first try at historical fiction, is the Western Fictioneers Peacemaker Award-winning novel Galloway's Gamble (available in hardcover, paperback and eBook from Five Star Publishing).

True West magazine says: "Anyone who loves Charles Portis's style of writing in True Grit, or readers ready [for] a great yarn, look no farther than Galloway's Gamble." Fellow best-selling Star Trek writer Dayton Ward calls Galloway's Gamble "a rich, layered story where the characters leap off the page. Extensive research infuses his tale with authenticity."

Inspired by high-spirited classics like Maverick, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and The Sting, Galloway's Gamble is an Old West coming-of-age romp about bickering brothers Jamey and Jake Galloway, who grow up to be poker players in frontier Texas. Can these two young gamblers outfox a ruthless cattle baron and shady banker bent on destroying their Texas hometown, without getting themselves killed? Howard is working on what he hopes will be the first of several Galloway's Gamble sequels, with a strong connection to Baltimore history.

His most recent Star Trek story is the short novel "The Blood-Dimmed Tide" in the Star Trek: Mere Anarchy collection. Other writing highlights in a 45-year career include "The Pirates of Orion" animated Star Trek episode; story-development assistance on the classic movie Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home; and Puppy Kisses Are Good for the Soul, a charming account of life with his legendary Welsh Corgi, Mail Order Annie.

See more about Howie's books, writing news and blog at www.howardweinsteinbooks.com