Lewis returns with new novel, ‘Incognito

Posted on July 9, 2021

Retired judge and author Terry Lewis returns to his hometown of Perry on Tuesday, July 20.
He will be at The Book Mart, 1708 S Byron Butler Pkwy., from 3-6 p.m. to visit with friends and readers and autograph copies of his latest novel, “Incognito.”
“Incognito” is a historical thriller set in Philadelphia in the summer of 1776 and revolves
around a plot to assassinate key leaders of the Continental Congress.
It is a bit of a departure for Lewis, whose first three novels were legal thrillers.
But Lewis, who majored in history at Florida State University (FSU), said it seemed a good fit.
“It blends my interest in American history, political philosophy and the
theme of justice with my desire to tell a good story,” he said.
It was, however, not without its challenges.
“In my legal thrillers, I pretty much know my way around a courtroom and don’t have to do a lot of research on the legal and procedural aspects. Plus, they are set in the present, so I know the day-to-day things, such as how much things cost, how people talk, what technologies are in use, etc.,” he said.
Not so for historical fiction, he noted.
“Many of the characters and events are real, and if you don’t get it right, those who know their history will let you know.”
“Incognito” is also a finalist in three categories (general fiction, historical fiction and mystery/suspense) for the Florida Authors and Publishers Association Book Awards. Winners will be announced July 31 in Orlando.
Lewis retired as a trial judge in 2019, having served nearly 30 years on the bench. He is currently in private practice.
He has served as a board member of the Mystery Writers of America, Florida Chapter, and as a member of the advisory board for the Florida Book Awards.
He lives in Tallahassee with his wife, Fran, a former guidance counselor, and their border collie mix, Pepper.