Wisconsin author Jeffrey D. Boldt’s new eco-thriller, Big Lake Troubles, takes on the climate crisis directly through its dramatic setting at a coal shipping facility on Lake Superior. Big Lake Troubles is a high-stakes drama where love, loyalty, and ethics collide in the fight to tackle climate change. 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.

In its January 15, 2025, issue, Kirkus Reviews called Big Lake Troubles “One of the best legal thrillers of the year.” Kirkus also gave the title its coveted star rating, marking books of ‘exceptional literary merit,’ and made Big Lake Troubles a monthly Editor’s Pick. This is the second such distinction for former environmental judge Boldt, whose first novel, Blue Lake, was named to Kirkus Reviews Best Books of 2022.