Mystery writer Griffin gets a novel prize

Longboat Key mystery novelist H. Terrell Griffin was a finalist for three awards and a runner-up for a fourth with last year’s “Blood Island.”

But yesterday, when Griffin checked his e-mail, he saw a press release from his publisher announcing the USA Book News winners and finalists for the national “Best Books 2009” awards.

Listed on the release:

“‘Wyatt’s Revenge’” by H. Terrell Griffin (Oceanview Publishing) took home the Best Mystery/Suspense prize.”

Griffin says he’s always surprised he hears his books have been named award finalists — but actually winning was an even greater surprise.

And, while the book’s official release date is Monday, Nov. 16, readers can get a sneak peak. Circle Books, 478 John Ringling Blvd., already has copies of the caper.