Literary Las Vegas: Rick Ainsworth

Rick Ainsworth, author of “Thunder and Storm: The Haverfield Incident” and “Murder on Pratas Reef,” is back with “American Dictator: Changing of the Guard,” the first of a three-volume political thriller series. The Henderson author follows a popular governor on the road to the White House. Once elected, his sweeping changes inspire most and worry a few, including his chief of staff. But who can argue with a president who is so sincere?

Excerpt:

The crowd cheered and chanted and waved “Howell for President” signs in the air. It had taken Jeremy Holt and his team only two days to organize this spontaneous demonstration of adoration for the Governor of Florida. The young chief of staff was pleased with the results. It hadn’t been that difficult, really. After all, M. Spencer Howell was indeed Florida’s favorite son.

Sixty-eight years old and almost six-foot-three, he walked with a prominent slouch, a condition he often referred to as the Abe Lincoln Stoop, and had to be constantly reminded to stand up straight during public ceremonies. Born and raised in Tallahassee, he had served two tours in Viet Nam (sic) as a Marine captain, receiving a Silver Star and two Purple Hearts.