Divorced and living in a converted garage, John Peoples thinks his difficulties are over when he wins half of a $40 million lottery jackpot. But his boss, Ed White, bought the winning ticket for the two of them, and only Ed's name is on the ticket. When White makes clear his intention to cut John out of the winnings and then disappears with the entire jackpot, John embarks on an effort to find White and right the wrong.

During his quest, John suffers a debilitating spine injury and struggles to heal physically and emotionally. Yet he continues pursuing White from Los Angeles to Paris to Marseille. Along the way, he tries navigating the legal system, meets a woman he believes he can only dream about, and eventually engages the help of organized crime. Ultimately, he is faced with the question of how far he is willing to go to retrieve and protect what is his.

John B. Peoples is more than the study of a character out to correct an injustice. It takes us on a powerful journey while examining loss, personal growth, and the everyday challenges of life in America today.

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About the Author

Michael Cowan is a debut novelist whose life has unfolded across law, music, teaching, business and international travel. JOHN B PEOPLES is a literary legal thriller that releases with Koehler Books on April 21, 2026.

A confirmed Francophile, Cowan taught writing at UCLA School of Law, sang professional (including a summer performing at Radio City Music Hall), argued and won a case before the California Supreme Court, had two songs published as a member of ASCAP, co-owned a dairy manufacturing business, and served as general counsel for two major corporations, including Robert Redford’s Sundance Group.

Born and raised in Buffalo, New York, he attended Amherst High School, the University of Pennsylvania and the University of Michigan Law School. He lives in Los Angeles with his wife of nearly 50 years and their eccentric rescue dog Percie. He is a proud father of three, and grandfather of four.

Connect:

Official Website: MichaelCowan.net
Facebook: /AuthorMichaelCowan
Instagram: @authormichaelcowan
LinkedIn: Michael Cowan

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