Reviews & Endorsements

Foreword

 I met Robert Milne through a mutual friend during the mid 1990's. Bob played multiple ragtime piano gigs that I was able to attend and enjoy. The shows were fantastic! Bob is a virtuoso pianist and I cherish the memories of these concerts and the people I was with. In retrospect, these evenings were divinely inspired and heavenly in nature. Bob displays keen musicianship and quick wit during his shows. He plays beautiful music and tells a wide variety of thoughtful stories during his performances. The shows keep the audience completely engaged and entertained. The memories are priceless. As good as it gets this side of paradise.

Bob is among the most talented and intelligent people I have encountered. His musical performances and dialogue provided initial evidence for this observation. Additional evidence for his substantial abilities comes from the novel "Turtle Lake: Portrait of an Extortionist." I purchased the book after one of his shows in my hometown. Little did I know the book would provide so much valuable knowledge and wisdom. I have read the book multiple times (a bunch!) and enjoyed the story each time. As with all great stories, the audience learns new lessons and gains valuable insight with each successive reading. The story weaves many layers and provides multiple perspectives to view man in nature and nature in man. The theme of prey and predator is central to the story, and a rich discussion of the Golden Eagle sets the stage. Truly a remarkable creature. Analysis of fear and terror in the book provides useful lessons for historical and contemporary events. Breathe slowly. Seek balance.

Turtle Lake is a masterpiece! The story keeps the reader thoroughly entertained from start to finish. A gripping tale of an extortionist and the perfect crime. The character development and plot are incredibly intricate and very well done. Emotional reactions run the full range from deep philosophical reflection to hilarious laughter as the story unfolds. As a social studies teacher, the story integrates into my curriculum on multiple levels, especially in the realms of behavioral psychology and theories of personality. There are historical and cultural concepts gleaned from the reading too. An interesting discourse on the concepts of natural selection and the wildcard syndrome manifests during a compelling scene in the story. Reading and rereading the book is a valuable use of time. Turtle Lake provides great entertainment and many, many learning opportunities. Study and prepare...study and prepare. It is ingenious! Thank you Bob."

Trevor Smith

Social Studies Teacher

July 14, 2025