Up & Down Dead

About the Book

Golf legend, Eric Jennsen, the only man in modern times to win the Grand Slam, is found murdered in his Scottsdale, Arizona hotel room. Behind his killing lies a dark and guarded secret known only to a small handful of men. One used it against him. Others feared public disclosure.

Burke Dorsett of the Scottsdale police department is assigned as the lead detective. His investigation is hampered as the golf industry closes ranks. He's helped by John Charles Benedict, an aging golf writer who, at the end of his distinguished career is deeply troubled by how big business and greed are ruining golf considered by most the most honorable of all sports. Benedict becomes Dorsett's mentor helping him get past the barriers intentionally put in his way.

Up & Down Dead offers the reader an insider's view of the golf world not normally seen on TV or in the press. It sheds light on how the industry works, and illustrates the ever-present pervasive and controversial nature of commercialism infecting the sport.

The story encompasses a wide geographical sweep, from the bayous of southwestern Louisiana, to the Mafia-controlled drug trade in New Orleans, the hype of the Champions PGA Tour in Scottsdale, the sophistication of Rancho Santa Fe, the exclusivity of golf communities and clubs as well as the hallowed traditions of the Masters of Augusta National Golf Club.

People P. J. Herrman interviewed and worked with in the development of the book included: Jack and Barbara Nicklaus; Joe Black and Mark Kizziar, former PGA presidents; Jim Flick, golf instructor and columnist; Lionel Hebert, 1952 PGA Championship; Tom Weiskopf, winner of the 1973 and 1977 British Open; the late Larry O'Brien, director of media relations; Jack Nicklaus/Golden Bear International; Tom Fazio, golf course designer; Lyle Anderson, nationally known real estate developer; plus many others.

About the Author

P. J. (Peter Jay) Herrman is a semi-retired veteran of the marketing communications profession. He began his career as a copywriter with advertising agency of Young & Rubicam.

Prior to moving to Arizona in 1971, he worked for an array of nationally recognized agencies and corporations. In 1981, he formed his own organization. The company became regarded primarily as specialists in the marketing of exclusive residential and recreational communities that focused on golf as the principal amenity. These properties and clubs ranged from Hawaii to Scotland.

He is married and has two children. While living in Phoenix, he also divides his time living in Bisbee, Arizona, a small mining town on the Mexican border. He has been an avid sailor and traveler. Strangely, a golfer, he isn't.