D.E. JOHNSON, a graduate of Central Michigan University, is a history buff who has been writing fiction since childhood. The early 20th century, a time of big ambitions, huge achievements, and crushing poverty, holds a special fascination for him. Johnson comes by his interest in automotive history honestly. His grandfather was the Vice President of Checker Motors, beginning work with Checker in 1924 and continuing until the 1970 s. Fortunately, he doesn t come by his interest in murder the same way. He is the author of books including The Detroit Electric Scheme and Motor City Shakedown. The author is married, has three daughters, and lives near Kalamazoo, Michigan.